What Chinese Restaurants Are Open for Delivery?

If you’ve ever craved some delicious Chinese food but didn’t want to leave the comfort of your home, you’ve probably wondered: what Chinese restaurants are open for delivery? Living in a fast-paced world where time is precious, the option to have your favorite Chinese dishes delivered straight to your door has become a lifesaver. As someone who loves Chinese food and often turns to delivery, I’ve learned a lot about how to get the best meals delivered to my doorstep. Let me take you through everything you need to know about Chinese restaurant delivery options and how to find the best one in your area.

1. Why Chinese Restaurants Offer Delivery

Many Chinese restaurants, especially in the United States, offer delivery services because it’s a convenient option for customers. Chinese food, with its diverse and flavorful offerings, is perfect for delivery—it’s relatively easy to pack and transport, and it stays fresh and flavorful when properly packaged. Chinese restaurants have realized that in today’s world, people are more likely to stay home and order food rather than dine out, and that’s where the delivery service comes into play.

Personally, I’ve always found Chinese food to be the perfect option for delivery. Whether I’m craving a comforting bowl of wonton soup, a hearty serving of fried rice, or some crispy spring rolls, Chinese restaurants have a wide variety of options that travel well. Additionally, the communal nature of many Chinese dishes—like stir-fries and noodle bowls—makes them easy to share, which is ideal for those of us ordering for family or friends.

2. What Chinese Restaurants Offer Delivery?

With the rise of food delivery apps like Grubhub, DoorDash, UberEats, and Postmates, many Chinese restaurants now offer delivery through these platforms. But it’s not just about these apps—many restaurants have their own in-house delivery services. If you’re wondering what restaurants offer delivery, the options can vary depending on your location, but generally, the following types of Chinese restaurants are great places to check:

Local Chinese Takeout: Many local Chinese takeout spots, especially in cities and suburban areas, provide delivery. These smaller, family-owned places are often quicker at delivering and may have a more personalized experience.
Chinese Buffets: Some larger buffet-style Chinese restaurants offer delivery, but it's more common to see this option available in areas with larger Chinese populations. They often have a wide range of options for delivery, from sweet and sour chicken to beef with broccoli.
Specialty Chinese Restaurants: These may include places specializing in Cantonese, Sichuan, or Hunan cuisine. Restaurants that focus on a specific regional style of Chinese cooking may offer a more focused menu, perfect for those looking for authentic flavors.
High-End Chinese Restaurants: Some upscale Chinese restaurants, particularly in metropolitan areas, also offer delivery services. They may have gourmet options available, offering dishes like Peking Duck, dim sum, and premium seafood delivered right to your door.

If you’re wondering whether your favorite spot offers delivery, it’s always worth checking their website or calling ahead. Many restaurants now feature delivery hours and menus on their online ordering platforms. Alternatively, apps like UberEats and Grubhub allow you to filter by "Chinese" cuisine and show which local restaurants are offering delivery at the moment.

3. What to Expect from Chinese Food Delivery

When ordering Chinese food for delivery, there are a few things to keep in mind. I’ve ordered Chinese food for delivery many times, and here’s what I’ve come to expect:

Packaging: Chinese food delivery typically comes in containers designed to keep the food fresh and prevent spillage. Many dishes, like soups or saucy entrees, come in tightly sealed containers. For things like fried rice or noodles, restaurants often use sturdy plastic or foam containers.
Delivery Time: Depending on the restaurant’s location and the delivery service you use, your order should arrive in 30-45 minutes. However, during busy hours or bad weather, delivery times may vary, so it’s always a good idea to plan ahead.
Menu Options: Most Chinese restaurants offer a full menu for delivery, including appetizers, soups, entrees, and sides. Some places may even offer set meal options or family meals that make ordering easier. The delivery menu might also include some special offers or deals that you wouldn’t find if you were dining in.
Payment Methods: Almost all Chinese restaurants accept credit cards, cash on delivery, and app-based payment services. If you’re ordering through a third-party app, payment is usually processed directly through the app, making the transaction smooth and convenient.

4. Popular Chinese Dishes for Delivery

If you’re like me, when it comes to Chinese food delivery, you want to pick the right dishes that will travel well and still taste amazing when they arrive. Here are some of my go-to options that always satisfy when I order in:

General Tso’s Chicken: This sweet and savory dish is a classic. It’s perfect for delivery because the crispy chicken pieces stay crunchy even when packed in a delivery container.
Kung Pao Chicken: A flavorful and spicy dish made with chicken, peanuts, and vegetables. It’s a great choice if you like a little heat in your food, and the sauce holds up well during delivery.
Sweet and Sour Pork: A fan favorite that’s crispy and tangy, with a delicious coating of sweet and sour sauce. It’s perfect for those looking for a comforting, indulgent meal.
Chow Mein: Stir-fried noodles are a great option for delivery, and chow mein is a popular choice. The noodles and vegetables stay fresh, and you can add your choice of protein, like chicken, beef, or shrimp.
Spring Rolls: These crispy appetizers are great for delivery. Whether you opt for the vegetable or shrimp version, spring rolls maintain their crunch, making them a perfect starter to your meal.

5. Tips for Ordering Chinese Food for Delivery

Ordering Chinese food for delivery may seem like an easy task, but over the years, I’ve picked up a few tips to make the experience even better:

Order Ahead: If you know you’ll be craving Chinese food during peak hours (like dinner time or weekends), consider ordering ahead. Many delivery platforms allow you to schedule orders, ensuring you get your meal exactly when you want it.
Ask for Extra Sauces: I’ve found that Chinese food is often best enjoyed with extra sauces. Don’t hesitate to ask for extra soy sauce, sweet and sour sauce, or hot mustard when you order. A small request can make a big difference in flavor.
Check Delivery Fees: While delivery is convenient, it’s important to keep an eye on delivery fees. Some third-party apps or restaurants may charge a delivery fee, and tipping your delivery driver is customary, so it’s worth factoring that into your order.

6. My Personal Experience with Chinese Food Delivery

There was one evening when I was really craving a hearty meal of crispy spring rolls, sesame chicken, and a steaming bowl of egg drop soup. After a long day at work, the idea of cooking seemed like too much, so I decided to order from a local Chinese restaurant that I had visited before. I went to my favorite food delivery app, placed my order, and within 30 minutes, the doorbell rang. When I opened the door, the smell of perfectly cooked Chinese food wafted into the air, and I knew I had made the right choice. The food was hot, fresh, and packed securely, with no spills. I enjoyed every bite of my meal while watching a movie at home, and it made for the perfect evening.

Ordering Chinese food for delivery has become one of my favorite ways to enjoy this delicious cuisine. Whether it’s a casual meal or a special treat, Chinese restaurants offer amazing food that can be conveniently delivered to your doorstep. So the next time you’re craving Chinese food, remember that there are plenty of options out there to get your meal delivered, and you’ll be enjoying delicious food in no time!