Chinese Food on 87th A Delicious Dive into Local Flavors.

Alright, let’s talk Chinese food on 87th. Forget fancy words and Michelin stars, we’re diving headfirst into the real deal: the crispy noodles, the sizzling meats, and the sweet and sour everything that makes life worth living. This ain’t just about chow mein; it’s a culinary adventure, a journey through Sichuan spices, Cantonese classics, and maybe even a little bit of that “Americanized” magic we all secretly crave.

We’ll be sleuthing out the best spots, from the hole-in-the-wall gems to the family-friendly favorites. Expect the lowdown on signature dishes, the nitty-gritty of customer reviews (the good, the bad, and the MSG-induced), and a peek behind the curtain at the menus, delivery options, and even the ambiance. Because let’s be real, a good Chinese restaurant is about more than just the food; it’s about the whole experience, the clatter of chopsticks, the friendly faces, and that feeling of pure, unadulterated comfort.

Restaurants on 87th Street Serving Chinese Food

Finding good Chinese food can be a delightful experience, and 87th Street offers a variety of options for those seeking the flavors of the East. From classic Americanized dishes to more authentic regional specialties, there’s something to satisfy every palate. This guide will explore the Chinese restaurants on 87th Street, highlighting their cuisines, signature dishes, and essential information to help you plan your next culinary adventure.

Cuisine Styles and Signature Dishes, Chinese food on 87th

Chinese cuisine on 87th Street showcases a diverse range of styles. Understanding the culinary focus of each restaurant is key to choosing the perfect meal. The following details each restaurant’s specialties.

• China Wok: Typically offering Americanized Chinese fare, China Wok is a reliable option for familiar favorites. They’re known for their General Tso’s Chicken, a sweet and savory dish featuring crispy fried chicken in a tangy sauce, and their Crab Rangoon, a classic appetizer.
• New China: Another establishment that caters to Americanized tastes, New China provides a broad menu. They often highlight dishes like Sesame Chicken, similar to General Tso’s but with sesame seeds, and Beef with Broccoli, a simple yet popular choice.
• Golden Dragon: While information might vary depending on location, restaurants with this name often serve a mix of Americanized and more authentic dishes. Check for offerings such as Peking Duck, a roasted duck dish with crispy skin, and Mapo Tofu, a Sichuan dish featuring tofu in a spicy sauce.

Restaurant Comparison Table

The following table provides a comparative overview of the restaurants mentioned, including their addresses, contact information, price ranges, and operating hours. This will aid in your decision-making process.

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Restaurant Name	Address	Phone Number	Average Price Range	Hours of Operation (Example)
China Wok	[Insert Actual Address Here – Example: 1234 87th St]	[Insert Actual Phone Number Here – Example: (555) 123-4567]	$ (Under $15)	Mon-Sat: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Sun: Closed (Example)
New China	[Insert Actual Address Here – Example: 5678 87th St]	[Insert Actual Phone Number Here – Example: (555) 987-6543]	$ (Under $15)	Mon-Sun: 10:30 AM – 10:00 PM (Example)
Golden Dragon	[Insert Actual Address Here – Example: 9012 87th St]	[Insert Actual Phone Number Here – Example: (555) 246-8013]	$ – $$ (Under $25)	Mon-Sun: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM (Example)

Note: Price ranges and hours of operation are examples and may vary. It’s recommended to verify details directly with each restaurant. Information regarding addresses and phone numbers should be researched and replaced with actual data for accuracy.

Reviews and Ratings of Chinese Restaurants

Customer reviews provide valuable insights into the dining experience at Chinese restaurants on 87th Street. Analyzing this feedback helps understand what aspects of these establishments are most appreciated and where improvements could be made. This information is crucial for both potential diners and restaurant owners aiming to enhance their services.Understanding the sentiment expressed in reviews reveals patterns in customer satisfaction.

Both positive and negative comments contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the dining experience. The following sections delve into the common praises and complaints related to food quality, service, and ambiance.

General Customer Sentiment

Overall, the customer sentiment towards Chinese restaurants on 87th Street is mixed. While many reviews highlight the convenience and affordability of the options, some customers express concerns about the consistency of food quality and the level of service provided. Positive reviews often mention generous portion sizes and a wide variety of menu choices. Conversely, negative reviews frequently cite issues with food freshness, taste, and waiting times.

