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Kung Pao chicken spots

A lunch portion of kung pao chicken that balances the heat and the crunch without being drowned in a syrupy sauce.

Based on 850 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Tigawok Mini Bowls - Sawtelle image 1
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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.

Offers great value for lunch with friendly staff who accommodate diners even during their breaks. Provides convenient options for both dine-in and takeout meals.

Fiery Kung Pao Chicken comes in a petite bowl with dried chilies, bell pepper, and onion. It delivers a slow, pleasant burn with a notable spiciness.

People are saying

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

"This Lunch Spot offers great value with affordable prices and fresh food."

"I loved watching the robot woks rapidly stir-fry the Kung Pao Chicken."

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.

02
Pan Dumpling House image 1

Open kitchen reveals staff making dumplings through a glass partition, creating a lively and authentic atmosphere. Dining area feels cozy and welcoming, with a casual vibe despite occasional crowd noise. Space is clean and spacious, supporting family-style meals and quick service.

Lunch offers very delicious dishes with satisfying flavors. The spot serves well-prepared meals suitable for a late midday break.

Large portions come with the Kung Pao Chicken here. It stands out for its excellent taste and is a regular must-order alongside other favorites.

People are saying

"The handmade dumplings here are juicy and delicious."

"This lunch spot has delicious dumplings packed with flavor."

"I was pretty impressed with the Kung Pao Chicken."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 9:00 pm.

2

Expect busy periods that may lead to wait times.

3

You can feed a party of 6 for less than $20 per person.

03
Habibiz image 1
Halal restaurant

Halal restaurant offers clean, beautifully decorated space with both indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere feels warm and friendly, supported by a prayer room attached for convenience. Food focuses on halal Chinese cuisine with some dishes praised and others noted as less favorable.

Offers a $12.99 lunch special with two sides providing good value. Serves as a solid spot for lunch dates and casual meals.

Kung pao chicken comes with a good balance of spice and flavor. It pairs well with other dishes like orange chicken and Mongolian beef for a varied meal.

People are saying

"The food here is really good and flavorful."

"The lunch special here has generous portions for a good price."

"The Kung Pao Chicken is hot, flavorful, and has tender meat."

Good to know

1

All food served is halal, making it a great option for halal dining.

2

The restaurant offers large portion sizes, often enough for multiple meals.

3

Boxes of leftover food are available for $5 after closing.

04
Tigawok Mini Bowls - Irvine image 1
Chinese restaurant

Modern space offers plenty of indoor and outdoor seating with umbrellas. Atmosphere feels lively and casual, often busy with a welcoming vibe. Food preparation uses AI technology, serving budget-friendly mini bowls that let people try multiple flavors.

Mini bowls come in cute to-go containers that look like lunch boxes. The vibe stays casual and inviting, making it easy to enjoy a hearty lunch during a short break.

Tender, plump chicken pieces deliver a classic Kung Pao experience with a pleasing tinge of spiciness. The flavor quality stands out compared to typical fast-food versions.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and has a serious kick."

"This lunch spot has amazing taste and price."

"The Kung Pao Chicken has tender, plump chicken pieces."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines during promotions like the free mini bowl offer.

2

Prices range from $3 to $7, making it affordable for most visitors.

3

Get there early to avoid long wait times, especially on busy days.

05
Boston Lobster Seafood Restaurant粤唯鲜 image 1

Seafood restaurant with casual dining area and spacious seating including large tables for groups. Atmosphere blends old school decor with a clean, well-maintained interior. Known for house special lobster and popular lunch specials, it draws steady crowds requiring reservations.

Affordable lunch specials are available even on weekends with good-sized portions. Options like the Kung Pao chicken come as part of a reasonable lunch menu.

Lunch specials include Kung Pao chicken with good-sized portions. The dish is flavorful and tasty, though the portion can be smaller compared to other entrees.

People are saying

"The food here is genuinely authentic and delicious."

"The lunch specials here are a great deal with generous portions."

"The Kung Pao Chicken lunch special had delicious flavor and generous portions."

Good to know

1

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

2

Expect a 25-40 minute wait during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

The lunch special offers great value and is available even on weekends.

06
Golden Bay Asian Food image 1
Asian restaurant

Open kitchen fills the small space with sizzling sounds and rich aromas, creating a warm and lively atmosphere. Outdoor seating offers a pleasant alternative to the cozy but often hot interior. Large portions and customizable menu items attract a steady crowd, especially on busy weekend nights.

