Introduction
It’s late. The library closed hours ago, your brain is fried from studying, and the only thing that can possibly soothe your weary soul is a steaming plate of General Tso’s chicken and a mountain of perfectly cooked fried rice. Sound familiar? If you’re a student at Rutgers University or just a resident of New Brunswick, NJ, you know exactly what I’m talking about. The craving for exceptional New Brunswick NJ Chinese food is a constant companion, a culinary siren call that’s hard to resist.
New Brunswick, New Jersey, a vibrant city nestled in the heart of the Garden State, is more than just a college town. It’s a melting pot of cultures, a hub of innovation, and, most importantly for our purposes, a treasure trove of delicious eats. And when it comes to satisfying those cravings, the New Brunswick NJ Chinese food scene truly delivers.
But with so many options vying for your attention (and your hard-earned money), how do you navigate the delicious maze and find the hidden gems? That’s where this guide comes in. I’ve spent years exploring the Chinese restaurants of New Brunswick, from late-night takeout joints to more refined dining experiences. Consider this your personal roadmap to the best New Brunswick NJ Chinese food, a curated list of spots that will satisfy any craving, no matter the time of day or the size of your budget. We’ll focus on providing insight and helping you locate the perfect spot.
Overview of Chinese Food Scene in New Brunswick
The New Brunswick NJ Chinese food landscape is surprisingly diverse, offering everything from the familiar comfort of Americanized classics to more authentic regional specialties. You’ll find restaurants serving up Cantonese favorites, known for their delicate flavors and emphasis on fresh ingredients. Sichuan cuisine, with its bold spices and numbing peppercorns, also makes a strong showing. And of course, there are plenty of places that cater to the traditional American palate, offering sweet and savory dishes that have become staples of the New Brunswick NJ Chinese food experience.
Many Chinese restaurants cluster around Easton Avenue and George Street near the Rutgers campus, making them incredibly convenient for students looking for a quick and affordable meal. However, venturing further afield can reveal even more culinary treasures, hidden in plain sight and waiting to be discovered. So let’s dive into some of the very best restaurants New Brunswick has to offer!
Restaurant Reviews/Recommendations
This is where the real fun begins. Prepare to embark on a mouthwatering journey through some of the most delicious Chinese restaurants in New Brunswick NJ.
Golden East Garden
Address and Contact Information: Located on Somerset Street, you can find their number on their website.
Atmosphere: Golden East Garden provides a classic, no-frills Chinese dining experience. It’s the kind of place where the focus is entirely on the food. Think comfortable booths, bright lighting, and the comforting aroma of stir-fries and simmering sauces. This is perfect for a quick lunch or a casual dinner with friends.
Menu Highlights: The General Tso’s Chicken is a crowd favorite, perfectly crispy and coated in a sweet and tangy sauce. The Shrimp with Lobster Sauce is another must-try, featuring succulent shrimp in a rich, savory sauce. For something a little different, try their Salt and Pepper Squid – crispy, flavorful, and incredibly addictive.
Price Range: $ (Budget-Friendly)
What Makes it Special: Golden East Garden is a reliable go-to for consistently good, affordable Chinese food. They’re known for their generous portions and fast service, making it a great option when you’re short on time. It’s a neighborhood staple with a strong following.
Shanghai Dumpling House
Address and Contact Information: Nestled on George Street, their website will give you the details.
Atmosphere: Step into Shanghai Dumpling House, and you’ll be transported to a bustling dumpling shop in Shanghai. The atmosphere is lively and authentic, with the rhythmic clatter of woks and the aroma of steaming dumplings filling the air.
Menu Highlights: As the name suggests, the dumplings are the star of the show. Try the pork soup dumplings (xiao long bao) for a truly unforgettable experience. Be careful when you bite into them, though! The soup inside is piping hot and incredibly flavorful. The pan-fried pork buns are another must-try. They have a crispy bottom and a soft, fluffy top. Don’t forget to try their noodle soups or mapo tofu for other flavorful options.
Price Range: $$ (Mid-Range)
What Makes it Special: Shanghai Dumpling House offers a truly authentic Shanghainese dining experience. The dumplings are made fresh daily, and the flavors are bold and complex. If you’re looking for something beyond the standard Americanized Chinese fare, this is the place to go.
Crown Palace Restaurant
Address and Contact Information: Find them on Albany Street. The contact number is available online.
