In this episode of “Eat Like a Local”, Chris Shepherd goes all in on Houston’s regional Chinese food —and it’s way more than traditional takeout. From the numbing heat of Sichuan peppercorns to the intriguing dishes of Korean-Chinese cuisine, this episode takes a trip through the intricacies of Chinese food.
North China Restaurant | 14525 Katy Freeway, Houston
Chris kicks things off at North China Restaurant, a longtime spot bringing Korean-Chinese flavors to the Energy Corridor. Chris sits down with owner Fred Wu whose family started the restaurant over 50 years ago.
North China Restaurant (Copyright 2025 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.)
The menu features longstanding traditional dishes like Zhajiang Mian and fun dishes like fish tacos made with bao buns and sizzling rice soup with its crispy rice and dramatic presentation.
North China Restaurant in Houston (Copyright 2025 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.)
Chris Shepherd shares what to order at North China Restaurant. (Copyright 2025 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.)Mala Sichuan Bistro | Multiple Houston Area Locations
Next, Chris heads to Mala Sichuan Bistro, where Sichuan peppercorns bring a heat that doesn’t just burn—it tingles. As owner Cori Xiong explains it’s that tingle that gives the meaning to the name mala (‘ma’ in Chinese stands numbing, ‘la’ for spicy heat).
Chris Shepherd sits down with Mala Sichuan Bistro owner Cori Xiong. (Copyright 2025 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.)
Chris orders one of his favorite dishes: crispy spicy chicken made with dried chilies and Sichuan peppercorns.
Mala Sichuan Bistro (Copyright 2025 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.)
Then, comes the oddly named, but equally addicting, Ants on the Tree—glass noodles tossed in chili sauce with ground pork. It’s as fun to say as it is to eat.
Chris Shepherd shares what to order at Mala Sichuan Bistro. (Copyright 2025 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.)Duck N Bao | Locations in Cypress, Memorial, & Rice Village
Chris wraps things up at Duck N Bao where the soup dumplings (xiao long bao) come thinly wrapped and filled with savory broth. But the star is, of course, the Peking duck, lacquered and roasted to perfection, then served with your choice of pancakes or bao.
Duck N Bao (Copyright 2025 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.)
Watch the episode to learn the history behind the families bringing regional Chinese dishes to Houston’s food scene!
Chris Shepherd shares what to order at Duck N Bao (Copyright 2025 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.)
“Eat Like a Local with Chris Shepherd” is your guide to the best food in Houston. Watch new episodes Saturdays at 10 a.m. on KPRC 2.
Season 3 of “Eat Like a Local”
Copyright 2025 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.