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Kung pao chicken spots

Kung pao chicken requires the right interplay of spice and numbing heat that only comes from a kitchen that respects the recipe.

Based on 825 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Twilight Lounge 朝暮 image 1
Twilight Lounge 朝暮 image 2
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Chinese restaurant

Cozy, clean space blends contemporary and traditional decor with a warm, inviting atmosphere that supports soft conversation. Guests enjoy a homemade, approachable Chinese dining experience with touches of elegance and intimacy. The vibe suits casual dates and quiet meals, balancing energy and comfort.

Dishes deliver authentic Chinese flavors with great spice and passion for tradition. The food blends classic and modern styles while staying affordable and beautifully presented.

Tender chicken stands out in the Kung Pao Chicken, paired with fragrant peppercorns that add a distinct aroma. Careful attention to detail shows in the dish's balanced flavors.

People are saying

"The Lunch Spot staff, especially Wan, were so kind and professional."

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

"The Kung Pao Chicken has a glossy sauce that's sweet, savory, and spicy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2 to 6 pm, including weekends, with a small selection of beer, wine, and sake.

2

The restaurant offers a solid lunch special that is popular among locals.

3

The dining area can get chilly due to strong air conditioning; dress accordingly.

02
Fan Szechuan Restaurant & Bar 大宅门餐厅酒吧 image 1

Modern dining space offers authentic Sichuan flavors with a spicy Kung Pao Chicken that can be made extra hot. Cozy atmosphere features a full bar with craft cocktails and screens showing cooking and sports. Guests enjoy a peaceful, clean environment away from the busy street.

Food serves authentic Sichuan flavors with a modern interpretation. Dishes come out promptly and offer a reasonable price for genuine Chinese cuisine.

Kung Pao Chicken comes with a spicy kick and plenty of peanuts. It can be ordered extra spicy and extra Szechuan for more heat.

People are saying

"The Szechuan dishes here are bold, flavorful, and have just the right numbing spice."

"I found the Szechuan food here to be really authentic and tasty."

"I loved the Kung Pao Chicken; it was delicious and spicy."

Good to know

1

They have a grand opening offer of free steam dumplings if you spend over $30.

2

They offer a free chicken dish if you spend over $60.

3

You can switch to fried rice for a dollar with the lunch special.

03
草堂 Caotang New Sichuan Cuisine image 1

Spacious dining room with clean cut style and warm decoration creates a bright and cozy atmosphere. The vibe stays quiet and friendly, making it suitable for relaxed meals. Seating is ample, supporting both fast dinners and sit-down service.

Food offers authentic Chinese flavors with a focus on fresh ingredients. Dishes taste true to traditional recipes.

Kung Pao Chicken comes with Sesame balls and pairs well with dumplings and beef rice noodles. The dish offers a solid balance of flavors and textures.

People are saying

"I found the Sichuan Chinese food here authentic and delicious."

"I finally found authentic Sichuan food with bold flavors."

"I found the Kung Pao Chicken with Sesame balls to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not needed at the restaurant.

2

You get a free order of soup dumplings if your meals end up more than $30.

3

There are vegetarian options available with fresh veggies.

04
CHILI image 1
Sichuan restaurant

Vintage Chinese decor blends with upscale 80s style and low lighting to create a romantic yet lively atmosphere. The space feels packed and bustling, with tables close together and a loud, energetic vibe. Staff engage actively, adding unique touches like Polaroid photos and table side theater.

Food delivers authentic Sichuan flavors with real spice and traditional recipes. Service supports a genuine experience confirmed by native tastes.

Kung Pao Chicken features a good level of Szechuan spice and feels unique despite being a basic dish. It cooks to perfection and pairs well with dishes like Mapo Tofu and Fried Rice with Preserved Vegetables.

People are saying

"The Sichuan Chinese food here is phenomenal and often spicy."

"I found the food here to be bold, fragrant, and authentic."

"I thought the Kung Pao Chicken was fantastic and completely different."

Good to know

1

The lunch special from Monday to Friday is a super bargain.

