Evidence that Mala Sichuan is the best Chinese restaurant in Houston: It's always packed with local chefs hanging out in the small, unassuming space, ordering everything on the menu and hoping to pick up some tips or ideas for how to improve their own food. Sichuan is, of course, a province in China, while "Mala" refers to the tongue-numbing hot sauce present in a number of dishes. The owners, Heng Chen and Cory Xiong, bring the food of South Central China to Houston in an atmosphere that even more uppity Houstonians enjoy, thanks in large part to the wonderful wine and beer list curated by Justin Vann. In spite of great food and alcohol, the restaurant remains very casual and a great spot to dine with large groups, so you can order everything and share it all.