A Taste of History
Salt Lake City might be known for its mountains and outdoor recreation, but beneath the surface lies a vibrant and increasingly diverse culinary scene. Among the most exciting parts of this landscape is the ever-growing selection of Chinese restaurants, offering everything from familiar favorites to authentic regional specialties. Forget the tired takeout stereotypes; Salt Lake City’s Chinese food scene is a treasure trove waiting to be explored, a culinary adventure brimming with flavor and tradition. This guide will lead you through the best of what the city has to offer, from the comforting warmth of Cantonese classics to the fiery kick of Szechuan spice.
The story of Chinese food in Salt Lake City is interwoven with the history of the Chinese community here. Though often overlooked, Chinese immigrants played a significant role in building the infrastructure of the American West, including the railroads. Early Chinese restaurants in Salt Lake City served as havens for these workers, offering a taste of home in a new and often challenging land. Over time, the culinary offerings evolved, adapting to local tastes while still preserving core traditions. Today, a new generation of chefs and restaurateurs are building upon this legacy, bringing even greater diversity and authenticity to the Salt Lake City dining scene. This rich history lays the foundation for the diverse range of flavors we enjoy today.
Cantonese Comfort: Classic Flavors
Cantonese cuisine, known for its delicate flavors, fresh ingredients, and emphasis on stir-frying and steaming, holds a special place in many hearts. Finding exemplary Cantonese fare in Salt Lake City is easier than you might think.
Red Maple Chinese Restaurant
This establishment has been a local favorite for years, serving up consistently delicious and comforting Cantonese dishes. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for a family dinner or a casual night out with friends. Their signature dish, Honey Walnut Shrimp, is a must-try – the sweetness of the honey perfectly complementing the savory shrimp and crunchy walnuts. The dim sum selection during lunch hours is also a strong contender. Red Maple has garnered numerous local awards for its commitment to quality and service. They are located on State Street, and their website and social media channels offer up-to-date information on menus and specials.
Golden Dragon
For a more upscale Cantonese experience, Golden Dragon is a solid choice. The elegant décor and attentive service create a memorable dining experience. While their prices are a little higher, the quality of the ingredients and the skill of the chefs make it worthwhile. Try their Peking Duck, prepared with meticulous detail, or their Steamed Fish with Ginger and Scallions, showcasing the delicate flavors of Cantonese cuisine. You can find them in the heart of downtown, and easily access their menu online for advance planning.
Szechuan Spice: A Fiery Adventure
If you’re craving something with a little more kick, Szechuan cuisine is the answer. Known for its bold flavors, liberal use of chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns (which create a unique tingling sensation), Szechuan food is an experience for the senses. Luckily, Salt Lake City boasts several excellent Szechuan restaurants.
Szechuan Garden
Don’t let the unassuming exterior fool you – Szechuan Garden packs a serious flavor punch. This family-run restaurant is a hidden gem, serving up authentic Szechuan dishes that will leave your taste buds tingling. Be sure to order the Mapo Tofu, a classic Szechuan dish featuring soft tofu in a spicy and savory sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the Dan Dan Noodles, a flavorful and addictive noodle dish. Be warned: the spice levels here are not for the faint of heart! Szechuan Garden is located on a quiet street just outside the city center, and while they may not have a fancy website, their food speaks for itself.
Chili Dynasty
For a more modern take on Szechuan cuisine, Chili Dynasty is a great option. This restaurant offers a sleek and stylish atmosphere, perfect for a date night or a special occasion. Their menu features a wide variety of Szechuan dishes, from traditional favorites to innovative creations. The Spicy Dry Pot is a crowd-pleaser, allowing you to customize your ingredients and spice level. The restaurant also boasts an impressive cocktail menu. Situated downtown, they are easy to access and reservation friendly.
Dim Sum Delights: A Weekend Tradition
Dim sum, the Cantonese tradition of serving small, bite-sized portions of food, is a perfect way to sample a variety of flavors and textures. Finding great dim sum in Salt Lake City can be a rewarding experience.
Hong Kong Station
This is arguably the most well-known dim sum spot in Salt Lake City, and for good reason. They offer the traditional cart service, where servers wheel carts laden with steaming baskets of dim sum around the restaurant. You can simply point to the dishes you want to try. Must-try items include the Shrimp Dumplings (Har Gow), the Pork Dumplings (Siu Mai), and the BBQ Pork Buns (Char Siu Bao). The weekend brunch at Hong Kong Station is always bustling, so be prepared for a wait. It’s well worth it! Located centrally, a visit to Hong Kong Station is a Salt Lake City must-do.
