Classic Takeout and Familiar Favorites
Smith Street in Brooklyn. The name conjures images of trendy boutiques, lively bars, and a smorgasbord of international cuisines. But lurking amongst the Italian trattorias and farm-to-table bistros is a vibrant, often overlooked, Chinese food scene. Forget your preconceived notions of greasy takeout containers. On Smith Street, you’ll discover a diverse range of culinary experiences, from classic comfort food to authentic regional dishes and innovative modern creations. Are you tired of the same old General Tso’s? Ready to venture beyond the sesame chicken? Then join us as we explore the hidden gems and beloved staples that make Smith Street a surprisingly rewarding destination for Chinese food enthusiasts. This guide will navigate you through the best options Smith Street has to offer, ensuring a delicious and memorable culinary adventure, no matter your craving or budget.
Sometimes, all you need is the comforting embrace of classic takeout Chinese food. Those familiar flavors, the satisfying crunch, the perfectly seasoned sauces – they hold a special place in many hearts. Luckily, Smith Street caters to these cravings with a couple of reliable establishments dishing out generous portions of your favorite dishes.
First up, we have “Golden Dragon,” a no-frills establishment located mid-block. Golden Dragon doesn’t win any awards for its decor; it’s a functional space focused solely on delivering quick and satisfying meals. But don’t let the simple interior fool you. This place is a local favorite for a reason. Their menu boasts all the usual suspects: succulent General Tso’s chicken, overflowing containers of perfectly seasoned lo mein, and mountains of fluffy fried rice studded with savory morsels. The prices are reasonable, hovering around ten to fifteen dollars per entree, and the portions are incredibly generous. You’ll easily get two meals out of a single order. What makes Golden Dragon special is its consistency. Every dish is cooked to order, ensuring a fresh and flavorful experience, every single time. The chicken is always crispy, the vegetables are perfectly cooked, and the sauces are bursting with flavor. The speed of service is also a major plus. You can usually get your food within fifteen minutes, making it the perfect option for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. As one regular customer, Maria, puts it, “Golden Dragon is my go-to when I need something fast and delicious. Their General Tso’s is the best in the neighborhood, hands down.”
Another solid choice for classic Chinese food is “Red Lantern,” situated a little further down Smith Street. Red Lantern offers a slightly more expansive menu compared to Golden Dragon, featuring a wider selection of appetizers and noodle dishes. While they also excel at the classics, like sweet and sour pork and kung pao chicken, Red Lantern is particularly known for its wonton soup and crispy spring rolls. Their wonton soup is a soothing elixir, perfect for a cold day. The broth is rich and flavorful, and the wontons are plump and filled with a savory pork mixture. The spring rolls are perfectly crispy and filled with a satisfying blend of vegetables. Prices are similar to Golden Dragon, and the service is equally efficient. The atmosphere inside Red Lantern is a touch more inviting than Golden Dragon, making it a decent option if you want to dine in, even though takeout is still their primary focus. They also offer online ordering for added convenience. Red Lantern offers a few spicy options if you are in search of something with a bit of a kick.
Choosing between Golden Dragon and Red Lantern depends on your personal preferences. If you’re after the absolute best General Tso’s and incredibly generous portions, Golden Dragon is the clear winner. But if you’re looking for a slightly more varied menu and exceptional appetizers, Red Lantern might be the better choice. Regardless of your decision, you can’t go wrong with either of these Smith Street staples.
Authentic and Regional Cuisine
For those seeking a more authentic and nuanced Chinese food experience, Smith Street boasts a couple of hidden gems that showcase the diverse regional flavors of China. These restaurants go beyond the typical takeout fare, offering dishes that are both complex and deeply satisfying.
First, we have “Sichuan Garden,” a small but mighty establishment dedicated to the fiery flavors of Sichuan cuisine. Located near the northern end of Smith Street, Sichuan Garden is easily recognizable by its vibrant red and gold signage. The interior is cozy and inviting, with traditional Chinese lanterns casting a warm glow on the tables. The menu is extensive, featuring a wide array of Sichuan specialties, many of which are not found at your average Chinese restaurant. Prepare yourself for a symphony of flavors: numbing Sichuan peppercorns, fiery chili oil, and aromatic spices that will tantalize your taste buds. Their mapo tofu is a must-try. This classic dish features silken tofu in a rich and spicy sauce made with fermented black beans and ground pork. The dan dan noodles are another popular choice. These flavorful noodles are tossed in a sesame-peanut sauce with chili oil and preserved vegetables. Prices are slightly higher than the takeout options, but the quality and authenticity of the food are well worth the extra cost. Expect to pay around fifteen to twenty-five dollars per entree. What sets Sichuan Garden apart is its commitment to using authentic ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. The chefs are from Sichuan province, and they take pride in showcasing the true flavors of their homeland. As the owner, Li Wei, explains, “We want to bring the authentic taste of Sichuan to Brooklyn. We use only the best ingredients and cook everything with passion.”
