Bashu Impression Szechuan Restaurant

Have you ever just wanted to try everything all at once? Well, that was the impulse I felt when I opened the menu. The friendly waiter pointed out house specialties (first of all this is a genuine Szechuan restaurant), nearly all of which contain hot peppers, hot pepper oil, or some combination as typified by the boiling spicy fish bowls.
I generally scout a new place solo to get a sounding, then bring reinforcements so we can try several items. I decided I was in the mood for pork ribs because the last time I ate at Yummy Asian I couldn’t order what I liked on account of a communication barrier (apparently the former clerk quit). Nevertheless, since this is also located in University Village, I could kill multiple birds with one parking validation: Mad Platter for music, Uncle Chuang’s Bakery, and much more.
I found the décor very peaceful despite the elongated hallway layout. It’s no fault of theirs that this suite is partitioned this way. The calming wall paper that I’ll photograph next time gave me pause. The menu is how it’s supposed to be. Whereas Richard’s Fresh Box is too minimalist with only lists with no images or description, the menu here is lavishly illustrated and well laid out.
I noticed that the «neighbors» at other tables were getting colorful and beautifully presented dishes and quickly! Yes, quickly. That’s a distinguishing feature here. My pork spare riblets arrived and was I ever impressed! My pic can be seen below. I got two meals from it. At $ 10.99−14.99, the food might be higher than the average UCR student can afford often, but I think the prices are both fair and belie the quality of the ingredients and quantity.
Taste? Delicate, not oily, the sauce used from braising the ribs held a slightly sweet and exotic flavor. I soon discovered why. Two star anise pods were buried under the heaping mound of ribs, onions and jalapeño peppers (seeds intact). A small amount of garlic also lent a contribution to this balanced Yin and Yang dish. Some of the peppers were really hot, but in a good way. I appreciated the ample supply of paper napkins on the table if you know what I mean ;)
To pay you go up to the register. That’s also where I obtained a to go box and bag for my leftovers. I am eagerly awaiting the next opportunity to eat here again. It’s that good! Plus, their WiFi is a very strong signal. They have the password taped up in front of the cash register.

As you can see by the other review’s photos, this is the restaurant formerly (or perhaps STILL) named Frice. It’s run by real Chinese peeps so expect authentic Chinese cuisine (aka, not Panda Express). Service is a bit uneven, sometimes very slow during busy hours. Their prices are also relatively higher than many of the other local Chinese places but authentic Chinese cuisine is hard to come by, especially as this quality. Just wish the service matched the upscale menu.

Great Chinese food. You can find authentic Sichuan cuisine here. Very good taste and good price. Servers are very friendly. I will definitely come again