China City

China City is a Chinese restaurant located at 318 S Michigan Ave in Saginaw, Michigan. Operating within the Chinese Restaurant category, it aims to serve the local community with a variety of Chinese dishes. However, recent customer reviews suggest a significant shift in the restaurant's quality, pricing, and service compared to its past reputation. Potential customers should carefully consider these aspects before deciding to patronize China City.

Several years ago, according to one long-time customer, China City was a frequented establishment known for its great portions, delicious food, and reasonable prices. This positive perception seems to have changed considerably over time. The reviewer notes a current trend towards smaller container sizes coupled with higher prices. A particular concern is raised regarding certain dishes, specifically mentioning "bread balls" and over-breaded, small pieces of meat. The description suggests that meals now consist largely of a bed of vegetables used to elevate these bread balls, with only a few actual pieces of meat included. The remaining portion of the container is then filled with a side dish, all for a price around $12 in what appears to be a small, 32-ounce rectangular takeout container. The reviewer estimates that each "bread ball" effectively costs about a dollar, highlighting the perceived lack of substantial ingredients.

This customer's disappointment is significant, as they indicate a drastic reduction in their patronage, now considering a visit only once a year for a specific sauce, and even then, only if they cannot find it elsewhere. This speaks volumes about the perceived decline in the overall value and quality offered by China City.

Adding to the negative feedback regarding food quality and value, another reviewer strongly recommends trying a different local Chinese restaurant, Park Asia, located down the road. While acknowledging that Park Asia might not have the same diversity in flavor, the reviewer explicitly states that it does not engage in what they consider a "scam" by offering meals that they believe should cost no more than $6 at their best. This direct comparison further underscores the dissatisfaction with China City's current offerings and pricing strategy.

Beyond the food itself, customer service appears to be a significant area of concern. One reviewer commented on the demeanor of a young employee working at the register and answering the phone. This employee is described as sounding "drop dead tired" or as if they "just hate it there so much that he doesn't care." The reviewer found this somewhat amusing but also noted that the employee's listless and deadpan tone made it difficult to hear him on the phone. While acknowledging a stereotypical aspect to this, the underlying issue suggests a lack of professionalism and potentially low morale among the staff.

Further criticism of customer service comes from another long-time patron who expresses dismay at the significant decline in this area. This reviewer claims that the staff will resort to dishonesty to prevent customers from receiving refunds or even completing orders. They specifically advise against placing online orders and recommend calling instead, implying a lack of reliability or integrity in their online ordering system and customer service interactions related to it. This paints a concerning picture of the restaurant's commitment to fair and transparent dealings with its customers.

The same reviewer also corroborates the decline in food quality, noting a substantial change over time. As a specific example, they describe the orange chicken as being predominantly "orange breading" with barely any actual chicken inside. They contrast this with the expectation at other Chinese restaurants where orange chicken would typically contain a significant amount of chicken. This detailed critique of a popular dish further supports the sentiment that the food quality at China City has deteriorated considerably.

The reviewer also speculates that a change in ownership or management might be responsible for the observed decline in food quality, portion sizes, and customer service. The nostalgic tone of their review, recalling a time when China City was a beloved local spot, emphasizes the extent of this perceived negative transformation.

In summary, the recent customer feedback for China City in Saginaw, MI, paints a concerning picture. Reports of diminished portion sizes, inflated prices for meals consisting largely of breading and vegetables, poor customer service characterized by potential dishonesty and an unenthusiastic staff, and a significant decline in food quality, particularly in popular dishes like orange chicken, are recurring themes. While the restaurant operates within the Chinese Restaurant category and aims to provide Chinese cuisine, it appears to be falling short of customer expectations in several critical areas.

Local users in Saginaw considering China City should be aware of these reported issues. The significant negative feedback regarding value, food quality, and customer service suggests that there may be better alternatives available in the area, as explicitly recommended by one of the reviewers. Potential customers might want to weigh these recent experiences heavily before deciding to dine at or order from China City.