Introduction
Craving that perfect blend of sweet, savory, and spicy after a day exploring the vineyards of the Santa Ynez Valley? You might be surprised to discover that Buellton, California, a charming town known for its laid-back atmosphere and connection to the movie *Sideways*, offers more than just burgers and brews. Nestled amidst rolling hills and celebrated wineries, Buellton boasts a surprising and satisfying Chinese food scene. This guide will take you on a culinary journey, exploring the best places to enjoy authentic and delicious Chinese cuisine right here in Buellton. Prepare your chopsticks for a taste of the Orient!
Golden Wok: A Buellton Institution
For many Buellton residents, Golden Wok is synonymous with quality Chinese food. This family-owned restaurant has been serving up classic dishes for over two decades, becoming a local favorite for its generous portions, friendly service, and consistently delicious meals.
Ambiance and Atmosphere
Stepping inside Golden Wok is like stepping into a familiar friend’s dining room. The ambiance is warm and welcoming, with comfortable booths, traditional Chinese artwork adorning the walls, and a bustling atmosphere that speaks to its popularity. It’s the kind of place where you’ll see families sharing a meal, friends catching up, and couples enjoying a quiet dinner.
Menu Highlights
The menu at Golden Wok is extensive, offering a wide range of Cantonese-inspired dishes, along with some spicier Szechuan options. However, there are a few dishes that stand out as absolute must-tries. The Orange Chicken is a perennial favorite, featuring crispy, lightly battered chicken tossed in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. The sauce is perfectly balanced, with just the right amount of citrusy zest and a hint of sweetness.
Another dish worth exploring is their House Special Chow Mein. This isn’t your typical bland chow mein; it’s loaded with tender shrimp, succulent chicken, flavorful pork, and crisp vegetables, all tossed in a savory sauce. It’s a complete meal in itself and perfect for sharing.
Vegetarian diners will find plenty of satisfying options at Golden Wok. Their Mapo Tofu is a standout, featuring silken tofu in a spicy bean sauce with vegetables. You can also customize many of their dishes to be vegetarian by requesting tofu or extra vegetables instead of meat.
What Makes It Special
What truly sets Golden Wok apart is their commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients and their dedication to providing exceptional service. They treat every customer like family and go the extra mile to ensure that everyone has a memorable dining experience.
As owner, Lin states “We focus on family and delivering the best experience possible. Our recipes are authentic and passed down for generations so we hope everyone enjoyes it”
Golden Wok offers generous portions at very reasonable prices, making it a great value for families and budget-conscious diners. It is worth every penny!
Address: 500 Avenue of Flags, Buellton, CA 93427
Phone: (805) 688-8888
Jade Palace: A Modern Take on Tradition
If you’re looking for a more modern and refined Chinese dining experience, Jade Palace is the place to go. While still rooted in traditional flavors, Jade Palace offers a contemporary ambiance and innovative menu items that appeal to a discerning palate.
Ambiance and Atmosphere
The interior of Jade Palace is sleek and stylish, with minimalist décor, soft lighting, and comfortable seating. It’s the perfect setting for a special occasion, a romantic dinner, or a business lunch. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet relaxed, creating a welcoming environment for all.
Menu Highlights
The menu at Jade Palace features a mix of classic Chinese dishes and more creative offerings. While you’ll find familiar favorites like Kung Pao Chicken and Mongolian Beef, you’ll also discover some unique and intriguing dishes that you won’t find anywhere else.
Their signature dish, the Honey Walnut Shrimp, is a true delight. Crispy fried shrimp are coated in a creamy honey sauce and topped with candied walnuts. The combination of textures and flavors is simply irresistible.
Another popular choice is the Peking Duck, prepared with meticulous care and served with thin pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce. The duck is roasted to perfection, with crispy skin and juicy meat. It’s a true culinary experience.
Jade Palace also offers an extensive selection of wine and cocktails, making it a great place to enjoy a complete dining experience. Their bartenders are skilled at crafting creative cocktails that complement the flavors of the food.
What Makes It Special
One of the things that makes Jade Palace special is their commitment to using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. They partner with local farmers and suppliers to ensure that their dishes are made with the freshest and highest quality ingredients.
This ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor and that you’re supporting the local community.
Address: 200 S Las Brisas Dr, Buellton, CA 93427
Phone: (805) 688-7777
China Express: Quick and Delicious
Sometimes, you just need a quick and easy Chinese food fix. China Express is the perfect option for those times when you’re short on time but still craving those familiar flavors. This no-frills takeout spot offers a wide range of classic Chinese dishes at affordable prices, making it a popular choice for lunch and dinner.
Focus on Convenience
China Express focuses on efficiency and convenience. You can place your order over the phone or in person, and your food will be ready in a matter of minutes. It’s the ideal option for busy individuals and families who want a quick and satisfying meal.
Menu Highlights
The menu at China Express features all the usual suspects, from General Tso’s Chicken to Sweet and Sour Pork. However, they also offer some unique and flavorful dishes that are worth trying.
Their Spicy Garlic Eggplant is a standout, featuring tender eggplant in a fiery garlic sauce. It’s a perfect option for those who like a little heat. Their Beef with Broccoli is another popular choice, featuring tender slices of beef and crisp broccoli in a savory brown sauce.
While China Express is primarily a takeout restaurant, they do have a few tables available for those who want to dine in. However, most people prefer to take their food to go and enjoy it at home.
Despite its focus on speed and convenience, China Express doesn’t compromise on quality. They use fresh ingredients and cook their dishes to order, ensuring that every meal is delicious and satisfying.
Address: 400 Ave of the Flags #106, Buellton, CA 93427
Phone: (805) 686-1888
Exploring Regional Specialties in Buellton
While most Chinese restaurants in Buellton lean towards Cantonese-American cuisine, you might find some dishes that hint at other regional specialties. Keep an eye out for spicy Szechuan dishes or dishes with a strong emphasis on garlic and ginger, which are characteristic of Hunan cuisine. Don’t be afraid to ask your server about any special dishes or ingredients they use that might be specific to a certain region.
Dining Tips for the Buellton Chinese Food Scene
- Reservations: While not always necessary, it’s always a good idea to make a reservation, especially at Golden Wok and Jade Palace, particularly during weekends and peak tourist season. This will ensure that you get a table and avoid a long wait.
- Ordering: Try family style so that you can enjoy and share all types of dishes.
- Takeout and Delivery: All three restaurants offer takeout options, and some may offer delivery through third-party services. Check with the restaurant directly for details.
- Hours of Operation: Check operating hours for the restaurants. It varies for each.
- Parking: All three restaurants have parking available in front.
Buellton’s Chinese Food: A Delicious Discovery
Buellton might be famous for its wineries and its connection to *Sideways*, but it’s also home to a surprisingly vibrant and delicious Chinese food scene. From the comforting classics at Golden Wok to the modern creations at Jade Palace and the quick and satisfying meals at China Express, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
So, the next time you find yourself in Buellton, take a break from the wine tasting and explore the local Chinese restaurants. You might just discover your new favorite dish. Don’t hesitate to try something new, ask for recommendations, and most importantly, enjoy the experience! We encourage you to go to these restaurants to enjoy the best food Buellton has to offer and share your experience with us!
