From shrimp fried rice and sweet-and-sour chicken to egg foo young, Americans love Chinese food. It’s hard to imagine there are many towns in the entire country that don’t have their own go-to spot for fried wontons, egg drop soup, and pork lo mein — and try as we may to recreate our favorite take-out dishes at home, it’s never quite the same as going out.
Just as common as Chinese restaurants, however, are arguments about which one is best. All 50 of these local favorites can easily make an argument for tops in their respective states.
Alabama: Chengdu Cuisine
YUFEI WANG/Google
Hoover
If you’re looking for authentic Sichuan flavors in Alabama, Chengdu Cuisine stands out for its bold spice levels, hand-prepared dishes, and extensive traditional menu. Diners rave about specialties like dry-fried green beans, mapo tofu, and spicy boiled fish, all packed with the numbing heat and layered flavors that define Sichuan cooking.
Alaska: Pagoda
North Pole
Pagoda has become a beloved hidden gem in Alaska thanks to its consistently generous portions and comforting Chinese-American classics. Located in the quirky town of North Pole, the restaurant is especially known for crispy egg rolls, rich lo mein, and flavorful sesame chicken.
Arizona: Great Wall Cuisine
Phoenix
Phoenix’s Great Wall Cuisine is one of the Southwest’s top dim sum destinations, drawing crowds every weekend for carts loaded with dumplings, buns, and barbecue pork pastries. Beyond dim sum, the menu covers Cantonese favorites with impressive depth and authenticity.
Arkansas: Mr. Hui’s
Little Rock
Mr. Hui’s has earned a loyal following in Little Rock for bringing authentic Chinese dishes to Arkansas without sacrificing comfort or accessibility. The restaurant combines traditional recipes with fresh ingredients and generous portions, offering everything from spicy Sichuan specialties to classic fried rice dishes
California: Mr. Jiu’s
San Francisco
Located in the heart of San Francisco’s Chinatown, Mr. Jiu’s elevates Chinese cuisine with a modern fine-dining approach rooted in Cantonese traditions. Chef Brandon Jew’s Michelin-starred restaurant blends local California ingredients with classic techniques, resulting in dishes that feel both nostalgic and innovative.
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Colorado: Hong Kong Station
Denver
Hong Kong Station has become a favorite among Denver-area diners for its extensive menu of Cantonese barbecue, noodle soups, and Hong Kong café-style comfort food. Known especially for roast duck and crispy pork belly, the restaurant delivers authentic flavors in a casual setting that attracts everyone from families to late-night diners.
Connecticut: Great Taste
New Britain
Unlike so many beloved casual holes-in-the-wall, Great Taste is an upscale, white-tablecloth experience for the Chinese food connoisseur. The staff is as professional as any you’d find in a fine dining hot spot. Insiders recommend ordering the crispy Peking duck, which is carved right at your table.
Delaware: Confucius Chinese Cuisine
Rehoboth Beach
Known for traditional fare from the Hunan region, Confucius is stellar all year round but specializes in seasonal cuisine. Traditionalists rave about the authentic offerings, but there’s also plenty of “Americanized” Chinese food for anyone seeking something familiar.
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District of Columbia: Tiger Fork
Washington
In addition to having a really cool name, Tiger Fork earns a place on numerous “best of” lists with its ambiance, cuisine and drinks. Its noodle dishes and king monkey bread garner special praise. Don’t let its location in an alley discourage you from visiting.
Florida: Kai Kai BBQ & Dumplings
Orlando
Kai Kai BBQ & Dumplings has emerged as one of Florida’s most exciting Chinese restaurants thanks to its expertly prepared Cantonese barbecue and handmade dumplings. Diners flock there for roast pork, duck, soup dumplings, and comforting noodle dishes served in a casual but polished setting.
Georgia: Masterpiece
Duluth
Masterpiece is widely considered one of metro Atlanta’s best spots for authentic Sichuan cuisine. Located in Duluth’s thriving Asian dining corridor, the restaurant is known for fiery hot pots, dan dan noodles, and dishes loaded with signature Sichuan peppercorn flavor.