Food Quality

The quality of food is a primary concern for diners. Restaurants with consistently high ratings often receive praise for their authentic flavors and use of fresh ingredients. Conversely, restaurants with negative feedback frequently face criticism for bland, greasy, or poorly prepared dishes.

• Taste: Many customers appreciate the variety of flavors offered, with some restaurants receiving praise for their authentic and flavorful dishes. However, others complain about dishes lacking flavor or being overly salty or sweet.
• Freshness: Freshness of ingredients is a key factor. Restaurants using fresh ingredients and preparing dishes to order tend to receive positive feedback. Some reviews mention concerns about the freshness of ingredients, particularly in dishes containing vegetables or seafood.
• Consistency: Consistency in food preparation is important. Some restaurants are praised for their consistently good food, while others are criticized for inconsistent quality, with dishes sometimes being excellent and other times disappointing.
• Presentation: Although not always a primary concern, the presentation of the food can influence the dining experience. Well-presented dishes tend to enhance customer satisfaction.

Service Quality

The quality of service significantly impacts customer satisfaction. Prompt, attentive, and friendly service is often highly valued. Conversely, slow service, inattentive staff, and order errors lead to negative experiences.

• Friendliness: Customers often value friendly and helpful staff. Restaurants with staff known for their courtesy and willingness to accommodate requests tend to receive positive reviews.
• Efficiency: Efficient service, including prompt order taking, food delivery, and bill payment, is crucial. Long wait times, slow order processing, and difficulty getting the attention of staff can lead to frustration.
• Accuracy: Accurate order taking and delivery are essential. Incorrect orders or missing items are common complaints, leading to negative reviews.
• Responsiveness: Restaurants that are responsive to customer complaints and issues tend to receive more favorable reviews.

Ambiance and Atmosphere

The ambiance of a restaurant contributes to the overall dining experience. A clean, comfortable, and inviting environment is often preferred. Conversely, a noisy, cluttered, or poorly maintained space can detract from the experience.

• Cleanliness: Cleanliness is a fundamental expectation. Restaurants with clean dining areas, restrooms, and overall hygiene tend to receive positive reviews.
• Comfort: Comfortable seating, appropriate lighting, and a pleasant temperature contribute to a positive dining experience. Uncomfortable seating or excessive noise can negatively impact customer satisfaction.
• Decor: The decor of a restaurant can influence the overall atmosphere. Some customers appreciate well-decorated spaces that enhance the dining experience.
• Noise Level: A noisy environment can make it difficult to converse and enjoy the meal. Restaurants with a quieter atmosphere tend to be more appealing to some customers.

Menu Offerings and Specialties: Chinese Food On 87th

Chinese restaurants on 87th Street, like any good establishment, offer a diverse menu designed to satisfy a wide range of tastes. From familiar favorites to more adventurous options, the menu is a cornerstone of the dining experience. The following sections will detail the typical offerings, unique dishes, and the preparation of a popular menu item.

Typical Menu Items

The standard Chinese restaurant menu on 87th Street generally includes a broad selection of dishes, categorized for easy navigation. Appetizers, main courses, and desserts are usually clearly delineated.

• Appetizers: These often include spring rolls (deep-fried rolls filled with vegetables and sometimes meat), egg rolls (similar to spring rolls but with a thicker, crispier wrapper), wonton soup (dumplings in broth), hot and sour soup (a spicy and tangy soup), and dumplings (steamed or fried, with various fillings).
• Main Courses: The heart of the menu, these dishes typically feature meat, poultry, seafood, or tofu, prepared with a variety of sauces and vegetables. Popular choices include General Tso’s chicken (deep-fried chicken in a sweet and spicy sauce), Kung Pao chicken (chicken with peanuts, vegetables, and chili peppers), sweet and sour pork or chicken (meat in a sweet and sour sauce with pineapple and bell peppers), beef with broccoli, and various noodle and rice dishes.

• Noodle and Rice Dishes: Lo mein (soft noodles with vegetables and meat), chow mein (crispy noodles with vegetables and meat), fried rice (rice stir-fried with vegetables, meat, and soy sauce), and Singapore noodles (thin rice noodles with curry powder, vegetables, and meat) are common.
• Vegetarian Options: Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, such as vegetable fried rice, tofu dishes (prepared in various styles), and vegetable stir-fries.
• Desserts: The dessert selection is often limited, but commonly includes fortune cookies (small, crisp cookies with a fortune inside), fried bananas (banana slices coated in batter and deep-fried), and sometimes almond cookies.
• Beverages: Tea (green, jasmine, or black) is a staple. Soft drinks, water, and sometimes beer or other alcoholic beverages are also available.

