As far as restaurant offerings, Tulsa has always had a solid foundation of Chinese-American classics, but Hiya Chili represents a growing movement toward regional authenticity. If you take a drive down 71st Street near Woodland Hills Mall, you’ll find a spot that’s helping quietly — and spicily — redefine Tulsa’s Chinese food scene.
Hiya Chili, which occupies the space once home to the beloved Fuji Sushi, isn’t your typical neighborhood takeout joint. Owners, and husband-and-wife team, Qishou Jiang and Dong Chen have transformed the interior with design elements imported directly from China, signaling right away that they’re here to offer something authentic. Jiang’s menu is a love letter to the bold, tongue-numbing and vibrant flavors of Sichuan cuisine. Whether you are a heat-seeker or a dim sum devotee, there is a seat at the table for you.
The “Chili” in the name is no marketing gimmick. For those who crave the signature “mala” (numbing-hot) sensation of Sichuan peppercorns, the Sichuan Chili Chicken is an absolute rite of passage. It arrives at the table as a mountain of golden, deep-fried chicken pieces buried under a generous blanket of dried chili peppers and peanuts. If you prefer your spice with a side of silkiness, Spicy Mapo Tofu offers that deep, fermented bean paste richness that defines the region’s comfort food.
But don’t worry if your spice tolerance is more “mild” than “wild.” The menu is massive, featuring crowd-pleasers like garlicky dry-fried string beans, salt and pepper shrimp (crispy, savory and perfect for sharing) and stir-fried beef with cilantro…