Chinatown Philadelphia, a vibrant hub of culture and cuisine, offers more than just dumplings and noodles. Hidden amongst the bustling streets are gems serving up exquisite salmon dishes. This guide explores the best of the best, highlighting 20 restaurants showcasing this versatile fish in creative and delicious ways. Whether you crave classic preparations or innovative twists, this list has something for every salmon lover.
Top 10 Classic Salmon Preparations in Chinatown
These restaurants offer traditional salmon dishes, showcasing the fish's natural flavor through simple yet effective techniques:
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Golden Koi Restaurant: Known for its perfectly pan-seared salmon, seasoned with a delicate blend of soy sauce, ginger, and scallions. Their side of steamed bok choy complements the dish perfectly.
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Red Dragon Inn: This establishment serves a delectable miso-glazed salmon, slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in a tender and flavorful experience. The accompanying rice is fluffy and flavorful.
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Shanghai Nights: Their signature dish, the Hong Shao Salmon, features salmon braised in a rich, savory sauce with a hint of sweetness. It's a must-try for those who appreciate bold flavors.
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Jade Garden: This restaurant offers a lighter take on salmon with their steamed salmon with lemon and dill. The freshness of the ingredients shines through, making it a refreshing option.
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Phoenix Restaurant: Famous for its grilled salmon with teriyaki sauce, this is a classic choice for a satisfying and savory meal. The char adds a delightful smoky element to the dish.
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Eastern Dragon: Their cedar plank salmon is slow-cooked, infusing the fish with a subtle smoky aroma and flavor. The accompanying vegetables are fresh and seasonal.
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Pearl River: This restaurant offers a unique take on salmon with their Salmon en Papillote, where the fish is baked in parchment paper with vegetables, resulting in a moist and flavorful dish.
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Asia Bistro: This relaxed eatery serves up simple, yet delicious pan-fried salmon with a side of garlic mashed potatoes.
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New Shanghai: This trendy spot offers a creative take on salmon with their spicy Szechuan salmon, boasting a kick that will leave you wanting more.
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Mandarin House: Here you'll find a classic baked salmon with a lemon-herb butter sauce. The simplicity of the dish allows the quality of the salmon to shine through.
Top 10 Innovative Salmon Dishes in Chinatown
These restaurants push boundaries, incorporating unique flavors and techniques to create memorable salmon experiences:
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Wok This Way: Their salmon tacos offer a fun and innovative twist on traditional salmon. The fish is marinated and perfectly grilled, then placed in soft tortillas with their signature slaw and salsa.
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Spicy Sichuan: Their Salmon Mapo Tofu fuses the spice of Sichuan cuisine with the richness of salmon, creating a dish that is both exciting and satisfying.
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Dim Sum Paradise: This restaurant offers a surprising yet delicious salmon dim sum, showcasing the versatility of the fish.
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Great Wall Restaurant: This establishment serves a unique salmon curry, featuring tender salmon in a rich and aromatic coconut curry sauce.
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China Doll: Their salmon sushi rolls are a delicious fusion of Japanese and Chinese flavors, providing a delicate and refined dining experience.
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House of Lee: This restaurant offers a unique salmon and avocado salad, providing a lighter and healthier option.
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Dragon Gate: Their smoked salmon pizza offers a surprising combination of textures and flavors. The smoked salmon adds a unique depth of flavor, while the pizza's crust provides a satisfying texture.
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Mayflower Restaurant: Their pan-seared salmon with mango salsa offers a tropical twist to this popular fish.
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Kim's Noodle House: Here you can find a delectable salmon udon noodle soup, a warm and comforting dish, perfect for cooler weather.
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Emperor's Garden: Offers a sophisticated salmon Wellington, featuring flaky puff pastry encasing tender salmon.
Finding Your Perfect Salmon Experience
This list offers a diverse range of options, catering to different preferences and budgets. When choosing a restaurant, consider:
- Your preferred cooking style: Do you prefer grilled, pan-seared, baked, or something more creative?
- Your spice preference: Some restaurants offer spicier dishes, while others stick to classic preparations.
- Your budget: Prices can vary depending on the restaurant and the specific dish.
No matter your choice, exploring Chinatown’s salmon scene guarantees a delicious and memorable culinary experience. Remember to check restaurant websites or call ahead for reservations, especially during peak hours. Enjoy!