Lunch specials include orange chicken and honey sesame chicken with portions large enough to share. The spot draws repeat visits and recommendations for midday meals.

Kung Pao chicken here stands out for its bold flavor and satisfying texture. It pairs well with other dishes like crispy beef and complements drinks such as Boba tea.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, hot, and delicious."

"The salt and pepper wings at this Lunch Spot are perfectly cooked and super crunchy."

"I thought the Kung Pao Chicken was some of the best I've had."

Good to know

1

Golden Bay Asian Food is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

2

Expect to wait on Friday or Saturday nights due to high demand.

3

They prefer cash payments, so be prepared.

07
Taibat Restaurant 泰巴特清真美食 image 1

Halal restaurant offers a warm, family-friendly atmosphere with beautiful, spacious interior décor reflecting Uyghur cultural heritage. The place feels authentic and inviting, suitable for gatherings and cultural experiences. It features designated prayer space enhancing its welcoming environment.

Lunch offers beef noodles, pot stickers, and mapo tofu as specials. These dishes come at a good value and satisfy groups well.

Tender and spicy, the Kung Pao Chicken delivers a balanced flavor with the right kick. It pairs well with mix fried rice and chow mein for a complete meal.

People are saying

"I found the authentic Halal Chinese food to be delicious."

"It's a really warm, family friendly atmosphere here."

"The lunch special foods tasted great and were a good value."

Good to know

1

All meat served is halal, catering to dietary preferences.

2

The restaurant is usually not busy, minimizing wait times.

3

Reservations are recommended during peak hours to avoid long waits.

08
Yang Chow Restaurant image 1
Chinese restaurant

Walls display celebrity photos in a small, busy space with a calm, welcoming atmosphere. Patrons often arrive early to avoid waits, drawn by famous slippery shrimp and authentic Chinese dishes. Outdoor patio and valet parking add convenience to the experience.

A popular lunch spot with a pleasant atmosphere and a quick seating process even for large parties. Ordering multiple dishes and soup provides plenty of food to take home for the next day.

Right balance of heat and savory flavors defines the Kung Pao chicken here. It pairs well with perfectly seasoned fried rice and stands out alongside dishes like Mongolian beef and Lo Mein noodles.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was delicious and perfectly cooked."

"The Lunch Spot's slippery shrimp is excellent and delicious."

"I thought the signature dish was the slippery shrimp."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but arriving early is recommended to avoid wait times.

2

Expect a small wait time of 1 to 5 minutes during peak hours on weekends.

3

The restaurant offers free valet parking for guests.

09
Broadway Cuisine image 1
Chinese restaurant

Spacious dining room with large tables and booths reflects a nostalgic, banquet-style decor. Atmosphere varies from quiet and subdued to pleasant and atmospheric, with a mix of kid-friendly energy. Offers free parking, uncommon in the area, enhancing convenience.

Lunch offers a special with affordable prices and quick service. The dining room stays mostly empty even during busy lunch hours, and the service can be rude.

Kung Pao chicken comes with a spicy kick and pairs well with dishes like fish filet in black bean sauce and sautéed green beans. It appears alongside other favorites like Spicy Eggplant and Yang Chow Fried Rice.

People are saying

"I found the Chinese food here to be authentic and delicious."

"The parking available here is in the back and really convenient."

"I found the Kung Pao chicken to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so expect to find street parking or use nearby pay lots.

2

The menu features Cantonese-American classics and family-style entrees.

3

Prices are most affordable during the lunch special.

10
Chen Ling Palace image 1
Chinese restaurant

Chinese restaurant with dim lighting and an 80s atmosphere featuring chopstick fonts. The space feels quiet and low-key but shows signs of wear with dust and grime on walls. It operates as a mom and pop establishment with affordable prices and large portions.

Lunch features specials like Szechuan eggplant, orange chicken, and kung po chicken, each served with fried rice, wontons, and egg drop soup. The menu includes chow mein and offers options for both lunch and dinner.

Kung Pao Chicken stands out as a favorite dish here. It offers a flavorful experience even though it is not pictured on the menu.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and flavorful."

"The lunch here is delicious, hot, and fresh."

"I recommend the Kung Pao Chicken; it was my favorite dish."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers lunch and dinner specials daily.

2

Main courses are priced around $12, providing good value.

3

All entrees come with white rice included.

