Looking for the perfect plate of Kung Pao Chicken in Reno? Tired of generic takeout and craving authentic flavors? Reno is known for its vibrant casino scene and stunning mountain views, but did you know it also boasts a surprisingly diverse and delicious Chinese food scene? From comforting classics to bold, spicy creations, the city offers a range of culinary experiences that will transport your taste buds straight to China.
However, with so many options, finding the truly exceptional can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve created this guide: to provide you with a curated list of the top Chinese restaurants in Reno, based on a combination of factors like authenticity, quality of ingredients, exceptional taste, outstanding service, pleasant atmosphere, and excellent value for money. We’ve poured over online reviews, consulted with local foodies, and even sampled many dishes ourselves to bring you this definitive list.
This isn’t just about finding a place to eat; it’s about discovering culinary gems and experiencing the diverse flavors of Chinese cuisine right here in Reno. From authentic Szechuan dishes that pack a fiery punch to comforting Cantonese classics that warm the soul, Reno offers a Chinese culinary experience to satisfy every palate. This guide highlights the very best the city has to offer, ensuring your next Chinese food adventure in Reno is a memorable one. So, ditch the delivery apps for a night and embark on a flavorful journey with us as we explore the best Chinese food in Reno.
Jasmine Garden: A Reno Staple for Authentic Cantonese Cuisine
Located on South Virginia Street, Jasmine Garden has been a Reno institution for decades. This family-owned restaurant specializes in Cantonese cuisine, offering a wide range of classic dishes prepared with fresh ingredients and traditional techniques. The ambiance is warm and inviting, perfect for a casual meal with friends or a family dinner.
One of the must-try dishes at Jasmine Garden is their Honey Walnut Shrimp. The shrimp are perfectly cooked, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, coated in a creamy honey sauce and topped with crunchy candied walnuts. The combination of sweet and savory is simply irresistible. Another popular choice is their Cantonese Roast Duck, known for its crispy skin and succulent meat. The duck is roasted to perfection and served with a plum sauce that complements the rich flavor.
Jasmine Garden consistently receives rave reviews for its excellent food and attentive service. The prices are reasonable, making it an excellent value for money. It’s a place where you can always count on a delicious and satisfying meal. Jasmine Garden earns its spot on this list for its consistent quality, authentic flavors, and its long-standing reputation as one of Reno’s best. When searching for authentic Chinese restaurants Reno Nevada, Jasmine Garden always comes up as a top choice.
Szechuan Garden: A Fiery Adventure for Spice Lovers
If you’re craving something with a bit more kick, head to Szechuan Garden. This restaurant specializes in Szechuan cuisine, known for its bold flavors and liberal use of chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns. Prepare for a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. Located on Plumb Lane, it offers an authentic taste of China that sets it apart from other Chinese restaurants near me Reno.
Their Mapo Tofu is a standout dish, featuring soft tofu simmered in a spicy and flavorful sauce with ground pork and fermented black beans. The Sichuan peppercorns create a unique numbing sensation that is characteristic of Szechuan cuisine. For those who enjoy seafood, the Spicy Dry Pot Shrimp is another excellent choice. The shrimp are stir-fried with a variety of vegetables and spices, creating a complex and aromatic dish.
Szechuan Garden is known for its generous portions and affordable prices. The atmosphere is casual and lively, reflecting the bold flavors of the cuisine. It earns its place on this list for its authentic Szechuan dishes, its use of high-quality ingredients, and its ability to transport you to the heart of China with every bite. If you’re searching for the best Chinese food in Reno and love a bit of heat, Szechuan Garden is a must-try.
Golden Flower: Dim Sum Delights and Beyond
Golden Flower is a popular dim sum spot located on Oddie Boulevard that also offers a full menu of Cantonese and Mandarin dishes. This bustling restaurant is known for its wide selection of dim sum, served fresh and hot from carts that circulate throughout the dining room. The atmosphere is lively and energetic, making it a great place to enjoy a leisurely brunch or lunch with friends and family.
