It’s Friday night. The week has been long, and the thought of cooking fills you with dread. Suddenly, a craving hits: that unmistakable yearning for the savory, comforting flavors of Chinese food. If you’re in the Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania, you’re in luck. From bustling takeout counters to elegant dining rooms, the region boasts a diverse and delicious array of Chinese culinary experiences waiting to be discovered. Forget settling for the same old predictable takeout; this is your guide to navigating the vibrant landscape of Lehigh Chinese food, uncovering hidden gems and rediscovering classic favorites. We’re here to provide honest recommendations and insights into the best places to satisfy your Chinese food cravings, whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer.
The Lehigh Valley has embraced Chinese cuisine, and a variety of options awaits the discerning diner. This guide will take you on a journey, exploring established favorites, uncovering authentic regional delicacies, and highlighting those hidden spots that deserve a place on your culinary radar.
Lehigh’s Beloved Chinese Restaurants and Their Signature Dishes
When thinking of reliable and consistently satisfying Chinese food in the Lehigh Valley, a couple of establishments immediately come to mind. These restaurants have stood the test of time, building a loyal following with their quality, service, and dedication to classic Chinese flavors.
Let’s consider *Golden Dragon*. Situated in the heart of Allentown, Golden Dragon has been a staple for decades. Its longevity speaks volumes about its commitment to delivering delicious food and excellent service. With a comprehensive menu, it has something for everyone, and is always a good choice when dining out with a group.
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Golden Dragon offers a vast menu, but it’s best known for its generous portions, fresh ingredients, and consistently high quality. The restaurant prides itself on its traditional cooking techniques and family recipes. The ambience is inviting and spacious, making it ideal for both a quiet dinner for two or a lively family gathering. Price-wise, Golden Dragon falls into the mid-range category, providing good value for the portion sizes and quality you receive.
Signature dishes you simply must try include the crispy Peking Duck, served with delicate pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce. The Moo Shu Pork, expertly prepared and bursting with flavor, is another standout. Of course, the classic Sweet and Sour Chicken remains a crowd-pleaser, made with a light, crispy batter and a perfectly balanced sweet and tangy sauce.
Another Lehigh Valley institution that deserves recognition is *Jade Garden*. Tucked away in Bethlehem, Jade Garden offers a slightly different experience, focusing on a more intimate and refined dining atmosphere.
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Jade Garden is family-owned and operated, which adds a personal touch that is evident in the food and service. The chefs use only the freshest ingredients, and take pride in preparing each dish with care and attention to detail. The interior is tastefully decorated, creating a tranquil and relaxing setting. Prices are slightly higher than Golden Dragon, reflecting the restaurant’s emphasis on higher quality ingredients and a more upscale dining experience.
Recommended dishes at Jade Garden include the succulent Garlic Shrimp, prepared with a generous amount of garlic, butter, and a touch of spice. The Hunan Beef, tender and flavorful, is another popular choice. For a lighter option, the Steamed Fish with Ginger and Scallions is a refreshing and healthy selection.
The Classics: A Lehigh Chinese Food Staple
No discussion of Lehigh Chinese food would be complete without mentioning the classic dishes that have become synonymous with the cuisine. These are the dishes that many of us grew up with, the ones we crave when we need a comforting and familiar meal.
Lo Mein
This dish, consisting of soft, egg noodles tossed with vegetables, meat, or seafood, is a staple of Chinese takeout. The term “Lo Mein” means “stirred noodles,” and refers to the way the dish is prepared. A good Lo Mein should have perfectly cooked noodles that are not too sticky or oily, and should be well-seasoned with soy sauce, sesame oil, and other flavorful ingredients. You can find excellent Lo Mein at both Golden Dragon and Jade Garden, as well as many other Chinese restaurants throughout the Lehigh Valley.
General Tso’s Chicken
This iconic dish, featuring deep-fried chicken pieces coated in a sweet and spicy sauce, is a favorite among American Chinese food enthusiasts. While its origins are debated, it has become a ubiquitous presence on Chinese restaurant menus across the country. The key to a great General Tso’s Chicken is a crispy coating on the chicken, a sauce that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and spicy, and a garnish of broccoli florets for a touch of freshness. For a truly exceptional General Tso’s, try ordering it at Jade Garden, where they use high-quality chicken and a secret family recipe for the sauce.
