Spicy House (紅房子) is a Chinese restaurant on Picton Street in Howick, Auckland, rated 4.7 from 181 Google reviews, with diners praising the chilli chicken, the hot pot dishes and the value for money, and finding the dining room roomier than its Dominion Road counterpart. Its Facebook page carries the latest details. Restaurants like this cook family-style: dishes arrive as they are ready, meant to be shared over rice. The trick is balancing one fiery centrepiece with something cooling — greens, perhaps, or a simple noodle dish — rather than ordering every plate spicy. Slow-braised pots of brisket and tendon are a fair test of any kitchen, since they cannot be rushed. And a house-favourites list is usually the honest shortcut to what a kitchen does best. For Howick locals keen on proper chilli heat without the drive into town, this Picton Street spot is an easy regular.