11
Moon House image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small space with traditional decor and lantern-lit ambiance creates a cozy, authentic Chinese dining experience. Quiet atmosphere suits both quick meals and relaxed dinners. Crowded at lunch, it offers separated booths and hot tea for comfort.

Quick service and good portions make lunch here efficient and filling. Lunch specials offer solid value, blending comfort and authenticity in the vibe.

Chicken stays very tender and the dish carries a classic flavor often missing in many places. It pairs well with white rice and delivers a flavorful experience.

People are saying

"The Chinese food's orange chicken is crispy with a spot-on glaze."

"This lunch spot offers authentic Chinese comfort food."

"The Kung Pao Chicken here has that classic, satisfying flavor."

Good to know

1

Parking during lunchtime can be challenging; consider nearby neighborhood streets.

2

Rice does not come with most dishes and must be ordered separately.

3

Expect a wait for seating around 7 pm, especially on weekends.

12
Hai Master Kitchen image 1
Chinese restaurant

Hole-in-the-wall Chinese restaurant offers a clean, roomy space with a warm family atmosphere. Dishes arrive fresh from the kitchen, creating a funky, inviting vibe. The place features authentic Northeastern Chinese flavors and excellent value for money.

Lunch specials cost about $9.99 and offer lots of choices. They provide great value with good service and affordable prices.

Mild Kung Pao Chicken offers a balanced spice level with a classic flavor profile. It pairs well with dishes like hot jasmine tea and wonton soup.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is flavorful and authentic."

"The shrimp dishes here are huge and delicious."

"The Kung Pao Chicken here is amazing, and Leo made our experience spectacular."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available from Monday to Friday.

2

Portion sizes are large and suitable for sharing.

3

The restaurant can get packed, so be prepared for wait times.

13
Canaan Chinese Cuisine image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small Chinese restaurant offers busy atmosphere with loud energy and outside eating space. Menu includes great vegan options and a bowl of chili oil on each table. Popular for excellent Taiwanese and Chinese dishes with reasonable lunch specials.

Lunch specials include soup, rice, and choices like cashew chicken, honey walnut shrimp, Mongolian beef, and broccoli beef. Prices stay reasonable and containers for takeout come free.

Strikes a balance of savory, sweet, and spice with a hint of heat. Comes without rice, which costs extra. Could use more vegetables.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be terrific and amazing."

"The Chinese food here is amazing, fresh, and not greasy."

"The Kung Pao Chicken strikes a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spice."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait of about an hour during peak times.

2

Prices are higher than average but portions are decent.

3

They offer a variety of vegan options on the menu.

14
Wok in cafe image 1
Mandarin restaurant

Cozy interior with classic decor and porcelain dishes creates a homey vibe. Family-style operation adds to the comfortable atmosphere despite occasional noise. Quiet times reveal beautiful music enhancing the dining experience.

Lunch specials offer excellent value with a combo of soup, rice, and a small appetizer. Crab rangoons and Kung Pao Shrimp feature as popular choices during lunch.

Kung Pao Chicken comes with a flavorful kick and pairs well with fried rice. The dish stands out alongside other options like beef, offering a solid choice for a spicy meal.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and freshly prepared."

"The lunch specials here are an excellent deal."

"I thought the Kung Pao Chicken was amazing."

Good to know

1

The meal cost $14.99, providing good value for the portion size.

2

One serving of each dish is enough to feed two people.

3

Wok in cafe offers both takeout and dine-in options.

15
四姐 Special Noodle image 1
Chinese noodle restaurant

Bright lighting and wall LED screens create a clean, cozy space with a chill atmosphere. Generous portions of authentic Chinese noodle dishes attract those who enjoy spicy food and soup dumplings. Seating extends into a mall area, offering plenty of tables without wait times.

Lunch offers consistent quality with options that satisfy both quick and relaxed meals. Multiple visits confirm it as a reliable choice for midday dining.

Kung Pao chicken shows a mix of takes. Some versions are spicy, sweet, and fresh with balanced flavors. Others come out unbearably salty and sour, missing the authentic taste.

People are saying

"The beef noodle soup here is super delicious."

"This lunch spot has delicious and fresh Chinese food."

"The Kung Pao Chicken here is phenomenal and delicious."

Good to know

1

They charge an 18% tip on all bills.

2

Expect quick service; food is served very fast.

3

Free parking is available in the shopping mall.