Atmosphere: Crown Palace provides a more upscale dining experience, with elegant décor and attentive service. It’s a great place for a special occasion or a date night. The ambiance is relaxed and sophisticated, making it a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Menu Highlights: The Peking Duck is a showstopper, carved tableside and served with delicate pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce. The Lobster Cantonese is another standout dish, featuring fresh lobster in a flavorful ginger and scallion sauce. For something a little lighter, try their steamed fish with ginger and scallions.
Price Range: $$$ (Higher-End)
What Makes it Special: Crown Palace is known for its high-quality ingredients, impeccable service, and refined atmosphere. It’s the perfect choice for a special occasion or when you’re looking to impress.
China Garden
Address and Contact Information: Located conveniently on Easton Avenue. Details online.
Atmosphere: China Garden, sitting in a prime location on Easton Ave, is a perfect spot for grabbing food after classes, and is frequently visited by students. The atmosphere is usually lively with other students also looking for an affordable and reliable restaurant.
Menu Highlights: Beef and broccoli, general tso chicken, and orange chicken are all very popular dishes here, and they’re cooked with care and precision.
Price Range: $ (Budget-Friendly)
What Makes it Special: China Garden, located near Rutgers, has become a place for college students to frequently visit due to affordable price points and solid options that taste delicious, especially after a long night of studying!
Hong Hua Restaurant
Address and Contact Information: Out on Route one. Easily found online.
Atmosphere: Hong Hua provides an environment where they make the experience worthwhile with authentic dishes. With options like Peking Duck, they also have other dishes which are very tasty!
Menu Highlights: The Peking Duck is a fantastic option if you plan on going here. Try the steamed fish with ginger and scallions if you’d prefer a lighter meal!
Price Range: $$$ (Higher-End)
What Makes it Special: Hong Hua is a great option if you are looking for a special occasion! With incredible service and quality, you can’t go wrong with this restaurant!
Beyond the Main Dishes
While the main courses are undoubtedly the stars of any New Brunswick NJ Chinese food adventure, don’t overlook the supporting cast.
Dim Sum: While not every restaurant specializes in dim sum, keep an eye out for weekend brunch specials or hidden gems that offer these bite-sized delights. Steamed pork buns, shu mai, and har gow are always a good place to start.
Noodles and Soups: From hearty noodle soups with rich broths to stir-fried noodles with flavorful sauces, the noodle options are endless. Look for dishes like Dan Dan Noodles (spicy Sichuan noodles) or Beef Noodle Soup for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Vegetarian/Vegan Options: Many New Brunswick NJ Chinese food restaurants offer a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes. Tofu-based dishes, vegetable stir-fries, and vegetarian dumplings are all readily available. Be sure to confirm with your server that your dish is prepared without any animal products.
Takeout and Delivery: In today’s fast-paced world, takeout and delivery are essential. Most Chinese restaurants in New Brunswick offer both options, making it easy to enjoy your favorite dishes from the comfort of your own home.
Tips for Ordering and Enjoying Chinese Food in New Brunswick
Navigating the world of New Brunswick NJ Chinese food can be an exciting adventure. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your culinary journey:
Delivery Apps: Take advantage of popular delivery apps like Grubhub, DoorDash, and Uber Eats to easily order from a wide range of restaurants and have your meal delivered right to your doorstep.
Daily Specials: Don’t be afraid to ask about daily specials or off-menu items. You might discover a hidden gem that isn’t listed on the regular menu.
Spice Levels: Be aware of the spice levels of different dishes, especially those from Sichuan cuisine. If you’re not a fan of spicy food, be sure to request a milder version.
Explore: The best way to discover your favorite New Brunswick NJ Chinese food restaurant is to try new things. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and explore the diverse offerings available.
Conclusion
From comforting classics to authentic regional specialties, the New Brunswick NJ Chinese food scene has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re a student on a budget, a foodie looking for new flavors, or simply someone craving a delicious meal, you’re sure to find a spot that satisfies your cravings.
This guide is just a starting point. The true adventure lies in exploring the diverse culinary landscape of New Brunswick, discovering hidden gems, and creating your own personal list of favorite restaurants. So, grab your chopsticks, gather your friends, and prepare to embark on a mouthwatering journey through the best New Brunswick NJ Chinese food.
Now that you have this guide, you’ll be able to locate your next late night meal in an efficient manner!
And if you have any other spots, please share your thoughts in the comments!
So what are you waiting for? Go explore the delicious world of New Brunswick NJ Chinese food and discover your new favorite restaurant! Let us know what you think in the comments.