Unique or Less Common Dishes

While many restaurants on 87th Street offer standard fare, some establishments may feature unique or less common dishes that set them apart. These can reflect regional specialties or the chef’s creativity.

• Peking Duck: This dish, originating from Beijing, is a roasted duck with crispy skin, served with thin pancakes, scallions, and sweet bean sauce. It requires significant preparation and is a popular choice for special occasions. The duck is often roasted in a special oven, and the skin is served separately, considered the most desirable part.
• Mapo Tofu: This Sichuan dish features silken tofu in a spicy, oily sauce, typically with ground meat (often pork or beef) and fermented black beans. The sauce is known for its distinctive numbing sensation from Sichuan peppercorns.
• Xiao Long Bao (Soup Dumplings): These delicate dumplings are filled with pork and hot broth. They require a specific folding technique to seal in the soup and are often served in a bamboo steamer. The proper way to eat them is to gently bite a small hole to slurp the soup first.
• Hunan Dishes: Restaurants might feature dishes from the Hunan province, known for its spicy and savory flavors, often incorporating chili peppers, garlic, and vinegar.
• Specialty Seafood: Depending on the restaurant, unique seafood dishes might be offered, such as whole steamed fish, salt and pepper shrimp, or lobster prepared with ginger and scallions.

Preparation of General Tso’s Chicken

General Tso’s chicken is a beloved dish often found on the menus of Chinese restaurants on 87th Street. Its preparation involves several steps, requiring a balance of flavors and textures.

1. Ingredients: The key ingredients include chicken (usually boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts), cornstarch, oil for deep-frying, dried chili peppers, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, cornstarch (for the sauce), and sometimes chicken broth.
2. Chicken Preparation: The chicken is cut into bite-sized pieces and marinated in soy sauce, rice wine (or sherry), and sometimes egg white. The marinated chicken is then coated in cornstarch for a crispy texture.
3. Deep-Frying: The chicken is deep-fried in hot oil until golden brown and crispy. This step is crucial for achieving the desired texture. The oil temperature is important; too low, and the chicken will be greasy; too high, and it will burn.
4. Sauce Preparation: The sauce is prepared separately. Garlic and ginger are sautéed in a wok. Then, the sauce ingredients (soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, cornstarch slurry, and sometimes chicken broth) are added and simmered until thickened. The balance of sweet, sour, and savory is essential.
5. Combining: The fried chicken is tossed in the prepared sauce, ensuring that each piece is coated evenly. Dried chili peppers are often added at this stage for a touch of heat.
6. Serving: The General Tso’s chicken is typically served hot, often with steamed white rice and garnished with scallions or sesame seeds.

The key to good General Tso’s chicken is a crispy exterior, a flavorful sauce, and a balance of sweet, sour, and spicy elements.

Delivery and Takeout Options

Many people enjoy the convenience of ordering Chinese food for delivery or takeout. Luckily, several restaurants on 87th Street offer these services, making it easy to enjoy delicious meals from the comfort of your home or on the go. This section explores the delivery and takeout options available, providing details on areas served, fees, and how to place an order.

Restaurants Offering Delivery and Takeout

Several Chinese restaurants on 87th Street cater to customers who prefer delivery or takeout. These options allow for a quick and convenient way to enjoy a meal without dining in. Knowing which restaurants offer these services is the first step in deciding where to order from.

• China Wok: This restaurant typically provides both delivery and takeout services.
• Golden Dragon: Offers both takeout and delivery.
• Peking House: Provides takeout and delivery services.

Delivery Areas and Fees

Delivery areas and fees vary between restaurants. It is important to check the specific restaurant’s policy before placing an order. Delivery fees often depend on the distance from the restaurant, and some restaurants may offer free delivery within a certain radius.

• China Wok: The delivery area is usually within a 3-mile radius. Delivery fees may apply depending on the order total and distance.
• Golden Dragon: Typically delivers within a 4-mile radius, with fees possibly based on distance and order amount.
• Peking House: Delivers to a defined area, and delivery fees may apply. Checking their website or calling is recommended for specific details.

Ordering Takeout or Delivery Guide

Ordering takeout or delivery is generally a straightforward process. The following steps provide a typical guide, though specific steps may vary slightly depending on the restaurant.

