Craving authentic Chinese food? You might have heard about Ya Ya Chinese Restaurant. Known for its dedication to bringing real Chinese flavors to the table, Ya Ya has become a local favorite.
Chinese cuisine is beloved the world over, and Ya Ya Chinese is a big part of that culinary scene. With a diverse menu full of dishes to explore, there’s something for everyone.
This article is your comprehensive guide to the Ya Ya Chinese menu. We’ll explore signature dishes, highlight popular choices, and give you a taste of what it’s like to dine at Ya Ya Chinese Restaurant.
Appetizers and Starters
No Chinese meal is complete without a few tasty bites to kick things off! Ya Ya’s appetizer menu features familiar favorites alongside some unique creations.
Classic Appetizers
- Spring Rolls: These crispy, golden rolls are packed with fresh veggies and served with your choice of dipping sauce. The sweet chili sauce is a popular pick, or you can opt for the traditional plum sauce.
- Dumplings (Steamed or Fried): Soft, delicate wrappers encase a juicy filling of your choice. You can choose from pork, chicken, or a vegetarian option. Whether you prefer them steamed or pan-fried, these dumplings are sure to satisfy.
- Crab Rangoon: A creamy, cheesy filling bursts from a crispy wonton shell. The sweet and sour dipping sauce complements the rich filling perfectly.
Unique Appetizer Offerings
Ya Ya also boasts a few signature appetizers you won’t find anywhere else. (Details to come after I’ve sampled them myself!)
Soup Selections
Ya Ya Chinese Restaurant offers a few classic soups.
- Hot and Sour Soup: This soup has a balance of spicy and tangy flavors. You’ll taste vinegar, chili, tofu, and mushrooms, all in a thick, rich broth.
- Wonton Soup: A light, clear broth with delicate wontons filled with savory pork or shrimp. They sometimes garnish it with vegetables, too.
- Egg Drop Soup: A silky, mild soup with ribbons of egg. It sometimes has tofu or scallions.
Main Courses: Chicken Dishes
Ya Ya Chinese offers a variety of delectable chicken dishes, each with its own unique flavor profile. Here are a few of the most popular:
General Tso’s Chicken
This dish is a classic for a reason! Crispy, sweet, and tangy, General Tso’s Chicken features tender pieces of chicken coated in a delightfully crispy batter and drenched in a rich, sweet-and-sour sauce. While variations exist, the core elements of crispy chicken and flavorful sauce remain consistent.
Kung Pao Chicken
If you prefer a bit of heat, Kung Pao Chicken is the way to go. This dish is known for its spicy and nutty flavors, thanks to the inclusion of peanuts, dried chili peppers, and Sichuan peppercorns. The combination of sweet, sour, and spicy elements creates a truly unforgettable taste sensation. Regional variations may include different types of vegetables or a slightly altered spice blend.
Lemon Chicken
For a lighter, more refreshing option, try the Lemon Chicken. This dish consists of crispy fried chicken drizzled with a bright, tangy lemon sauce. The crispy coating of the chicken provides a satisfying crunch, while the lemon sauce adds a burst of citrusy flavor that’s perfect for a warm day.
Main Courses: Beef and Pork Dishes
Ya Ya’s menu offers several beef and pork dishes, each with a distinct flavor profile.
Mongolian Beef
Mongolian beef is a savory and slightly sweet dish featuring tender slices of beef coated in a rich, dark sauce. Scallions and garlic add depth and complexity to the flavors. You may find slight variations in preparation or ingredients depending on the chef’s preference, but the overall taste remains consistent.
Sweet and Sour Pork
Sweet and sour pork is a classic Chinese dish known for its crispy, deep-fried pork and tangy sweet and sour sauce. The sauce typically includes pineapple, bell peppers, and onions, creating a delightful balance of sweet and sour flavors. This dish has a long history and remains a popular choice in Chinese restaurants worldwide.
Mu Shu Pork
Mu Shu Pork is a savory pork and vegetable stir-fry served with thin, crepe-like pancakes. The filling includes ingredients like wood ear mushrooms, cabbage, and scallions. The fun of Mu Shu Pork is in assembling your own little bundles, wrapping the flavorful filling in the delicate pancakes.
Main Courses: Seafood and Vegetarian Options
Ya Ya offers a selection of seafood and vegetarian entrees for those looking for something beyond the usual beef, pork, or chicken dishes.
Shrimp Dishes
The Shrimp with Lobster Sauce features tender shrimp swimming in a creamy, savory sauce. The richness comes from the use of fermented black beans and other secret ingredients known only to the chef. It’s a decadent treat!
If you love Kung Pao Chicken, be sure to try the Kung Pao Shrimp. It offers the same spicy and nutty flavors as the chicken version, but features juicy shrimp instead.
Vegetarian Dishes
Vegetarians will appreciate the options available, including the classic Mapo Tofu. This dish features soft tofu in a spicy and savory sauce, made with Sichuan peppercorns and fermented black beans. It’s a flavorful explosion!
The Vegetable Stir-Fry is another excellent choice. Ya Ya uses a variety of seasonal vegetables in this dish, all lightly coated in a delicate and flavorful sauce. It’s a healthy and delicious option.
Rice and Noodle Dishes
No Chinese menu would be complete without rice and noodle dishes, and Ya Ya offers the staples you’d expect.
Fried Rice
You’ll find the classic fried rice dishes at Ya Ya, including chicken, pork, shrimp, and vegetable. All are prepared with soy sauce, egg, and plenty of chopped veggies, yielding a fluffy texture and savory flavor. Be sure to check the “Chef’s Specials” section for any unique fried rice offerings that day.
Lo Mein
Lo Mein features soft noodles and a savory sauce, usually stir-fried with your choice of protein and plenty of vegetables. The balance of flavors and textures makes this a satisfying and comforting dish. Ask about any special Lo Mein creations when you order.
Chow Mein
Chow Mein is all about the crispy noodles and flavorful sauce. As with the other dishes, you can choose your protein and enjoy a variety of fresh vegetables. The crispy texture of the noodles makes this a satisfying and flavorful dish.
Wrapping Up
Ya Ya Chinese offers a menu packed with authentic flavors and high-quality ingredients. From classic favorites to signature specialties, you’ll find a diverse range of dishes sure to satisfy your cravings.
But don’t just take our word for it! We encourage you to visit Ya Ya Chinese and experience the menu for yourself. Be sure to try some of the dishes we highlighted, like the Peking duck or the spicy Szechuan noodles. With so much to choose from, you’re guaranteed to find something you’ll love. We hope to see you there!