That yearning for perfectly crispy egg rolls, the savory umami of a well-made stir-fry, the comforting sweetness of General Tso’s chicken – these cravings for Chinese food are practically universal. And if you happen to find yourself in the charming coastal town of Riverside, Rhode Island, you’re in luck. Riverside boasts a surprisingly diverse and delicious Chinese culinary landscape, offering everything from classic Americanized favorites to more authentic regional dishes. But with so many options, where do you begin? This article serves as your comprehensive guide to navigating the best Chinese restaurants in Riverside, RI, catering to a range of tastes, budgets, and dietary preferences. Prepare your taste buds for an adventure!
Before we dive into specific restaurant recommendations, it’s important to understand how we selected these culinary destinations. The choices weren’t made arbitrarily. Rather, they were based on a careful consideration of several key factors, ensuring that we’re only recommending the very best that Riverside’s Chinese food scene has to offer. Positive online reviews, consistent quality, menu variety, and value for money played significant roles in the decision-making process. The goal was to find establishments that not only serve delicious food but also provide a positive overall dining experience. We also considered a balance between restaurants offering familiar, Americanized Chinese dishes and those serving more authentic regional cuisine, catering to a wide spectrum of palates.
Taste of China: Riverside’s Top Culinary Destinations
Here are some of the best Chinese restaurants Riverside has to offer.
Golden Dragon Restaurant
Located conveniently on Taunton Avenue, Golden Dragon is a Riverside institution. This beloved restaurant has been serving up classic Chinese dishes for years, becoming a local favorite for its consistent quality and friendly service.
Stepping into Golden Dragon, you’ll find a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. While not overly fancy, it’s a comfortable place to enjoy a meal with family or friends. The decor is classic Chinese-American, with red lanterns and traditional artwork adorning the walls.
When it comes to the food, Golden Dragon truly shines. Their must-try dishes include the General Tso’s Chicken, known for its perfectly balanced sweet and spicy sauce and crispy chicken. The Shrimp Fried Rice is another popular choice, packed with succulent shrimp and flavorful rice. Don’t miss their egg rolls – they are perfectly golden and crispy. Prices are very reasonable, making it an excellent option for a budget-friendly meal.
Customers consistently praise Golden Dragon for its fast service and generous portions. One online reviewer noted, “The best Chinese food in Riverside! Always fresh and delicious.” Another commented, “I’ve been coming here for years, and the food is always great. The staff is friendly and efficient.” Golden Dragon offers both takeout and delivery, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.
Peking Garden
Peking Garden, nestled on Willett Avenue, offers a more upscale dining experience compared to some of its competitors. This restaurant is known for its extensive menu, elegant ambiance, and commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients.
The interior of Peking Garden is tastefully decorated, creating a sophisticated and inviting atmosphere. Soft lighting, comfortable seating, and attentive service make it an ideal spot for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
The menu at Peking Garden is truly impressive, featuring a wide array of dishes from various regions of China. Some standout items include the Peking Duck, a traditional dish prepared with meticulous care. The Crispy Sesame Chicken is another crowd-pleaser, with a delicate sweetness and satisfying crunch. For seafood lovers, the Szechuan Shrimp is a must-try, offering a fiery kick of flavor. While the prices are slightly higher than Golden Dragon, the quality and presentation of the food justify the expense.
Online reviewers rave about the consistently excellent food and impeccable service at Peking Garden. “This is my go-to place for Chinese food in Riverside,” wrote one reviewer. “The food is always fresh and delicious, and the staff is so friendly and attentive.” Another reviewer praised the restaurant’s elegant ambiance, saying, “It’s the perfect place for a special occasion.” Peking Garden offers takeout, delivery, and catering services. They also have a full bar, serving a variety of cocktails, wines, and beers.
