Chinatown Express

Welcome to Chinatown Express, located at 13935 Pioneer Blvd, Norwalk, CA 90650, USA. As a local establishment in the Chinese Restaurant category, Chinatown Express primarily serves customers seeking quick takeout options. You can contact them at (562) 929-3226 or their mobile number +1 562-929-3226 for inquiries or to place an order. However, recent customer reviews paint a concerning picture regarding the service and business practices at this establishment, which potential customers should be aware of.

One customer recounted a particularly negative experience when they walked in around 11 am and politely asked for a cup of ice or inquired about the cost. The response from a staff member was described as a "bland mean look" followed by a delayed and abrupt refusal, stating "no order no ice" before walking away. The customer understandably felt this behavior was rude and left the premises, expressing disappointment at not even being offered a cup of ice when they didn't have money for a full order at that moment. This incident raises serious concerns about the basic level of customer service and the staff's willingness to assist potential patrons even with a simple request.

Another customer shared an "absolutely horrible visit" during a recent order. They requested a plate of chow mein and rice with spicy chicken as sides on both portions. The staff member reportedly added one portion of the sides, then asked again for the second, to which the customer repeated their request for spicy chicken on both. Instead of adding a fresh portion of spicy chicken to the second side, the staff member allegedly moved the already placed food to the side and added vegetables, then closed the plate. This suggests a potential issue with portion control or a reluctance to provide the customer with what they ordered, which is a significant red flag.

The negative experience continued when the customer paid for their order and asked for a large Thai tea without boba and, specifically, with no ice. They were informed that declining ice would incur an extra charge of $0.50. When the customer questioned this policy of charging for not wanting ice, the staff member confirmed the charge. Upon agreeing to have ice added to avoid the extra charge, the customer witnessed the cup being filled entirely with ice, leaving insufficient space for the drink and causing it to spill. The customer noted that the cup was "practically ice," further highlighting a disregard for the customer's initial request and a seemingly punitive approach to a simple modification.

Despite the severely negative experiences with customer service and questionable practices, one of the reviewers did concede that "the food has a good taste." However, this positive aspect was overshadowed by the overwhelming frustration with the "absolute trash" customer service. The reviewer indicated that this was not an isolated incident, suggesting a pattern of poor treatment, but noted the limited options in their vicinity. They expressed strong dissatisfaction with how the business is run, using terms like "scamming customers in portions" and "always money hungry." The reviewer also mentioned being charged $8 for boba, a price they found exorbitant, especially in light of the issues with ice charges and portioning. The concluding advice was a strong "Do not go. Absolute trash service." This powerful condemnation strongly advises potential customers to avoid Chinatown Express based on their experiences.

Based on these two very negative and detailed accounts, it is difficult to provide a positive description of the environment and services at Chinatown Express. The focus of the feedback is overwhelmingly on poor customer service, potentially misleading portioning, and what appear to be unfair charging practices (for not wanting ice). There is no mention of the cleanliness or ambiance of the establishment itself, as the interactions described primarily involve ordering takeout and brief encounters with staff at the counter.

The features of Chinatown Express, based on this limited and negative information, seem to include a menu of standard Chinese takeout fare, including chow mein, rice, and spicy chicken. They also offer beverages like Thai tea and boba. However, the standout "features" highlighted by the reviews are negative: rude and unhelpful staff, potential issues with accurate order fulfillment and portion sizes, and questionable charges for customizations like omitting ice from a drink. The consistent theme is a lack of customer focus and a perceived prioritization of extracting extra charges from customers, even for seemingly simple requests.

There is no mention of any promotional information in these reviews. Given the serious concerns raised about basic customer service and business ethics, it is unlikely that potential customers would be swayed by promotions without an assurance of improved service and fair practices. Any promotional efforts would likely be undermined by the negative reputation being established through these experiences.

In conclusion, Chinatown Express in Norwalk, CA, as portrayed by recent customer reviews, appears to be an establishment with significant issues regarding customer service and business practices. Multiple reviewers recount experiences of rude staff, incorrect or inadequate portions, and questionable extra charges. While one reviewer noted that the food tasted good, this positive aspect was heavily outweighed by the negative interactions. Potential customers should be aware of these serious concerns before deciding to patronize Chinatown Express. The strong negative recommendations and detailed accounts of poor service and unfair practices should give potential diners pause and encourage them to consider other options in the area.