Royal China: North Deeside Road, Peterculter

AT LAST! Tears were nearly shed when the popular Culter restaurant was hit by fire last year – but thankfully it’s back with a vengeance.

Reopening in the last few weeks, it could be argued the food is even better than it was before the October blaze.

The mixed starter (£11) was a great way to get going, with the spring rolls packed to the brim with tasty veg, and the seaweed and accompanying sauce a winning combination.

My Chengdu chicken (£8) and egg flecked rice (£2.20) was just amazing. I couldn’t get enough of the lovely piquant sauce which had a cracking taste with just the right amount of kick to it.

The Boss’ Szechuan mixed vegetable (£5.50) and boiled rice (£1.60) didn’t take long to disappear.

I have to admit that I’m more of a meat man, but there were certainly envious glances being cast across the table at the crunchy veg with the sweet, yet spicy, sauce.

Including a 20% discount for having a takeaway, the total bill was £22.65.

Welcome back, Royal China, I’ve missed you.