Scout Notes: Chinese food stereotypes: It’s only for eating on the couch in sweats. The best dine-in spots are holes in the wall. It’s the same ol’ menu everywhere you go. Now take those stereotypes, put them in a little takeout box and toss them, because the metro area’s newest Chinese spot, Liu Fu (translation: six blessings), crushes them all like Jackie Chan to a bad guy. The 7,500-square-foot space with gleaming, upscale Asian décor and tranquil music from the homeland is meant to be experienced. And while you’ll see your favorite comfort dishes like Kung Pao Chicken, beef and broccoli, and lo mein on the menu, you’ll find a true taste of traditional, Szechuan-style cuisine in specialties like the sweet, crunchy Honey Glazed Walnut Shrimp or buffalo-esque Spicy Crispy Chicken. As for my personal favorite, the Szechuan Hot Boiled Fish, you’ll smell its garlicky freshness coming from tables away and won’t be able to get your chopsticks (or fork, we won’t judge) ready fast enough when a smiling server plops it down in front of your watering mouth.

Now, let’s address the concerns of you ITPers: it’s in Johns Creek. Let’s fill you in on a little something: that’s still a whole lot closer than China. For just a quick trek outside of city limits, you’ll indulge in the authentic fare of a faraway land. The charming owners, Lin and Shuli Yuan, have been serving true Chinese eats for the past two decades (their former restaurant was China Inn in Chamblee), and know how to provide an experience full of flavor, ambiance, and hearty dishes designed for family-style dining.

And you can still enjoy the leftovers in your sweats tomorrow.

Note: Through early February, the building may read “Freshia Garden” until the Liu Fu sign goes up. You’re in the right place.

---

Menu Highlights:
Szechuan Hot Boiled Fish, $18
Honey Glazed Walnut Shrimp, $14
Pocket Tofu, $12
Spicy Crispy Chicken, $12
Kung Pao Chicken, $12
Sweet & Sour Pork, $11
Vegetable Lo Mein, $10

Hours:
Monday - Thursday, 11 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Friday, 11 a.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Saturday, noon – 10:30 p.m.
Sunday, noon – 9:30 p.m.