Hawaii: Wu Wei Chong Qing Cuisine
Honolulu
Wu Wei Chong Qing Cuisine specializes in the spicy, aromatic dishes of China’s Chongqing region, offering a menu packed with bold flavors and comforting noodle dishes. Honolulu diners love the restaurant’s dry pots, spicy chicken, and hand-pulled noodles, all served in a casual atmosphere focused squarely on the food.
Idaho: Red Pavilion Mandarin Cuisine
Meridian
The entire menu at Red Pavilion comes in gargantuan portions at fair prices.The honey almond shrimp is a fan favorite, but the soup is the real game changer. Try the wonton or the egg flower soup. Even better, nearly everything on the menu can be made gluten-free.
Illinois: YooYee
Chicago
YooYee combines traditional Chinese cooking with polished presentation in one of Chicago’s most respected Chinese dining rooms. The restaurant serves a broad menu that includes dim sum favorites, seafood specialties, and expertly prepared Cantonese dishes.
Indiana: Asian Snack
Indianapolis
Asian Snack may look modest from the outside, but it has become legendary among Indianapolis food lovers for its authentic Chinese dishes and incredible value. The menu highlights hand-pulled noodles, dumplings, and regional specialties that go far beyond standard takeout fare.
Iowa: China Chef
Des Moines
China Chef has built a loyal customer base in Des Moines thanks to its reliable cooking, generous portions, and menu filled with comforting favorites. Diners especially love the restaurant’s crispy General Tso’s chicken, savory noodle dishes, and classic fried rice combinations.
Kansas: Blue Koi Noodles and Dumplings
Leawood
Brightly colored with a laid-back vibe, Blue Koi Noodles and Dumplings is known for its bubble tea, although it also boasts a full bar and a nice selection of loose teas. Try the pork dumplings and don’t be shy about mixing and matching sauces and dips.
Kentucky: KungFood Chu’s AmerAsia
Covington
A small restaurant that seats about 30, KungFood Chu’s AmerAsia has decor almost as perfect as the food. Kung fu posters adorn the walls as diners sip craft beers and enjoy Taiwanese delicacies such as the spicy dynamite egg roll. Daring souls should try the beef and broccoli at spice level two.
Louisiana: Lucky Palace
Bossier City
Louisiana is known for many cuisines, but Chinese is not one of them. Good Chinese restaurants are few and far between, which makes Kuan Lim’s Lucky Palace even more special: It leans toward the gourmet, with a wine list that The New York Times has written about as drawing those in the know from as far as California and France (who must remember not to be put off by the Palace’s setting in an unimpressive motel). Try the Northern Style Duck with Steamed Buns.
Maine: Empire
Portland
Known over the years for its live music and events as much as for its food, Empire serves authentic dishes from around China. The duck fried rice and kung pao chicken are unforgettable, and the cocktail list is worth a visit in and of itself. Vegetarians and vegans will have trouble choosing from all the options.
Maryland: Hong Kong Chinese Restaurant
Hagerstown
Hong Kong Chinese Restaurant is worthy of a best-in-state mention on portion-size-to-price ratio alone. The famously friendly staff only adds to the experience. The familiar Americanized Chinese cuisine is widely considered among the best in the region — and the state.
Massachusetts: Sumiao Hunan Kitchen
Cambridge
Sumiao Hunan Kitchen brings refined Hunan cuisine to the Boston area with a menu focused on fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Unlike the heavier sauces common in Americanized Chinese food, Hunan cooking emphasizes smoked meats, chili peppers, and bright, aromatic dishes.
Michigan: Rainbow Restaurant
Farmington
You’ve had lo mein, but never like this. Chinese-style crispy lo mein is just one reason to stop at Rainbow Restaurant next time you’re in or near Farmington. Nothing is frozen, everything is made fresh to order, and gluten-free options abound.
Minnesota: Weng’s Kitchen
Farmington
The egg rolls are crispy, not greasy. The staff is warm, inviting, and fast. The fried dumplings are massive and flavorful. It’s Weng’s Kitchen, you’d really have to try hard to find a bad review.