2

Lunch finishes at 3 PM.

3

Reservations are recommended as this spot is always packed.

05
The Best Sichuan 一品成都21 image 1

Spacious and clean dining area creates a calm, cozy vibe with free ice cream adding comfort. Bold and authentic Sichuan flavors shine in dishes like Fuqi Feipian and Kung Pao Chicken with a spicy kick and ginger bits. Warm, welcoming space suits relaxed meals.

Bold and authentic Sichuan flavors define the dishes here, with the Fuqi Feipian standing out for its genuine taste. The cuisine offers a true comfort Chinese food experience that is hard to find elsewhere.

Offers Kung Pao Chicken with noticeable bits of ginger and a spicy kick. The dish stands out alongside other spicy pork dishes and is often recommended for its bold flavors.

People are saying

"I found the Szechuan food here to be excellent and authentic."

"I found the Chinese food here to be super authentic."

"I thought the Kung Pao Chicken here was the best in the city."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for the roast duck; call in advance.

2

Lunch specials are available from Monday to Friday, 11 AM to 4 PM.

3

Expect an 18% gratuity automatically added to your bill.

06
Sweet Bamboo Chinese Food | Sutphin image 1

Bright green walls and mini plants create a vibrant, natural decor that feels clean and spacious. Calm, warm lighting and soft music set a relaxing, inviting atmosphere where people can sit and enjoy their meal. Friendly staff and removal of bulletproof glass add to the welcoming, comfortable vibe.

Dumplings and lo mein deliver authentic flavors with every bite. Kung pao chicken and other dishes stay true to traditional Chinese recipes.

Offers tender chicken and crisp vegetables with a nice balance of spice and flavor. Tastes like authentic Chinese food and pairs well with chicken fried rice.

People are saying

"I found the Chinese food here to be very good and flavorful."

"I loved the authentic Chinese food here; it tasted great."

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

Good to know

1

Sweet Bamboo accepts credit cards and Apple Pay.

2

The prices at the Chinese takeaway are reasonable.

3

The food delivery is fast and reliable.

07
JUQI image 1
Chinese restaurant

Ornate space blends traditional Beijing decor with modern design for an upscale vibe. Authentic dishes like Peking duck and stir-fried liver offer true Beijing flavors. Sweet, tender Kung Pao Chicken pairs well with equally tender beef, making meals satisfying and elegant.

Authentic Beijing cuisine shines through in the zhajiangmian and Peking duck here. The roast duck and stir-fried liver offer a more authentic taste compared to other spots in the area.

Kung Pao Chicken here stands out for its sweet flavor and tender texture. It pairs well with the equally tender beef, making both dishes delicious and satisfying.

People are saying

"The food here is memorable, especially the braised dishes."

"I found the roasted duck to be authentic and delicious."

"I thought the Kung Pao Chicken was amazing and tender."

Good to know

1

The restaurant's last call is at 21:30.

2

Birthday guests receive a small free dessert and birthday songs from the restaurant crew.

3

A reservation for 8 requires ordering up to $488 of food without counting tips and taxes.

08
Antidote image 1
Chinese restaurant

Spacious restaurant offers authentic Sichuan dishes with bold flavors like Kung Pao Chicken and spicy dumplings. Elegant decor blends East and West, while live jazz on Wednesdays adds a lively vibe. A hip bar with tropical touches completes the inviting atmosphere.

Menu features authentic Sichuan and Shanghai dishes that stay true to traditional flavors. Pricing is reasonable and the food feels clean and genuine without shortcuts.

Spicy dumplings and Kung Pao Chicken stand out with bold flavors. The dish appears alongside family-style plates like Dandan Noodles and Sliced Beef Chili Oil.

People are saying

"The food here is packed with flavor and delicious."

"I found the food to be delicious and truly authentic."

"The Kung Pao Chicken here is decent."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to dine at a table.

2

Customers are expected to leave their table within 1.5 hours if the restaurant is booked.

3

Happy hour is until 6 PM.

