Ever since I moved to Liverpool as a student, a tiny basement restaurant has piqued my interest. Every day, I'd stroll past it, intrigued about what was behind its doors, but never quite mustered the courage to step inside. My curiosity only intensified when I found absolutely no information about the restaurant online - no website, no social media page, nothing. All I knew was that an underground Chinese eatery named Shu Yuan existed, and it would remain an enigma until I finally dined there.
The anticipation was palpable. The sign outside simply read 'No.1 Chongqing fish and original chicken', not revealing much. Shu Yuan could be serving up posh takeaway grub or a bewildering experimental banquet, but there was no way of knowing until I ventured in.
I wasn't even certain if its actual name was Shu Yuan or No. 1 Chongqing. Finally, I decided it was time to quench my curiosity. So, I roped in my partner, Paul, and we dropped by the restaurant early in the evening. Bear in mind, Shu Yuan shuts between 3 pm and 5 pm, so plan your visit accordingly. Upon arrival, I was instantly struck by the restaurant's old-school vibe. Shu Yuan is, at its heart, as traditional as they come, reports the Liverpool Echo.
The eatery spans two rooms, with the first housing the kitchen and storefront. There's no effort to hide the kitchen, with fridges and metal equipment in plain sight. It's oddly charming. The back of the restaurant is a cosy space filled with rustic wooden tables and chairs. The interiors have a lived-in feel, with minimal modern or expensive touches.