Great Wall Chinese Restaurant
Located on Pawtucket Avenue, Great Wall Chinese Restaurant stands out for its consistently high ratings and dedication to using fresh ingredients. While perhaps less visually striking than some other establishments, what it lacks in decor, it more than makes up for in the quality of its cuisine.
The interior is clean and functional, focused on providing a comfortable dining space. It’s the kind of place you go when you want reliably good food without any unnecessary frills.
Great Wall has built a reputation on reliable classics, done exceptionally well. The Lo Mein is a standout, known for its perfectly cooked noodles and savory sauce. The Moo Goo Gai Pan is another winner, featuring tender chicken and a medley of fresh vegetables in a light, flavorful sauce. The Spring Rolls are consistently crispy and delicious. Great Wall is known for its affordability, making it a great option for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Many online reviewers comment on the consistent quality and value offered by Great Wall. “This is my favorite Chinese takeout place in Riverside,” wrote one reviewer. “The food is always hot, fresh, and delicious, and the prices are unbeatable.” Another praised the restaurant’s generous portions, saying, “You definitely get your money’s worth here.” Great Wall primarily offers takeout and delivery services.
New China Sea Restaurant
New China Sea, found on Bullocks Point Avenue, is another solid option for Chinese food in Riverside. While it might not have the widespread acclaim of some of the other restaurants mentioned, it provides a reliable and consistently satisfying dining experience.
The atmosphere at New China Sea is casual and comfortable. It’s a great place to grab a quick bite or enjoy a relaxed meal with family.
On the menu, you’ll find a range of classic Chinese-American dishes. The Sweet and Sour Chicken is a popular choice, with a perfectly tangy and crispy coating. The Beef with Broccoli is another solid option, featuring tender beef and crisp broccoli in a savory sauce. They also offer a variety of combination plates, perfect for sampling different dishes. The prices at New China Sea are quite reasonable, making it an accessible option for most budgets.
Customer reviews for New China Sea are generally positive, with many praising the restaurant’s friendly service and tasty food. One reviewer noted, “A great spot for a quick and affordable Chinese meal.” Another commented, “The food is always good, and the staff is always friendly.” New China Sea primarily offers takeout and delivery services.
Other Notable Mentions
While the restaurants profiled above represent some of the best options for Chinese food in Riverside, RI, they are not the only choices available. Several other establishments in the area offer delicious Chinese cuisine and are worth considering. For example, China Star on Wampanoag Trail is another local favorite known for its tasty food and friendly service. If you’re looking to explore even more options, a quick search online will reveal other Chinese restaurants in the Riverside area.
Beyond just dining at restaurants, it’s also worth noting that there are several Asian grocery stores located nearby that offer a wide variety of Chinese ingredients. These stores are a great resource for those who enjoy cooking Chinese food at home. You can find everything from fresh produce and sauces to noodles and dumplings. Exploring these stores can be a fun and educational way to learn more about Chinese cuisine. While technically not in Riverside proper, these stores are often frequented by Riverside residents.
Conclusion
Riverside, RI, might be a small town, but it certainly offers a vibrant and diverse Chinese food scene. From the classic Americanized dishes at Golden Dragon to the more upscale dining experience at Peking Garden, there’s something to satisfy every palate and budget. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a visitor to the area, be sure to explore the culinary delights that Riverside’s Chinese restaurants have to offer. The next time you find yourself craving those delectable flavors, remember this guide and embark on a delicious adventure! Don’t hesitate to try some of the recommendations made.
So, the next time you’re craving Chinese food in Riverside, RI, be sure to check out these fantastic restaurants. We encourage you to explore the diverse culinary landscape and discover your own personal favorites. And most importantly, let us know your experiences in the comments below! What are your go-to dishes? Are there any hidden gems that we missed? We’d love to hear from you.
From classic favorites to hidden gems, Riverside, RI offers a delightful taste of China for every palate. We hope this guide has inspired you to explore the rich and diverse world of Chinese cuisine in Riverside. Happy eating!
