Introduction
That familiar craving hits – the undeniable urge for crispy egg rolls, savory noodles, and that distinct umami flavor that only Chinese food can satisfy. If you find yourself in Urbandale, Iowa, and that craving strikes, you might wonder where to turn. This charming suburb of Des Moines might not be the first place that leaps to mind as a culinary mecca, but fear not, because Urbandale offers a surprising selection of Chinese restaurants, each with its own unique flavors and appeal. This is where this guide comes in, acting as your companion in seeking out the best chinese food urbandale iowa has to offer. This isn’t just a list; it’s a curated collection of local favorites, hidden gems, and reliable staples, designed to help you navigate the landscape and find the perfect Chinese meal for any occasion.
Overview of Chinese Cuisine in Urbandale
The chinese food urbandale iowa presents is diverse, ranging from familiar, Americanized favorites to more authentic regional offerings. You’ll find the classic staples of sweet and sour chicken, lo mein, and fried rice readily available, perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal. However, if you’re willing to explore a little further, you might discover some hidden gems serving up dishes that reflect the nuances of different regions of China. While Urbandale might not boast a bustling Chinatown, the restaurants here strive to provide a taste of Chinese culinary tradition, adapted to local tastes and preferences. Keep in mind that true Sichuan peppercorn fire might be toned down, but the essence of each dish remains, offering a flavorful and enjoyable experience. The key is knowing where to look and what to order. So, get ready to discover the chinese food urbandale iowa has ready for you.
Top Chinese Restaurants in Urbandale
Navigating Urbandale’s Chinese restaurants can be a bit of an adventure, but with a little guidance, you can discover some true culinary gems. Here are a few of my top picks, based on flavor, atmosphere, and overall experience:
Golden Wok
Located conveniently on Hickman Road, Golden Wok is a long-standing Urbandale establishment known for its consistently good food, generous portions, and friendly service. The ambiance is casual and family-friendly, making it a great spot for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner. The menu is extensive, featuring a wide array of classic Chinese dishes, from appetizers like crab rangoon and egg rolls to entrees like General Tso’s chicken and Mongolian beef. The prices are reasonable, making it an accessible option for budget-conscious diners.
What sets Golden Wok apart is its commitment to using fresh ingredients and preparing dishes to order. The vegetables are always crisp and vibrant, the sauces are flavorful and well-balanced, and the meat is tender and juicy. I highly recommend trying their cashew chicken, which features tender chicken stir-fried with crunchy cashews, diced vegetables, and a light, savory sauce. The kung pao chicken is another standout, with just the right amount of spice and a satisfying mix of flavors and textures. For a truly comforting meal, try their wonton soup, which is rich, flavorful, and packed with delicate wontons.
Golden Wok is not without its minor drawbacks. The decor is a bit dated, and the restaurant can get quite busy during peak hours. However, the quality of the food and the friendly service more than make up for these minor shortcomings. Golden Wok is a reliable and satisfying choice for chinese food urbandale iowa residents love.
House of Hunan
Nestled in a shopping center, House of Hunan offers a slightly more upscale dining experience compared to Golden Wok. The atmosphere is more refined, with comfortable seating, soft lighting, and tasteful decor. The menu features a wider range of dishes, including some more authentic regional specialties alongside the usual Americanized favorites. While the prices are slightly higher than Golden Wok, the quality of the food and the ambiance justify the extra cost.
One of the highlights of House of Hunan is their extensive seafood selection. The shrimp with lobster sauce is a classic dish that is executed perfectly here, with plump, juicy shrimp bathed in a rich, creamy sauce. The steamed fish with ginger and scallions is another excellent choice, offering a delicate and flavorful alternative to fried or saucy dishes. If you’re feeling adventurous, try their mapo tofu, a spicy Sichuan dish made with silken tofu, ground pork, and a fermented black bean sauce. It’s a bold and flavorful dish that is sure to awaken your taste buds.