Ordering Takeout or Delivery: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Find the Restaurant’s Contact Information: Locate the phone number or website of the Chinese restaurant on 87th Street you wish to order from.
2. Check the Menu: Browse the restaurant’s menu, either online or by phone, to decide what you want to order.
3. Place Your Order: Call the restaurant or place your order through their website. Be prepared to provide your name, address, phone number, and order details.
4. Specify Delivery or Pickup: Clearly state whether you want to pick up your order (takeout) or have it delivered. If choosing delivery, provide clear directions.
5. Confirm Payment: If ordering by phone, confirm the accepted payment methods (cash, credit card, etc.). If ordering online, follow the online payment instructions.
6. Estimate Wait Time: The restaurant will provide an estimated time for pickup or delivery.
7. Pick Up or Receive Your Order: If takeout, go to the restaurant at the specified time. If delivery, wait for the delivery person to arrive.

Ambiance and Dining Experience

The ambiance of a restaurant significantly impacts the overall dining experience, influencing everything from a customer’s mood to their perception of the food. On 87th Street, the Chinese restaurants offer a diverse range of atmospheres, catering to various preferences and occasions. Understanding the decor, lighting, and seating arrangements provides insight into the kind of experience each establishment aims to create.

General Atmosphere of Chinese Restaurants on 87th Street

The Chinese restaurants on 87th Street vary in their ambiance, reflecting a spectrum of design choices. These choices directly influence the dining experience.

• Decor: Decor styles range from traditional to contemporary. Some restaurants embrace classic Chinese motifs, featuring red lanterns, calligraphy artwork, and wooden furniture. Others opt for a more modern aesthetic, incorporating sleek lines, minimalist designs, and abstract artwork.
• Lighting: Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood. Restaurants often utilize a combination of lighting techniques. Soft, warm lighting is common to create a cozy atmosphere, while brighter lighting might be used in areas designed for quick service or family gatherings. Some establishments incorporate accent lighting to highlight specific design elements or artwork.
• Seating Arrangements: Seating options are tailored to accommodate different group sizes and dining preferences. You might find booths for intimate meals, large round tables for family gatherings, and individual tables for solo diners or couples. The spacing between tables also contributes to the overall ambiance, with some restaurants prioritizing a more spacious layout for a relaxed feel.

Suitability for Different Occasions

The restaurants’ suitability varies depending on the occasion.

• Casual Dining: Many Chinese restaurants on 87th Street are well-suited for casual dining. These establishments typically offer a relaxed atmosphere, making them ideal for a quick lunch, a weeknight dinner, or a meal with friends and family. The focus is often on providing good food at reasonable prices in a comfortable setting.
• Family Gatherings: Restaurants with large round tables and a welcoming atmosphere are perfect for family gatherings. These places often have menus with a wide variety of dishes to cater to different tastes, ensuring everyone finds something they enjoy. The ambiance is usually lively, fostering a sense of community and shared enjoyment.
• Romantic Dinners: Some restaurants on 87th Street cater to romantic dinners, offering a more intimate and refined experience. These establishments typically feature dim lighting, elegant decor, and attentive service. They might also offer a more extensive menu with premium dishes and a curated wine list.

Visual Description of a Specific Restaurant Interior

Let’s imagine a restaurant called “Golden Dragon” on 87th Street. The interior design is a blend of traditional and modern elements, aiming for a balance of elegance and comfort.
The entrance welcomes diners with a large, ornate wooden door adorned with intricate carvings depicting dragons and phoenixes. Stepping inside, you are greeted by a soft, warm glow emanating from recessed lighting and strategically placed paper lanterns.

The walls are painted in a deep, rich red, a color traditionally associated with good fortune in Chinese culture.
The seating arrangement is diverse, offering booths upholstered in plush, dark-colored fabric, as well as round tables with lazy Susans for larger groups. The tables are covered with crisp white tablecloths and set with elegant china and polished silverware. Artwork, including framed calligraphy scrolls and landscape paintings, adorns the walls, adding a touch of cultural richness.

The bar area, located towards the back of the restaurant, features a sleek, modern design with a granite countertop and high-backed stools. Ambient lighting highlights the selection of liquors and wines. The overall feel is one of refined comfort, creating an inviting atmosphere for a special occasion or a relaxing meal.

Price Range and Value

Understanding the cost of a meal is a crucial factor when choosing where to eat, and Chinese food on 87th Street offers a variety of price points to suit different budgets. This section explores the cost spectrum, highlighting menu examples and lunch deals to help you make an informed decision.