09
The Best Sichuan image 1
Sichuan restaurant

Cozy spot offers authentic Sichuan flavors with standout mala dishes and fat rice rolls. Kung Pao Chicken is crunchy and spicy, perfect for a big meal. Clean, modern space with soft music creates a calm vibe.

Food bursts with authentic Sichuan flavors and delivers a taste true to Chengdu. Fat rice rolls and mala dishes stand out for their delicious authenticity.

Crunchy texture and balanced heat define the Kung Pao Chicken here. It delivers flavorful spice that pairs well with a big meal.

People are saying

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

"I found the Sichuan food here to be incredibly authentic and flavorful."

"The Kung Pao Chicken here is so authentic and flavorful."

Good to know

1

A 20% tip is automatically added to your bill, so check your receipt.

2

The restaurant closes at 10:00 PM, but last seating is at 9:30 PM.

3

The lunch special ends at 3 PM, not 4 PM as advertised.

10
LUNAR image 1
Chinese restaurant

Contemporary space with Sichuan-style decoration creates a warm and comfortable atmosphere. The environment stays clean and tidy, enhancing the authentic dining experience. Cocktails and local Sichuan dishes add to the distinctive vibe.

Spicy dishes deliver authentic Szechuan flavors with bold, flavorful profiles. The food stays true to traditional Chinese cooking, offering a very authentic experience.

Kung Pao Chicken features green onions, peanuts, and dried chili peppers for an authentic taste. It stands out as a classic Sichuan dish with a spicy kick, though preparation and timing can vary.

People are saying

"The food here is flavorful, authentic, and has great textures."

"The Szechuan flavors here are seriously authentic and fragrant."

"The Kung Pao Chicken is authentic, spicy, and packed with peanuts."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required at least two hours in advance for dining.

2

The restaurant has a strict 90-minute time limit for dining.

3

Lunar charges a 20% mandatory tip for groups of 6 or more.

11
Breeze image 1
Chinese restaurant

Space blends modern decor with imported Chinese touches and baby blue floral centerpieces. Cocktails offer unique flavors that pair well with authentic Sichuan dishes like twice-cooked pork and Kung Pao Chicken with a balanced kick. Atmosphere feels sultry and classy for any occasion.

Spicy dishes and Sichuan cuisine stand out for their authentic flavors. The twice-cooked pork with white meat and garlic paste captures traditional taste well.

Kung Pao Chicken has a kick without overpowering the flavor. It stands out alongside other favorites like tea smoked duck and shredded beef with green chili.

People are saying

"The food here is flavorful, with a delightful numbing mala spice."

"I found the Szechuan food here to be authentic and spicy."

"The Kung Pao Chicken was flavorful and nicely spiced."

Good to know

1

You have to come here for the weekday lunch specials.

2

Each soup dumpling is $2.50, and a single serving of purple rice is $10.

3

The kitchen is closed at 10:40 PM on Saturdays, despite posted hours.

12
The Best Sichuan 一品成都39 image 1
Delivery Chinese restaurant

Upscale interior with high ceilings and a beautiful bar creates a serene vibe. Authentic Sichuan dishes feature a numbing pepper powder for a bold kick. Kung Pao chicken shines with tender pieces and balanced flavor.

Food features a numbing Szechuan pepper powder that delivers an authentic spicy kick. Dishes reflect true Sichuan style with a focus on bold, delicious flavors.

Kung Pao chicken stands out with a well-balanced flavor and tender chicken pieces. The dish is consistently well-executed and often described as outstanding.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing."

"I found the Sichuan cuisine here to be really authentic and delicious."

"The Kung Pao Chicken here is amazing, especially the tasty nuts."

Good to know

1

Customers should tell the server what level of spicy they would like.

2

Customers are not allowed to sit at the restaurant without ordering 3 dishes, one per person.

3

An 18% tip is mandatorily applied to the bill.

13
Shan image 1
Chinese restaurant

Chinese restaurant offers tasteful upscale vibe with bright, elegant decor and a cozy backyard. Atmosphere stays relaxed and welcoming without feeling stuffy. Space between tables varies, sometimes tight, but overall environment suits families and casual dining.

