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Local picks in California

Expensive Chinese food

Made for those who seek out elevated Chinese cuisine and refuse to dine anywhere that doesn't match their sophisticated palate.

Based on 911 Opinions
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01
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Spacious hot pot restaurant with clean, stylish decor and kid-friendly seating offers an energetic yet cozy atmosphere filled with the sounds of chatting and laughter. Guests enjoy interactive dining with attentive service, free snacks, and entertainment like dancing noodle performances and robot servers. The environment balances premium dining with thoughtful extras such as aprons and eyeglass cleaning services.

Offers an interactive hot pot dining experience with a wide variety of fresh ingredients. Known for its high-quality broth and consistent excellence in hot pot preparation.

People are saying

"The Chinese Food service was attentive and fast."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers 31% off on all dishes from Sunday to Thursday after 9 PM.

2

Daily specials before 5 PM on weekdays feature angus beef short plates and Australian lamb shoulders for under $3.00.

3

The restaurant provides a unique noodle dance performance during dining.

02
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Bright interior with classic Chinese design and glass dividers creates an energetic, lively atmosphere. Crowded and loud, it suits groups who enjoy a bustling environment. Large parking lot supports family gatherings and big parties.

Offers authentic Cantonese food with dishes like beef chow fun featuring smoky, charred wok flavor and tender beef. The menu includes fantastic Cantonese-style Chinese food with well-prepared classics.

People are saying

"The Chinese Food's beef brisket is super tender and generously portioned."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant can get very busy.

2

Some dishes need to be ordered at least one day in advance.

3

A 12% mandatory tip is added to the bill.

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Hot pot restaurant offers spacious, clean design with personalized sauce stations and interactive dining including a dancing noodle show. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, suitable for families with children who receive toys and special meals. Amenities like hair ties and complimentary snacks add unique touches to the experience.

Offers flavorful hot pot with quality ingredients and exceptional service. Provides a top-notch hot pot experience with outstanding hospitality.

People are saying

"The Chinese food service is attentive, warm, and incredibly thoughtful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required before visiting, especially during peak hours.

2

The weekday happy hour offers a $2 shabu beef deal.

3

Happy hours are available Monday through Thursday before 5 pm.

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Small space maximizes seating with chic design featuring a river flowing through a big table and goldfish swimming. Loud atmosphere blends with mall noise, creating a lively vibe. Free self-serve ice cream bar and outdoor seating add unique touches.

Sichuan savory Mix stands out with its bold spicy flavor and rich broth. Hot pot toppings come in customizable quantities, letting you tailor each bowl to your taste.

People are saying

"The Chinese food broth is so flavorful, I saved leftovers for hot pot."

Good to know

1

Bowls are priced at $14.99 per pound, which can add up quickly.

2

The restaurant is self-serve, allowing you to create your own bowl.

3

Expect a clean and well-organized space, even during busy hours.

05
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Small restaurant with counter service and indoor and outdoor seating offers a relaxed atmosphere with good background music. It attracts a crowd looking for authentic Chinese street food and late-night dining options. The space feels clean and simple, suitable for casual meals with friends.

Spicy hot pot stands out with a nutty broth that differs from traditional Sichuan styles. The Mala Tang offers a flavorful, authentic Sichuan experience done the right way.

People are saying

"This spicy hot pot Chinese food is incredibly flavorful and delicious."

Good to know

1

Bruin Bowl Malatang opens late, making it a good option for late-night snacks.

2

Expect a wait during dinner hours, especially inside the restaurant.

3

Prices are generally cheaper compared to other malatang places in the area.

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Newer building with bright, spacious interior and clean, tidy decor creates a welcoming dining hall atmosphere. Lighting is bright and clear, supporting a calm but lively environment. Menu offers generous portions at reasonable prices, attracting a steady flow of diners.

Large portions of orange chicken come at a reasonable price and last for multiple meals. The war wonton soup stands out as a must-try, and the kitchen offers a small container of spice for the Mongolian beef so you can adjust the heat at home.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is well-seasoned and delicious."

Good to know

1

The lunch special runs until 4:00 pm, perfect for late lunches.

