Mr Hao’s spicy chicken

Chinese food providers are everywhere, scattered throughout the motu like rive seedlings in a newly flooded paddy field. The problem is that it has for such a long time been kinda amorphous, without specific regional distinction. Nowadays the newly food educated Kiwi is keen to know more about the provenance of their food including Chinese. Is it Sichuan? Is it Cantonese or Hunan? Is it fish based Shandong? If you are looking for a modern take on Sichuan food then the grub at Mr Hao in Dominion Road will appeal. Mr Hao opened early in 2020 and has become a hot spot for those in the know. The concept is based in the late-night dine and drink pots popular in China called Shaokao. It is run by a team that’s knows exactly how to please. The Mr Hao menu includes dishes familiar throughout China and they are all good but one that will have you salivating like no other is their spicy fired chicken, a giant platter of superbly roasted chicken bites served on a deep bed of roasted red chillies. Gorg-e-ous! Spicy but not melt your tongue spicy, beer invitingly salty, and capable of making you want more and more. If you prefer something a little tamer opt for the Chicken wings a very similar dish without the heat turned down a notch and a touch of citrusy flavour. This is food to share, even with spice-shy kids who will relish the opportunity to dig their hands into the huge mound of red and gold.