Neighborhood Favorites and Must-Try Restaurants for Chinese food in Maryland Heights
Golden Dragon Restaurant
Located on Dorsett Road, Golden Dragon Restaurant has been a mainstay of Maryland Heights for years. It’s a classic, no-frills establishment that focuses on delivering consistently good Chinese food. What makes Golden Dragon stand out is their attention to detail and the quality of their ingredients.
A signature dish to try here is their Hunan Beef. The beef is tender and flavorful, and the sauce has just the right amount of spice – not too overwhelming, but enough to give it a kick. The vegetables are always fresh and crisp, providing a perfect textural contrast to the tender beef. Beyond the Hunan Beef, their Lo Mein is a big seller.
The atmosphere at Golden Dragon is casual and family-friendly, making it a great spot for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner. They also offer convenient takeout and delivery options.
One local reviewer raves, “Golden Dragon is my go-to for Chinese takeout. The food is always hot, fresh, and delicious, and the prices are very reasonable.”
Taste of China Restaurant
If you’re looking for something a little more upscale, Taste of China, situated near Westport Plaza, is an excellent choice. This restaurant prides itself on its elegant ambiance and attentive service. Taste of China offers a menu brimming with both familiar favorites and more adventurous dishes.
While they do all the classics well, one dish that consistently gets rave reviews is their Peking Duck. Prepared in the traditional style, the duck is roasted to crispy perfection, and the skin is served with thin pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce. It’s a truly memorable dining experience and perfect for sharing. They also offer a range of vegetarian options, catering to a wider audience. Their General Tso’s Chicken is also a popular choice.
Taste of China is known for its excellent service and inviting atmosphere. It’s the perfect place for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. They offer both dine-in and takeout options.
“Taste of China is always a treat,” says one satisfied customer. “The food is consistently excellent, the service is impeccable, and the atmosphere is lovely. Highly recommended!”
Hong Kong Express
For those seeking quick, affordable, and tasty Chinese food in Maryland Heights, Hong Kong Express is a top contender. Located on Fee Fee Road, this spot is a popular choice for lunch and dinner, especially for takeout.
While they have a wide variety of options on their menu, their Sesame Chicken is a particular standout. The chicken is crispy and coated in a delicious sesame sauce, and it’s served with a generous portion of rice. The price is right, and the portions are generous, making it a great value. They are also known for their fast and friendly service.
Hong Kong Express offers both takeout and delivery. This location is the place to go if you want quick and satisfying Chinese food.
“Hong Kong Express is my go-to for a quick and easy dinner,” shares a regular customer. “The Sesame Chicken is always delicious, and the service is always friendly.”
Great Wall Chinese Restaurant
Tucked away in a strip mall, Great Wall Chinese Restaurant offers a more unassuming exterior but delivers big flavors inside. This family-owned establishment emphasizes authentic recipes and fresh ingredients.
Their standout dish is their Spicy Garlic Shrimp. The shrimp are perfectly cooked and bathed in a rich, garlicky sauce with just the right amount of heat. The vegetables are always fresh and add a delightful crunch. Another recommendation is the Mongolian Beef.
The Great Wall Chinese Restaurant is known for its good portions and family-friendly environment. They are open for lunch and dinner and do a brisk takeout business. The prices are reasonable, making it an excellent choice for families or budget-conscious diners.
According to one satisfied reviewer, “Great Wall has the best Spicy Garlic Shrimp I’ve ever had! The flavors are amazing, and the service is always friendly.”
Yen Ching Restaurant
Rounding out our top picks is Yen Ching Restaurant. Located on McKelvey Road, Yen Ching offers a wide selection of classic Chinese dishes alongside some more unique regional specialties.
While their menu is extensive, one dish you absolutely must try is their Double Cooked Pork. This Sichuan specialty features thinly sliced pork belly stir-fried with vegetables in a spicy and flavorful sauce. It’s a complex and deeply satisfying dish.
Yen Ching offers a more formal dining experience, with comfortable seating and attentive service. They are open for lunch and dinner and have a full bar. They also offer takeout and delivery.
“Yen Ching is a great place to go for a special occasion,” says one reviewer. “The food is always excellent, and the atmosphere is lovely.”
Popular Chinese Dishes to Try in Maryland Heights
General Tso’s Chicken
This sweet and tangy dish is a staple of Chinese-American cuisine. It consists of deep-fried chicken pieces coated in a sweet and spicy sauce made with soy sauce, vinegar, and chili peppers. Taste of China does it particularly well, with a crispy exterior and a flavorful sauce.
Kung Pao Chicken
Another popular choice, Kung Pao Chicken features diced chicken stir-fried with peanuts, vegetables, and chili peppers in a spicy and savory sauce. This dish is a good option for those who like a little heat. Golden Dragon prepares a very tasty rendition.
Lo Mein and Chow Mein
These noodle dishes are a comforting and satisfying option. Lo Mein features soft, wheat noodles stir-fried with vegetables and protein (such as chicken, beef, or shrimp) in a savory sauce. Chow Mein, on the other hand, features crispy, fried noodles. Hong Kong Express has an expansive menu with various Lo Mein and Chow Mein options.
Egg Rolls and Spring Rolls
These deep-fried appetizers are a perfect way to start your meal. Egg rolls are typically filled with pork, cabbage, and other vegetables, while spring rolls are filled with lighter ingredients like bean sprouts and carrots. Great Wall Chinese Restaurant offers both options, and are usually quite good.
Dumplings
Whether steamed, fried, or served in soup, dumplings are a versatile and delicious dish. They are typically filled with pork, vegetables, or a combination of both. Yen Ching’s soup dumplings are a local favorite.
Beyond the Basics: Exploring Unique Offerings
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Many Chinese restaurants now offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan options. Taste of China has a robust section of their menu dedicated to vegetarian cuisine, from tofu-based dishes to vegetable stir-fries.
Lunch Specials
If you’re looking for a quick and affordable lunch, check out Hong Kong Express. They have daily lunch specials that include an entree, rice, and a soup or egg roll.
Family-Friendly Options
Golden Dragon is a great choice for families with children. Their casual atmosphere and affordable prices make it a welcoming spot for a family meal.
Online Ordering and Delivery Services
Almost all of the restaurants mentioned offer online ordering and delivery services. Many use popular delivery apps like Grubhub, Uber Eats, and DoorDash.
Tips for Finding the Best Chinese Food in Maryland Heights
Finding the best Chinese food can be a bit of a trial-and-error process, but here are a few tips to help you narrow down your search:
Read Online Reviews: Check out reviews on Yelp, Google, and other review sites to get an idea of what other people think. But remember, reviews are subjective, so take them with a grain of salt.
Ask Locals: The best way to find hidden gems is to ask locals for their recommendations. Talk to your friends, neighbors, or coworkers and see where they like to go.
Consider Location: Think about where you live or work and choose a restaurant that is convenient to you.
Look for Fresh Ingredients: Pay attention to the quality of the ingredients. Fresh vegetables and high-quality meats are a good sign.
Be Adventurous: Don’t be afraid to try new dishes and restaurants. You might just discover your new favorite spot.
Conclusion
The Chinese food scene in Maryland Heights is more diverse and delicious than you might think. From classic takeout joints to elegant dining establishments, there’s something for everyone. So, get out there and explore the recommendations in this guide. Sample the General Tso’s chicken, try the Peking Duck, and discover your own hidden gems. And most importantly, happy eating! Enjoy your Chinese food adventure in Maryland Heights!
