(Closed for December)Chang Xing Chinese Restaurant

Chang Xing Chinese Restaurant, located at 287 16th Ave, Newark, NJ 07103, USA, is a local Chinese eatery that primarily caters to takeout orders. While currently closed for December, it has been a long-standing fixture in the community, serving Chinese cuisine for many years. Operating hours generally lean towards daytime service, with its proximity to a police station and West Side Park making it a more advisable destination during daylight hours.

Upon reviewing customer feedback, it's clear that Chang Xing Chinese Restaurant elicits a range of opinions, with some patrons having long-term relationships with the establishment and others expressing significant dissatisfaction. This introduction aims to provide a balanced overview based on the publicly available information.

As a takeout-focused establishment, Chang Xing Chinese Restaurant doesn't appear to prioritize a dine-in experience. There is no information suggesting an elaborate or inviting interior for sit-down meals. Customer reviews implicitly suggest a no-frills setting, typical of many local Chinese takeout spots. The restaurant's location on 16th Avenue, across from West Side Park, provides some context for its immediate surroundings, though not for its internal atmosphere. It's generally perceived as a convenient spot for a quick grab-and-go meal rather than a place for a leisurely dining experience.

Chang Xing Chinese Restaurant primarily offers Chinese takeout services. Customers can place orders via phone at (973) 371-7269 or +1 973-371-7269. While delivery services may have been offered in the past, recent customer experiences indicate that delivery was unavailable during the pandemic, requiring customers to pick up their orders. The restaurant does not appear to offer online ordering through its own platform, relying instead on traditional phone orders. Payment options are typical for a takeout restaurant, though specific details beyond cash and card acceptance are not widely publicized.

The culinary offerings at Chang Xing Chinese Restaurant present a mixed bag, with distinct preferences among its long-term clientele. Some dishes receive more favorable reviews than others. Here’s a breakdown of commonly discussed items:

• Garlic Chicken: This dish is frequently highlighted as a standout, described by some as "wonderful" for a small takeout restaurant.
• Soups: The soups are often praised for their taste and, anecdotally, for their perceived benefits in shortening a cold. This suggests a comforting and flavorful quality to their soup selection.
• Shrimp Fried Rice: While not universally lauded as exceptional, reviews suggest they "don’t do such a bad job" with this classic dish. However, one very negative review specifically noted concerns about the freshness of the shrimp in the fried rice.
• Egg Foo Young: This dish receives criticism for being overly salted and containing too much onion. Patrons often advise requesting a lighter hand with the salt.
• General Fried Rice: For those accustomed to traditionally cooked Chinese fried rice, the version at Chang Xing might not align with expectations. It is described as different from what one might find in more upscale or authentic Chinese restaurants in larger cities.

A recurring theme in customer feedback is that the food at Chang Xing Chinese Restaurant is "fairly good" for those who may not have extensive experience with traditionally cooked Chinese cuisine. It caters to a more generalized palate, and those seeking an authentic, high-end Chinese dining experience are often advised to look elsewhere, such as Fifth and Sixth Avenue in New York City.

One critical point raised by customers is the shelf life of leftovers. Multiple reviews indicate that the food does not keep well, with some reporting spoilage within two days, a significant departure from the typical longevity of Chinese takeout. This suggests potential issues with food preparation or ingredient freshness, which is a serious concern for customers.

Customer service at Chang Xing Chinese Restaurant has been a point of contention among reviewers. While some long-time patrons have described it as "nice customer service," more recent reviews indicate a decline in professionalism and politeness. One particular incident highlights a rude interaction during a phone order, where a customer was abruptly hung up on after inquiring about delivery during the pandemic. This suggests inconsistencies in their customer service approach, which can significantly impact customer experience.

In terms of promotional information, there is no evidence of active promotions, loyalty programs, or discounts widely advertised online. The restaurant's appeal seems to stem more from its long-standing presence in the neighborhood and its affordability. Customers frequently note that the food is "not overpriced" and that a "pretty decent amount of food" is provided for the money spent, indicating a value-for-money proposition. However, this value is often weighed against the reported quality and customer service issues.

Given the feedback, it is important for potential customers to manage their expectations when considering Chang Xing Chinese Restaurant. While it may offer a convenient and affordable option for a quick Chinese meal, particularly during the day, it may not be the ideal choice for those seeking a premium dining experience, exceptional customer service, or authentic, high-quality Chinese cuisine with extended shelf life.