What to Eat at a Chinese Restaurant: Must-Try Dishes from Appetizers to Desserts

From crispy dumplings to spicy noodles, Chinese cuisine offers something for every craving. Whether you're a first-time diner or a seasoned foodie, knowing what to order at a Chinese restaurant can turn a good meal into a memorable experience.

Start with the Classics: Best Chinese Appetizers

Kick off your meal with traditional starters that deliver big flavor in small bites.

🥟 Dumplings

Steamed or pan-fried, dumplings are filled with savory pork, chicken, or vegetables. Perfect with soy sauce or chili oil.

🌱 Spring Rolls

Crispy on the outside and filled with seasoned vegetables or meat, spring rolls are a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

🍲 Hot and Sour Soup

This bold soup is both spicy and tangy, often featuring tofu, bamboo shoots, and mushrooms. A great warm-up dish for your taste buds.

Top Chinese Main Dishes to Try

If you're overwhelmed by a big menu, these go-to entrees are always solid choices.

🍗 Kung Pao Chicken

This stir-fried dish blends tender chicken, peanuts, veggies, and a spicy garlic sauce. A flavorful, protein-packed favorite.

🔥 General Tso's Chicken

Sweet, spicy, and crispy—General Tso's is a Chinese American classic that never disappoints.

🥩 Mongolian Beef

Savory and slightly sweet, Mongolian beef is loaded with flavor and served with scallions and a rich brown sauce.

🌶 Mapo Tofu

A spicy Sichuan specialty made with soft tofu and ground pork in a fiery chili bean sauce. Great over steamed rice.

Noodles and Rice Dishes That Hit the Spot

From silky noodles to wok-fried rice, these dishes are comforting and customizable.

🍜 Chow Mein

Stir-fried noodles tossed with vegetables and your choice of protein. Crunchy, saucy, and satisfying.

🍚 Fried Rice

Eggs, green onions, and vegetables come together in this versatile dish. Add shrimp, beef, or chicken for a full meal.

🍝 Dan Dan Noodles

These spicy, nutty Sichuan noodles are packed with umami and a bit of heat—perfect for adventurous eaters.

Don’t Skip the Vegetables

Chinese cuisine does vegetables right—with bold sauces and crisp textures.

🥬 Bok Choy Stir-Fry

Light, garlicky, and fresh, this simple dish celebrates the natural flavor of Chinese greens.

🍆 Eggplant in Garlic Sauce

Tender eggplant smothered in a savory-sweet garlic sauce. A vegetarian favorite that's anything but boring.

Save Room for Dessert

Round out your meal with something sweet and traditional.

🥭 Mango Pudding

Chilled and creamy, mango pudding is the perfect tropical end to a spicy meal.

🍡 Sesame Balls

These chewy treats are filled with sweet red bean paste and rolled in toasted sesame seeds.

Bonus: Explore Regional Chinese Cuisine

If the restaurant specializes in regional styles like Sichuan, Cantonese, or Hunan, take the opportunity to try something new. Dishes like dry-fried green beans (Sichuan), roast duck (Cantonese), or spicy fish fillets (Hunan) offer authentic experiences from different regions of China.

Where to Try These in Tucson: Mandarin Grill on Grant

If you're in Tucson, there’s one place you can count on for these dishes done right: Mandarin Grill on Grant Road.

This family-owned restaurant has been serving up authentic Chinese American cuisine for over 30 years. Known for its MSG-free menu, generous portions, and consistently flavorful dishes, Mandarin Grill is a hidden gem in Midtown Tucson. From handmade dumplings to rich Mongolian beef, everything is made to order with care and tradition.

Locals keep coming back for the dependable favorites—and for a slice of Tucson food history that continues to thrive.