House of Hunan also offers a wide selection of vegetarian options, including vegetable lo mein, tofu with mixed vegetables, and eggplant in garlic sauce. The portions are generous, and the service is attentive and professional. While the restaurant can be a bit noisy during peak hours, the overall experience is consistently positive. House of Hunan is a great choice for a special occasion or a more upscale chinese food urbandale iowa dining experience.
China Star
China Star is a popular spot, particularly for its lunch specials and convenient takeout options. The restaurant is unassuming, but the food is consistently good and the prices are unbeatable. The menu is extensive, featuring a wide variety of classic Chinese dishes, from appetizers like spring rolls and potstickers to entrees like sesame chicken and beef with broccoli. The portions are generous, making it a great value for the money.
What sets China Star apart is its speed and efficiency. The food is always prepared quickly and accurately, making it a great choice for a quick lunch or a last-minute dinner. The lunch specials are particularly popular, offering a generous portion of an entree, fried rice, and a choice of soup or egg roll for a very reasonable price. I highly recommend trying their orange chicken, which features crispy chicken coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. The general tso’s chicken is another popular choice, with a spicy and flavorful sauce that is sure to satisfy your cravings.
While China Star might not offer the most refined ambiance or the most adventurous menu, it’s a reliable and affordable choice for chinese food urbandale iowa residents love. It is the perfect option for takeout, when you want a tasty, no-fuss meal at a great price.
Honorable Mentions
While the restaurants mentioned above are my top picks, there are a few other Chinese restaurants in Urbandale that are worth mentioning. These restaurants might not be quite as exceptional as the others, but they still offer decent food and good value. One such restaurant is Panda Express, a chain restaurant that is known for its quick service and affordable prices. While the food is not particularly authentic, it’s a convenient option for a quick and satisfying meal. Another honorable mention is Lucky Bamboo, a small restaurant that offers a limited menu of classic Chinese dishes. The food is decent, and the prices are reasonable, making it a good choice for a casual meal.
Tips for Finding the Best Chinese Food in Urbandale
Finding the perfect Chinese restaurant in Urbandale can be a bit of a trial-and-error process, but here are a few tips to help you on your quest:
- Ask for Recommendations: Don’t be afraid to ask your friends, neighbors, or coworkers for their recommendations. Locals often have the best insights into the hidden gems and reliable staples in town.
- Check Online Reviews: Websites like Google, Yelp, and TripAdvisor are great resources for reading reviews and getting a sense of the overall quality of a restaurant. Pay attention to the ratings and comments, but also consider the number of reviews. A restaurant with a high rating and a large number of reviews is generally a safe bet.
- Look for High Ratings: While online reviews can be subjective, a restaurant with consistently high ratings is generally a good sign. Look for restaurants with an average rating of four stars or higher.
- Consider Delivery Options and Service: If you’re planning to order takeout or delivery, be sure to check the restaurant’s delivery radius and fees. Also, pay attention to the quality of the service. A restaurant with friendly and efficient service is always a plus.
- Explore Beyond the Standard Menu: Don’t be afraid to venture beyond the usual Americanized dishes and try some more authentic regional specialties. Many Chinese restaurants offer a separate menu of authentic dishes, or they might have a few hidden gems that aren’t listed on the main menu.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the chinese food urbandale iowa scene may not be the most expansive, but there are definitely some worthwhile options to explore. Whether you’re craving a comforting classic like General Tso’s chicken or something a bit more adventurous like mapo tofu, Urbandale has a Chinese restaurant to satisfy your cravings. Golden Wok, House of Hunan, and China Star are my top picks, offering a range of flavors, atmospheres, and price points to suit every taste and budget. Remember to check online reviews, ask for recommendations, and explore beyond the standard menu to discover your own favorite Chinese restaurant in Urbandale. So, what are you waiting for? Go out and explore the world of chinese food urbandale iowa has to offer and share your experiences! Your next delicious meal awaits.