Another excellent choice for authentic Chinese cuisine is “Dim Sum Palace,” a bustling Cantonese restaurant that specializes in – you guessed it – dim sum. Dim Sum Palace is located towards the southern end of Smith Street. The atmosphere is lively and energetic, with servers pushing carts laden with steaming baskets of dumplings, buns, and other bite-sized delicacies. Dim Sum Palace offers a traditional dim sum experience. You simply flag down a server with a cart and choose whatever looks appealing. Be sure to try the shrimp dumplings, pork buns, and sticky rice in lotus leaf. The prices are incredibly reasonable, with most dim sum items costing only a few dollars. You can easily fill up on a variety of delicious dishes without breaking the bank. What makes Dim Sum Palace so special is its authenticity and its sheer variety. They offer dozens of different dim sum items, ensuring that there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The ingredients are fresh, the dumplings are expertly crafted, and the flavors are simply divine. The energy in Dim Sum Palace is infectious.
Choosing between Sichuan Garden and Dim Sum Palace depends on your mood and your cravings. If you’re in the mood for fiery and flavorful Sichuan cuisine, Sichuan Garden is the obvious choice. But if you’re craving a fun and interactive dim sum experience, Dim Sum Palace is the place to be. Both restaurants offer a unique and authentic taste of China.
Modern and Fusion Chinese
For those with a more adventurous palate, Smith Street also features a couple of restaurants that are pushing the boundaries of Chinese cuisine, blending traditional flavors with modern techniques and global influences. These establishments offer a unique and exciting dining experience that is sure to impress.
At the forefront of this movement is “Red Plum Bistro,” a stylish and sophisticated restaurant that puts a contemporary spin on classic Chinese dishes. Located in a beautifully renovated space, Red Plum Bistro boasts a chic and modern ambiance, with exposed brick walls, stylish lighting, and comfortable seating. The menu is innovative and creative, featuring dishes that are both visually stunning and incredibly delicious. Highlights include their truffle dumplings, Peking duck tacos, and crispy eggplant with a spicy miso glaze. The prices are higher than the other restaurants mentioned, reflecting the quality of the ingredients and the artistry of the cooking. Expect to pay around twenty-five to thirty-five dollars per entree. What makes Red Plum Bistro so special is its commitment to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients and its innovative approach to Chinese cuisine. The chefs are constantly experimenting with new flavors and techniques, creating dishes that are both familiar and surprising. As Chef Lin explains, “We want to create a Chinese dining experience that is both modern and authentic. We respect the traditions of Chinese cuisine, but we’re also not afraid to experiment and push the boundaries.”
Red Plum Bistro is a must-visit for anyone looking for a truly unique and memorable Chinese dining experience. It takes pride in using ingredients that are locally sourced and in season. It is known in the neighborhood for being a place of high quality food.
Tips and Recommendations
Navigating the Chinese food scene on Smith Street can be overwhelming, with so many tempting options to choose from. To help you make the most of your culinary adventure, here are a few tips and recommendations.
For budget-friendly options, Golden Dragon and Red Lantern are your best bets. Their generous portions and reasonable prices make them ideal for a quick and affordable meal.
If you’re looking for a romantic date night spot, Red Plum Bistro is the perfect choice. Its stylish ambiance, innovative cuisine, and extensive wine list create the perfect setting for a special occasion. Dim Sum Palace also offers a fun and interactive dining experience that is perfect for a date.
For families with children, Golden Dragon and Red Lantern are both good options. Their familiar dishes and casual atmosphere make them ideal for picky eaters. Dim Sum Palace is also a great choice for families, as children will enjoy choosing their own dishes from the passing carts.
For those with dietary restrictions, Sichuan Garden offers several vegetarian and vegan options. Red Plum Bistro can also accommodate dietary requests with advance notice. Be sure to inquire about gluten-free options, as they may be available at some of the restaurants.
Parking on Smith Street can be challenging, especially during peak hours. Consider taking public transportation or using a ride-sharing service. Reservations are recommended at Red Plum Bistro, especially on weekends. It is always a good idea to call ahead to other restaurants to find out if they take reservations.
Conclusion
Smith Street’s Chinese food scene is a testament to the diversity and dynamism of Brooklyn’s culinary landscape. From the comforting familiarity of classic takeout to the adventurous flavors of regional specialties and the innovative creations of modern chefs, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. This exploration shows the diverse array of offerings. So, the next time you’re craving Chinese food, skip the generic takeout and head to Smith Street for a culinary adventure you won’t forget. Whether you are looking for a quick meal or an elaborate dinner Smith Street has you covered.
Smith Street proves that Chinese cuisine is far more diverse and exciting than you might think. Its hidden gems and beloved staples create a tapestry of flavors and experiences that are waiting to be discovered. Go explore!
