9 Places to get Chinese Food in San Diego, CA
Chinese food is a classic that we all crave at one point or another. A big plate of orange chicken or a simmering pot of Szechuan braised fish, it’s all so darn delicious! When it comes to this type of cuisine, you want flavor, variety, and a great dining experience. We’ve got a list with nine of the best places for you to get that Chinese food fix when you’re in San Diego, CA.
Tasty Noodle House
4646 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 430-6876
Tasty Noodle House goes one step beyond Chinese by classifying its cuisine as Shanghainese. You’ll find many traditional dishes including chow mein, rice cakes, and fish fillets. The hopping dining room seems to be filled regardless of whether it’s lunch or dinner time. Flavors are vibrant and authentic, and there’s always staff available to explain different dishes to you. Beyond dining in, you can also place a take out order to enjoy your meal at home.
Kroran Uyghur Cuisine
4310 Genesee Ave suite 105, San Diego, CA 92117
(858) 430-6730
You’ll find some of the most authentic Chinese food at Kroran. This includes such things as pepper chicken salad, dumplings, and Laghman soup. Fresh ingredients are used to make recipes that are centuries old. We love the spice, and the kitchen is always willing to tame the heat levels if it’s a bit too much. Found in Liberty Park Plaza, the restaurant has a significant amount of dining space. They’re open for lunch and dinner throughout the week, but they do close from 3 PM to 5 PM daily so be aware of that before you go.
Golden Island
10660 Camino Ruiz, San Diego, CA 92126
(858) 578-8800
Golden Island classifies itself as “straightforward” Asian cuisine, and you’ll find plenty of dim sum to indulge in. You can enjoy dumplings, sweet cream buns, and more. Plus, there are TVs around so that you can watch whatever game might be on. It’s a family-friendly place, and Golden Island family dinners can provide you with a seemingly endless amount of food. When you want classic food with a bit of atmosphere, you can reserve a table here in advance.
Dumpling Inn & Shanghai Saloon
625 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 268-9638
Don’t let the strip mall location fool you. Dumpling Inn & Shanghai Saloon is popular with locals as well as tourists. They’re known for their signature dumplings, which they can pan-fry, boil, or steam. You’ll also find stir-fried noodles, soup noodles, and plenty of other filling options. The casual atmosphere of the dining room allows groups to gather. You can also have a great view of the cooks hard at work. Plus, there are countless beers, both Asian and local, on tap.
Mandarin Wok Restaurant
4227 Balboa Ave, San Diego, CA 92117
(858) 272-3972
Located in Garfield Plaza, Mandarin Wok has been a staple in San Diego for quite some time. You’ll be able to relax in one of their cozy booths while exploring all sorts of classic Chinese dishes. Pork, duck, beef, chicken, and plenty of vegetarian dishes fill the menu. Dinner specials are a way to ensure you have a sizable meal, complete with green tea, shrimp tempura, egg rolls, soup, and an entrée of your choosing. Specialty wines on the menu also pair well with any dish you may choose.
Jasmine Seafood Restaurant
4609 Convoy St Ste. A 1/2, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 268-0888
Jasmine Seafood Restaurant is a large spot, and it’s not uncommon for parties and celebrations to be hosted here. Chinese BBQ, an array of soups, and even fresh seasonal vegetables help to highlight how this restaurant goes above and beyond what your typical menu includes. You’ll find classic dishes, though we’re a sucker for the House Special Chow Mein. An array of drinks are served including sake and plum wines.
Shan Xi Magic Kitchen
4344 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 565-2688
Shan Xi is found in the Convoy Village Shopping Center. The modern space offers plenty of seating as well as a bustling takeout business. The chefs make all of their noodles and soup dumplings, so you’ll enjoy the authenticity of it all. Beef Brisket with hand-ripped noodles may be our favorite, but there are plenty of classic and unique dishes found across the menu. Imported Chinese sodas are available as well as bottled domestic beer.
Golden House
4370 Palm Ave Ste N, San Diego, CA 92154
(619) 690-2688
Golden House is open for lunch and dinner, with late-night hours until 10 PM throughout the week. Found in the Palm Ridge Shopping Center, the restaurant offers hearty portions of everything. Sichuan beef and Peking duck are some of the most talked-about dishes, though they have a generous vegetarian menu, too. The classic dining area is filled with tables, and if you have a large group, they will accommodate.
Steamy Piggy
4681 Convoy St Suite A, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 492-0401
Steamy Piggy steps out to be different as an Asian fusion restaurant. The chic vibe is characterized by not only pink walls but also hanging planters. Indoor and outdoor seating is available. Dumplings and baos are what the kitchen is well known for, though you’ll also want to explore the Steamy Piggy Ramen, the Bulgogi Beef Bowl, and more. If you’re looking to step away from the traditional Chinese restaurant, this should be a must-stop for you.
For more recommendations on where to eat and drink in the city, check out our San Diego page!
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