Introduction
Feeling that craving for delicious Chinese food? New London, Connecticut, a vibrant coastal city brimming with history and culture, has you covered. Beyond its maritime charm and historical significance, New London boasts a diverse culinary scene, and when it comes to satisfying your appetite for authentic and flavorful Chinese cuisine, you’re in for a treat. This guide will explore some of the best Chinese restaurants in New London, offering a variety of flavors and experiences to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. From quick takeout meals to memorable dine-in experiences, we’ve considered taste, value, ambiance, and customer reviews to bring you this curated list. So, prepare to embark on a culinary journey through New London’s finest Chinese establishments!
Golden Dragon: A New London Staple
Nestled on a bustling street corner, Golden Dragon has been a New London institution for over two decades, serving up classic Chinese-American dishes that locals have come to love and depend on. With its welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff, it’s the perfect spot for a casual lunch, a family dinner, or a convenient takeout order.
Golden Dragon is located on Colman Street. You can call them to place an order or inquire about their menu. While they may not have the most elaborate website, their reputation speaks for itself.
One of the restaurant’s standout dishes is undoubtedly their General Tso’s Chicken. The chicken is perfectly crispy and coated in a sweet and tangy sauce that is both satisfying and addictive. Each bite is a delightful combination of textures and flavors, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Another must-try is their Shrimp Fried Rice. Unlike some versions that can be bland and greasy, Golden Dragon’s Shrimp Fried Rice is light, fluffy, and packed with flavorful shrimp and vegetables. The rice is perfectly cooked, and the dish is well-seasoned, making it a satisfying and complete meal. They also offer other classics like Beef and Broccoli, Lo Mein, and a variety of soups and appetizers.
The ambiance at Golden Dragon is casual and inviting. It’s a comfortable space where you can relax and enjoy a delicious meal without any pretense. The staff is always friendly and attentive, making you feel right at home. The price range is also very reasonable, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious diners.
What sets Golden Dragon apart is its consistency. For years, they’ve been serving up consistently delicious Chinese food at affordable prices. Their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has earned them a loyal following in the New London community. As one local reviewer aptly put it, “Golden Dragon is my go-to spot for Chinese takeout. The food is always fresh, hot, and delicious, and the service is always friendly.”
Taste of China: Authentic Flavors and Modern Flair
For those seeking a more authentic and refined Chinese dining experience, Taste of China on Bank Street is a must-visit. This stylish restaurant offers a contemporary take on traditional Chinese cuisine, with a focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The menu features a wide range of dishes, from classic favorites to regional specialties, ensuring there’s something to please every palate.
Taste of China’s address is on Bank Street. They have a website, where you can view their full menu and make reservations.
One dish that consistently receives rave reviews is their Peking Duck. The duck is roasted to perfection, with crispy skin and tender meat. It’s served with traditional pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce, allowing you to create your own delicious wraps. The presentation is also impeccable, making it a truly memorable dining experience. Another standout is their Spicy Szechuan Fish. This dish features tender pieces of fish cooked in a fiery Szechuan sauce with vegetables and chilies. The heat is intense but balanced, creating a complex and flavorful dish that will leave you wanting more. In addition to these specialties, Taste of China also offers a variety of dim sum, noodle dishes, and vegetarian options.
The ambiance at Taste of China is modern and sophisticated. The dining room is elegantly decorated, with comfortable seating and soft lighting. The atmosphere is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. The service is also attentive and professional, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable dining experience. The price range is slightly higher than Golden Dragon, but the quality of the food and service makes it well worth the splurge.
What sets Taste of China apart is its commitment to authentic flavors and modern presentation. They use only the freshest ingredients and prepare each dish with meticulous attention to detail. Their dedication to quality has earned them numerous accolades and a reputation as one of the best Chinese restaurants in New London. A recent online review stated, “Taste of China is a true gem. The food is authentic, the service is impeccable, and the ambiance is perfect. This is definitely my new favorite Chinese restaurant.”
China Wok: Quick, Convenient, and Delicious
If you’re looking for a quick, convenient, and affordable Chinese meal on the go, China Wok on Ocean Avenue is an excellent choice. This unassuming takeout spot offers a wide range of classic Chinese-American dishes at incredibly reasonable prices. It’s the perfect option for a busy weeknight or a casual lunch.
China Wok is conveniently located on Ocean Avenue. They are primarily a takeout establishment, so you can call in your order.
