Spice Brings Joy at Wula Buhuan

I knew little about the 70-seat restaurant tucked in the corner of a strip center, but my wife had driven past it enough times that we finally decided to give it a shot. We love a good Chinatown run, but it’s a bit of a trek on some days, so finding a quality Asian spot closer to home has been on our list. Just 18 minutes away, with a price point-friendly menu, Wula Buhuan felt like a good Sunday gamble.

We started with the scallion pancakes—crispy, flaky, and just a touch oily, but nothing that kept me from devouring them. The pan-seared dumplings were a solid choice too, though my son claimed most of them before I could really give them a proper evaluation.

We ordered waaaaay too much, but I wanted to put this place to the test. The golden tofu had an impressively crunchy exterior with a soft, creamy center. The batter was different from what I’m used to but worked surprisingly well, standing tall on the plate like a mini golden mountain.

Szechuan Beef

For one of the main courses, I pushed myself a bit with the Szechuan beef. Thin slices of tender beef, celery, and bell peppers, all tossed in a spicy, aromatic sauce. Normally, I steer clear of heat, but I’ve been trying to broaden my palate. Maybe the kitchen saw a giant white guy at the table and dialed it back a bit—if they did, thanks. The spice level was perfect, delivering a back-of-the-tongue tingle without pushing me into a full-blown coughing fit. There was real flavor behind the heat, which isn’t always the case with spicy dishes. I’ve heard horror stories of Szechuan peppercorns triggering sweat-soaked breakdowns, which sounds less than ideal in a Houston summer, but some people are just masochists.

The orange chicken was solid, crispy pieces coated in a sweet, tangy glaze that delivered exactly what you’d expect. The pork with dry tofu was a pleasant surprise, too. The tofu slices had a texture almost reminiscent of mushrooms, firm but not spongy, blending seamlessly with the savory pork.

The ambiance was quiet, the service attentive, and the overall experience satisfying. Whether you’re a spice enthusiast or prefer milder options, Wula Buhuan’s menu looks like it caters to all palates. We look forward to many future visits.