Mississippi: Mr. Chen’s
Jackson
Mr. Chen’s combines a Chinese restaurant with an attached Asian market, giving diners access to some of the most authentic Chinese food in Mississippi. The menu includes hand-pulled noodles, spicy Sichuan dishes, and traditional soups rarely found elsewhere in the state.
Missouri: Corner 21 Chinese Cuisine
Springfield
Corner 21 has become one of Missouri’s breakout Chinese restaurants thanks to its deeply flavorful Sichuan cooking and polished presentation. Diners rave about dishes like twice-cooked pork, chili oil dumplings, and mapo tofu, all prepared with careful attention to authenticity.
Montana: Pagoda Thai and Chinese Restaurant
Missoula
Though some impatient customers gripe about the wait, Pagoda Thai and Chinese Restaurant is busy because it’s popular — and it’s popular because it’s probably the best spicy food in the region. Pagoda makes all dishes fresh and authentic to old-world recipes. If you’re undecided, try the Thai basil.
Nebraska: Ming’s House
Lincoln
Locals often stop into Ming’s House to enjoy the unusual triangular crab rangoon. For others, it’s the wide selection of vegetarian fare. Either way, portions are big, and prices are not.
Nevada: Crawfish Asian Cuisine
Reno
Crawfish is famous for its build-your-own seafood platters, and the staff is known for its friendly demeanor and stellar service. When you’re there, try the crawfish that gave the place its name. Limited indoor seating is available.
New Hampshire: Happy Dumpling
West Lebanon
Happy Dumpling has earned a loyal customer base for its handmade dumplings, fresh noodle dishes, and authentic Chinese comfort food. The small restaurant delivers big flavor through carefully prepared dishes that feel homemade and satisfying.
New Jersey: Han Dynasty
Cherry Hill
Philadelphians know Han Dynasty‘s central location in the city. New Jerseyans flock to the suburban satellite outlet, which is as good or better than the larger city locations. Expect the same giant portions of authentic spicy Sichuan dishes such as pepper shrimp and dan dan noodles that you’d find at Han in Philly.
New Mexico: Chopstix
Albuquerque
Chopstix has been serving Albuquerque for years and remains one of the city’s most reliable Chinese restaurants. The menu balances traditional dishes with approachable favorites, offering everything from spicy noodles to comforting fried rice plates.
New York: Yingtao
New York City
Yingtao brings a modern and elegant approach to Chinese cuisine while still honoring traditional flavors and techniques. The Manhattan restaurant blends regional influences with contemporary presentation, resulting in dishes that feel sophisticated without losing their roots.
North Carolina: Szechuan Mansion Hotpot
Cary
Szechuan Mansion Hotpot offers one of the Triangle area’s most immersive Chinese dining experiences, specializing in bubbling hot pots filled with meats, vegetables, and richly spiced broths. Diners can customize their meals while exploring authentic Sichuan flavors and ingredients.
North Dakota: Huhot Mongolian Grill
Bismark
Head to HuHot and don’t leave until you’ve plated a creation all your own. The theme is stir-fry, and the name of the game is unlimited, create-your-own dinners. While Mongolian in name, the style of cooking here is largely considered to have originated in China and has little to do with techniques and ingredients of Mongolia. It’s a regional chain, but the quality, price, and atmosphere can compete with any mom-and-pop restaurant.
Ohio: LJ Shanghai
Huangzhirou Tang/Google
Cleveland
LJ Shanghai is best known for its expertly made soup dumplings, which have earned praise from diners across Ohio. The restaurant also serves a wide range of Shanghai-style dishes, including noodles, braised meats, and savory pancakes.
Oklahoma: Szechuan Bistro
Oklahoma City
Szechuan Bistro features standout pot stickers, but that isn’t the only beloved dish. The boiled fish is another favorite, as is the egg drop soup and a variety of specialty dishes you won’t find on the standard Chinese menu. No matter what you order, expect speedy, friendly service.
