Spice level warning — Peking Duck is not what I expected

I underestimated Peking Duck. The deeply savoury and sweet description didn't prepare me for the reality. Sichuan peppercorn brings a heat or pungency that builds steadily rather than hitting upfront. By halfway through I was sweating but couldn't stop eating.

Chinese cuisine encompasses eight major regional schools with distinct ingredients and techniques. The a family banquet table setting means locals eat this with ease while visitors like me reach for water. Shaoxing rice wine cut through it better than water would have. Don't order the mild version out of caution — the full version is the point. I'd go back. Three stars only because I wasn't warned.