Introduction
That craving for crispy General Tso’s chicken or a comforting bowl of wonton soup hit hard? Baltimore’s got you covered. From bustling dim sum houses to hidden neighborhood gems serving authentic regional specialties, Baltimore boasts a surprisingly diverse and delicious Chinese culinary landscape. Beyond the Inner Harbor and crab cakes, a world of flavors awaits, ready to tantalize your taste buds and satisfy your hunger for truly good Chinese food Baltimore has to offer.
This article will guide you through some of the best Chinese restaurants in Baltimore, offering a range of options from classic favorites to unique culinary experiences. We’ve considered authenticity, quality of ingredients, ambiance, and value to curate a list of places that truly deliver on flavor and experience. So, put on your explorer hat and prepare for a journey through the best Chinese food Baltimore has hidden (and not-so-hidden) away.
A Taste of Canton: Classic Cantonese Cuisine
Cantonese cuisine, celebrated for its emphasis on fresh ingredients and light, delicate sauces, forms a cornerstone of Baltimore’s Chinese food scene. This style of cooking focuses on highlighting the natural flavors of the ingredients, often using steaming and stir-frying techniques to preserve their essence. If you’re looking for the epitome of “good Chinese food Baltimore” style, these restaurants are a perfect starting point.
Orient East
Nestled in the heart of Charles Village, Orient East is a long-standing establishment known for its consistently high-quality Cantonese dishes. The ambiance is traditional and welcoming, perfect for a family dinner or a casual night out. Their signature Cantonese roast duck is a must-try, boasting crispy skin and succulent meat. The steamed fish with ginger and scallions is another standout, showcasing the freshness of the ingredients and the delicate balance of flavors. One local foodie raves, “Orient East is my go-to for authentic Cantonese. The roast duck is simply divine!” Orient East is where you go to find good Chinese food Baltimore families cherish.
Ming’s Dynasty
Located near the Towson area, Ming’s Dynasty offers a more upscale dining experience while maintaining the integrity of classic Cantonese flavors. The elegant decor and attentive service elevate the experience, making it ideal for special occasions. While the menu is extensive, focus on the seafood dishes. Their steamed scallops with black bean sauce are exceptional, and the lobster with ginger and scallions is a splurge worth making. Ming’s Dynasty consistently offers good Chinese food Baltimore residents are pleased to enjoy.
Asian Taste
This unassuming gem in a strip mall in Parkville doesn’t look like much from the outside, but inside it has some of the best authentic Chinese cuisine Baltimore offers. With an extensive menu that includes Cantonese favorites, be sure to order the salt and pepper shrimp. Locals rave about the freshness and authentic taste, saying it rivals food they have had in New York.
The Fiery Allure of Szechuan Spice
For those who crave a bolder, more intense culinary experience, Szechuan cuisine is the answer. Characterized by its liberal use of Sichuan peppercorns, chili oil, and fermented bean paste, Szechuan dishes are known for their complex flavors and numbing spiciness. If you are searching for flavorful, numbing good Chinese food Baltimore is more than capable of providing it!
Szechuan Best
As the name suggests, Szechuan Best, in the Canton area, specializes in authentic Szechuan cuisine. Prepare your palate for a fiery adventure! The Mapo Tofu is a classic, featuring silky tofu in a rich, spicy sauce. The Dan Dan Noodles are another must-try, with their flavorful sesame sauce and tingling Sichuan peppercorns. Be sure to specify your desired spice level when ordering – Szechuan Best doesn’t hold back!
Peter’s Inn
While Peter’s Inn in Fells Point is a popular American restaurant, on certain nights, they offer a limited menu of authentic Szechuan food you won’t find anywhere else. Run don’t walk to Peter’s if you are craving the real thing.
Great Eastern Restaurant
A Chinatown institution. Great Eastern Restaurant boasts an extensive Szechuan menu with dishes that will challenge and delight your taste buds. If you’re looking for an authentic Sichuan experience, their Shui Zhu Yu (fish in hot chili oil) is a must-try. The combination of tender fish, fiery broth, and numbing peppercorns is simply unforgettable.
Dim Sum Delights: A Cantonese Brunch Tradition
No exploration of Chinese cuisine in Baltimore would be complete without indulging in dim sum. These bite-sized portions, served in steamer baskets, are a Cantonese tradition perfect for sharing and sampling a variety of flavors and textures. From savory dumplings to sweet pastries, dim sum offers a delightful culinary adventure. If you are looking for the epitome of weekend good Chinese food Baltimore style, dim sum has you covered.
Oriental House
Located in the heart of Little Italy, Oriental House is a longtime favorite for dim sum enthusiasts. The atmosphere is lively and bustling, adding to the authentic dim sum experience. The Har Gow (shrimp dumplings) and Siu Mai (pork dumplings) are classic choices, but be sure to try some of their more unique offerings, such as the steamed chicken feet or the pan-fried turnip cakes. Oriental House provides good Chinese food Baltimore families come back to year after year.
New Fortune Chinese Restaurant
This spot is known for being one of the best dim sum spots in Baltimore. Offering dim sum cart service for those of us who like to see what we’re getting, New Fortune has all the classics with a few surprises. Try the crispy taro dumplings or the steamed pork buns for a change of pace.
Jumbo Seafood
It might be surprising to think that a Vietnamese restaurant does fantastic dim sum, but Jumbo Seafood has some of the best dumplings in town. With fresh seafood filling many of their menu items, be sure to go here if you want to mix it up a bit.
When ordering dim sum, remember to be adventurous and try a variety of dishes. Don’t be afraid to ask your server for recommendations, and be sure to pace yourself – it’s easy to overeat when faced with such a tempting array of options.
Noodles and Dumplings: Comforting Classics
Sometimes, all you need is a comforting bowl of noodles or a plate of perfectly crafted dumplings. Several restaurants in Baltimore specialize in these simple yet satisfying dishes, offering a variety of regional styles and flavors. If you want simple, comforting good Chinese food Baltimore can provide!
Joe Benny’s
Surprisingly, this pizza place in Little Italy also offers the best handmade, hand-pulled noodles in town. Check out the specials board to see the latest Chinese offerings from this authentic Italian restaurant.
Zander’s Stern
Specializing in all sorts of dumplings, from Russian to Chinese to Korean, Zander’s offers a variety of frozen options to take home and eat at your leisure.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
Beyond the well-known establishments, Baltimore is home to several hidden gem Chinese restaurants that offer unique and authentic experiences. These are the places that locals swear by, often tucked away in unassuming locations but serving up some of the most delicious and authentic Chinese food in the city.
Grace Garden
Tucked away in Mount Vernon, Grace Garden is a family-owned restaurant known for its traditional Cantonese cuisine and warm, welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant has been around for decades, and is a local favorite for good reason. They are known for their delicious wonton soup.
Sun Sun
A carry out only place, Sun Sun is a favorite of Baltimore locals for its quick service and extensive menu. It is located in the Highlandtown neighborhood.
Conclusion
Baltimore’s Chinese food scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors and traditions. So, grab your chopsticks and embark on a culinary adventure to discover your next favorite meal. From Cantonese roast duck to fiery Szechuan dishes and delicate dim sum, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply craving a delicious and authentic meal, Baltimore’s Chinese restaurants are sure to impress.
What are some of your favorite places to get good Chinese food Baltimore? Share your recommendations in the comments below! Let’s build a community of food lovers exploring all the culinary delights Baltimore has to offer.
