NO. 1 Wok

Welcome to NO. 1 Wok, a local gem in the Chinese Restaurant category, conveniently situated at 10175 Tamiami Trl # 1141 in Punta Gorda, Florida (zip code 33950). Unlike some solely Chinese eateries, NO. 1 Wok distinguishes itself by also offering Thai cuisine, providing a broader spectrum of Asian flavors to the local community.

From the outside, NO. 1 Wok might resemble a typical strip mall Chinese restaurant. However, it's what comes out of the kitchen that truly sets it apart. The establishment features a modest dine-in area with a few tables and a counter displaying the classic photos of Chinese dishes that many are familiar with. Interestingly, the kitchen area is open to view, allowing customers a glimpse into the food preparation process, which often suggests a commitment to freshness and transparency.

NO. 1 Wok primarily operates as a takeout-focused restaurant, evident from the reported brisk takeout lunch business. However, they do offer the option to dine in for those who prefer to eat their meals on-site. While not explicitly stated, given the nature of many similar establishments, it's reasonable to assume they might also offer delivery services, although one customer noted that delivery can take a little longer, possibly due to their popularity. To confirm their delivery radius and estimated times, it would be best to contact them directly at (941) 833-0299 or +1 941-833-0299.

A significant feature of NO. 1 Wok is its expansive menu, going beyond standard Chinese fare to include Thai dishes. This dual offering allows customers to explore a wider range of Asian culinary delights. The restaurant also advertises itself as "Chinese N Thai," emphasizing this unique combination. This suggests that they likely have chefs skilled in both cuisines, offering a more comprehensive Asian dining experience than restaurants focusing solely on one type of cuisine.

One of the highlights mentioned by a customer is their impressive selection of Lunch Specials. Priced affordably between $8.79 and $9.49, these specials include a choice of a can of soda or an egg roll, along with pork fried rice. This presents a very attractive option for those looking for a quick and budget-friendly midday meal. The Chicken with Mixed Vegetables, priced at $8.79 as a lunch special, was specifically praised for its generous portion size, being packed in a large foam container with a substantial amount of chicken and a nice variety of crisp-cooked vegetables in a "whitish sauce." The customer who ordered it thoroughly enjoyed the dish and finished the entire serving.

Beyond the lunch specials, NO. 1 Wok also offers a variety of soups. One reviewer highly recommended the Large Hot and Sour Soup, priced at $6.29 for a quart (and $3.99 for a pint). This soup was described as "outstanding," with a dark and silky texture and loaded with ingredients like tofu, celery, carrot, and mushrooms. The flavor profile was noted as being exceptionally well-balanced, with a pleasant level of sourness and a hint of ginger and possibly sugar, without being overly vinegary or peppery. The reviewer was also impressed by the soup's temperature, suggesting it was served piping hot. The soup came with a bag of crispy fried wonton strips, a popular accompaniment for hot and sour soup.

Another notable aspect of NO. 1 Wok is their willingness to accommodate customer requests, even for items not explicitly listed on the menu. One satisfied customer mentioned that they were able to order crab rangoon even though it wasn't on the regular menu (based on their request for cream cheese wontons). This level of flexibility and customer service is a significant positive, indicating a desire to please their clientele.

The menu at NO. 1 Wok also includes other interesting options, such as duck dishes, which one of the "very personable gentleman at the counter" mentioned were quite popular. This suggests that they might offer more specialized or authentic dishes beyond the typical takeout fare. Additionally, the availability of nine other soup varieties indicates a good range of choices for soup lovers.

For the convenience of their customers, NO. 1 Wok has a website where they openly display their prices. This transparency is commendable and allows potential customers to browse their menu and plan their orders in advance. The fact that they are "not afraid to post their prices" suggests confidence in their value and quality.

In summary, NO. 1 Wok in Punta Gorda, FL, offers a compelling option for those seeking both Chinese and Thai cuisine. While the ambiance might be typical of a strip mall eatery, the quality and freshness of the food appear to be significant strengths. The generous Lunch Specials offer excellent value, and the Hot and Sour Soup has received high praise. The willingness to accommodate special requests and the presence of popular items like duck dishes further enhance their appeal. Although delivery might take a bit longer, the overall consensus is that the food is "well worth it." With a comprehensive menu and transparent pricing on their website, NO. 1 Wok stands out as a favorite among local Chinese food enthusiasts in Punta Gorda and is certainly worth a visit for those looking for a satisfying and flavorful Asian meal.