Craving delicious Chinese food but don’t want to drive into the big city? You’d be surprised by how many small towns offer authentic, mouthwatering Chinese cuisine. Whether you’re in search of traditional dim sum, savory dumplings, or a comforting bowl of hot and sour soup, small towns across the US boast hidden gems that will leave you craving more. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best Chinese food in small towns near you, highlighting local favorites and lesser-known spots that you simply can’t miss.
- 1. Hidden Gems in the Heartland
- 2. The Best Dim Sum in Small Towns
- 3. Noodle Paradise: Chinese Noodles in Small Towns
- 4. Local Favorites and Must-Try Dishes
- 5. Authentic Chinese Food in the South
1. Hidden Gems in the Heartland
While major cities like New York and Los Angeles are known for their exceptional Chinese restaurants, some of the best Chinese food can be found in the heart of small-town America. For example, in places like Bentonville, Arkansas, you'll find local spots that serve up incredible Szechuan-style dishes with the perfect balance of spice and flavor.
During my visit to Bentonville, I stumbled upon a cozy family-owned Chinese restaurant tucked away on a quiet street. The kung pao chicken was made with fresh ingredients, perfectly cooked, and just the right amount of heat. This unexpected gem made my small-town experience even more memorable. You never know what culinary treasures await in small towns!
2. The Best Dim Sum in Small Towns
Dim sum is one of the most beloved aspects of Chinese cuisine, and it’s not just reserved for big cities. Small towns have caught on to the dim sum craze, with charming little places offering a wide range of delicious dumplings, buns, and other treats. In small towns like Reno, Nevada, dim sum lovers can enjoy traditional Cantonese dim sum served fresh and steaming, with all the classics like har gow (shrimp dumplings), char siu bao (BBQ pork buns), and egg tarts.
During a trip to Reno, I was introduced to a wonderful dim sum spot that not only served fantastic dumplings but also had a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. The dim sum carts wheeled through the restaurant, making it feel like an authentic experience. This is one of the best ways to enjoy Chinese food in a small town, and it’s a must-try for anyone craving a dim sum feast.
3. Noodle Paradise: Chinese Noodles in Small Towns
For noodle lovers, small towns offer a surprising array of flavorful noodle dishes that will satisfy every craving. Small town restaurants often feature homemade noodles, hand-pulled to perfection, in dishes like zhajiangmian (noodles with soybean paste) or beef chow fun. The noodles are perfectly chewy and paired with rich sauces that pack a punch of flavor.
I visited a small Chinese restaurant in Fort Collins, Colorado, where the house-made noodles in their beef chow fun were the star of the meal. The stir-fried noodles had just the right amount of smokiness, and the tender beef was a perfect complement. If you're a noodle enthusiast, small towns are where you'll find some of the most delicious and hearty bowls of noodles.
4. Local Favorites and Must-Try Dishes
Every small town has its own set of local Chinese food favorites, and trying them is a big part of the experience. In places like Taos, New Mexico, you can enjoy a blend of traditional Chinese dishes with southwestern influences, such as spicy kung pao shrimp with a touch of local chili. Or, in a small town like Walla Walla, Washington, you might find a small Chinese restaurant serving up dishes with locally sourced ingredients that give the food a fresh, unique twist.
When I visited Walla Walla, I tried a local favorite – honey walnut shrimp – that had a perfectly crisp texture and a sweet, creamy sauce. The balance of sweet and savory was exceptional, and it’s a dish I’ll remember for years. Be sure to ask locals about their favorite Chinese food spots, as you’ll likely uncover hidden gems that offer something truly unique.
5. Authentic Chinese Food in the South
The southern United States has been gaining recognition for its delicious and authentic Chinese food. Cities like Charleston, South Carolina, and smaller towns in Georgia feature Chinese restaurants that serve dishes just like you’d find in Beijing or Shanghai. From hot pots to mapo tofu, the flavors of Chinese cuisine shine in these southern towns.
During a trip to Charleston, I had the pleasure of dining at a family-run Chinese restaurant that specialized in Sichuan cuisine. The mapo tofu was a revelation – spicy, savory, and full of complex flavors. It was a taste of authentic China, made even better by the southern hospitality that made me feel right at home.
Whether you're looking for crispy dumplings, a hearty noodle dish, or a refreshing bowl of hot and sour soup, small towns offer some of the best Chinese food experiences you can find. Don’t let big city names fool you; these small town restaurants are serving up some seriously tasty meals. Want to discover the best Chinese food near you? Visit Chinese Food for recommendations on hidden gems and local favorites.
