Imperial Garden Chinese Restaurant

Imperial Garden Chinese Restaurant is located at 7713 Lead Mine Rd #15 in Raleigh, North Carolina (zip code 27615). They can be contacted at (919) 846-1988 or via their mobile number +1 919-846-1988 for inquiries or to place orders. As a "Chinese Restaurant" serving the Raleigh community, Imperial Garden aims to offer a dine-in and potentially takeout experience with a menu of Chinese-American cuisine. However, recent customer reviews provide a mixed assessment of the establishment, highlighting both unique aspects and areas needing improvement.

An overall rating of 4.9 out of 10 from one detailed review suggests that while Imperial Garden might have some appealing qualities, there are significant shortcomings in service and food execution that impact the overall dining experience. This review indicates that there is considerable room for improvement across various aspects of what the restaurant offers.

Regarding the atmosphere, Imperial Garden is noted for its "unique interior design" featuring distinctive panda-themed tables, which add a touch of character to the dine-in area. This could be a memorable and appealing feature for some customers. However, the front desk setup is described as giving off more of a "takeout vibe," which might create a sense of confusion or misaligned expectations for first-time dine-in visitors. This suggests a potential disconnect between the ambiance of the dining area and the initial impression upon entering the restaurant.

The service at Imperial Garden received a rating of 3.4 out of 10, indicating significant issues. The review noted that the service appeared overwhelmed even with a "manageable crowd," pointing to possible inefficiencies or organizational problems among the staff. Furthermore, there were complaints about the delivery of food being delayed, which can negatively impact the dining experience. A specific issue mentioned was the complimentary wonton shells provided, which were described as stale and unappealing, detracting from the overall meal.

The food at Imperial Garden received varying ratings across different categories:

• Appetizers (4.9/10): The appetizers were described as "underwhelming," with a quality resembling typical takeout rather than what might be expected from a dine-in restaurant. The reviewer found nothing in the selection to be particularly noteworthy or distinctive.
• General Gau (5.1/10): This dish was deemed "competently prepared" with good quality chicken. However, it lacked a standout element that would elevate it above average. The chicken was reportedly not as crispy as desired, and the inclusion of only green peppers was considered "uninspired." While the flavor was described as bold, it did not surpass expectations.
• Pork Fried Rice (5.9/10): This dish was rated slightly above average, featuring a generous mix of vegetables and egg, which enhanced both the texture and flavor. However, the pork itself lacked distinctiveness, blending too subtly into the background without making a significant impression.

In terms of value, the meal was rated 5.7 out of 10. A total cost of $51 before tax for three people, which included leftovers to take home, was considered "reasonable value for money" given the overall quality and quantity of food served. This suggests that while the food and service might have shortcomings, the pricing is perceived as fair relative to what is provided.

Another customer shared a more direct and negative experience specifically regarding lunch. They ordered ribs, noting that they were not boneless as perhaps expected. The ribs were described as having "no taste," being "very bland," and "very chewy," indicating significant issues with the preparation and quality of this dish. This customer also ordered chicken with broccoli, which they found to have hard and chewy broccoli that was also "very bland" and lacking in taste. For this reviewer, the only positive aspect of the meal was the water with lemon, highlighting a severely disappointing food experience.

Considering these reviews, Imperial Garden Chinese Restaurant in Raleigh presents a mixed bag. The unique panda-themed decor might be an appealing feature for some diners. However, there are significant concerns raised about the service, including potential inefficiency and delays, as well as the quality and execution of the food. Appetizers are described as underwhelming, the General Gau as average with room for improvement in crispiness and ingredient variety, and the pork fried rice as slightly above average but lacking distinctive pork flavor. The ribs and chicken with broccoli were particularly criticized for being bland and poorly textured.

As a Chinese restaurant, Imperial Garden likely offers a broader menu of Chinese-American cuisine beyond the dishes specifically reviewed. This would typically include:

• Appetizers: In addition to the underwhelming selection mentioned, they might offer standard options like spring rolls, egg rolls, dumplings, and crab Rangoon.
• Soups: Common choices such as wonton soup, egg drop soup, and hot and sour soup are usually available.
• Main Entrees: A variety of dishes featuring chicken (including General Gau and chicken with broccoli), beef, pork (including ribs and the pork in the fried rice), and seafood, prepared with different sauces and vegetables, are expected.
• Rice and Noodles: Including various forms of fried rice (like the pork fried rice reviewed), white rice, and options like lo mein and chow mein.
• Vegetable Dishes: A selection of vegetable-based dishes for vegetarian customers or as side options is also likely offered.
• Beverages: Including standard drinks like water (noted positively by one reviewer), soft drinks, and tea.

The provided information does not include any details about current promotions at Imperial Garden Chinese Restaurant. Local restaurants often offer lunch specials, combination meals, or discounts for certain order amounts or days of the week. Without any mention of such offers in the reviews, we cannot comment on whether Imperial Garden currently provides any promotional incentives. Residents interested in potential deals should inquire directly with the restaurant.

In conclusion, Imperial Garden Chinese Restaurant in Raleigh, NC, offers a unique panda-themed dining environment. However, recent customer reviews suggest significant concerns regarding service efficiency, food quality, and execution across various dishes. While the value for money was deemed reasonable by one reviewer, others reported bland and poorly prepared food. Potential customers should weigh the unique ambiance against the reported issues with service and food quality when considering dining at Imperial Garden. For the most current information on their menu, services (dine-in or takeout), and any potential improvements or promotions, it is recommended to contact Imperial Garden Chinese Restaurant directly at (919) 846-1988 or +1 919-846-1988.