China Express in Williamsburg, NYC, isn't your typical upscale Chinese restaurant. It's a neighborhood gem, a casual eatery offering a straightforward menu and consistently garnering attention – both positive and negative – from its loyal customer base. This in-depth review delves into the China Express experience, examining its menu, pricing, service, and overall value to provide you with a comprehensive understanding before your next visit.
Menu Deep Dive: What China Express Offers
China Express's menu is classic American-Chinese fare, featuring familiar dishes with a focus on speed and affordability. You won't find intricate, experimental dishes here. Instead, expect a reliable selection of appetizers, soups, noodle dishes, and entrees.
Appetizers: A Starter's Delight
The appetizers section typically includes staples like spring rolls, egg rolls, and pot stickers. Reviews suggest these are generally well-received, providing a satisfying start to the meal. However, some reviewers note that the quality can be inconsistent depending on the time of day and how busy the restaurant is.
Soups: A Warm Embrace
China Express offers a few soup options, including hot and sour soup and wonton soup. These are typically described as flavorful and hearty, perfect for a chilly evening. The portions are generous, often enough to share.
Main Courses: The Heart of the Menu
The main course selection forms the bulk of the menu. You'll find a wide range of options, including:
- Lo Mein: A popular choice, often praised for its flavorful sauce and generous portion of noodles. Variations include chicken lo mein, beef lo mein, and vegetable lo mein.
- Chow Mein: Similar to lo mein, but with a drier consistency. Reviews generally find the chow mein dishes to be well-seasoned and satisfying.
- Fried Rice: Available with various protein choices, including chicken, pork, shrimp, and beef. The fried rice is a common favorite, noted for its generous portions and familiar taste.
- Other Entrees: The menu also includes a range of other entrees such as General Tso's chicken, sweet and sour chicken, and Kung Pao chicken. These dishes often receive mixed reviews, with some praising the flavor and others noting that the dishes can sometimes be overly sweet or oily.
Prices: Affordability as a Key Selling Point
China Express consistently receives high marks for its affordability. It's a great option for budget-conscious diners seeking a quick and reasonably priced meal. Prices are generally lower than those of more upscale Chinese restaurants in the area.
Service and Ambiance: The China Express Experience
China Express is primarily a takeout and delivery establishment, although it does offer a small dining area. The service is generally described as efficient and friendly. However, during peak hours, the wait time for both dine-in and takeout can be significant. The ambiance is simple and functional, not designed to be a destination for a romantic evening.
China Express Reviews: A Summary of Feedback
Online reviews for China Express are mixed. While many praise its affordability, speed, and consistently decent food, others note inconsistencies in quality, occasional long wait times, and a somewhat basic dining experience. Many reviewers consider it excellent value for money, perfect for a casual, no-frills meal.
Conclusion: Is China Express Right for You?
China Express in Williamsburg, NYC, provides a reliable option for affordable, classic American-Chinese cuisine. If you're seeking a fine-dining experience or innovative dishes, this might not be the best choice. However, if you prioritize speed, affordability, and a satisfying meal without fuss, China Express is certainly worth considering. Its popularity among locals suggests it successfully fills a niche in the Williamsburg food scene, providing a familiar and dependable culinary option. Ultimately, whether or not China Express meets your expectations depends on your personal preferences and priorities.