16
Lu's Bistro Chinese Cuisine image 1
Chinese restaurant

Chinese restaurant offers relaxing atmosphere with clean, comfortable dining. Menu features variety of flavorful dishes including standout items like hot and spicy chicken and Combination Chow Fun. Prices balance good portion sizes with reasonable value, attracting diners before peak hours.

Lunch specials include a gunpowder chicken option and combos priced at $9.99 that come with soup and rice. The spot serves quick meals and offers a welcoming vibe during lunch hours.

Kung Pao Chicken comes with a mild spice level that is not spicy at all. It pairs well with dishes like walnut shrimp and orange chicken, which are often ordered together.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and fresh."

"The lunch special here is a great value with tasty soup."

"I rated the Kung Pao Chicken a 10 out of 10."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers $9.99 lunch combos that include soup and rice.

2

Portion sizes are generous; one plate plus a side is usually enough.

3

Reservations are not required, but arriving before 6 pm helps avoid crowds.

17
Newport Seafood Restaurant image 1
Chinese restaurant

Spacious dining area features mahogany partitions and round tables with large Lazy Susans for sharing. Atmosphere is lively and often noisy due to large groups celebrating in semi-private rooms that lack soundproofing. Valet parking adds convenience to the experience.

Lunch specials feature giant fresh clams priced around $16. The menu offers solid options for a family lunch on weekends.

Tender chicken combines with roasted peanuts and a balanced amount of chili in the Kung Pao Chicken. This dish stands out for its flavorful mix and is often a favorite choice.

People are saying

"The lobster with noodles was the highlight, so flavorful and generous."

"The seafood soup is delicious with detectable crab meat."

"This lunch spot's lobster noodle dish is the best in Southern California."

Good to know

1

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

2

During lunch hours, they offer a lunch special menu with deals.

3

Valet parking is available for tips only.

18
Kung Pao Bowl image 1
Chinese restaurant

Bright green walls and simple paintings create a unique atmosphere with a friendly vibe. Calm piano music adds to the pleasant and clean dining environment. Large portions and reasonable prices make it a comfortable spot for sit-down meals.

Lunch specials include rice, soup, and an egg roll. Combos like fried rice with Chicken lo mein come with an egg roll. The egg drop soup stands out as a tasty starter.

Chicken in the dish has a mushy texture and tastes like it was boiled before saucing. Sauce packs tons of flavor but the preparation feels unusual compared to typical Kung Pao Chicken.

People are saying

"This lunch spot has generous portions and delicious, well-cooked teriyaki chicken."

"These egg rolls are crispy, hot, and flavorful."

"The Kung Pao Chicken here is the best I ever had, so fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy at the restaurant.

2

The restaurant offers large portions at reasonable prices.

3

Lunch deals are available and are hard to beat.

19
golden dragon Chinese Food image 1

Wok restaurant offers a modern setting with chandeliers and a relaxed dining pace. Large portions come with set packages ideal for groups, emphasizing sit-down meals over quick takeout. The atmosphere suits those seeking freshly made dishes with care rather than fast casual service.

Lunch specials cost around $9.95 to $10 and include rice and a drink. Lunch hours run Monday to Friday from 11am to 3pm with solid portions.

Savory and slightly sweet flavors define the Kung Pao Chicken, with a great crunch from peanuts when included. Some versions lack peanuts or taste bland, but it pairs well with other entrées like Orange Chicken and Mongolian Beef.

People are saying

"The Kung Pao Chicken is bursting with flavor and generously portioned."

"The honey walnut shrimp seafood was delicious and perfectly crispy."

"This Lunch Spot has amazing tofu dishes and crispy orange chicken."

Good to know

1

$10 lunch specials are available during lunch hours.

2

Lunch hours are Monday to Friday from 11am to 3pm.

3

Portion sizes are large enough to share or save for later.

20
Panda Inn image 1
Chinese restaurant

Open space with high ceilings and a modern-traditional Chinese decor creates a classy, upscale atmosphere. A full sushi bar and sit-down drink bar add variety to dining options. The vibe balances comfort and elegance, attracting those seeking both flavor and refined ambiance.

Lunch offers a wonderful experience with a fresh, newly renovated setting. The atmosphere feels lively, especially during special events like grand openings.

Kung Pao Chicken comes with a very good taste that stands out among other dishes like Mongolian Beef and Mapo Tofu. It delivers a delicious flavor that complements the meal well.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the orange chicken."

"I found the Kung Pao Chicken here tasted very good."

