Tea House Chinese Restaurant

Located at 2425 University Ave SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414, Tea House Chinese Restaurant has established itself as a significant culinary destination in the Twin Cities, celebrated for its commitment to authentic Chinese flavors and exceptional dining experiences. Easily reachable at (612) 331-8866 or +1 612-331-8866, Tea House is a go-to spot for those seeking genuine Chinese cuisine, from daily meals to special occasions. The restaurant has garnered attention for its unique dishes, drawing customers who appreciate a departure from more Americanized Chinese fare, and a focus on regional specialties, particularly Sichuan cuisine and dim sum.

The environment at Tea House Chinese Restaurant is described as a "polished spot with Asian decor touches," evoking a sense of elegance and authenticity. While some patrons note it can be "a little loud and busy place," especially during peak hours, this often signifies its popularity. The restaurant strives to maintain a welcoming atmosphere, with thoughtful acoustics designed to allow diners to converse comfortably even when crowded. It features "fancy coffered ceilings, antique timber chairs, and private, curtained booths," creating an attractive space suitable for various occasions, from casual late-night suppers to celebratory dinners. The lighting is consistently described as flattering, contributing to a pleasant dining ambiance. A notable convenience for diners in Minneapolis is the availability of a "free parking lot," which is a significant advantage in this urban area.

The service at Tea House Chinese Restaurant is consistently praised by customers. Reviewers frequently highlight the staff as "outstanding" and "really nice." Patrons have noted that they are "greeted very kindly" upon arrival, and servers are "very attentive" even during busy periods. This level of attentiveness and hospitality contributes significantly to the overall positive dining experience. In instances where a dish might not meet a customer's expectation, the staff demonstrates excellent problem-solving, as evidenced by a server taking a disappointing dish off the bill. This commitment to customer satisfaction underscores Tea House's dedication to providing a pleasant and accommodating dining experience.

Tea House's menu is a broad exploration of Chinese regional cuisines, with a strong emphasis on authentic Sichuan dishes, alongside dim sum and other specialties. Many customers laud the "Food" as "outstanding." Some of the highly recommended dishes include:

• Beef Rolls: Described as "fresh and light," indicating a well-prepared appetizer.
• Soup Dumplings (Xiao Long Bao): Generally considered "good," though one preference noted a desire for thinner skin. The accompanying chili, garlic, and onion sauce often elevates these dumplings.
• Braised Beef with Tofu Skin: Praised for being "melt in your mouth" with a texture of tofu that "went well with the meal."
• Fried Pork Ribs: A definite standout, described as "Soooo juicy and had the perfect amount of crisp!" with a highly addictive sauce.
• Chung King Fish and Serrano Beef: Mentioned by loyal customers as favorites.
• Cumin Lamb: A popular item, often described as a delight to find.
• Scalded Chili Noodles (You Po La Zi Mian): A highly recommended traditional street food from Shaanxi Province, known for its chewy noodles, chili oil, and flavorful toppings.
• Szechuan Cold Noodles (Sichuan Liang Mian): A classic cold street food flavored with chili oil and sesame paste.

The menu also includes a wide array of other dishes, such as various lo mein and chow mein options (chicken, beef, pork, shrimp, vegetable), a selection of soups (Chicken Wonton Soup, Homemade Hot & Sour Dumpling soup), and numerous appetizers like Cheese Wontons, Pork Egg Rolls, Chicken Potstickers, and Szechuan Dumplings in Chili Oil. Unique items like Szechuan Mala Fries and Onion Pork Buns also showcase the restaurant's diverse offerings. Vegan and vegetarian options are available, with staff knowledgeable about accommodating dietary needs and even veganizing meat dishes upon request, making it inclusive for various diets.

While many dishes receive high praise, some customer feedback indicates areas for improvement or simply a matter of personal preference. For instance, the "Lamb noodles" were disappointing for one customer, leading to them being removed from the bill. "Fried buns with pork" and "Dragon roll bun with pork" were found to be "difficult to eat, and not really flavorful," and "not much flavor" respectively. Some appetizers, like "fries," were deemed "interesting, but nothing amazing." These instances highlight that while the overall quality is high, not every dish may resonate with every palate, and consistency can be a factor. The occasional sentiment that some dishes are "a little loud and busy place" might also imply that the bustling atmosphere can sometimes detract from the detailed appreciation of the food for some diners.

Tea House Chinese Restaurant strategically positions itself as a place for "authentic Szechuan food" and other regional Chinese specialties, making it a distinctive choice compared to more generic Chinese-American establishments. Its longevity (established in 1998 in Plymouth, then expanding and becoming a forefront of genuine Chinese restaurants in Minneapolis/St. Paul area) and consistent positive reviews, including being voted one of the best Chinese restaurants by Minneapolis St. Paul Magazine, serve as strong promotional points. The restaurant encourages reservations, especially for busy times like weekend brunch, which is popular with both foreign students and local families. The convenience of a free parking lot in Minneapolis is a significant draw, often highlighted by satisfied customers. Furthermore, the option for takeout and online ordering through platforms like DoorDash and Uber Eats extends its reach and convenience, allowing customers to enjoy their favorite dishes from the comfort of their homes. Tea House also likely leverages its diverse menu, including both traditional and more adventurous dishes, to appeal to a broad customer base seeking an authentic culinary journey.

In conclusion, Tea House Chinese Restaurant at 2425 University Ave SE, Minneapolis, MN, offers a compelling and generally highly-regarded dining experience. It stands out for its commitment to authentic Chinese regional cuisine, particularly Sichuan, served in a polished and welcoming environment. The consistently "outstanding" service, attentive staff, and convenient free parking are strong attributes. While individual preferences may vary on certain dishes, the overall consensus points to a restaurant that delivers "Great Food" and a memorable culinary journey, solidifying its reputation as a premier destination for Chinese food in Minneapolis.