Szechuan cuisine here stays true to its roots with delicate flavors and authentic dishes like fish and lotus root. The food comes in a contemporary style but keeps the traditional taste intact.

Kung Pao Chicken offers a classic favorite taste with authentic flavors. It comes less spicy, making it suitable for those who prefer milder heat.

People are saying

"The dumplings in chili sauce here are excellent and authentic Sichuan style."

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

"I found the Kung Pao Chicken to be amazing and authentic."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is currently BYOB while awaiting their liquor license.

2

The restaurant has a happy hour that extends from open to 6:30 PM.

3

You should log onto OpenTable and make a reservation now.

14
Ren 稔 image 1
Chinese restaurant

Narrow, intimate space with rounded arches and a warm, calm decor creates a serene atmosphere. Lofi music sets a tasteful, chill vibe that feels elegant yet casual. Quiet on weekend nights, it offers a cozy setting with a fresh, understated style.

Modern interiors house authentic Sichuanese flavors rarely found nearby. The food delivers genuine Chinese Szechuan taste despite initial doubts about its authenticity.

Unique rendition offers balanced flavors and fresh ingredients in Kung Pao Chicken. Some find it lacks the usual punch and spice expected from this dish.

People are saying

"The rice wine panna cotta was unique and loved."

"The authentic Sichuan food here tastes just like home."

"The Kung Pao Chicken here is incredibly delicious with balanced flavors."

Good to know

1

The menu features a wide variety of vegetarian options.

2

Expect a casual atmosphere perfect for dinner or date night.

3

The restaurant offers Chinese tapas, not typical large portions.

15
Birds of a Feather image 1
Chinese restaurant

Modern interior combines minimalist aesthetics with spacious seating and communal tables that create a lively, sometimes loud atmosphere. Outdoor seating and pet-friendly amenities add relaxed options. A local crowd enjoys tech-forward service and a distinctive vibe.

Food offers authentic Sichuan flavors with a home-cooked style and high quality ingredients. Dishes deliver delicious, flavorful Chinese cuisine that stays true to traditional tastes.

Kung Pao Chicken stands out with great flavors and a very tasty profile. It pairs well with other dishes like fried rice and dumplings, all delivering very flavorful tastes.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is packed with bold, authentic flavor."

"I thought the Mapo Tofu was outstanding and had the right amount of heat."

"The authentic Cantonese flavors here are bold and packed with spice."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner to guarantee a spot.

2

Wait times can be quite long if you don’t have a reservation.

3

Payment can be made by scanning the QR code on the receipt and using Apple Pay.

16
Café China image 1
Sichuan restaurant

Space combines vintage Shanghai decor with private dining rooms that suit groups well. Atmosphere feels quiet and classy, with dim lighting and soft music enhancing the experience. Energy stays calm, attracting diners seeking authentic Sichuan flavors in an elegant setting.

An authentic atmosphere sets the tone with incredible Chinese dishes that taste true to tradition. The food consistently delivers a tasty and genuine experience.

Kung Pao Chicken stands out with its spicy, well-balanced flavor. It pairs well with purple rice and complements other dishes like spicy wonton soup and dim sum.

People are saying

"The spicy fried fish was decadent and amazing."

"The food here is authentic, with bold, complex flavors."

"The Kung Pao Chicken here is a five-star dish."

Good to know

1

Reservations are essential, as wait times can reach 40-60 minutes.

2

The last seating is at 9:30 PM, with the kitchen closing at 9:45 PM.

3

The venue is suitable for large groups and events, including family surprise parties.

17
Chef Tan image 1
Chinese restaurant

Two-floor Chinese restaurant features high ceilings, copper walls, and outsized artwork with a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels like home. The space includes a large round table and a convenient lazy Susan for sharing dishes. It offers authentic Szechuan cuisine in a cozy, thoughtfully designed environment.

