Know The Difference Between Cantonese And Sichuan Food Before You Order Chinese Takeout

Exclusives

Know The Difference Between Cantonese And Sichuan Food Before You Order Chinese Takeout By Maria Scinto Sept. 15, 2025 8:20 pm EST

Chinese regional cooking can actually be classified to include 63 different types, although the "big eight" that receive the most attention are Anhui, Fujian, Hunan, Jiangsu, Shandong, Zhejiang, Cantonese, and Sichuan. In the U.S., however, most restaurants specialize in either of the latter two. And, according to Matt Chan, executive chef at Hakkasan Miami at the Fontainebleau hotel in Miami Beach, these two styles are very distinct.

As Chan described it, "Cantonese cuisine is best known for its balanced flavors, freshness, and bright presentation. It highlights the natural flavors of the ingredients without overwhelming them with too