2

The lunch special price increased from $8.99 to $11.99 over the past year.

3

Parking is ample and easily accessible for visitors.

07
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Modern Chinese restaurant with bright, clean interior and tight seating arrangements creates a lively, sometimes loud atmosphere. Trendy music and cultural decor add to the energetic vibe. Known for authentic, highly praised dumplings and noodles.

Seven gram dumplings stand out with a taste that rivals top Asian spots. The menu also features Xiao Long Bao, beef roll, and pig ears alongside tasty scallion pancakes, cucumber salad, broccoli, and scallion oil noodles.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here, especially the soup dumplings, is juicy and soupy."

Good to know

1

Expect to wait up to 30 minutes during peak hours on weekends.

2

Parking is convenient with plenty of spaces available in front.

3

Prices are reasonable, averaging around $14 per person.

08
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Large space with modern Chinese decor and plenty of seating creates an elegant atmosphere. Background music plays, sometimes loud, contributing to a lively but occasionally noisy environment. The setting suits date nights and casual dining with a mix of Northern and Southern Chinese cuisine.

Soup dumplings stand out with their best-ever quality and the black truffle and garlic dumplings offer a rich twist. Sweet and sour chicken comes with a crispy texture and flavorful sauce, while hot and sour soup delivers a perfectly peppery kick.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here, especially the dumplings, is amazing and innovative."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 2:30 pm to 5 pm with 40% off select items.

2

During happy hour, many dishes are 40% off with few menu restrictions.

3

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to avoid long wait times.

09
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Small space with limited seating creates a busy, lively atmosphere where standing tables dominate. Fast-casual setup includes robot woks delivering authentic Chinese flavors with a cafeteria-style service. Self-serve stations and condiment options add to the practical, no-frills dining experience.

Fiery dishes like mapo tofu deliver a soft texture with a numbing spice. The orange chicken features more meat and a clear orange flavor, while the chow mein ranks among the best with its soft noodles and rich taste.

People are saying

"The Chinese food, especially the orange peel chicken, is a delicious balance of tart and crunch."

Good to know

1

Dishes cost around $4 each, making them very affordable.

2

The restaurant offers great portion sizes for the price.

3

There is free parking available in the garage.

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Small space with about six booths inside and a few tables outside creates an intimate, cozy atmosphere. Warm lighting and tasteful decor blend traditional Chinese elements with modern style, making it a quiet, vibey spot. Popular and often busy, it draws diners who appreciate consistent quality and generous portions.

Shrimp lo mein and chicken fried rice come fresh with generous portions. Dishes like Shanghai Crispy Pork, Mongolian Beef, and Sweet and Sour Chicken stand out, alongside potstickers and wonton soup.

People are saying

"I found Chin's Szechwan to be a great Chinese food spot."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted due to the small size of the restaurant.

2

Expect to wait for a table during busy dinner hours, especially on weekends.

3

Lunch prices are lower than dinner prices, providing a more affordable option.

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Luxuriously spaced fine dining restaurant with opulent decor and zen-inspired ambiance creates a comfortable and elegant atmosphere. Warm, modern design features immersive lighting and projection, setting it apart from typical venues. Private rooms and well-separated tables offer a sense of privacy amid a high-end Chinese fusion experience.

Roast Peking duck stands out with its crispy skin and tender meat, smoked and served traditionally. Dishes like squirrel fish, sweet and sour pork ribs, drunken shrimp, crispy plum shrimp, and lobster xiao long bao offer a variety of classic and unique flavors.

People are saying

"The Peking duck's crispy skin and tender meat are excellent."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation helps avoid long wait times, especially on weekends.

2

The restaurant has a minimum consumption requirement for private rooms.

3

Expect prices to be over $100 per person for a high-end dining experience.

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Small space with charcoal-grilled skewers creates an authentic Northeastern Chinese BBQ vibe. Atmosphere is comfortable but can feel noisy and cramped during busy times. Late hours and convenient parking support a steady flow of diners seeking genuine flavors.

Authentic Northeast Chinese BBQ stands out here, especially the Xinjiang lamb skewers and sweet and sour pork. Sauerkraut dumplings add a strong, emotional punch to the menu.

