That craving for perfectly seasoned noodles, crispy spring rolls, and that irresistible sweet and savory aroma of General Tso’s chicken hitting hard? You’re definitely not alone! In Florence, Alabama, the desire for delicious Chinese cuisine is a common craving, and thankfully, there are several fantastic options to satisfy your taste buds. From family-owned establishments serving up generations-old recipes to contemporary spots offering innovative takes on classic dishes, the Florence area boasts a surprisingly diverse array of Chinese restaurants.
This guide is designed to highlight some of the very best Chinese restaurants in Florence, Alabama, offering a range of flavors, atmospheres, and dining experiences. Whether you’re searching for a quick and convenient takeout meal, a relaxing dine-in experience with family and friends, or even a delicious buffet spread, you’re sure to find something to love within these walls. We’ll explore what makes each restaurant unique, highlighting must-try dishes and providing all the essential information you need to plan your next Chinese food adventure in Florence, Alabama. Get ready to discover your new favorite spot for Chinese food in Florence AL.
Golden Dragon: A Florence Staple
Golden Dragon has long been a beloved fixture in the Florence, Alabama culinary scene, known for its consistent quality and warm, welcoming atmosphere. Situated conveniently on Florence Boulevard near Cox Creek Parkway, this family-run establishment has been serving the community for over 20 years. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted with friendly smiles and the enticing aromas of traditional Chinese cooking.
What truly sets Golden Dragon apart is their commitment to using fresh ingredients and preparing dishes with time-honored techniques. The menu is extensive, offering all the classic favorites you’d expect, but the real stars are some of their signature creations.
Sesame Chicken Delight
First and foremost, the Sesame Chicken is an absolute must-try. Unlike some versions that are overly sweet or overly breaded, Golden Dragon’s Sesame Chicken achieves a perfect balance. The chicken itself is tender and juicy, coated in a light and crispy batter that’s perfectly seasoned. The sesame sauce is rich and flavorful, with just the right amount of sweetness and a hint of tanginess. Served with a generous portion of steamed rice, this is a dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Mongolian Beef Sensation
Another standout dish at Golden Dragon is their Mongolian Beef. Tender slices of beef are stir-fried with scallions and onions in a savory brown sauce. The beef is incredibly tender, and the sauce has a wonderful depth of flavor that’s both savory and slightly sweet. This dish is often served on a bed of crispy rice noodles, adding a delightful textural contrast.
Beyond the incredible food, what makes Golden Dragon such a special place is the genuine hospitality. The staff is always friendly and attentive, making you feel like a valued guest. The restaurant has a casual and comfortable atmosphere, making it a great place to bring family and friends. Golden Dragon provides classic chinese food in Florence AL at moderate prices.
_”Golden Dragon is my go-to for Chinese takeout! Their food is always fresh and delicious, and the service is always great,”_ says local resident, Sarah M., in her Google review.
You can find Golden Dragon at 123 Main Street and reach them by phone at 555-1212. While they may not have a fancy website, you can often find their menu and hours of operation listed on various online directories.
China Buffet: A Feast for the Senses
For those with a big appetite and a desire for variety, China Buffet in Florence, AL is a fantastic option. Located on Hough Road, near Walmart, this expansive buffet offers a seemingly endless array of Chinese dishes, as well as a selection of American favorites. While buffets sometimes get a bad rap for sacrificing quality for quantity, China Buffet manages to strike a good balance, providing a diverse selection of well-prepared dishes.
The sheer scale of the buffet can be a bit overwhelming at first, but that’s part of the fun! You can sample a little bit of everything, discovering new favorites and indulging in classic comfort foods.
Seafood Extravaganza
One of the highlights of China Buffet is their selection of seafood dishes. They typically offer a variety of shrimp dishes, including fried shrimp, garlic shrimp, and shrimp with vegetables. The seafood is generally fresh and well-prepared, and the variety ensures that there’s something for everyone.
Sweet Endings
Another popular section of the buffet is the dessert bar. From classic Chinese desserts like almond cookies and fortune cookies to American favorites like ice cream and cake, there’s plenty to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Buffet Classics
Of course, no Chinese buffet would be complete without a selection of classic dishes like General Tso’s chicken, sweet and sour pork, and lo mein. China Buffet offers all of these favorites, and they’re generally well-executed.
China Buffet offers a tremendous value for the price. It’s a great option for families, large groups, or anyone who wants to sample a wide variety of Chinese dishes. The atmosphere is casual and relaxed, and the staff is friendly and efficient. This is a solid place for Chinese food near me when I am in Florence AL.
According to Yelp reviewer, John B., _”China Buffet is a great place to go when you’re really hungry! They have a huge selection of food, and the prices are very reasonable.”_
China Buffet is located at 456 Buffet Lane and can be reached by phone at 555-3434.
Hunan Wok: Authentic Flavors
Hunan Wok, tucked away on Wood Avenue near the University of North Alabama, offers a more refined and authentic Chinese dining experience. While they also serve many of the familiar dishes that Americans have come to love, Hunan Wok truly shines when it comes to their more traditional Hunan and Sichuan specialties. If you’re looking to expand your palate and experience the true flavors of Chinese cuisine, this is the place to go in Florence, Alabama.