From classic favorites like shrimp dumplings and pork buns to more adventurous options like chicken feet and tripe, Golden Flower has something for everyone. The dim sum is made fresh daily, and the quality is consistently high. Beyond dim sum, their Cantonese noodle dishes are also worth exploring, especially the chow fun.
Golden Flower is often packed, especially on weekends, so be prepared for a wait. However, the delicious food and vibrant atmosphere make it well worth the wait. It secures its spot on this list for its excellent dim sum, its wide selection of dishes, and its authentic Cantonese flavors. For a true dim sum experience in Reno, Golden Flower is the place to go when searching best Chinese food Reno.
Red Lantern: Modern Asian Fusion with a Chinese Heart
Located in Midtown, Red Lantern offers a more modern and upscale take on Chinese cuisine. This restaurant blends traditional Chinese flavors with contemporary cooking techniques and presentation. The atmosphere is stylish and sophisticated, making it a great choice for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
While they offer many Chinese-inspired dishes, Red Lantern is more of an Asian fusion restaurant. Their menu includes dishes from various Asian countries, but their Chinese offerings are particularly noteworthy. The Peking Duck is a standout, prepared with crispy skin and served with thin pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce. The Spicy Tuna Tartare is another popular choice, featuring fresh tuna marinated in a spicy sauce and served on crispy wonton chips.
Red Lantern stands out for its creative menu, its elegant atmosphere, and its commitment to quality. While pricier than some of the other restaurants on this list, the overall experience is well worth the investment. It earns its spot for its innovative approach to Chinese cuisine and its ability to create a memorable dining experience and its creative take on Chinese restaurants Reno.
Great Wall Chinese Restaurant: A Hidden Gem for Authentic Mandarin Cuisine
Nestled away on South McCarran Boulevard, Great Wall Chinese Restaurant might not be the flashiest spot, but what it lacks in décor, it more than makes up for in flavor. Specializing in Mandarin cuisine, this family-owned establishment has quietly been serving up some of the most authentic and delicious Chinese food in Reno for years. Often overlooked in favor of more prominent restaurants, Great Wall is truly a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
What sets Great Wall apart is their commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. Their Kung Pao Chicken is a standout, featuring tender chicken stir-fried with peanuts, vegetables, and a flavorful sauce that strikes the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory. The Mongolian Beef is another must-try, with thinly sliced beef stir-fried with onions and scallions in a rich and savory sauce.
The portions at Great Wall are generous, and the prices are incredibly reasonable. The service is friendly and attentive, making you feel like part of the family. It’s a perfect place to enjoy an unfussy, delicious meal that will leave you feeling satisfied and content. If you’re tired of the same old Chinese food in Reno and are looking for something truly special, Great Wall Chinese Restaurant is definitely worth a visit.
Best for a Quick Lunch: China Diner
When you need a quick, affordable, and satisfying lunch, China Diner on North Virginia Street is a great option. They offer a wide selection of lunch specials, including classic dishes like General Tso’s Chicken, Sesame Chicken, and Sweet and Sour Pork. The portions are generous, the prices are low, and the service is fast and efficient. It is a great place for the best Chinese food in Reno without spending a lot of time.
A Note on Authenticity
It’s important to note that “authentic” Chinese food can mean different things to different people. Some restaurants may focus on recreating traditional dishes using authentic ingredients and techniques, while others may adapt their recipes to appeal to a wider range of palates. Ultimately, the best Chinese food is the food that you enjoy the most.
Conclusion
Reno’s Chinese food scene is a vibrant reflection of the city’s diverse culinary landscape, offering something for everyone to enjoy. From the authentic Cantonese flavors of Jasmine Garden to the fiery Szechuan dishes of Szechuan Garden, and the modern Asian fusion of Red Lantern, there’s a Chinese restaurant in Reno to satisfy every craving. So, the next time you’re in the mood for Chinese, be sure to check out these top spots. Happy eating and enjoy exploring the best Chinese restaurants Reno has to offer! And don’t forget to support these local businesses that contribute to the city’s rich and diverse culinary tapestry. Discover the flavors, embrace the culture, and savor the experience. Reno’s Chinese food scene awaits your exploration!
