Driving down a busy Maybank Highway, the vibrant and lively Charleston Pour House might catch your eye, but look closer and find Charleston’s premiere Sichuan spot, Kwei Fei. A bright yellow door marks the entryway to their intimate dining space accentuated with a long wooden bar, Chinese lanterns, and a patio oasis.
With a mantra of “loud, hot, vibes,” Kwei Fei is unapologetically Sichuan and unique to the Charleston scene. Kwei Fei is named for an eighth century consort of the Tang dynasty who was beloved for her beauty and affection for alcohol. While paying homage to the traditions of the western China province, it’s hard to miss the punk rock mentality of confident, relentlessly good food that isn’t going to conform to typical standards.
Whether you’re a party of two or 12, you need to order at least four dishes. Chopsticks are meant to meander across bowls and duel over dishes, sharing and savoring every bite down to the last chili crisp-coated peanut. Yes, spice is a factor here, so read the menu carefully and ask questions if you’re concerned as there are options for the less tolerant. Menu musts include authentic dumplings, a dan dan noodle dish, anything with tofu, and the marinated cucumbers. Each dish hits its own Sichuan stride, mingling local provisions with bold flavors from traditional ingredients like black vinegar, sesame oil, chili bean paste, and, of course, Sichuan peppercorns. Top off your meal with a Sichuan sundae, house vanilla ice cream with chili crisp and Sichuan-candied peanuts.
Kwei Fei is also known for their baijiu, a traditional Chinese grain spirit that can harbor flavors ranging from floral to spicy. Order a flight or by half-ounce shots and ask your server about infused baijiu options. If baijiu isn’t for you, their seasonal cocktails (and mocktails) offer a refreshing blend of seasonal produce, Chinese spices, and Sichuan spins on classics. With a menu brimming with powerful peppercorns, feel free to ask your server for their recommended drink pairings to fuse with your selected dishes.
