Simi Valley’s Chinese Culinary Gems
Feeling that craving for perfectly crispy General Tso’s chicken, or maybe a comforting bowl of wonton soup after a long day? Simi Valley has you covered! From family-run establishments serving up time-honored recipes to modern eateries putting a fresh spin on classic dishes, the Chinese food scene in Simi Valley offers a diverse and delicious experience. Whether you’re a longtime resident or just passing through, finding the right place to satisfy your Chinese food cravings can be a daunting task.
That’s where this guide comes in. We’ve explored the culinary landscape of Simi Valley to bring you a comprehensive list of the best Chinese restaurants in town. We considered factors such as the quality of ingredients, customer reviews, the overall ambiance, and of course, the value for your money. Get ready to embark on a flavorful journey as we uncover Simi Valley’s best Chinese food offerings!
Let’s dive into the heart of Simi Valley’s Chinese food scene. These restaurants consistently deliver exceptional flavors and experiences, earning them a spot on our “must-try” list.
Golden Dragon Palace
Nestled in a bustling plaza on Cochran Street, Golden Dragon Palace is a long-standing Simi Valley institution. With its traditional décor, complete with red lanterns and ornate screens, the atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends.
The menu at Golden Dragon Palace is extensive, featuring a wide array of Cantonese and Mandarin dishes. However, their standout items are undoubtedly the Honey Walnut Shrimp and the Peking Duck. The Honey Walnut Shrimp is perfectly sweet and savory, with plump shrimp coated in a light, crispy batter and drizzled with a creamy honey sauce, topped with candied walnuts for added crunch. The Peking Duck, prepared using traditional methods, boasts incredibly crispy skin and tender, flavorful meat, served with thin pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce. The Mu Shu pork is another family favorite, featuring tender pork, vegetables and delicious hoisin sauce for wrapping into thin pancakes. Prices range from around twelve dollars for single entree items to upwards of forty dollars for Peking Duck.
What sets Golden Dragon Palace apart is their commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients and their dedication to providing excellent customer service. The staff is friendly and attentive, always ready to offer recommendations or accommodate special requests. You should try it because it offers a classic Chinese dining experience with consistently delicious food and a welcoming atmosphere. They offer take out and delivery.
Jade Wok Bistro
For a more contemporary take on Chinese cuisine, head over to Jade Wok Bistro on Tapo Canyon Road. This modern eatery boasts a sleek and stylish interior, with dim lighting and comfortable seating, creating a relaxed and sophisticated ambiance.
Jade Wok Bistro’s menu features a fusion of traditional Chinese dishes with modern culinary techniques. Their Spicy Szechuan Wontons are a popular appetizer, filled with a savory pork mixture and drizzled with a fiery Szechuan chili oil. For your main course, consider the Orange Chicken, a Jade Wok Bistro specialty. The chicken is incredibly crispy and coated in a tangy orange sauce that has a perfect balance of sweet and sour. The Beef with Broccoli, a classic dish, is elevated by using tender cuts of beef and perfectly steamed broccoli, all coated in a rich and flavorful sauce. Entrees at Jade Wok Bistro range from around fifteen dollars to twenty-five dollars.
What makes Jade Wok Bistro unique is their innovative approach to Chinese cuisine, using high-quality ingredients and creative flavor combinations to create dishes that are both familiar and exciting. You should try it if you’re looking for a modern and upscale Chinese dining experience. The restaurant also offers a selection of beer and wine to complement your meal. Take out is available at this location.
Sichuan Chili House
If you’re craving authentic Szechuan flavors, look no further than Sichuan Chili House, located off Alamo Street. This unassuming restaurant packs a serious punch when it comes to spice and flavor. The atmosphere is casual and lively, reflecting the vibrant cuisine it serves.
The menu at Sichuan Chili House is filled with bold and aromatic dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. Their Mapo Tofu is a must-try, featuring silky tofu simmered in a spicy and savory sauce with ground pork and fermented black beans. The Dan Dan Noodles, another Sichuan staple, are tossed in a flavorful peanut sauce with chili oil, preserved vegetables, and ground pork. For a truly authentic experience, try the Water Boiled Fish, a dish featuring tender fish fillets simmered in a fiery broth with vegetables and chili peppers. The prices are very reasonable with most entrees costing between ten dollars and fifteen dollars.
What sets Sichuan Chili House apart is their commitment to using authentic Szechuan ingredients and techniques, ensuring that every dish is packed with flavor and spice. You should try it because it provides a truly authentic and flavorful Szechuan dining experience. Be warned, the spice levels can be intense, so be sure to specify your preference when ordering.
Lucky Panda Express
Don’t let the name fool you! Lucky Panda Express is not your typical fast-food chain. This family-owned establishment on First Street offers a surprisingly wide range of delicious and affordable Chinese dishes, perfect for a quick lunch or a casual dinner. The atmosphere is simple and unassuming, but the food speaks for itself.
The menu at Lucky Panda Express features a variety of classic Chinese dishes, all prepared fresh to order. Their Sweet and Sour Pork is a crowd-pleaser, with crispy pork coated in a tangy and sweet sauce. The Kung Pao Chicken is another popular choice, featuring diced chicken stir-fried with peanuts, vegetables, and chili peppers. For a vegetarian option, try the Vegetable Chow Mein, loaded with fresh vegetables and stir-fried noodles. All entree’s are typically under ten dollars.
What makes Lucky Panda Express special is its combination of affordable prices, generous portions, and consistently delicious food. It’s the perfect place to go when you’re craving Chinese food but don’t want to break the bank. You should try it because it is a great option for a quick, affordable, and satisfying meal. Take out is almost exclusively how this restaurant does business.
A Few More Delicious Options
While the restaurants listed above represent some of the best Chinese food in Simi Valley, there are a few other spots worth mentioning:
- New China Wok: A dependable spot for classic Chinese takeout.
- Simi Chinese Restaurant: A great place for authentic family dinners.
- Asian Fusion Bistro: A local favorite blending Eastern and Western styles.
Tips for Ordering and Enjoying Chinese Food in Simi Valley
To make the most of your Chinese food experience in Simi Valley, here are a few helpful tips:
- Spice it Up (or Down): Don’t be afraid to customize your dishes! Most restaurants are happy to adjust the spice level to your liking. Whether you prefer a mild and subtle flavor or a fiery kick, be sure to let your server know.
- Family Style is the Way to Go: Chinese food is best enjoyed when shared with friends and family. Order a variety of dishes and pass them around the table, allowing everyone to sample the different flavors and textures.
- Daily Specials are Your Friend: Always ask about the daily specials! Many restaurants offer special dishes that are not listed on the regular menu, often featuring seasonal ingredients or unique preparations.
- Delivery is Key: If you’re not in the mood to dine out, take advantage of the convenient delivery options offered by most Chinese restaurants in Simi Valley. Services like Grubhub and DoorDash can bring your favorite dishes right to your doorstep.
In Conclusion
Simi Valley offers a diverse and delicious Chinese food scene, with options to satisfy every craving and budget. From classic Cantonese dishes to modern fusion creations and spicy Sichuan specialties, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a casual takeout meal or a sophisticated dining experience, the restaurants listed in this guide are sure to impress.
So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore the best Chinese food that Simi Valley has to offer! And don’t forget to share your own favorite Chinese restaurants in the comments below – we’re always looking for new culinary adventures! Tell us what you loved most about the meal and leave a review for other Simi Valley residents. Happy eating!