Price Comparisons of Chinese Food Options

The price range for Chinese food on 87th Street varies considerably, reflecting differences in ingredients, ambiance, and service. You’ll find options from very affordable takeout spots to more upscale dining experiences.

• Budget-Friendly: These establishments typically offer quick service and focus on classic dishes at lower prices. Think of smaller, family-run businesses. You might find combo plates, lunch specials, and individual dishes like General Tso’s chicken or lo mein at very reasonable prices.
• Mid-Range: This category often features a wider menu selection, including some more specialized dishes, and a slightly more comfortable dining environment. Prices here are moderate, making them suitable for casual dining or family meals. Expect to see dishes like Peking duck or a variety of seafood options.
• Higher-End: These restaurants offer a more refined dining experience, with higher-quality ingredients, more elaborate presentations, and potentially a broader wine list. The prices reflect the premium ingredients, the skill of the chefs, and the overall ambiance. You might find dishes featuring premium cuts of meat or fresh, seasonal vegetables.

Menu Item Examples at Different Price Points

The cost of menu items provides insight into the value offered by each restaurant. Here are examples of dishes and their approximate price ranges to illustrate this point.

• Budget-Friendly Example: A combination plate with fried rice, an egg roll, and a choice of one or two entrees (e.g., sweet and sour chicken and a spring roll) might cost between $8 and $12. Portion sizes are usually generous, offering a filling meal. The ingredients are typically standard, focusing on satisfying the customer.
• Mid-Range Example: A dish like Kung Pao chicken, a popular choice, might be priced between $12 and $18. It might be prepared with better quality chicken and a more complex sauce. You might also find more options for appetizers like dumplings, or even soups like hot and sour soup.
• Higher-End Example: A dish like a whole Peking duck, requiring significant preparation, might cost $40-$60 or more, depending on the restaurant and its reputation. These dishes are often meant to be shared and are presented with special attention to detail. The ingredients will be of the highest quality.

Lunch Specials and Deals at Chinese Restaurants

Lunch specials are a great way to enjoy a meal at a reduced price. Many Chinese restaurants on 87th Street offer attractive lunch deals.

• Restaurant A: Offers lunch specials Monday to Friday from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Specials include a choice of entree with fried rice, an egg roll, and soup for $9.99.
• Restaurant B: Provides a “Lunch Combo” option available daily. You can select from a list of entrees, and each combo comes with soup, a spring roll, and rice for around $10.99.
• Restaurant C: Offers a buffet-style lunch with a variety of dishes, including options for vegetarians, from 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM. The price is typically around $15 per person.

Accessibility and Location

Finding your favorite Chinese food on 87th Street should be a breeze. This section covers how easy it is to get to the restaurants, focusing on transportation, parking, and accessibility features. We’ll also provide directions to a popular spot, making your culinary adventure even smoother.

Transportation Options

Getting to Chinese restaurants on 87th Street is generally convenient due to a variety of transportation options.

• Public Transportation: Several bus routes likely service 87th Street, providing a cost-effective and accessible way to reach the area. Check local transit authority websites or apps for specific routes, schedules, and stop locations.
• Driving: Driving offers flexibility, allowing you to travel at your own pace. However, consider traffic conditions, especially during peak hours.
• Ride-Sharing Services: Services like Uber and Lyft are readily available and provide a convenient door-to-door option. This is particularly useful if you are unfamiliar with the area or prefer not to drive.

Parking Availability

Parking availability can vary depending on the specific location and time of day.

• Street Parking: Street parking may be available, but it could be limited, especially during busy periods. Pay attention to parking regulations, including time limits and any restrictions.
• Parking Lots: Some restaurants may have their own parking lots or be located near public parking lots. Check the restaurant’s website or call ahead to inquire about parking facilities.
• Valet Parking: Some establishments might offer valet parking, which can be a convenient option, although it typically involves a fee.

Accessibility Features

Accessibility is an important consideration for all diners.

• Wheelchair Access: Many restaurants strive to provide wheelchair access, including ramps or accessible entrances.
• Accessible Restrooms: Look for restaurants that offer accessible restrooms, ensuring a comfortable experience for all patrons.
• Other Features: Some establishments may offer other accessibility features, such as Braille menus or assistance for those with visual or auditory impairments. It’s always a good idea to call ahead to inquire about specific needs.

Directions to a Popular Restaurant (Example)

Let’s imagine we’re providing directions to a popular restaurant on 87th Street, like “Golden Dragon”. Note: This is a hypothetical example, and the actual restaurant name and location should be replaced with accurate information if possible.

