New Shanghai Bistro Tates Creek Center

Welcome to New Shanghai Bistro Tates Creek Center, a Chinese Restaurant nestled in the Tates Creek Centre at 4101 Tates Creek Centre Dr #118 in Lexington, Kentucky. Often described by locals as a "hidden gem," New Shanghai Bistro offers a unique and satisfying dining experience for those craving authentic Chinese cuisine. Conveniently located next to Kroger and other businesses in the strip mall, it serves as a go-to spot for shoppers and area residents alike.

One of the standout features of New Shanghai Bistro is its "very quaint look and feel," suggesting a cozy and inviting atmosphere for diners who choose to eat in. While one reviewer noted that the interior presentation might not be the most elaborate, they quickly advised not to let it distract from the truly exceptional food. This indicates that while the ambiance might be understated, the focus is firmly on the quality and taste of the dishes served.

The service at New Shanghai Bistro is consistently praised, particularly the friendliness and attentiveness of the lady who takes orders. Customers appreciate her genuine interest in understanding their preferences, including spice tolerance and any dislikes. This personalized approach makes New Shanghai Bistro an excellent option for picky eaters or those with specific dietary needs, as the staff are willing to accommodate individual requests. This level of care in taking orders contributes significantly to a positive customer experience.

A truly unique aspect of New Shanghai Bistro is the visual menu displayed on their wall, featuring pictures of what are assumed to be every single dish they offer. This is a feature that has surprised and impressed many customers, as it provides a clear visual representation of each meal. This can be particularly helpful for those unfamiliar with certain Chinese dishes or who appreciate seeing what their order will look like before it arrives. It adds an element of transparency and can make the ordering process more engaging and informative.

When it comes to the food, New Shanghai Bistro receives rave reviews for its quality, freshness, and generous portions. Customers frequently mention that the food is served "HOT," emphasizing its freshly prepared nature. One reviewer humorously recounted their eagerness leading to a burnt tongue, advising others to blow on their food before indulging. The consensus is that everything ordered is "good" and "fresh," indicating a commitment to using quality ingredients and preparing meals to a high standard.

The portion sizes at New Shanghai Bistro are another significant draw. Contrary to some comments about pricing, reviewers point out that the portions are substantial, often large enough to feed two people or guarantee leftovers. This "double the portion" size justifies the price point for many, as customers feel they are getting excellent value for their money. The generous servings make New Shanghai Bistro a great option for sharing or for those who appreciate having a second meal to enjoy later.

The menu appears to cater to those who enjoy spicy food, with one reviewer specifically recommending the "Ma La Chicken Spicy" and describing it as the "best Chinese food I've had in Lexington." This suggests that New Shanghai Bistro offers well-executed spicy dishes that are particularly flavorful and satisfying for those who prefer a bit of heat in their meals. However, the staff's attentiveness to spice tolerance indicates that they also cater to those who prefer milder options.

It is important to address a past negative review mentioned by a loyal customer, which made serious allegations of racism against the staff. This long-term patron, who identifies as a Person of Color along with their family, vehemently refutes these claims based on their own positive experiences with the staff. They urge others to disregard these negative reviews and try New Shanghai Bistro for themselves, emphasizing the consistent friendliness they have encountered. This perspective offers a crucial counterpoint and suggests that the alleged incident may not be representative of the typical customer interaction at the restaurant.

In terms of services, New Shanghai Bistro primarily offers dine-in and takeout options. The positive reviews from both those eating at the restaurant and those taking food to go indicate that they maintain their quality regardless of how the food is enjoyed. While delivery services are not explicitly mentioned in the provided reviews, customers interested in this option may want to inquire when calling to place an order.

The operating hours of New Shanghai Bistro are also provided: they are open every day except Monday. This is important information for local users to plan their visits accordingly. The consistent operating schedule for six days a week makes it a reliable option for satisfying Chinese food cravings throughout the week.

Currently, there is no specific promotional information available in the provided reviews. To stay informed about any potential special offers, lunch specials, or new menu items, local users may want to visit the restaurant or inquire when placing an order. Given the positive feedback regarding portion sizes and value, customers often feel that the regular pricing is already quite reasonable.

In conclusion, New Shanghai Bistro Tates Creek Center in Lexington, KY, offers a delightful Chinese dining experience characterized by friendly and attentive service, generous portions of fresh and delicious food (including excellent spicy options), and a unique picture menu. Despite a somewhat understated interior, the quality of the cuisine and the warmth of the staff have made it a beloved "hidden gem" for many locals. Open daily except Monday, New Shanghai Bistro is a must-try for anyone in the Tates Creek area with a craving for exceptional Chinese food. Be sure to disregard any unrepresentative negative reviews and experience the quality for yourself.