"I loved this lunch spot and can't wait to come back."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required, and there are no guarantees for booth seating.

2

Parking is available in a garage, and the restaurant validates parking.

3

Expect the restaurant to be busy during dinner hours.

21
Mama Lu’s Dumpling House - Tustin image 1

Chinese restaurant inside a supermarket with spacious seating and high ceilings creates a relaxed, modern vibe. Warm lighting and enjoyable music set a chill atmosphere suitable for groups. Large round tables encourage gatherings, while a big TV adds casual energy.

Lunch specials run Monday to Friday before 5 PM for $15.98, including a main dish with rice and soup. A wide variety of dim sum and weekday specials make it a solid go-to lunch spot.

Kung Pao chicken lacks the right cut of chicken and does not taste authentic. Other dishes like pork dumplings stand out as extremely delicious.

People are saying

"I loved the Chinese food, especially the huge bowls of wonton soup."

"The Crystal dumpling was chewy and stuffed with meat and shrimp."

"The Kung Pao Chicken here is so flavorful and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are served Monday to Friday before 5 PM for $15.98, including a main dish, rice, and soup.

2

Mama Lu’s Dumpling House has various specials available.

3

Lunch time happy hour offers great deals on select items.

22
Szechuwan Garden Restaurant - Authentic Chinese Food in Canoga Park image 1

Small space with elegant Chinese art and soft lighting creates a calm, cozy atmosphere. Food tends to be saltier than usual, offering bold flavors with generous portions at fair prices. Regulars enjoy daily specials and a mix of authentic dishes like Kung Pao chicken and spicy noodle soup.

Lunch specials come with rice, an egg roll, and soup or salad. Daily specials cost $10 at lunch with a $2 upcharge at dinner. Portions are smaller and suitable for lunch.

Kung Pao chicken features a chewy texture and tends to be flavorless on some occasions, while other times it comes out delicious and well-prepared.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the chicken dishes."

"This Lunch Spot has great value with soup, salad, and an egg roll."

"I found the Kung Pao Chicken to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials cost $10 and include rice, an egg roll, and soup or salad.

2

Daily specials are available every day with a $2 upcharge for dinner.

3

Takeout orders are packed well for easy transport.

23
Mama Lu's Dumpling House image 1

Spacious restaurant blends Art Deco chandeliers with classic architectural details, creating a classy yet casual vibe. Energy runs high with a buzzing atmosphere that suits gatherings and dates, while a bar area adds an adult touch. The space accommodates both small and large parties comfortably.

Kung Pao chicken comes with peanuts and has a noticeable sweet and spicy flavor. Some servings include chicken bones, which can be a concern for older diners.

People are saying

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

"I found the Kung Pao chicken to be good."

"The dumplings here are good and not salty."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended to avoid long wait times.

2

Parking is available around the corner in a lot that costs $1 for the first 2 hours.

3

Prices are affordable, with good portion sizes for the cost.

24
China Islamic Restaurant 清真马家馆 image 1

Traditional Chinese Muslim restaurant offers halal Chinese cuisine with a warm, inviting atmosphere and unique lamb dishes. Interior feels clean but outdated, attracting diners seeking authentic West North Chinese flavors. The place maintains a consistent quality over decades in a niche market.

Lunch specials include soup and an egg roll. Visits often happen just before closing during lunch hours. Quick lunches are common here.

Kung Pao Chicken comes highly recommended and appears frequently on orders. It pairs well with Chicken fried rice for a complete meal.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is authentic and absolutely delicious."

"I felt so welcomed at this Lunch Spot."

"I ordered the Kung Pao Chicken."

Good to know

1

This is the only Chinese Muslim cuisine restaurant in town.

2

The restaurant served 100% halal food.

3

The menu was authentic with great variation.

25
Panda Express image 1
Chinese restaurant

Chinese restaurant offers orange chicken known for its flavor alongside higher prices than typical fast food. The setting is straightforward with a focus on quick service and familiar dishes.

Flavorful sauce defines the Kung Pao Chicken here. Serving continues even when the dish runs low on chicken, and vegetables sometimes sit separately rather than mixed in.

People are saying

"I found the orange chicken here to be so good."

"The Drive Thru took a while, even with only two cars ahead."

"I believed this was the best Lunch Spot I had visited."

Good to know

1

Prices at Panda Express are generally higher than typical fast food options.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted at Panda Express.

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