People are saying

"I found the Chinese food here to be authentic Northeastern-style grilled skewers."

Good to know

1

Ordering is done via a QR code, and self-service for water is required.

2

The restaurant stays open late, making it ideal for late-night snacks.

3

Prices are above average, with skewers priced around $8.99.

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Zhangliang Malatang Irvine(张亮麻辣烫 尔湾店) image 1
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Mandarin restaurant offers self-serve sauce bar with classic condiments and authentic spicy hot pot options. The atmosphere is clean, cozy, and laidback with low seating at small tables. Music features nostalgic Taiwanese hits, creating a unique dining vibe.

Spicy hot pot stands out with a build-your-own concept that satisfies warm and soupy cravings. The bone soup base adds rich flavor, making the mala tang very delicious and versatile.

People are saying

"This Chinese food's mala tang tastes just like the ones in China."

Good to know

1

Zhangliang Malatang Irvine opens until 2 AM.

2

The restaurant offers a self-serve style for meal customization.

3

Expect a variety of soup bases to choose from.

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Open kitchen reveals chefs hand-making dumplings, creating a transparent cooking experience. Spacious interior and covered outdoor patio offer a clean, modern, and welcoming atmosphere with a distinctly LA vibe. Halal Chinese cuisine draws a diverse crowd seeking authentic dumplings in a cozy yet lively setting.

Scrumptious dumplings stand out here, including halal options. Classic Chinese dishes accompany the dumplings, making the menu focused and satisfying.

People are saying

"The orange chicken here is amazing Chinese food."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure a spot due to high demand.

2

The wait time can be long during weekends, so plan accordingly.

3

All menu items are halal, ensuring a worry-free dining experience.

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Spacious modern Chinese restaurant with large open area and plenty of seating including booths and windows. Atmosphere varies from relaxing and quiet to fast-paced and noisy with dish clatter and loud music. Known for authentic handmade noodles and affordable prices.

Fried dumplings and soup dumplings offer consistent flavor and texture. Hand pulled noodles have a wonderful texture that pairs well with dishes like beef wrapped in roti and shrimp and chive dumplings.

People are saying

"The Chinese Food here is amazing; the pork dumplings are hot and soupy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for groups of 10 or more.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially around 8pm.

3

Parking is available on-site and is generally easy to find.

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Open kitchen reveals handmade dumplings being prepared, creating an engaging dining experience. Clean, bright interior with simple, elegant decor offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Large tables accommodate groups, and steady chatter adds to an authentic, lively vibe.

Soup dumplings stand out with crab and pork filling that feels filling and satisfying. The spicy chicken and corn dumplings add a nice kick, and watching the open kitchen makes the experience more engaging.

People are saying

"I loved the Chinese food, especially the soup dumplings and beef noodles."

Good to know

1

The waitlist on Friday night can extend beyond the initial 20 minutes due to high demand.

2

They celebrate birthdays by bringing out a lit sign and singing.

3

The restaurant is family-friendly and provides baby chairs for children.

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Self-service hot pot restaurant offers lively atmosphere with loud Chinese EDM music and bright lighting. Space feels cramped but clean, attracting groups of young Asians enjoying bold, authentic spicy broth. Environment suits both social gatherings and solo late-night meals.

Spicy hot pot stands out with a perfect balance of sour and spicy flavors. Picking your own ingredients adds a customizable touch to this authentic Asian-style street food.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here has a bold, spicy kick that hits just right."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; tables are first come, first serve.

2

Expect to pay $14.99 per pound for food, with bowl weight deducted.

3

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

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Modern, clean space with airy Chinese-style decor offers a welcoming, tranquil atmosphere that can become bustling and noisy on weekends. Plenty of seating accommodates large groups comfortably. The vibe balances nostalgic charm with contemporary updates.

Butter Garlic Lobster and Salt and Pepper Shrimp stand out among the dishes. The menu includes Kung Pao Chicken, pork chop with green onions and jalapenos, chow mein, and fried rice. The food leans away from authentic Cantonese style.

People are saying

"I'd get anything "House Special" for that unique, delicious sauce."

