+1 425-698-0160
Nestled in the heart of Bellevue, Spicy PoPo Szechuan Fish offers an exquisite journey into the bold and vibrant essence of authentic Sichuan cuisine. Renowned for its signature dishes, this Asian restaurant masterfully balances layers of fiery spice with the numbing tingle of Szechuan peppercorns, creating a sensory experience that captures the very soul of Chengdu-style cooking.
The star attraction here is undeniably the House Special Szechuan Fish. Served bubbling hot in a stone pot, this dish delivers a harmonious blend of tender, perfectly cooked fish fillets paired with a customizable combination of fresh vegetables and savory meats. Each bite envelops your palate in a fragrant, spicy broth that’s both thrillingly hot and intriguingly numbing—a hallmark of true Szechuan flavors. For those seeking a taste adventure, the Spicy Numbing Szechuan Fish (麻辣石锅鱼) delivers just the right balance of heat and mouth-tingling sensation, while the Sour Veggie Szechuan Fish refreshes with a pleasant tartness that cuts through the richness.
Beyond the fish specialties, the menu dazzles with other authentic delights such as Pickled Pepper Beef—a dish bursting with tangy, aromatic layers—and the irresistibly crispy Szechuan Popcorn Chicken, perfect for sharing. The Shredded Pork with Dried Bean Curd (香干肉丝) brings an intricate mix of textures and flavors, exemplifying the thoughtful culinary craftsmanship behind every plate. Fresh and vibrant options like the Papaya Salad and comforting bowls of Egg Soup complement the bold mains, ensuring a well-rounded dining experience.
Pair your meal with unique handcrafted drinks like the Brown Sugar Tea (黑糖奶茶) or the refreshing Fresh Jade Lemon Green Tea (特级翡翠柠檬茶), which provide a cooling counterpoint to the intense spices and add an extra layer of indulgence.
The atmosphere at Spicy PoPo Szechuan Fish is warm and inviting, with a casual yet sophisticated vibe that strikes the perfect balance for both intimate dinners and lively gatherings. As one guest, Mr. T-Bone, aptly put it, the ambiance is “warm and casual with a hint of sophistication,” making it an ideal spot for those who appreciate authentic flavors served in a welcoming setting.
Real customer experiences speak volumes about the restaurant’s dedication to quality and authenticity. J.Z. raved about the generous portions and rich flavors, noting how their son—a devoted spicy food lover—can’t get enough of it. Similarly, Sung-Fu Han praised the impeccable preparation of the fish, appreciating the absence of bones that let the authentic soup flavors shine through beautifully. Alan Wong, a seasoned diner, highlighted the richly flavored broth and perfectly cooked fish, recommending newcomers try a mild level of spice to ease into the exhilarating “málà” sensation.
For those craving an adventurous meal that’s packed with depth, heat, and genuine Sichuan flair, Spicy PoPo Szechuan Fish stands out as a must-visit gem. Whether you're a spice aficionado or a curious first-timer, this restaurant invites you to savor the intricate dance of bold flavors, perfectly executed dishes, and heartfelt hospitality.
Contact: 14701 NE 20th St # B, Bellevue, WA 98007 | Phone: +1 425-698-0160
My son is a spicy food lover. After tried this place, it has become my son’s favorite restaurants around Seattle area. The foods here were delicious, and the portions were generous, offering great value for the quality. Our favorite dish is House Special Szechuan dish. Today we tried something new. Pork with bamboo and spicy beef trio were great. Highly recommend!
I recently visited here on a local friend’s recommendation, and it was a surprisingly delightful experience. The star of the show was undoubtedly the Sichuan Peppercorn Stone Pot Fish. I was initially worried about the fish having a lot of bones, but it was perfectly prepared, with no small bones at all. This allowed me to fully savor the authentic flavors of the soup—the fragrant, numbing spice of the peppercorns—without having to worry about picking out bones. It was a fantastic dining experience from start to finish. Beyond the signature dish, the Mapo Tofu also left a deep impression. The intense aroma and spicy kick were incredibly satisfying and made it an excellent pairing with a bowl of rice. The Spicy Fried Pork Intestine was another unexpected highlight. The pork intestine was perfectly fried to a crispy texture, which added a wonderful layer of crunch without any greasiness. The flavors of all the dishes were truly top-notch. The only minor letdown was the large table, which didn't have a lazy Susan, so we had to frequently switch dishes to let everyone try everything. I would highly recommend the restaurant consider adding a traditional Chinese round table with a lazy Susan to make the dining experience even more perfect. Overall, every dish at La Po Po was flawless, from the preparation to the flavors. It's a restaurant I would definitely visit again and highly recommend to anyone who loves spicy food.
It's on a lot of lists for best Chinese restaurants. Even from those who hate the east side. Well deserved as the broth is rich in flavorful oils, with perfectly cooked fish. Recommend bringing at least 3-4 people. The pork intestines are not my preference being coated in a sweet and sour sauce but makes it more approachable. I recommend level 1/1 for spicy and numbing for first time here.
First time to try out their fish dish. A bit spicy even we ordered 2 level. Definitely will come back to try other dishes.
Spicy PoPo Szechuan Restaurant earns a well-deserved 4 out of 5 stars for its bold, authentic flavors and masterful execution of traditional Sichuan cuisine. This is a spot where spice lovers will find themselves right at home, and where the tingling “málà” sensation perfectly captures the essence of Chengdu-style cooking. Ambiance: 4/5 The atmosphere is warm and casual with a hint of sophistication — a great place for both casual dinners and small gatherings. The décor is minimal yet inviting, focusing the attention squarely on what matters most: the food. Authenticity: 5/5 This restaurant stays true to the heart of Sichuan cooking. From the numbing peppercorn aroma that greets you at the door to the balanced layering of spice, salt, and heat, it’s clear the chefs know their craft. It’s rare to find such faithful Sichuan flavors this far from China. Flavor: 5/5 The spicy fish — their signature dish — is the star of the menu. Tender, flaky fillets simmer in a deep, aromatic broth that perfectly combines spice, umami, and a satisfying numbness. The balance between chili oil and peppercorn is impeccable — fiery but never overwhelming. Every bite lingers with a gentle buzz that true Sichuan fans crave. Service: 4/5 Attentive and efficient, the staff are familiar with the menu and quick to offer suggestions for spice levels and popular pairings. Despite being busy during dinner rush, they managed the tables well without compromising hospitality. Cost: 3.5/5 Prices lean toward the higher end, which is common for authentic, well-prepared Sichuan cuisine in Seattle. However, the quality of ingredients and flavor depth more than justify the cost. Final Verdict: Spicy PoPo Szechuan Restaurant delivers the kind of authenticity that’s hard to come by — bold, flavorful, and unapologetically spicy. It’s a must-visit for those craving true Sichuan-style fish and the signature “málà” experience that defines one of China’s most beloved regional cuisines.
This place is 10/10 !! The service is amazing and the food was super good!! Large portions and worth the price. They have a lot of options and the soups are to die for!! NOT A COMPLAINT but the soups are HUGE that feeds maybe 4-8 people and I was there with my husband just us two and we’ve been able to eat the soup leftover for a whole week and they have a lot of options under $20 as well such as the large soups!!