Oregon: Mama Chow’s Kitchen
Portland
Mama Chow’s Kitchen combines traditional Chinese comfort food with a contemporary Portland sensibility. Diners rave about the handmade dumplings, flavorful noodles, and carefully balanced sauces that elevate familiar dishes.
Pennsylvania: EMei
Philadelphia
EMei specializes in Sichuan cuisine and has earned widespread praise for delivering authentic flavors in the heart of Philadelphia’s Chinatown. The restaurant is known for spicy fish dishes, dry pepper chicken, and expertly prepared tofu plates packed with heat and complexity.
Rhode Island: Apsara Asian Restaurant
Providence
The Thai, Cambodian, and Vietnamese offerings are as good as the Chinese dishes that keep the locals coming back to Apsara. With a huge selection of pork, beef, chicken, seafood, and vegetarian dishes, there’s definitely something for everybody.
South Carolina: Jackrabbit Filly
North Charleston
Jackrabbit Filly blends Chinese and Southern influences into a menu that feels inventive while still honoring classic flavors. The restaurant serves dishes like handmade dumplings, noodle bowls, and rice plates with bold seasoning and creative twists.
South Dakota: Phnom Penh Restaurant
Sioux Falls
Though it incorporates Cambodian influences alongside Chinese cooking, Phnom Penh Restaurant has become one of Sioux Falls’ most celebrated Asian dining spots. Diners love the flavorful noodle dishes, stir-fries, and soups served in generous portions. The family-run atmosphere and consistently excellent food have earned it a devoted following.
Tennessee: China Cottage
Madison
The China Cottage is an unassuming place tucked away in a strip mall. The humble location doesn’t take away from the fact that the soups, crab rangoon, garlic shrimp, and dumplings are among the best in Tennessee.
Texas: House of Three Gorges
Austin
House of Three Gorges focuses on cuisine from China’s Sichuan and Chongqing regions, delivering deeply flavorful dishes packed with spice and aromatics. Favorites include spicy boiled fish, cumin lamb, and handmade dumplings served in a casual but energetic atmosphere.
Utah: Mandarin
Bountiful
The decor is luxurious and ornate, the reviews are fawning, and the food is exotic and original. It’s Mandarin, and if you stop there, try the tropical Thai tofu, the pepper tofu, the Mongolian pork, or the Singapore noodles. No matter what you decide, it’s hard to imagine you’d be disappointed.
Vermont: A Single Pebble
Burlington
A family style restaurant known for Taiwanese cuisine, A Single Pebble serves up exotic specials such as steamed chili black bean wontons. The restaurant’s legions of loyal fans rave about the delightful overall experience.
Virginia: Noodle Man
Virginia Beach
Noodle Man specializes in hand-pulled noodles and comforting northern Chinese dishes served in generous portions. Diners love the rich broths, spicy sauces, and freshly made noodles that give the restaurant its name.
Washington: Tai Tung Chinese Restaurant
Seattle
Few Chinese restaurants in the U.S. boast a history and lineage comparable to Tai Tung in Seattle. Tai Tung has more than three-quarters of a century of family history, dating back to the grandfather of the current owners who opened for business in 1935. Neither the service nor the food needs introduction to anyone in the Seattle area. When Bruce Lee, a frequent customer, came here, he always ordered the same thing: beef in oyster sauce.
West Virginia: China City
Morgantown
China City has earned a strong reputation in Morgantown for generous portions, friendly service, and a broad menu of Chinese favorites. Diners especially appreciate the restaurant’s noodle dishes, fried rice plates, and consistently flavorful entrees.
Wisconsin: Taste of Sichuan
Madison
Taste of Sichuan offers online ordering for delivery and takeout, but reviewers rave about the hot pot (which can be ordered half-and-half) and the option to add multiple meats to some dishes.
Wyoming: Full House Chinese Restaurant
Mills
When you head to Full House, leave some room in the fridge — gargantuan portion sizes all but guarantee leftovers. Between the amazing dinner specials and legendary crab rangoon, the Full House experience is beyond compare.
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