Good to know

1

The location offers ample free parking, including designated disabled parking spaces near the entrance.

2

Reservations are recommended for large parties to ensure seating arrangements.

3

Expect long wait times during busy periods like Lunar New Year.

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Small space with simple decor creates an authentic Cantonese atmosphere. The vibe feels like an everyday neighborhood diner with a cozy, unassuming setting. Limited seating and a popular, lively crowd shape the experience.

Authentic Cantonese dishes include roasted duck in Cantonese style, Guifei chicken, and sizzling beef steak with black pepper. Free traditional sugar soup dessert comes with dinner, and BBQ items like crispy roasted duck with sweet and sour sauce and honey-glazed char siu stand out.

People are saying

"This is the best spot for authentic Cantonese Chinese food."

Good to know

1

Expect a 30-40 minute wait for a table on busy nights.

2

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times during dinner hours.

3

Parking is easy and complimentary for diners.

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Upscale interior features semi-private dining rooms and a small central bar, creating a calm and cozy atmosphere. The decor blends traditional and unique elements, offering a comfortable setting suitable for casual meals or date nights.

Kung Pao chicken stands out as a top dish here. The menu also features mapo tofu, honey walnut shrimp, and chow fun that deliver solid flavors. Wonton soup starts the meal well, and lunch specials include dishes like Mongolian beef and walnut shrimp.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The plates at Panda Inn cost roughly 20 dollars and up.

2

They offer a lunch special until 3PM with dishes like walnut shrimp.

3

Panda Inn is open on Christmas Day, unlike most restaurants.

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Cozy, casual space fills quickly with lively conversation and Korean background music, creating a warm, family-like atmosphere. Korean-Chinese fusion cuisine stands out with authentic dishes, crispy fried pork, and flavorful black bean noodles. Cleanliness and free parking add to the comfortable dining experience.

Fried sweet and sour pork features a light, crispy batter and a thin sauce. Jjajangmyeon and fried dumplings also appear as solid options.

People are saying

"The sweet and sour pork here has a light, crispy batter."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.

2

Expect wait times during busy hours as the restaurant can get crowded.

3

Free parking is available for diners at Chai Lan.

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Large banquet hall with Asian-style decor and a subtle gold theme creates an elegant yet simple setting. The atmosphere is loud and busy, filled with energetic crowds and occasional cigarette smell. Robot servers navigate the space, adding a modern touch to the traditional dim sum experience.

Fresh and tasty authentic Cantonese cuisine shines in the dim sum and stir-fried dishes. Prices stay very responsible, and the dim sum service draws bigger crowds at lunch than dinner.

People are saying

"The dim sum here is delicious and satisfying."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups, and can be made a day in advance.

2

Parking can be difficult; arrive early to secure a spot.

3

Expect a bustling atmosphere during weekend lunch hours.

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Large space with round tables and lazy susans creates a communal dining feel. Atmosphere stays calm and relaxing with jungle forest sound effects adding unique background ambiance. Decor is old school legit and beautifully maintained inside, contrasting with a plain exterior.

Egg foo young stands out with its classic preparation. Orange chicken offers a crispy, crunchy texture unlike typical fast food versions. Kung Pao chicken delivers freshness and bold flavor. Wonton soup comes with chicken, avoiding seafood or shrimp.

People are saying

"The orange chicken here has the best crispy texture."

Good to know

1

Reservations are available for private rooms, accommodating large groups.

2

The restaurant has a kids-friendly atmosphere, making it suitable for families.

3

Lunch specials offer great value but are intended for one person only.

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Spacious dining area blends traditional elements with modern design and features vivid lanterns and art. Atmosphere stays quiet and elegant, suitable for business or family gatherings. Private rooms with projector screens support parties or banquets.

Dim sum features authentic Cantonese flavors with improved quality. Dishes like crispy Peking duck, tender Mongolian beef in a rich sauce, and flavorful Kung Pao chicken with crunchy peanuts stand out.

People are saying

"The Peking duck here is the best Chinese food I've ever had."

Good to know

1

They charge an 18% service charge automatically on all bills.

2

Expect a 15-20 minute wait during peak hours.

3

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers.

