Best Chinese Restaurant Dishes to Try: A Guide to Must-Have Chinese Food

Top Dishes to Try at a Chinese Restaurant

If you're new to Chinese cuisine, there are a few key dishes that stand out at any reputable Chinese restaurant. These dishes are popular for their flavor, history, and the balance they bring to a meal. Here are some of the best Chinese restaurant dishes to try:

1. Kung Pao Chicken: A stir-fry dish with chicken, peanuts, vegetables, and chili peppers. It's a perfect balance of spicy, salty, and sweet.
2. Sweet and Sour Pork: A combination of crispy pork in a tangy-sweet sauce, this dish is a crowd favorite.
3. Dim Sum: A variety of bite-sized dishes, ranging from dumplings to buns, ideal for sharing and trying different flavors in one meal.
4. Mapo Tofu: A spicy, flavorful dish from Sichuan, made with tofu, minced meat, and a bold sauce of chili bean paste and Sichuan peppercorns.
5. Beef with Broccoli: A classic dish combining tender beef with fresh broccoli in a savory sauce, often served with steamed rice.

Classic Dishes Everyone Should Try

There are certain Chinese restaurant dishes that have stood the test of time, beloved by many for their rich flavors and satisfying textures. These are some classic dishes that you’ll find in almost any Chinese restaurant worth visiting:

• General Tso's Chicken: A crispy, sweet, and slightly spicy dish that's known for its bold flavor. A quintessential Chinese-American favorite.
• Chop Suey: A dish made with a mix of meat, vegetables, and a savory sauce. It's versatile and has been adapted into various forms across cultures.
• Fried Rice: A simple but flavorful dish, often made with leftover rice, eggs, vegetables, and protein like chicken or shrimp. It’s a must-try comfort food.
• Hot and Sour Soup: This soup balances tangy vinegar and spicy flavors, with ingredients like tofu, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots, offering a warming and satisfying start to your meal.

Regional Specialties You Can’t Miss

Chinese cuisine is vast and diverse, with regional specialties that offer unique flavors and preparation styles. Here are some of the best regional Chinese dishes to try at the restaurant:

1. Peking Duck (Beijing): A famous dish known for its crispy skin and tender meat, usually served with pancakes, hoisin sauce, and fresh vegetables.
2. Sichuan Hot Pot (Sichuan): A spicy, bubbling pot of broth in which diners cook their choice of meat, vegetables, and noodles. It’s the ultimate communal dining experience.
3. Char Siu (Cantonese): Cantonese-style BBQ pork, marinated in a sweet and savory sauce and roasted to perfection. It's a delicious dish for those who love a balance of sweet and salty flavors.
4. Xiao Long Bao (Shanghai): These delicate soup dumplings are filled with a savory broth and tender pork, offering a unique and flavorful bite.

Popular Chinese Food for Newbies

If you’re just starting your journey into Chinese cuisine, these dishes are great options to begin with. They’re approachable and widely loved by both locals and visitors alike:

• Spring Rolls: These crispy rolls, filled with vegetables or meat, are a great starter dish. They’re light and flavorful, making them perfect for first-timers.
• Egg Drop Soup: A comforting and light soup made with beaten eggs and broth, seasoned with a bit of soy sauce and pepper. It's a simple yet satisfying dish.
• Sesame Chicken: A mild, sweet dish made with battered chicken coated in a sesame-flavored sauce. A great choice for those who enjoy sweeter flavors.
• Lo Mein: Soft, stir-fried noodles with your choice of protein, vegetables, and a savory sauce. It’s easy to like and an excellent introduction to Chinese cuisine.

What to Pair with Your Dishes for the Perfect Meal

Choosing the right side dishes and beverages can elevate your dining experience. Here’s what to pair with your Chinese restaurant dishes:

1. Pair with Steamed Rice: Steamed rice is the perfect accompaniment to almost every Chinese dish. It soaks up sauces and adds texture to the meal.
2. Pair with Green Tea: A refreshing green tea complements the rich flavors of Chinese food, providing a clean and mild contrast to the spices.
3. Pair with Chinese Beer or Plum Wine: Chinese beer is often light and refreshing, while plum wine offers a sweet, fruity finish to your meal.
4. Pair with Stir-Fried Vegetables: Lightly stir-fried vegetables like bok choy or Chinese broccoli provide a fresh contrast to heavier, fried dishes.

Where to Find the Best Chinese Dishes Near You

If you’re ready to explore these dishes, look no further than Chinese Food, where you can find the best Chinese restaurants in your area. Whether you’re looking for classic dishes or regional specialties, they can point you to the top dining spots or help you find authentic recipes to try at home.