Xiao Chuan Dian Mini Lamb Skewers House

The BBQ skewers here are fantastic! They offer a unique sweet and sour pork, also known as 锅包肉. The texture is incredible, but I found the flavor to be a bit too sweet for my taste. Overall, I’d rate the food 4 out of 5.

This place offers authentic Chinese skewers at reasonable prices. Our group enjoyed the hot dishes more than the skewers, but both shared similar flavors; for instance, all the spicy hot dishes used the same sauce, while the skewers were primarily seasoned with a dry rub. Nonetheless, the flavors were quite good. The service was quick. Overall, I would rate the food 4 out of 5.

The only downside was the absence of chicken, which was disappointing (-1 star). We had been looking forward to it, so it was surprising they didn’t have any. However, on the positive side, the flavors of their dishes were the best we've experienced in the USA; the only other meal that compared was in Busan, KR—check out my previous review for more details. The atmosphere was enjoyable, and while we prefer a coal grill, they did a great job with their gas and cast iron setup. The pricing was reasonable. The sides weren’t the best we've had in NJ, but they still had an incredible taste. Overall, it was a great experience.

One detail to highlight is that two other groups were celebrating birthdays during our visit. The restaurant has cozy private booths that accommodate up to six people comfortably. However, if your group has seven or more, it could feel a bit cramped in one booth, so making a reservation or planning accordingly is recommended for everyone's comfort. We ordered a diverse array of dishes, which meant our table space was a bit limited. As a result, a few dishes took a little longer to arrive, but the wait was not excessive. The staff provided excellent service throughout the meal, and their friendly demeanor enhanced our overall experience. It’s also worth mentioning that the restaurant doesn't have its own parking lot and relies on street parking. Despite this, the surrounding area seems to have mostly this restaurant thriving, indicating its popularity among diners. Now, onto the highlight of our meal—the lamb skewers and grilled skewers. The lamb skewers were truly exceptional, featuring tender, juicy pieces of meat that were seasoned perfectly. Each bite was filled with flavor, making them a must-try. The other grilled skewers were tasty as well, offering various options to cater to different preferences. In addition to the skewers, we sampled the spicy hot pot and several stir-fried dishes. The hot pot had a satisfying level of spiciness, and the combination of ingredients created a rich, flavorful broth. The stir-fried dishes were well-executed, with fresh and vibrant vegetables that complemented the overall taste. In summary, Xiao Chuan Dian Mini Lamb Skewers House in Northern NJ provides a fulfilling dining experience. While the small booths may be a concern for larger groups, the delicious lamb and grilled skewers make it worth a visit. The attentive service and inviting atmosphere further enhance the enjoyment. I highly recommend trying the lamb and grilled skewers for a flavorful and pleasurable meal.

I really enjoy the concept of being able to cook your own skewers at this restaurant. Each skewer is seasoned just right, and I highly recommend trying their other dishes as well; the northern-style Chinese cuisine here is incredibly delicious. The service is friendly, too. I strongly suggest making a reservation, as it can get quite crowded on weekends.