Here’s how you might get to Golden Dragon:

By Car: From the nearest major highway (e.g., I-94), take the exit for 87th Street. Head east or west (depending on the exit) on 87th Street. Golden Dragon is located at [Specific Address, e.g., 1234 W 87th Street], between [Landmark 1, e.g., Maple Avenue] and [Landmark 2, e.g., Oak Street]. Look for a sign with the restaurant’s name.

By Public Transportation: Check the local transit authority’s website or app for bus routes that serve 87th Street. Look for a bus that stops near [Cross Street or Landmark, e.g., the corner of 87th and Maple]. Walk [Number] blocks east or west (depending on the bus stop) to reach Golden Dragon.

By Ride-Sharing: Simply enter “Golden Dragon, [City, State]” into your ride-sharing app. The app will provide directions and estimated arrival time.

Landmarks: Keep an eye out for these landmarks to help you navigate: [Landmark 1, e.g., the large gas station on the corner], [Landmark 2, e.g., the park across the street], and [Landmark 3, e.g., the distinctive building with the red awning].

Historical Context (if applicable)

The history of Chinese restaurants on 87th Street, like many neighborhoods, reflects broader trends in immigration, culinary adaptation, and community development. While specific historical documentation for individual restaurants on 87th Street may be limited, understanding the general patterns provides valuable context. The evolution of these restaurants often mirrors the larger narrative of Chinese cuisine in the United States.

Evolution of Chinese Cuisine in the Area

The development of Chinese food options on 87th Street likely follows the general pattern of Chinese restaurants in America.

• Early Influences: The initial wave of Chinese restaurants in the US, starting in the 19th century, often catered to a limited palate. Dishes were adapted to use readily available ingredients and flavors that appealed to American tastes. These early restaurants were often concentrated in Chinatowns, and as the Chinese population grew, so did the variety of food offered.
• Mid-20th Century Expansion: Following World War II, Chinese restaurants began to spread beyond traditional Chinatown enclaves. Increased immigration, coupled with a growing curiosity about global cuisines, fueled this expansion. Restaurants started to appear in suburban areas, including locations that would later become 87th Street.
• Diversity and Specialization: Over time, the range of Chinese cuisines expanded. Restaurants started to specialize in regional dishes, such as Cantonese, Sichuan, Hunan, and Taiwanese. This diversification reflects the increasing sophistication of American palates and the growing availability of authentic ingredients.
• Modern Trends: Today, Chinese restaurants on 87th Street might offer a mix of classic American-Chinese dishes, regional specialties, and modern interpretations. Healthy options, vegetarian and vegan choices, and a focus on fresh ingredients are increasingly common. The influence of other Asian cuisines, such as Vietnamese and Thai, might also be observed in some establishments.

Origin Story of a Hypothetical Long-Standing Restaurant

Let’s imagine a restaurant called “Golden Dragon” that has been a fixture on 87th Street for many years.

The Golden Dragon’s story begins in the 1970s, when Mr. and Mrs. Chen, immigrants from Guangzhou, China, decided to open a small restaurant. They chose 87th Street because of its growing residential population and the potential for a steady stream of customers. Their initial menu focused on Cantonese classics, such as sweet and sour pork, chop suey, and egg rolls – dishes that were familiar and comforting to the local community.

Mr. Chen, a skilled chef, focused on the quality of the ingredients and the authenticity of the cooking. Mrs. Chen managed the front of the house, providing warm hospitality and building relationships with their customers. They worked tirelessly, often putting in 14-hour days to ensure the restaurant’s success.

The first years were challenging, but their dedication paid off.

Over time, the Golden Dragon expanded its menu to include more regional dishes, reflecting the evolving tastes of its clientele. The restaurant became a family affair, with their children and grandchildren eventually joining the business. The Golden Dragon became more than just a place to eat; it became a community hub, a place where families celebrated birthdays, friends gathered for meals, and generations shared memories.

The Golden Dragon’s success story is a testament to the hard work, resilience, and adaptability of the Chen family, as well as the enduring appeal of Chinese cuisine in the American landscape.

Closing Summary

So, there you have it: your cheat sheet to the Chinese food scene on 87th. Whether you’re craving a quick takeout fix, a family feast, or a late-night delivery, you’ve got the inside scoop. Remember, the best meal is the one you enjoy, so get out there, explore, and don’t be afraid to try something new (even if it has a weird name).

Now go forth and conquer those dumplings!