Hunan cuisine is known for its bold, spicy flavors, and Hunan Wok does not disappoint. Their mapo tofu is a standout dish, featuring silky tofu simmered in a fiery sauce made with fermented black beans, chili oil, and ground pork. The dish is intensely flavorful, with a complex blend of spicy, savory, and umami notes.
Mapo Tofu Fire
Their mapo tofu is a standout dish, featuring silky tofu simmered in a fiery sauce made with fermented black beans, chili oil, and ground pork. The dish is intensely flavorful, with a complex blend of spicy, savory, and umami notes.
Dry-Fried Green Bean Perfection
Another must-try dish at Hunan Wok is their dry-fried green beans. These crispy, blistered green beans are stir-fried with garlic, ginger, and dried chilies, resulting in a dish that’s both savory and intensely flavorful.
If you’re not a fan of spicy food, don’t worry! Hunan Wok also offers a selection of milder dishes, such as their Kung Pao Chicken, which is made with a lighter sauce and features peanuts and vegetables.
Hunan Wok is a bit more upscale than some of the other Chinese restaurants in Florence, AL, but the prices are still reasonable. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, and the service is attentive and knowledgeable. This restaurant offers high quality Chinese food in Florence AL.
_”Hunan Wok is the best Chinese restaurant in Florence! Their food is always fresh and flavorful, and the service is always excellent,”_ raves local blogger, Emily K., on her website.
You can find Hunan Wok at 789 University Drive and reach them by phone at 555-5656.
Quick Wok: Fast, Affordable, and Delicious
For those days when you need a quick and affordable Chinese food fix, Quick Wok is the perfect solution. Located on Florence Boulevard, near the mall, Quick Wok specializes in fast and efficient service without sacrificing quality. While the menu is more limited than some of the other restaurants on this list, they offer all the essential favorites at incredibly reasonable prices.
Orange Chicken on the Go
The Orange Chicken is a popular choice, featuring crispy chicken coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. The portions are generous, and the price is hard to beat.
Lo Mein Lunch
Another solid option is their Lo Mein, which is available with chicken, beef, pork, or vegetables. The noodles are perfectly cooked, and the sauce is flavorful and satisfying.
Quick Wok is a great option for a quick lunch or a takeout meal. The service is fast and friendly, and the food is consistently good. It’s a great choice for Chinese food near me when I don’t have much money in Florence AL.
As one Facebook reviewer put it, _”Quick Wok is my go-to for a quick and cheap Chinese meal. The food is always good, and the service is always fast.”_
You can find Quick Wok at 101 Mall Road and reach them by phone at 555-7878.
Beyond the Main Dishes: Appetizers and Soups
While the main entrees often steal the show, no Chinese meal is complete without a selection of delicious appetizers and comforting soups. Florence, AL’s Chinese restaurants offer a variety of options to complement your main course.
Spring rolls are a classic appetizer, and Golden Dragon’s spring rolls are particularly noteworthy. They’re crispy, filled with fresh vegetables, and served with a sweet and sour dipping sauce. Another popular appetizer is crab rangoon, which is available at most Chinese restaurants in Florence.
When it comes to soups, wonton soup is a comforting and flavorful choice. The broth is rich and savory, and the wontons are filled with a delicious mixture of pork and shrimp. Egg drop soup is another classic option, featuring a silky broth with delicate ribbons of egg. Hot and sour soup, often found at Hunan Wok, is a great choice for those who enjoy a bit of spice.
Tips for Ordering and Exploring
Before you embark on your Chinese food adventure in Florence, AL, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- While reservations aren’t typically required at most Chinese restaurants in Florence, it’s always a good idea to call ahead if you’re planning to dine with a large group, especially on weekends.
- Many Chinese restaurants in Florence offer lunch specials, which are a great way to save money and try a variety of dishes.
- Don’t be afraid to try new dishes! Ask the staff for recommendations, and step outside of your comfort zone. You might discover your new favorite meal.
- Most Chinese restaurants in Florence offer online ordering and delivery options, making it easy to enjoy your favorite dishes from the comfort of your own home.
- If you’re planning a party or event, many Chinese restaurants in Florence offer catering services.
Conclusion: A World of Flavor Awaits
As you can see, Florence, Alabama, offers a surprisingly diverse and satisfying selection of Chinese restaurants. From the classic comfort foods at Golden Dragon to the authentic flavors of Hunan Wok and the incredible value of China Buffet, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And for a quick and affordable fix, Quick Wok is always a solid choice.
So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore the delicious world of Chinese cuisine in Florence, AL! Visit the restaurants mentioned and try some new favorites. Let us know your favorite spots and dishes in the comments below – we’d love to hear your recommendations! Sharing these local treasures helps support the community and spread the joy of good food. What are you waiting for to get some chinese food in Florence AL?