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Hot pot restaurant offers serve-yourself service with options for dry stir-fried or soupy Malatang at various spice levels. Atmosphere is family-friendly and relaxed, with a thoughtfully put together space. Pricing is by weight, which can lead to a high bill depending on choices.

Spicy Sichuan flavors shine in the hot pot and ma la tang here. The spot serves solid late-night options with a focus on hot pot dishes.

People are saying

"I loved the Chinese food; the ma la tang broth was 5 stars."

Good to know

1

Food is priced by weight, so more ordered means a higher bill.

2

Extra charges apply for meat, cooking method, and skewers.

3

Parking is valet and cash only, costing $3.

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Bright, clean space with retro Sichuan decor and wider table spacing creates a comfortable dining atmosphere. A self-serve ingredient area and free dessert station add convenience and variety. The vibe blends nostalgic charm with modern comfort, making it cozy even when busy.

A wide range of hot pot bases suits both spicy and mild tastes. Desserts include unique options like fermented rice wine dumplings and brown sugar tangyuan. Two people can enjoy a hot pot base and many skewers for under 100 yuan.

People are saying

"You have to try the Chinese Food skewers; they're only $0.49 each!"

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $30 to $50 per person for a meal.

2

The skewers are priced at $0.49 each, making it affordable for groups.

3

A mahjong blind draw guessing game runs from the 18th to the 25th with prizes.

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Hot pot restaurant offers authentic spicy broth and a build-your-own hot pot experience with a cozy, warm atmosphere. The space feels clean and tidy but can be loud and crowded during dinner hours. Many options are available, though vegetarian choices are limited.

Rich and flavorful hot pot broth offers an authentic Chinese mala tang taste with a fresh, not too spicy kick. Ingredients come fresh and diverse, served buffet-style for easy build-your-own hot pot options.

People are saying

"I chose my own Chinese food ingredients and broth for my hot pot."

Good to know

1

The food costs $13.99 per pound, with a typical portion around 2 pounds.

2

Parking is difficult during busy evening hours.

3

Expect long wait times during dinner as the place is often packed.

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Venue blends fine dining and fast casual vibes with a classy, clean look. Noodle soups come in flower vase-shaped bowls with narrow bottoms, limiting portions. Food arrives quickly, featuring rich, flavorful broths and tender beef, though flavors lean away from traditional Taiwanese styles.

Beef noodle soup features tender, juicy meat with a good lean to fat ratio, bouncy QQ noodles, and a rich broth similar to tonkotsu style. Scallion pancake comes out crispy and delicate.

People are saying

"This Chinese food's beef noodle soup broth is rich and savory."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy in the plaza next to the restaurant.

2

Food is prepared quickly, usually in under 10 minutes during busy hours.

3

The price for beef noodle soup is $18.75, and Dan Dan mian is $17.50.

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Restaurant offers an elegant traditional Chinese design with dim, quiet atmosphere that stays calm even when busy. Tableside duck carving adds a luxurious performance element to dining. Space suits formal events and business gatherings with an upscale yet relaxed vibe.

Peking Duck stands out with flawless presentation and a unique flaming and smoking table-side preparation. Other dishes like beef, shrimp with lychee, and fish complement the authentic Chinese food experience.

People are saying

"The Peking duck here is the best Chinese food in Orange County."

Good to know

1

Be ready for the duck carving performance to begin at 12:15pm.

2

The flame show lasts only 5-10 seconds, so have your phone ready.

3

Reservations are required for the VIP room with a minimum spend of $150 per person.

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Handmade noodles come in six thicknesses, crafted in view of diners, creating an authentic Lanzhou flavor in a traditional Chinese style setting. The atmosphere feels busy and lively, with a small space that fills quickly, especially for those who enjoy spicy beef noodle soup.

Hand pulled noodles come in various shapes and sizes, including triangle noodles in the chow mein. Dumplings and beef soup are common choices. Sides like rice and bok choy pair well with the main dishes.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here has amazing, freshly made hand-pulled noodles."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but expect a wait during peak hours.

2

The restaurant offers six types of noodle thickness to choose from.

3

One bowl of soup costs $22, while combo meals are under $20.

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