Huang Cheng Lao Ma Hotpot

Huang Cheng Lao Ma is Chengdu's longest-standing high-end hotpot brand (1986), known for its in-restaurant Sichuan opera face-changing show that runs nightly 7-9 PM. The food is genuinely high-quality (¥250-400 per person — pricier than Shu Jiu Xiang) and the Qintai Road flagship is the original location. Performance is included — no extra charge. The setting is a renovated Sichuan courtyard restaurant decorated like a Qing dynasty merchant's home. Strongly book ahead for the 7-9 PM dinner slot when the show runs. English menu and staff. This is where most foreign tour groups go — touristy but legitimately good. The face-changing performer comes around tables for photos.