Dishes feature bold, authentic flavors true to Sichuan and Hunanese styles. The menu offers spicy, traditional Chinese cuisine with items like dry fried string beans that taste very authentic.

A smooth blend of minorly sweet and spicy flavors defines the Kung Pao Chicken here. It showcases a mastery of Sichuan and Hunan flavors with a balanced kick from the peppers.

People are saying

"This Chinese food is bold, authentic, and full of heat."

"I found the food to be authentic and really good."

"The Kung Pao Chicken's flavor is a smooth blend of sweet and spicy."

Good to know

1

If you want to skip the 45-75 minute wait, try this place.

2

Rice is not included with the meal and must be ordered separately.

3

The prices at Chef Tan’s restaurant are very reasonable for the portion sizes on the menu.

18
Mountain House image 1
Sichuan restaurant

Koi pond welcomes guests into a space with traditional Chinese design and detailed ChengDu-style decor. The atmosphere feels authentic but also crowded and cramped, making conversation difficult. Hot jasmine tea is served in traditional teapots, adding to the cultural experience.

Sichuan dishes here deliver a truly authentic experience with a big selection of Szechuan specialties. The food stays consistently delicious and genuine to traditional flavors.

Contains chili and Sichuan peppercorns for authentic spice. Letting it sit on the plate enhances the flavor. Holds a high standard compared to Chengdu versions, though some find it inconsistent.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and satisfying."

"The food here is so authentic and flavorful, especially the spicy dishes."

"The Kung Pao chicken here is delicious and cooked perfectly."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation is highly recommended since this place fills up fast around dinner time.

2

The kitchen closes at 10 PM.

3

The waiting time can be one hour on Friday evening.

19
Four Season Joyful image 1
Asian restaurant

Asian restaurant offers a clean and cozy interior with comfortable seating and a calming atmosphere. The space feels welcoming and chic, suitable for both quick lunches and relaxed dinners. Generous portions and authentic Szechuan dishes add to its distinct appeal.

Food features authentic, homemade qualities with fresh flavors. Szechuan dishes stand out for their delicious authenticity.

Kung Pao Chicken stands out as delicious and well-prepared. It pairs well with Scallion Pancakes for a satisfying meal.

People are saying

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

"I finally found authentic Chinese food in the neighborhood."

"I thought the Kung Pao Chicken was delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a lunch special that provides great value.

2

Four Season Joyful has a variety of vegetarian-friendly options.

3

Portions are generous, making it a good value for the price.

20
Mountain House Flushing 川山甲 image 1

Ancient Chinese garden theme with wooden houses and artificial fish pond creates an authentic Sichuan atmosphere. The space feels cramped but offers a high-end vibe with thoughtful decor and powerful music. Private rooms suit group dinners, enhancing the overall experience.

Spicy dishes showcase authentic Sichuan flavors with bold, traditional seasonings. The menu offers a true Szechuan experience that satisfies lovers of genuine, fiery cuisine.

Kung Pao Chicken hits the right balance of sweet and spicy with a fragrant, tender texture. It tastes just right, not too spicy, making it a dish worth ordering again.

People are saying

"The Szechuan dishes here have bold, authentic flavors with a perfect numbing spice."

"The authentic Sichuan flavors have that perfect numbing spice."

"Xiao Yu and Ya Ru's thoughtful service made the Kung Pao Chicken experience great."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a 90-minute dining time rule, even for menu orders.

2

Avoid visiting during the weekend hours if you do not have a reservation.

3

Customers should be cautious about the spiciness of the food.

21
Upon The Palace image 1
Asian restaurant

Asian restaurant offers an elegant atmosphere with sleek, stylish decor and window views of a park. Live jazz performances in the basement create a cool, lively vibe during dinner. The space includes circular booths and walls adorned with ancient Chinese poems, enhancing the dining experience.

Food shows a mix of authentic fiery flavors and some dishes lack freshness and authenticity.

Kung Pao chicken comes out with a strong, spicy kick. It pairs well with vegetable fried rice for a solid meal.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"The food here is super fresh and authentic."

