CY Chinese Restaurant

The minute you step into this Sichuan-style North Miami Beach hideaway, your senses fall prey to the overwhelming perfume of rendered beef fat and chili oil. Take, for example, the hot pot, in which beef fat is the central ingredient; the rich, savory aroma is the yardstick by which most Chinese folks judge the quality of hot pot. A simple chicken broth, made by simmering carcasses with ginger and garlic for three hours, is poured on top just before the dish is sent out to the dining room. Bring a big group so you can order as many of the accouterments as possible. Also be sure to pace yourself: One of the most joyous moments of hot pot comes at the very end when the broth and spices have reduced, along with everything that's been cooked in them, into a rich, flavorful brew that makes the final few bites truly special.