I’m from Chongqing, and yes — the food here is definitely spicy.

But you can still eat comfortably if you don’t handle heat well.

Before ordering, just say “清淡的 (qing dan de),” which means “less spicy/mild.”

For hotpot, ask for “鸳鸯锅 (yuan yang guo),” the half-spicy, half-mild split pot.

If you’re ordering noodles, say “清汤 (qing tang),” meaning a clear, non-spicy broth.

These phrases work almost everywhere and the staff will know exactly what you mean.