After a thrilling day riding rollercoasters and indulging in chocolate at Hersheypark, you might find yourself craving something savory and satisfying. While Hershey, Pennsylvania, is undoubtedly famous for its chocolate empire, it also boasts a surprisingly diverse culinary landscape, including a growing selection of establishments serving delicious Chinese food. Hershey offers more than just chocolate bars and amusement park thrills; it offers a chance to expand your palate and discover hidden gems. This article will guide you through the best Chinese food Hershey has to offer, highlighting top restaurants, popular dishes, and what makes each place unique. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor seeking a break from the sweet stuff, prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that showcases the flavorful side of Hershey.
A Taste of the Orient: Hershey’s Chinese Cuisine Scene
The options for Chinese food Hershey presents are varied and cater to different tastes and preferences. While not as expansive as a major metropolitan area, the town offers a decent selection of restaurants, many focusing on takeout and delivery services, catering to the busy tourist population and local families alike. You’ll generally find a mix of Americanized-Chinese classics alongside some more authentic dishes, depending on the establishment. Think familiar favorites like General Tso’s Chicken and Lo Mein, alongside the occasional Spicy Szechuan offering or comforting noodle soup. Most establishments fall into the affordable to mid-range price category, making Chinese food in Hershey a great option for a budget-friendly and delicious meal. The variety ensures that you can satisfy a craving for Chinese food Hershey can provide.
Restaurant Spotlight: Golden China
Located on Chocolate Avenue, Golden China is a long-standing favorite among locals and tourists. The restaurant boasts a casual, family-friendly atmosphere with comfortable seating and a relaxed ambiance. Their menu is extensive, featuring a wide array of classic Chinese dishes. However, their signature dish and a must-try for any first-time visitor is their Sesame Chicken. The chicken is perfectly crispy, coated in a sweet and savory sesame sauce that’s not overly sticky or cloying. Other popular items include their Shrimp Fried Rice, prepared with plump, juicy shrimp and perfectly cooked rice, and their Kung Pao Chicken, which offers a delightful kick of spice. Prices are reasonable, making Golden China a great choice for a casual meal. What sets Golden China apart is its consistent quality and friendly service. It’s a dependable option for great Chinese food Hershey always enjoys. Reviewers consistently praise their generous portions, flavorful food, and efficient service. One recent reviewer on Yelp stated, “Golden China is our go-to for Chinese takeout. The food is always fresh and delicious, and the staff is always friendly!”
Restaurant Spotlight: China Wok
China Wok offers a streamlined, no-frills dining experience focused primarily on takeout and delivery. Located just a short drive from Hersheypark, it is a perfect option for those seeking a quick and convenient meal after a long day of attractions. While the ambiance is minimal, the food speaks for itself. China Wok is known for its fast service and affordability. Their most popular dish is their General Tso’s Chicken, which many consider to be among the best in Hershey. The chicken is crispy and tender, coated in a tangy and slightly sweet sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Another popular item is their Lo Mein, a classic noodle dish prepared with your choice of protein and vegetables. If you’re looking for a spicy option, try their Szechuan Beef, which features tender slices of beef stir-fried with vegetables in a flavorful Szechuan sauce. China Wok offers exceptional value and convenience. If you need Chinese food Hershey can give you quickly, this is a perfect option. Many online reviewers emphasize the speed and accuracy of their orders.
Restaurant Spotlight: Great Wall Chinese Restaurant
Great Wall Chinese Restaurant offers a more expansive menu with a focus on traditional Cantonese and Szechuan cuisine. Located a bit further from the immediate Hersheypark area, it provides a slightly quieter and more relaxed dining experience. The atmosphere is comfortable and inviting, making it a great option for a family dinner or a casual night out. Great Wall is known for its fresh ingredients and expertly prepared dishes. Their Peking Duck is a standout, featuring crispy skin and succulent meat. Another popular item is their Dim Sum selection, offering a variety of steamed and fried dumplings filled with savory fillings. For a spicy kick, try their Mapo Tofu, a classic Szechuan dish featuring silky tofu in a spicy and flavorful sauce. Great Wall is known for its dedication to quality and authenticity, offering a more refined dining experience than many other Chinese restaurants in the area. Patrons often comment on the high quality of the ingredients and the attentive service. Great Wall is a perfect option for Chinese food Hershey residents and tourists have a more elevated experience with.
Beyond the Classics: Exploring Unique Options for Chinese food Hershey
While many restaurants in Hershey focus on familiar Americanized-Chinese dishes, there are opportunities to explore more unique culinary experiences. Unfortunately, dedicated Dim Sum restaurants are scarce in the immediate Hershey area, but Great Wall offers a limited selection of Dim Sum items during certain hours. This allows you to get a taste of these delightful dumplings without venturing too far. Although there are no dedicated noodle shops specializing in hand-pulled noodles, some restaurants, like Great Wall, offer noodle dishes with a focus on fresh ingredients and authentic flavors. While finding purely authentic regional Chinese cuisine can be challenging, some restaurants offer dishes that lean towards a more traditional flavor profile. Don’t be afraid to ask about daily specials or less commonly ordered items to discover hidden gems. China Wok and Golden China are great for those who want Chinese food Hershey offers as takeout.
Tips for Ordering and Enjoying Chinese Food in Hershey
If you have dietary restrictions, be sure to check the menus online or inquire with the restaurant staff. Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options, and some can accommodate gluten sensitivities. Golden China and Great Wall have menus that are marked clearly, which helps customers. Many restaurants in Hershey offer convenient online ordering options, allowing you to browse the menu, place your order, and pay online from the comfort of your hotel room or home. China Wok is known for its excellent online ordering. Don’t hesitate to ask about any off-menu or daily special items. Sometimes, restaurants have hidden gems that aren’t listed on the regular menu. Tipping is customary in American restaurants. A tip of 15-20% is standard for good service. For a more scenic dining experience, consider taking your takeout to a nearby park. Hershey Gardens offers stunning views of the town and surrounding area, providing a beautiful backdrop for a delicious Chinese meal.
Conclusion: Savor the Flavors of Hershey
Hershey, Pennsylvania, offers more than just chocolate and amusement park rides; it’s also a place where you can discover delicious Chinese food. From the family-friendly atmosphere of Golden China to the convenient takeout options at China Wok and the refined dining experience at Great Wall, Hershey offers a variety of options to satisfy your cravings. Each restaurant brings its own unique flavor and flair to the Chinese food Hershey offers. For a quick and affordable meal, China Wok is an excellent choice. If you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience with authentic Cantonese and Szechuan dishes, consider Great Wall Chinese Restaurant. Golden China is always a great choice for classic dishes that are always delicious. Next time you’re in Hershey, don’t forget to explore its diverse culinary landscape and discover the delicious world of Chinese food Hershey has to offer. Let us know your favorite spot in the comments below! What dish do you think showcases the best flavors Hershey has to offer?
