Chinese food is a perennial favorite in the United States. With over 40,000 Chinese restaurants scattered across the country, it’s easy to satisfy that craving for General Tso’s chicken or some wonton soup.
Little Rock is no exception to this trend. The city has a growing and vibrant Chinese food scene, with restaurants offering everything from traditional dishes to modern interpretations.
This article explores some of the best Chinese restaurants Little Rock has to offer, so you can find your new favorite spot for a delicious meal.
How to Choose a Chinese Restaurant in Little Rock
Several factors can influence your choice of a Chinese restaurant. Here are a few to consider.
Online Reviews and Ratings
These days, many of us rely on online reviews to decide where to eat. Sites like TripAdvisor are good places to start your search.
Most online reviews consider factors such as food quality, service, value, and atmosphere. Pay attention to the restaurants that are consistently rated highly for these features.
Price and Accessibility
Price ranges, often shown as $, $$, or $$$ can help you narrow down your choices. Also, think about how easy it is to get to the restaurant. Is it close to your home or workplace? Is parking readily available?
Top Chinese Restaurants in Little Rock: A Curated List
Craving some General Tso’s or maybe something a little more adventurous? Little Rock has a range of Chinese restaurants to satisfy your hunger, from upscale dining experiences to quick and easy bites.
Fine Dining and Upscale Experiences
For a special night out, consider these restaurants:
- A.W. Lin’s Asian Cuisine: A.W. Lin’s offers a sophisticated atmosphere and a blend of Asian flavors, with a focus on Chinese cuisine. The ambiance is modern and elegant, perfect for a date night or celebratory dinner. Be sure to try their signature sushi rolls and the Peking duck, which is carved tableside.
- Mr. Chen’s Authentic Chinese Cooking: Don’t let the unassuming exterior fool you; Mr. Chen’s is a local favorite for authentic Chinese dishes. The atmosphere is casual but the food is top-notch. The menu features a wide variety of regional specialties, with a focus on Sichuan cuisine. Try the spicy Dan Dan noodles or the mapo tofu for a true taste of China.
Casual Dining and Quick Bites
Need a quick and tasty lunch or a casual dinner? These spots are perfect:
- Three Fold Noodles and Dumpling Co: Three Fold offers a modern take on classic Chinese street food. The atmosphere is hip and casual, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Their specialty is handmade noodles and dumplings, served with a variety of flavorful sauces. The “Three Fold” meal is a great way to sample a bit of everything.
- Chi’s Chinese Express: For a quick and affordable Chinese meal, Chi’s is a solid choice. It’s a no-frills spot with a focus on fast service and classic American-Chinese dishes. They offer all the usual favorites, like orange chicken, lo mein, and fried rice, at reasonable prices.
Buffet Style
For those times when you want a little bit of everything:
- Asia Buffet: Asia Buffet offers a wide variety of Asian dishes, including Chinese, Japanese, and Korean options. The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly. You’ll find all the usual buffet staples, plus a sushi bar and a Mongolian grill. It’s a great option for groups with diverse tastes.
Beyond the Rankings: Exploring Hidden Gems
This list is a great starting point, but keep in mind that Little Rock’s food scene is always changing. There are plenty of fantastic restaurants that might not be on everyone’s radar just yet.
Don’t be afraid to explore and find your own favorite places! Ask around, check out local blogs and social media groups, and see where the word-of-mouth recommendations lead you. You might just discover your new go-to spot for amazing Chinese food.
Key Takeaways
From traditional Cantonese to spicy Sichuan, Little Rock has a wide range of Chinese restaurants to explore.
I hope this guide has given you some inspiration to try a new place or revisit a favorite. With so many delicious options, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your craving for Chinese food.
So, what are you waiting for? Go out and enjoy some of the best Chinese cuisine Little Rock has to offer!