Finding the perfect Chinese restaurant can be a culinary quest. This guide navigates the delicious landscape of North and West Philadelphia, highlighting ten exceptional establishments offering diverse menus and authentic flavors. Whether you crave classic Cantonese dishes or adventurous Sichuan specialties, this list caters to every palate. We'll explore what makes each restaurant unique, from their ambiance to their signature dishes, helping you choose the perfect spot for your next Chinese food craving.
Top North Philadelphia Chinese Restaurants
1. Golden Dragon Restaurant: A North Philadelphia Staple
Golden Dragon has been a North Philadelphia institution for years. Their extensive menu boasts both familiar favorites and lesser-known regional delicacies. The General Tso's Chicken is consistently praised for its crispy texture and balanced sweet and spicy sauce. They also offer a wide variety of noodle dishes, including their incredibly popular lo mein with perfectly cooked vegetables and tender protein.
- Atmosphere: Casual and family-friendly.
- Price Range: $
- Signature Dish: General Tso's Chicken
- Why it's great: Consistent quality, extensive menu, affordable prices.
2. East Wind Chinese Restaurant: Authentic Szechuan Flavors
East Wind sets itself apart with its focus on authentic Szechuan cuisine. If you enjoy bold flavors and a little spice, this is your place. Their Mapo Tofu is a must-try, offering a rich, savory, and slightly spicy experience. Their Kung Pao Chicken is another standout, with its perfectly balanced blend of sweet, sour, and spicy notes.
- Atmosphere: Lively and bustling.
- Price Range: $
- Signature Dish: Mapo Tofu
- Why it's great: Authentic Szechuan flavors, vibrant atmosphere.
3. Happy Garden Restaurant: A Neighborhood Gem
Happy Garden is a beloved neighborhood gem, known for its friendly service and consistently delicious food. Their egg rolls are legendary, with a crispy exterior and flavorful filling. They also offer a wide variety of combination platters, perfect for sharing or enjoying a complete meal.
- Atmosphere: Cozy and welcoming.
- Price Range: $
- Signature Dish: Egg Rolls
- Why it's great: Friendly service, great value, consistently good food.
Top West Philadelphia Chinese Restaurants
4. China King Restaurant: A West Philly Classic
China King has earned a loyal following in West Philadelphia, thanks to its extensive menu, generous portions, and affordable prices. Their dumplings, both steamed and fried, are a popular choice, as is their hot and sour soup, which perfectly balances tangy and spicy notes.
- Atmosphere: Casual and comfortable.
- Price Range: $
- Signature Dish: Dumplings
- Why it's great: Generous portions, affordable prices, consistent quality.
5. Peking Garden: Elegant Dining Experience
Peking Garden offers a more upscale dining experience, with a sophisticated ambiance and a menu that showcases the elegance of Peking cuisine. Their Peking Duck is a highlight, prepared with traditional methods and served with delicate pancakes and accompaniments. Their Moo Shu Pork is another superb option.
- Atmosphere: Elegant and refined.
- Price Range: $$
- Signature Dish: Peking Duck
- Why it's great: Upscale ambiance, expertly prepared dishes.
6. Jade Garden Restaurant: A Family Favorite
Jade Garden is another West Philadelphia favorite known for its family-friendly atmosphere and diverse menu. They excel at both traditional Cantonese dishes and more modern Americanized options. Their sweet and sour chicken is a popular choice for those looking for a classic comfort dish.
- Atmosphere: Family-friendly and welcoming.
- Price Range: $
- Signature Dish: Sweet and Sour Chicken
- Why it's great: Wide variety of options, great for families.
Beyond the Usual Suspects: Exploring Hidden Gems
7. New Shanghai Restaurant: A Taste of Shanghai
This restaurant offers a unique culinary experience with its focus on Shanghainese cuisine, which is often less spicy than Szechuan or Hunan styles, but still features rich and complex flavors. They often have specials featuring seasonal ingredients.
- Atmosphere: Cozy and intimate.
- Price Range: $
- Signature Dish: Shanghainese-style soup dumplings (Xiao Long Bao)
- Why it's great: Unique culinary experience, focuses on regional specialties.
8. Great Wall Restaurant: A Vegetarian-Friendly Option
While not exclusively vegetarian, Great Wall offers a surprisingly large selection of vegetarian and vegan options, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions. They do a very good job making their vegetarian dishes flavorful and substantial.
- Atmosphere: Casual and comfortable.
- Price Range: $
- Signature Dish: Vegetable Lo Mein
- Why it's great: Excellent vegetarian and vegan choices.
North & West Philadelphia: A Comparative Look
| Feature | North Philadelphia Restaurants | West Philadelphia Restaurants |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Vibe | More casual, family-friendly, neighborhood gems | Mix of casual, upscale, and family-friendly options |
| Price Range | Generally more affordable options available | Wider range, with some more upscale choices |
| Cuisine Focus | Mix of Cantonese and Americanized Chinese; some regional specialties | Broader range of regional styles, including Peking cuisine |
Discovering Your Perfect Philadelphia Chinese Restaurant
This guide provides a starting point for your culinary exploration. Remember to check online reviews and menus before visiting to confirm hours, offerings, and pricing. Happy eating! Let us know in the comments what your favorite Philadelphia Chinese restaurant is!
