Restaurant of the Week (5/18-5/24) Sichuan Impression

Sichuan Impression excels in Sichuan cuisine, and its impressive menu has been recognized by Michelin and the LA Times. In fact, last year, it was included in the Michelin Guide for the fifth consecutive year. It stands out even against the rich cultural backdrop in the San Gabriel Valley, which earned it the title of Restaurant of the Year at the Alhambra Chamber’s 2024 President’s Awards.

The restaurant’s co-founder, Kelly, along with her partner Lynn, opened Sichuan Impression a decade ago. Both hail from Chengdu, Sichuan—known as the culinary capital of China. The Chinese name for the restaurant, “锦城里 (Jin Cheng Li),” draws inspiration from Chengdu’s nickname, “锦官城 (Jin Guan Cheng).”

With a family background steeped in culinary tradition, Kelly and Lynn set out to elevate traditional Sichuan cuisine by sourcing high-quality ingredients while preserving its authentic flavors. Their menu features a harmonious blend of traditional snacks, classic Sichuan dishes, regional specialties, and modern innovations, offering patrons a distinctive and flavorful dining experience.

Alhambra was an intentional choice for the restaurant’s first location. Known for its large Asian community and rich culinary scene, the city provided an ideal setting for introducing Sichuan Impression. The flagship location on Main Street has been the cornerstone of their journey, serving as a go-to spot for both locals and visitors.

In addition to dine-in and individual take-out services, Sichuan Impression offers catering for corporate and private events. They provide complimentary party trays for large orders and are open to participating in special corporate events, ensuring that their food can be enjoyed in a variety of settings.