Fried Rice
This seemingly simple dish is a testament to the power of proper technique and fresh ingredients. Fried rice typically consists of cooked rice stir-fried with vegetables, eggs, and meat or seafood. The best fried rice should be fluffy, not mushy, and should have a smoky, wok-hei flavor. One of the best places to find great fried rice is Golden Dragon.
Stepping Outside the Norm: Discovering Authentic and Regional Chinese Cuisine
While Americanized Chinese food has its place, exploring the diverse regional cuisines of China can be a truly rewarding culinary adventure. In recent years, the Lehigh Valley has seen an increase in restaurants offering more authentic and specialized Chinese dishes, allowing diners to experience the true depth and complexity of Chinese gastronomy.
Consider *Sichuan Gourmet*. This restaurant is dedicated to showcasing the bold and fiery flavors of Sichuan cuisine, a style of cooking known for its liberal use of chili peppers, Sichuan peppercorns, and other pungent spices.
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If you’re feeling adventurous, order the Mapo Tofu, a classic Sichuan dish featuring silky tofu in a spicy and flavorful sauce made with ground pork, fermented black beans, and chili oil. The Dan Dan Noodles, another Sichuan staple, are also worth trying, consisting of thin noodles in a spicy sesame sauce with pickled vegetables and chili oil. Sichuan food is characterized by bold flavors, so be prepared for a spicy kick.
Another option, which may not offer the spiciest flavor, is *Canton House*. Canton House specializes in Cantonese cuisine, known for its delicate flavors, fresh ingredients, and emphasis on seafood.
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Cantonese food often features dim sum, a selection of bite-sized dishes served with tea. The restaurant also serves a selection of barbecue dishes, including roast duck. Cantonese cuisine is characterized by fresh and light flavors that are unique to the region.
Hidden Gems: Uncovering the Lehigh Valley’s Underrated Chinese Restaurants
Beyond the well-known establishments, the Lehigh Valley is also home to several smaller, lesser-known Chinese restaurants that deserve a spotlight. These hidden gems often offer exceptional food at affordable prices, and can provide a more intimate and authentic dining experience.
One such gem is *Lee’s Kitchen*. This small, family-owned restaurant is located in a quiet corner of Easton. The menu is simple, but the food is consistently delicious and prepared with love.
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What makes Lee’s Kitchen special is its commitment to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. The dumplings are handmade daily, and the noodles are prepared with a traditional family recipe. The restaurant is known for its friendly service, and is a popular spot among locals looking for a quick and satisfying meal. Try the handmade noodles and dumplings, as well as the noodle soups.
*Wok N Roll* is another little-known takeout restaurant located in Allentown that delivers a delicious and filling meal.
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With low prices and high-quality food, it provides a no-frills experience while delivering a delicious, satisfying experience. Try the crab rangoons, the spring rolls, or the pork fried rice.
Tips for Ordering and Enjoying Lehigh Chinese Food
To make the most of your Lehigh Chinese food experience, here are a few helpful tips:
Navigating the Menu
Don’t be afraid to ask questions about dishes you’re unfamiliar with. Many Chinese restaurants offer a wide variety of options, and the menu can sometimes be overwhelming. Knowing the meaning of terms such as “dim sum” or “Sichuan peppercorns” can help you make informed choices. Consider ordering family-style, especially if you’re dining with a group, to sample a wider variety of dishes. If you have dietary restrictions, be sure to inform the staff when ordering. Many Chinese restaurants offer gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options.
Delivery and Takeout Options
Most Lehigh Chinese food restaurants offer delivery and takeout services. Popular delivery services like GrubHub, DoorDash, and Uber Eats also operate in the area, providing convenient options for ordering from a variety of restaurants. To ensure your food arrives hot and fresh, consider ordering during off-peak hours or opting for pickup.
Making the Most of Your Experience
Be adventurous and try new dishes. Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and explore the diverse flavors of Chinese cuisine. Many restaurants offer seasonal specials and promotions, so be sure to check their websites or social media pages for the latest deals.
The Lehigh Valley offers a rich and diverse culinary scene, and its Chinese food offerings are no exception. From classic takeout favorites to authentic regional specialties, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, next time you’re craving Chinese food, skip the predictable and explore the hidden gems and established favorites that the Lehigh Valley has to offer. What are you waiting for? Go out and explore!
