The worst has happened: Americans on TikTok have discovered the British Chinese takeaway and we are getting roasted. It’s bad enough (apparently) that we feel the need to throw Chinese curry, sweet and sour pork dumplings, and chicken chow mein all together – but the fact we throw chips (salt and pepper chips to be exact) into the mix appears to be a step too far for our cousins across the Atlantic.
Reactions range from heartbroken to angry to disgusted. And, as much as we do love a big plate of beige, we know British Chinese can do better than what they’re seeing. Our first thought heads to Nice Spice on Denmark Street. For those in the know, this ‘hidden gem’ is tucked away in the city centre, and if you ask us, is more than helping the image of British Chinese takeaway.
China is a huge country. There’s a vast diversity of cuisines and cultures to incorporate under the banner of Chinese food. Nice Spice succeeds by just honing in on just one style, however, serving mouthwatering Cantonese BBQ. Essentially, you’ll find a selection of Hong Kong-style roasted meats. This includes char siu, roasted duck, crispy pork belly and soya chicken. All come served on a bed of rice and steamed greens.
To get the best deal, however, you’ll want to pick up Nice Spice’s triple roast. It plates up three juicy types of meat all in one meal. And for a truly authentic experience, why not wash it all down with milk tea or lemon tea? These refreshing Hong Kong-style drinks cut through the fatty, rich deliciousness of the barbeque meats. Other menu highlights include Beijing-style duck pancakes and beef brisket.
We might have described Nice Spice as a hidden gem, but among Bristol’s Asian community, it’s a popular place. There’s often a long queue lining up to try these Cantonese delights. So it’s easy to find once you know what you’re looking for. It might not be much to look at, but this snug spot is the envy of every other British Chinese takeaway.
To learn more about Nice Spice head here.