Mandarin Restaurant
While Mandarin Restaurant offers a full Chinese menu, their dim sum selection is also noteworthy. They don’t offer cart service, but you can order from a menu of dim sum dishes. This allows for a more curated experience, and ensures that everything is freshly made. The Pan-Fried Turnip Cakes and the Sticky Rice in Lotus Leaf are particularly delicious. This spot offers a more relaxed atmosphere than some of the busier dim sum restaurants. You can find them not far from the downtown area.
Taiwanese Treats: A Unique Flavor Profile
Taiwanese cuisine, with its subtle sweetness, aromatic herbs, and unique flavor combinations, is gaining popularity around the world. Salt Lake City is fortunate to have a few restaurants that specialize in this delicious cuisine.
Formosa Restaurant
Specializing in authentic Taiwanese cuisine, Formosa Restaurant offers a comforting and flavorful experience. Their Beef Noodle Soup is a standout, featuring tender beef, chewy noodles, and a rich and aromatic broth. The Three Cup Chicken, cooked with soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice wine, is another must-try dish. And don’t forget to order a bubble tea, the iconic Taiwanese drink. This unassuming spot consistently delivers on quality and taste, becoming a staple in the local community.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
Beyond the established restaurants, Salt Lake City also has its share of hidden gems – smaller, family-run establishments that are beloved by locals. These restaurants often offer a more authentic and personal dining experience.
Great Wall Chinese Restaurant
Tucked away in a strip mall, Great Wall Chinese Restaurant is a favorite among those in the know. Their menu features a wide variety of Cantonese and Szechuan dishes, all made with fresh ingredients and a generous hand. The Salt and Pepper Shrimp is a particular standout, as is the General Tso’s Chicken. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable. The atmosphere is simple and unpretentious, but the food is the star of the show.
Shanghai Cafe
Located on a busy street, Shanghai Cafe is a small but mighty restaurant that specializes in Shanghai-style cuisine. Their soup dumplings (Xiao Long Bao) are a must-try, filled with flavorful broth and tender pork. The scallion pancakes are also a popular choice. This is a great spot for a quick and delicious lunch or dinner.
Beyond the Restaurant: Chinese Groceries and Markets
To truly immerse yourself in the world of Chinese cuisine, consider visiting one of Salt Lake City’s Asian markets. These markets offer a wide variety of Chinese ingredients, from fresh produce and noodles to sauces and spices.
Ocean Mart
Located on the west side of the city, Ocean Mart is the largest Asian supermarket in Salt Lake City. Here you can find everything you need to cook your favorite Chinese dishes at home. They have a wide selection of fresh vegetables, including bok choy, gai lan, and Chinese eggplant. They also carry a variety of Chinese noodles, sauces, and spices.
Tips for Ordering Authentic Chinese Food
Navigating a Chinese menu can be daunting, especially if you’re not familiar with the cuisine. Here are a few tips to help you order like a pro:
- Ask about daily specials: Many Chinese restaurants offer daily specials that are not listed on the regular menu. These specials often feature seasonal ingredients or regional specialties.
- Look for dishes popular with Chinese customers: If you see a dish that is being ordered by a lot of Chinese customers, it’s probably a good sign. These dishes are often more authentic and flavorful.
- Ask for recommendations from the staff: The staff at Chinese restaurants are usually happy to help you choose dishes that you will enjoy. Don’t be afraid to ask for their recommendations.
- Understand common dishes: Take the time to learn about some common Chinese dishes and their ingredients. This will help you make informed choices when ordering.
- Be prepared for spice: Szechuan cuisine is known for its spice. If you’re not a fan of spicy food, be sure to ask the staff about the spice level of each dish.
Conclusion: A World of Flavor Awaits
Salt Lake City’s Chinese food scene is a testament to the city’s growing diversity and culinary sophistication. From the comforting flavors of Cantonese cuisine to the fiery spice of Szechuan dishes, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So, venture out, explore, and discover your own favorite Chinese restaurants in Salt Lake City. Don’t be afraid to try new things and ask for recommendations. A world of flavor awaits! Happy eating! Share your favorite Chinese restaurant in the comments below and help others discover the best that Salt Lake City has to offer.
