Orient Express

Orient Express is a Chinese restaurant located at 2475 San Ramon Valley Blvd Ste 5 in San Ramon, California, catering to those seeking generous portions of Chinese cuisine at budget-friendly prices. Based on customer reviews, Orient Express operates with a focus on providing substantial quantities of food, particularly for takeout, in a setting described as "very old school." For local users in San Ramon looking for a no-frills, value-oriented Chinese meal, Orient Express presents itself as a viable option.

One recurring theme in the customer feedback is the exceptional value offered by Orient Express. Multiple reviewers highlighted the large amount of food provided for the price paid. One enthusiastic customer exclaimed, "So much food for the amount u pay, they Pile it on," emphasizing the restaurant's generosity with portion sizes. This sentiment suggests that diners can expect to receive a significant quantity of food, making it a potentially economical choice, especially for those with a hearty appetite or looking to share a meal.

The pricing structure, as mentioned by one reviewer, further underscores the affordability of Orient Express. They noted that a 2-item combination plate typically costs around $12 for most dishes, which is perceived as a good deal. Even when opting for seafood like prawns, which incurs an additional charge of "another $2+ more," the overall cost is still considered a "steal of a deal." This pricing strategy likely contributes to the restaurant's popularity among value-conscious customers in the San Ramon area.

In terms of the dining experience, Orient Express is characterized as a "definitely a togo spot" with a "very old school" ambiance. This suggests that the restaurant may prioritize takeout service, and the environment might be more functional and less focused on elaborate décor. The "old school" vibe could appeal to those who appreciate a traditional, unpretentious setting or who are primarily interested in the food and value rather than a modern dining atmosphere. The reviewer also mentioned digging the "abundance vibe," which likely refers to the generous portions contributing to a sense of getting a lot for their money.

While the value and portion sizes are consistently praised, the taste of the food is described as "standard 'fast Chinese food from the steam table.'" This indicates that the cuisine is likely prepared in a quick-service style, with dishes kept warm on a steam table for efficient serving, particularly for takeout orders. While this method prioritizes speed and affordability, it might not offer the same level of culinary finesse as dishes cooked to order. However, for those seeking familiar and convenient Chinese-American fare, this style can be perfectly satisfactory.

One reviewer offered a rating of 3.5 out of 5, explicitly stating that the taste is typical of "fast Chinese food from the steam table" but acknowledging the "fairly good price and portion size (value)." This balanced assessment suggests that while the food might not be exceptional in terms of gourmet quality, the combination of price and quantity makes it a worthwhile option, particularly when compared to other fast-food Chinese chains like Panda Express, which Orient Express reportedly "beats at the very least."

Another customer echoed this sentiment, stating that "the taste isn't going to blow anyone away (in a good way or a bad way) but everyone will probably be full and their wallet will be ok." This further reinforces the idea that Orient Express provides a reliable option for a filling and affordable meal, even if the culinary experience is not particularly memorable or innovative. For those simply looking for a satisfying and budget-friendly Chinese meal, Orient Express appears to deliver on these aspects.

Among the dishes mentioned, the "Salted chicken was probably the best dish we got." This provides a specific recommendation and suggests that while the overall style might be standard, there are individual dishes that stand out as being particularly enjoyable. This could be a dish worth trying for first-time visitors based on this positive feedback.

Given the emphasis on takeout and the "old school" description, it is likely that services such as dine-in are available but might be secondary to the takeout business. Specific details about the restaurant's environment, such as seating capacity or décor, are not provided in the reviews, but it can be inferred that functionality and efficiency are likely prioritized over elaborate aesthetics.

Information regarding specific promotional offers or services like delivery is not available in the provided reviews. Local users interested in Orient Express are encouraged to contact the restaurant directly at (925) 854-2243 or +1 925-854-2243 to inquire about their menu, hours of operation, takeout and delivery options (if any), and any current specials or promotions they might be offering.

In conclusion, Orient Express in San Ramon offers a straightforward approach to Chinese cuisine, focusing on providing generous portions of standard "fast Chinese food from the steam table" at very affordable prices. It is particularly highlighted as a good option for takeout and for those seeking value for their money. While the taste might not be exceptional, it is generally considered satisfactory, and the substantial portions ensure a filling meal. The "old school" ambiance suggests a no-frills environment where the focus is on quantity and affordability. Local residents looking for a budget-friendly Chinese meal with generous servings should consider Orient Express, keeping in mind that it is primarily geared towards takeout and offers familiar, quick-service style dishes. Contacting the restaurant directly for more details on their menu and services is recommended.