How Oohu Blends Heat, Heritage, and Hospitality
Oohu brings together bold Sichuan spice and comforting Cantonese flavors.
Mei blends fiery Sichuan tradition with Cantonese roots at Oohu, forging memorable fusion dishes, loyal fans, and even a karaoke-ready private dining room in Midtown.
Tradition Meets Fusion
At Oohu Szechuan & Canton Cuisines, Mei draws from both her Guangdong roots and a love for Sichuan’s bold, numbing heat to shape a menu that balances tradition and creativity. “I’ve always loved how the spicy, fragrant flavors of Sichuan food leave a lasting impression,” she says. It’s that unforgettable quality that inspired her to bring a fusion-style Chinese restaurant to Midtown where she could preserve traditional tastes while exploring fresh combinations. By offering both Cantonese and Szechuan dishes, she welcomes a wide range of diners, from spice-seekers to comfort food lovers.
Balanced, Bold Plates: Favourites for Every Palate
If it’s your first time at Oohu, Mei recommends starting with the green pepper fish fillet—a boneless option that’s light, nutritious, and carries just a touch of spice. “It’s a bit milder than most Sichuan dishes, so even teachers and office workers who aren’t into spicy food can enjoy it,” she notes. For those who can handle the heat, the Chongqing spicy chicken is a must-try and the restaurant’s top seller: crispy, fiery, and full of flavor.
For a more traditional experience, Mei encourages diners to try one of the whole fish dishes. “They’re fresh and made to order, not pre-prepped,” she explains. The Sichuan side of the menu is rich with layers of flavor thanks to a variety of dried and fresh chilies, giving each dish its own depth. Every season, her team rolls out new recipes based on testing and guest feedback—always staying rooted in the dual foundations of Sichuan intensity and Cantonese balance.
Dining with Ambiance & Community
Oohu stands out with its private rooms designed for groups, offering a dining experience that feels just like home in China—complete with the option to sing karaoke in the comfort of a business-style private setting. It’s a space built for connection, whether it’s a lively gathering or a quiet meal among friends or colleagues.
For Mei, the biggest reward is the loyalty of her Midtown customers. Many are tourists or office workers who return again and again, a sign that her dedication to authentic flavors and thoughtful hospitality is resonating. She still remembers the thrill of seeing her restaurant rank high on Google when people search for “Chinese food”—a quiet affirmation of all the work behind the scenes.
“Running a restaurant isn’t easy,” she reflects. “But I’ve learned to approach challenges more calmly. You can’t rush. Once you’ve chosen something, you have to follow through.”