Mountain House

- 23 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10003

For New Yorkers with a taste for adventure and a love for bold, electrifying flavors, a culinary pilgrimage to Mountain House is an absolute must. Located on the bustling and famously eclectic St Marks Place in the East Village, this Chinese restaurant offers an authentic taste of Szechuan cuisine that stands out even in a city filled with exceptional dining options. Mountain House is more than just a place to eat; it's a sensory experience, where the intoxicating aroma of Szechuan peppercorns perfumes the air and the vibrant colors of fresh ingredients fill every plate. The restaurant has garnered a reputation for its genuine flavors, making it a go-to spot for locals, college students, and tourists who are ready to embrace the signature "ma-la" (numbing and spicy) sensation that Szechuan food is known for.

From the moment you walk in, you're greeted by a space that is both casual and trendy. The decor is thoughtfully designed, reminiscent of a cozy mountain cottage with wooden beams and beautiful fixtures that create a warm, inviting atmosphere. This setting, combined with the friendly and attentive service, makes for an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you're a seasoned Szechuan food connoisseur or a newcomer to the cuisine, the staff is known for being warm, welcoming, and incredibly helpful, guiding you through the menu to find dishes that perfectly suit your palate. This personalized touch ensures that every visit feels special, and it's a major reason why so many people return.

The menu at Mountain House is an extensive and exciting exploration of Szechuan food. While the spicy dishes are a highlight, there are also plenty of delicious options for those who prefer milder flavors. One of the most talked-about and visually stunning dishes is the Swing Pork Belly, a culinary showpiece where paper-thin slices of pork belly and cucumber are draped elegantly over a wooden stand, ready to be dipped in a flavorful chili garlic sauce. Another beloved favorite is the Ma-Po Tofu, which is celebrated for its deep, complex flavor and the perfect balance of numbing peppercorn and spicy chili.

For those seeking a fiery thrill, the La-Zi Chicken, a dish of crispy fried chicken pieces stir-fried with a mountain of dried red chili peppers, is an absolute must-try. Despite its intimidating appearance, it’s known for being incredibly flavorful and addictive without being overwhelming. The fish soup, particularly the Ma-Ma Hot Fish, is another star of the menu. Customers rave about its perfection, with fish fillets stewed with green pepper and peppercorns in a broth that is both spicy and comforting. Even the simple vegetable dishes, like the Stir Fried Cabbage or Sauteed Shredded Potato, are prepared with such care and flavor that they become memorable parts of the meal.

Mountain House is a perfect destination for both lunch and dinner, and its welcoming environment makes it a great choice for various crowds, including college students, families, and large groups. While the restaurant can get busy, especially during peak dinner hours, the quality of the food and the overall experience are well worth the wait.

Mountain House is located at 23 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10003, USA. Situated in the heart of the East Village, this location is a prime spot for a vibrant dining experience. St Marks Place is a cultural landmark in itself, known for its lively street scene. Getting to the restaurant is easy and convenient. It is just a short walk from major subway lines, including the 6 train at Astor Place and the N, R, W at 8th Street, as well as several bus routes. For those with a car, there is free street parking available, a rare and welcome amenity in this part of Manhattan.

The restaurant is also designed with accessibility in mind, featuring a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that all diners can enjoy the exceptional food and atmosphere.

Mountain House provides a comprehensive range of services to cater to every diner's preference.

• Dine-in: The cozy and trendy interior provides a comfortable setting for a sit-down meal, complete with table service, restrooms, and Wi-Fi. It's a great place for a casual night out or a celebratory group dinner.

• Takeout and Curbside Pickup: For those who want to enjoy Mountain House's food at home, the takeout option is quick and convenient. They also offer curbside pickup for an even more seamless experience.

• Delivery and No-Contact Delivery: You can get your favorite Szechuan dishes delivered right to your door, with a no-contact option for added safety and peace of mind.

• Drive-through: A unique feature for a Manhattan restaurant, the drive-through service offers an incredibly fast and efficient way to grab your order.

• Catering: Mountain House also offers catering, making it an excellent choice for parties and events where you want to serve authentic, flavorful food that will impress your guests.

Mountain House has several standout features that make it a premier dining destination.

• Fast Service: Despite often being crowded, the service at Mountain House is consistently fast and efficient, ensuring you get your food fresh and hot without a long wait.

• Authentic Szechuan Cuisine: The restaurant is celebrated for its authentic flavors and the use of the signature Szechuan peppercorn, providing a truly genuine dining experience.

• Ample Beverage Options: The menu includes a selection of beer, wine, cocktails, and hard liquor, allowing you to find the perfect pairing for your meal.

• Reservations Recommended: The popularity of the restaurant, particularly for lunch and dinner, makes reservations a good idea to secure your spot and avoid a wait.

• Family-Friendly: With a menu that offers both spicy and non-spicy options and amenities like high chairs, it's a great place to bring the whole family.

• Address: 23 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10003, USA

• Phone: (917) 388-3866

In a city with countless Chinese restaurants, Mountain House is worth choosing for its exceptional balance of authentic flavors, high-quality food, and a welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant's dedication to providing a genuine Szechuan experience is its biggest selling point. From the free spicy cabbage appetizer to the perfectly cooked fish soup, every dish is prepared with a level of care and expertise that makes it a cut above the rest. The prices are also reasonable for the quality and portion sizes, making it a great value in a notoriously expensive city.

The friendly and knowledgeable staff, particularly as highlighted in customer reviews, makes the dining experience even more enjoyable. They are eager to help you navigate the menu and find dishes you’ll love, whether you’re a spice fiend or someone who prefers milder flavors. The comfortable seating, pleasant decor, and overall cozy vibe make it a place where you can truly relax and enjoy your meal.

Furthermore, the sheer variety of service options—from dine-in and takeout to curbside pickup and drive-through—makes Mountain House incredibly adaptable to your needs. This flexibility, combined with its popularity among a diverse crowd, underscores its status as a beloved East Village institution. For anyone looking for a Chinese restaurant that delivers on its promise of authentic, flavorful food in a fantastic setting, Mountain House is the top choice. It’s an experience that will not only satisfy your cravings but leave you wanting to come back for more.

Mountain House

23 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10003, USA