On October 9, the well-known Chinese Sichuan cuisine brand “Sichuan Marketplace” (Pepper Tavern) opened its first location in the United States with a grand ceremony in San Gabriel. The event was a vibrant celebration featuring lion dances, drum performances, singing, Sichuan opera face-changing, and a lively crowd. Among the notable attendees were San Gabriel Mayor John Wu, Arcadia City Councilmember Eileen Wang, former Los Angeles County Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich and his wife Hu Huiling, as well as various prominent figures from the Chinese-American community, including the chairman and supervisors of the Chinese American Federation.
During the festivities, restaurant owner Sherman Liu and founder Qi Chunhua were honored with congratulatory certificates from Mayor Wu. The San Gabriel location is not just a restaurant; it serves as a cultural bridge, showcasing the rich traditions of Sichuan cuisine in a modern context. The decor artfully blends modern urban elements with traditional Sichuan features, creating an inviting atmosphere that includes neon lights, classic Chinese lanterns, and a unique outdoor setting with palm trees typical of Los Angeles.
The restaurant’s signature dishes include spicy frog and fish, Chongqing spicy chicken, Leshan “sitting leg” beef, and Zigong explosive crispy dishes, all embodying authentic Sichuan flavors. Founder Qi Chunhua expressed his desire for each dish to not only provide a delightful taste but also convey a story about Sichuan’s local culture and traditions. Customers have responded enthusiastically, often expressing their lasting impressions of the distinctive flavors.
Qi Chunhua emphasized that the goal is to help Sichuan cuisine thrive in the U.S. while promoting cultural exchange through food. He believes that the unique flavors and cultural depth of Sichuan cuisine can attract diners from around the globe, including markets in Asia, Europe, and North America.
The Sichuan Marketplace employs a rigorous standardization management system, ensuring that ingredients are carefully sourced and that every dish is prepared uniformly to maintain consistent taste and quality. By integrating innovation with standardization, the restaurant is poised for rapid expansion. It also leverages digital and smart technologies to enhance the dining experience, using smart ordering systems and big data analysis to boost operational efficiency and offer personalized service.
Looking ahead, Sichuan Marketplace plans to open additional locations in cities like San Francisco, New York, Boston, Houston, and Chicago, aiming to establish a robust chain presence throughout North America.
Owner Sherman Liu warmly invites both old friends and new patrons to experience the bold, spicy flavors of Sichuan Marketplace, promising unexpected delights.
For those interested, Sichuan Marketplace can be contacted at 626-872-1179, located at 137 W. Valley Blvd, San Gabriel, CA 91776, next to the Hilton Plaza.