While China Wok may not have the most elaborate menu or the fanciest decor, they excel at delivering consistently delicious and affordable Chinese food. Their Sesame Chicken is a perennial favorite, with crispy chicken pieces coated in a sweet and savory sesame sauce. It’s a classic dish that is always satisfying. Another popular choice is their Lo Mein, which is available with chicken, beef, pork, or shrimp. The noodles are perfectly cooked, and the dish is packed with flavorful vegetables and protein. They also offer a variety of fried rice dishes, egg rolls, and soups.
The ambiance at China Wok is strictly takeout, so don’t expect a fancy dining room. However, the service is always quick and efficient, and the staff is friendly and helpful. The price range is incredibly affordable, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious diners.
What sets China Wok apart is its speed, convenience, and affordability. They are masters of the takeout game, consistently delivering delicious Chinese food at unbeatable prices. As one local resident shared, “China Wok is my go-to spot when I need a quick and easy dinner. The food is always good, the prices are great, and the service is fast.”
A Symphony of Flavors: Exploring Chinese Cuisine in New London
New London’s Chinese food scene is more than just a collection of restaurants; it’s a reflection of the diverse culinary traditions that have shaped Chinese cuisine over centuries. You’ll find glimpses of various styles, each offering unique flavors and preparations.
Cantonese cuisine, known for its delicate flavors and fresh ingredients, is often represented by dishes like steamed fish with ginger and scallions, or honey garlic ribs. Szechuan cuisine, on the other hand, is characterized by its bold and spicy flavors, thanks to the use of chili peppers and Szechuan peppercorns. Dishes like Mapo Tofu and Kung Pao Chicken are prime examples of this fiery style. Hunan cuisine is another spicy option, often featuring smoked meats and fermented ingredients. Finally, there’s the familiar American Chinese cuisine, which has adapted traditional Chinese dishes to suit American tastes. General Tso’s Chicken and Crab Rangoon are popular examples of this fusion style. You’ll find options from all of these categories throughout New London’s Chinese restaurants.
Takeout Treasures and Dine-In Delights
New London’s Chinese restaurants cater to a variety of dining preferences. While some establishments primarily focus on takeout, offering a quick and convenient option for busy individuals and families, others provide a more relaxed dine-in experience, perfect for special occasions or a casual meal with friends.
If you’re looking for a quick and easy takeout meal, China Wok and Golden Dragon are excellent choices. They both offer a wide range of classic Chinese-American dishes at affordable prices, and their service is consistently fast and efficient. On the other hand, if you’re seeking a more refined dining experience, Taste of China is the perfect option. Their elegant ambiance, attentive service, and authentic cuisine make it a great choice for a special occasion. Many restaurants also utilize delivery services like Grubhub and Doordash, ensuring your favorite Chinese dishes are delivered right to your door.
The Jade Palace: A Local Favorite with a Loyal Following
Tucked away on a quiet side street, The Jade Palace is a true hidden gem that has been serving delicious Chinese food to the New London community for decades. This family-run restaurant is known for its authentic recipes, generous portions, and friendly service.
The Jade Palace, while unassuming, offers a genuine taste of traditional Chinese cooking. They may not have extensive online presence, but word of mouth has kept them a local favorite.
One of their specialties is the Salt and Pepper Shrimp, which is perfectly crispy and flavorful. Another popular dish is their House Special Fried Rice, which is loaded with a variety of meats and vegetables. The portions are generous, and the prices are incredibly reasonable, making it a great value for your money. What truly sets The Jade Palace apart is its warm and welcoming atmosphere. The staff treats every customer like family, and they are always happy to offer recommendations or customize dishes to your liking. The authenticity and value has led to years of loyal patronage from the neighborhood.
Conclusion
New London, Connecticut, offers a diverse range of Chinese food options, from classic takeout to authentic dine-in experiences. Whether you’re craving crispy General Tso’s Chicken, flavorful Peking Duck, or a quick and easy Lo Mein, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your appetite in this vibrant coastal city.
So, the next time you’re craving Chinese food, be sure to check out these top spots in New London and discover your new favorite dish! From long-standing institutions to hidden gems, New London’s Chinese food scene offers something for everyone.
Get ready to embark on a delicious culinary adventure and explore the tantalizing flavors of Chinese cuisine in the heart of New London. You won’t be disappointed!
