You want less spicy food, not zero spicy
“不辣” often still means a little spice. Say “微辣” or “少辣” for mild.
'Not spicy' is not the same as 'mild' in Chinese.
What you'll see
If you ask for 'no spicy' but still get heat, the word choice is the problem:
Why it happens
In Chinese kitchens, “不辣” is often interpreted as 'not very spicy' rather than zero. “微辣” (mild) or “少辣” (less) is clearer.
Every case shows the diagnosis and the first step - free. The full step-by-step fix for this exact case, the decision tree, and the offline kit are $9.99.
When phrases alone aren't enough
In the kitWhen 'not spicy' keeps failing, the kit gives the spice-scale card so the waiter reads it, not just hears it.
1. The lookup table
The full spice scale (不辣 / 微辣 / 少辣 / 中辣 / 特辣) as a showable card.
2. The trigger matrix
Which situation needs which phrase, so you show the right one first.
3. Offline printable version
The whole phrase kit as a printable card for low-signal moments.
The notice is on the wall. The parcel still has your name on it.
Ask it once, get one answer — not four things to read.
Voice first, screen second — the screen is what actually lands.
If nothing works
If the dish is still too spicy:
- Ask for a plain side dish or plain rice to balance it.
- Request “可以重做少辣吗？” for a replacement.
- Next time show the spice-scale card before ordering.
Four levels deep — being understood never rests on one try.
Pointing at the screen is understood everywhere.
You are looking at 1 of 62
Most travellers know about three of these before they fly. This one is often not one of them.