Lexington, Kentucky is known for its horses and bourbon, but the culinary scene is growing and becoming more diverse, too. From upscale dining to casual eats, you can find almost anything you’re looking for.
And when it comes to comfort food, Chinese cuisine is always a popular option.
Whether you’re craving classic dishes or something more adventurous, Lexington has a variety of Chinese restaurants, each with its own unique flavors and specialties. No matter your tastes, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your craving at one of the many Chinese restaurants in Lexington, Kentucky.
Authentic Sichuan and Hunan Cuisine
If you’re looking for a Chinese dining experience that goes beyond the familiar, Lexington offers some excellent options for authentic Sichuan and Hunan cuisine. These regional styles are known for their bold flavors and unique ingredients.
Sichuan Flavors: Fiery and Flavorful
Sichuan cuisine is famous for its intense and complex flavors, largely due to the generous use of chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns. The peppercorns create a distinctive “ma la” sensation, which is both numbing and spicy.
[Restaurant Name] is a local favorite for its authentic Sichuan dishes. Be sure to try their Mapo Tofu, a classic dish of tofu in a spicy fermented black bean sauce, or their Dan Dan Noodles, a savory and slightly spicy noodle dish.
Hunan Cuisine: Rich and Rustic
Hunan cuisine, while also making use of chili peppers, distinguishes itself with its emphasis on fresh ingredients and smoky flavors. The chili peppers in Hunan dishes tend to provide a different kind of heat compared to Sichuan cuisine.
For a taste of Hunan flavors, try [Restaurant Name]. Their Hunan Beef, known for its tender beef and flavorful sauce, is a popular choice. Another must-try is Chairman Mao’s Pork, a braised pork dish with a rich and savory flavor profile.
Cantonese and American Chinese options
When you’re looking for Chinese food, it’s good to understand the many regional variations in the cuisine. Here’s a look at two popular styles.
Cantonese cuisine: Delicate and refined
Cantonese food emphasizes fresh seafood and light sauces, highlighting the natural flavors of the ingredients. Common cooking methods include steaming and stir-frying, which preserve the texture and taste of the food. While it can be harder to find in Lexington, Cantonese cuisine may include dishes like dim sum or roast duck.
American Chinese cuisine: Familiar and comforting
American Chinese food evolved as Chinese immigrants adapted their traditional recipes to suit American tastes. These dishes often feature a combination of sweet and savory flavors and are typically served in larger portions than traditional Chinese cuisine.
You’ll find many familiar favorites in this category, including General Tso’s chicken, sesame chicken, and sweet and sour pork. Lexington has a number of long-standing American Chinese restaurants that serve up these classics.
Dim sum and noodle houses
If you’re in the mood for dumplings and noodles, Lexington has some interesting options for you to explore.
The delights of dim sum
Dim sum is a style of Chinese cuisine in which food is served in small, bite-sized portions, usually along with tea. It’s a popular weekend brunch tradition in many parts of the world, and while Lexington doesn’t have a ton of dim sum restaurants, you can find dim sum at a few of the local spots.
Look for favorites like shumai (steamed pork dumplings), har gow (shrimp dumplings), and char siu bao (barbecue pork-filled buns).
Noodle houses: a comfort food staple
Noodles are a mainstay of Chinese cuisine, and you can find a wide variety of noodle dishes in Lexington, from hand-pulled wheat noodles to slippery rice noodles.
Seek out restaurants that specialize in noodle dishes, and be sure to try the Lanzhou beef noodle soup, a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cold day. You also can’t go wrong with lo mein or chow fun.
Remember that wheat noodles tend to be thicker and chewier, while rice noodles are often more delicate. Some noodle dishes are served in a rich broth, while others are stir-fried and served dry, so there are lots of options to choose from.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
Lexington has some low-key Chinese restaurants that might not be on everyone’s radar, but consistently earn the love of locals. These spots often have unique specialties or a loyal following built on years of serving delicious food.
One example is Golden Wok on Richmond Road. It might not look like much from the outside, but inside, they’re serving up some seriously good Sichuan dishes. My neighbor, Mrs. Chen, swears by their Dan Dan noodles, and I have to agree – they’re addictive! Another place worth checking out is Taste of China on Tates Creek Road. They have a huge menu, but their Peking duck is the real star. You have to order it in advance, but it’s worth the wait.
Supporting these local businesses is so important. They’re the heart of our community, and they bring so much flavor (literally!) to Lexington. So, next time you’re craving Chinese food, skip the big chains and give one of these hidden gems a try. Don’t be afraid to ask the staff for recommendations or try something new. You might just discover your new favorite dish!
Final Thoughts
Lexington, Kentucky, offers a surprisingly diverse and high-quality selection of Chinese restaurants. From Szechuan to Cantonese and beyond, you can find a wide variety of regional cuisines and dining experiences right here in the Bluegrass.
So, get out there and explore! Try a restaurant you’ve never been to, order something new, and support our local businesses.
Ultimately, Lexington’s Chinese restaurants provide a delicious and diverse culinary adventure just waiting to be discovered, one tasty bite at a time.