Best Chinese Restaurant Specials in the U.S. for Every Taste and Budget
If you love Chinese food like I do, then you know that finding the perfect spot to enjoy your favorite dishes is always a treat. But what really makes dining out special are those unbeatable Chinese restaurant specials. After years of exploring the diverse Chinese food scene in the U.S., I’ve discovered some incredible deals and promotions that cater to a variety of tastes and budgets. Whether you’re craving dim sum, noodles, or some classic Kung Pao chicken, there’s a special deal out there just for you. Let me take you through some of the best Chinese restaurant specials you can find across the U.S. that I’ve personally enjoyed.
1. Dim Sum Delights: Discounted Lunch Specials
One of the most fun and affordable ways to enjoy Chinese cuisine is through dim sum. These small plates of delectable dumplings, buns, and other treats are perfect for sharing with friends or family. Many Chinese restaurants across the U.S. offer amazing lunch specials that feature dim sum at discounted prices. I’ve been to places like China Live in San Francisco, where they offer a lunch dim sum platter with a selection of steamed buns, dumplings, and spring rolls at a price that’s hard to beat.
Another favorite of mine is Jade Garden in Seattle, which offers a rotating dim sum special throughout the week. They often have buy-one-get-one-free deals during off-peak hours, making it a great way to try different flavors without breaking the bank. Dim sum lunch specials often run from around $10 to $20 per person, depending on the restaurant, making it a fantastic option for those on a budget.
2. Family-Style Meal Deals: Feeding a Group for Less
If you’re looking to feed a group or family without spending a fortune, family-style meal deals are one of the best options available. Many Chinese restaurants across the country, especially in larger cities like New York and Los Angeles, offer family-style specials that include a variety of dishes served in larger portions, perfect for sharing.
For instance, Shun Lee West in New York City has an excellent family-style menu that includes multiple entrees, soup, rice, and appetizers for a set price. On certain days, they offer these family meals at a discounted rate, making it a great way to enjoy a variety of dishes while saving money. You can typically expect these meals to range from $30 to $60 for a group of four, which is a steal considering the portion sizes.
Similarly, Hunan Delight in Chicago offers a “family feast” deal that includes some of their most popular dishes, including orange chicken, Mongolian beef, and shrimp fried rice. Their specials change frequently, but when they do have a promotion, it’s an incredible value. For around $35, you can feed a family of four, which makes it a favorite for many locals looking for an affordable Chinese food experience.
3. Happy Hour Specials: Discounted Drinks and Appetizers
Who doesn’t love a good happy hour? I’ve discovered that many Chinese restaurants offer fantastic happy hour specials with discounted appetizers, drinks, and even combo plates. These specials typically run in the afternoon or early evening, and they’re a great way to enjoy some Chinese flavors at a lower cost.
One of the best places I’ve found for Chinese happy hour deals is The Great Wall Restaurant in Los Angeles. They offer a fantastic selection of appetizers, like crab rangoon, spring rolls, and dumplings, all for just a few dollars each during their happy hour. Pair that with one of their refreshing Asian-inspired cocktails, and you’ve got a budget-friendly and delicious dining experience.
Another spot that offers a killer happy hour is Dragonfly Mandarin Bistro in Miami. From 4 pm to 6 pm, they have discounted plates, including sweet and sour pork, General Tso’s chicken, and fried rice combos. The best part? Their drink specials include refreshing options like iced tea and house cocktails at a fraction of the usual price. Happy hour specials usually run between $6 and $15 per dish, which is a fantastic deal for high-quality food.
4. Regional Specials: Local Flavor at Special Prices
Across the U.S., Chinese restaurants often offer regional specialties that give you a taste of a particular style of cooking, often at discounted prices. In areas with large Chinese communities, like San Francisco or Los Angeles, you can find special promotions on authentic regional dishes, such as Szechuan-style dishes or Cantonese seafood specials.
One of my favorites is Yang’s Dumplings in San Francisco, where they feature a Szechuan hot pot special every weekend. For around $20, you get a generous serving of hot pot with all the fixings, including meats, vegetables, and noodles. During certain months, they run discounts on specific dishes, making it an excellent place to try spicy, flavorful Szechuan cuisine on a budget.
Similarly, in the heart of Chinatown in Los Angeles, Pacific Dining Car offers Cantonese-style seafood specials that include shrimp, lobster, and crab at discounted rates during their lunch hours. These dishes are often paired with traditional Chinese sauces and served with rice, making it an indulgent yet affordable treat. The specials range from $12 to $25, depending on the dish, making it a great place to enjoy premium seafood without the hefty price tag.
5. Loyalty and Rewards Programs: Earn Discounts and Free Meals
If you’re a frequent visitor to your favorite Chinese restaurants, you might want to take advantage of their loyalty or rewards programs. Many Chinese restaurants offer incentives for repeat customers, such as points for every meal you purchase or special birthday discounts.
At Lucky Noodles in Chicago, I signed up for their loyalty program and quickly started earning points with every order. The points could be redeemed for discounts or even free meals. It was an easy way to save money over time, especially since I’m a regular customer. Many local Chinese restaurants have similar programs, so be sure to ask about any available rewards the next time you dine out.
Another great program is offered by Chopsticks Express in New York, where they provide a punch card for frequent visitors. After ten visits, you earn a free appetizer or dessert of your choice. These types of rewards programs are an easy way to enjoy your favorite dishes at a fraction of the cost.
As you can see, there are many ways to enjoy amazing Chinese food in the U.S. without breaking the bank. From dim sum lunch specials to family-style meal deals, happy hour appetizers, and loyalty programs, there’s a deal to satisfy every craving. The next time you’re in the mood for some Chinese cuisine, be sure to check out these top-rated specials and promotions at your local restaurants. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, savory, or sweet, these deals offer a fantastic way to indulge while staying within your budget!
