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August 20, 2025 18 mins

Brothers Patrick and Ryan Evans fell in love with Sichuanese cuisine while working in San Francisco's fine dining industry. When they returned to Michigan, they teamed up with Ryan Corbin, a fellow chef, to bring those flavors to Traverse City.

We talked to the trio about Crocodile Palace, their takeout-only Sichuan restaurant, the appeal of the Sichuan region's mala flavor profile, and the ingredients that go into their bestselling dan dan noodles.

HELPFUL LINKS:

  • Crocodile Palace's main brick-and-mortar is located at 124 Cochlin St. in Traverse City.

  • Their kitchen at The Little Fleet near downtown Traverse City is open year-round, and offers a less spicy menu of options.

  • Find bonus footage from our trip, plus a map of all our past trips, here!

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Music in this episode by Blue Dot Sessions.

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