"I thought the Kung Pao Chicken was a must-try."

Good to know

1

A bottle of still water costs $14.

2

The restaurant charges $6 for 4 extra pancakes with peking duck.

3

They have lots of seafood options.

22
Uncle Lou 快樂人 image 1
Cantonese restaurant

Spacious dining area with Asian decor featuring lanterns and a lion head on the wall creates a modern Chinatown vibe. The atmosphere is loud and lively due to popularity, making conversation challenging. Lazy Susan tables facilitate sharing dishes, enhancing the communal dining experience.

Authentic Cantonese cuisine shines with Southern Chinese flavors and carefully selected dishes. The food offers a refined yet traditional taste that goes beyond typical home cooking.

Generous portions of Kung Pao chicken come with a nice flavor that is not too spicy. The dish features fresh vegetables and well-cooked chicken without excessive breading or sweetness.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is excellent, especially the Peking duck and dim sum."

"The food here is authentic, delicious, and full of flavor."

"The Kung Pao chicken was tender, juicy, and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Prepare for a long wait during dinner time.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

3

Cash payments warrant a 9% discount.

23
Jiang Nan NYC image 1
Chinese restaurant

Interior combines cozy, stylish decor with creative Chinese elements like poems on hanging lamps. Atmosphere feels authentic and welcoming, with a classy, elegant vibe. Tables feature iPad ordering, adding convenience to the dining experience.

Menu features authentic Chinese dishes that are hard to find elsewhere. The Peking duck and xiaolongbao stand out for their genuine flavors and textures, capturing the true essence of Chinese cuisine.

Kung Pao Chicken stands out with its bold flavors and satisfying texture. It delivers a well-balanced mix of spicy, sweet, and savory notes that make it especially enjoyable.

People are saying

"The food here is wonderfully prepared and flavorful."

"The authentic Peking duck here has crispy skin and tender meat."

"The Kung Pao Chicken here is so good, I ordered it twice."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for weekend dining to avoid long waits.

2

Dining time is limited to one hour during peak hours.

3

A promotion offers free steamed pork soup dumplings with orders over $30 from noon to 3 pm, Monday to Friday.

24
CHELI MANHATTAN 浙里 image 1
Chinese restaurant

Restaurant resembles a traditional Chinese inn with classic woodwork and rustic decor. Atmosphere feels cozy and elegant, enhanced by guzheng music and subtle mist effects. Seating is spacious and well designed, creating an immersive dining experience.

Authentic Shanghainese and Jiangzhe style food stands out here, especially the stew pork. The cuisine stays true to traditional flavors and offers a solid taste of Zhejiang food.

Authentic Beijing flavor stands out in the Kung Pao Chicken here. It stays true to traditional tastes, avoiding the usual Americanized style, and remains consistently satisfying.

People are saying

"Ting Ting's amazing service made the seafood experience 5/5."

"I found the Chinese food here to be pretty authentic."

"I loved the Kung Pao Chicken; it was so tasty."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times, especially during peak hours.

2

Expect wait times of 45-60 minutes if arriving after 5 PM in summer.

3

For groups of 4-6, arrive before 4:30 PM to secure a table easily.

25
The Corner Chinese Restaurant image 1

Modern Chinese restaurant with open-air design and upscale decor featuring ancient-China style paintings and stylish bar seating. Atmosphere blends modern elegance with a trendy, cozy vibe, though it can get loud inside. Space accommodates groups with tables seating more than three people.

Dishes showcase authentic Chinese cooking with gourmet flavors. The setting feels comfortable and welcoming, enhancing the genuine cuisine experience.

Spicy kung pao chicken comes with huge amounts of chicken and tons of vegetables in a delicious sauce. It is prepared very quickly but may sometimes be undercooked.

People are saying

"The food here is awesome and tasty."

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

"The Kung Pao Chicken here is my best dish, with tons of tasty chicken."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features discounted drinks and meals during weekdays.

2

Lunch offers excellent value with generous portion sizes.

3

Dishes do not come with rice; it's an extra charge.

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