The Best Chinese Food in Austin, Texas: Top Restaurants and Must-Try Dishes

Best Chinese Restaurants in Austin

Austin, Texas is known for its diverse culinary scene, but one area that has recently seen a rise in popularity is Chinese food. Whether you're craving traditional Cantonese dim sum or spicy Szechuan hot pot, Austin has something to offer for every Chinese food enthusiast. Here are some of the best Chinese restaurants in the city:

1. The Chinese Lantern

Located in the heart of downtown Austin, The Chinese Lantern is a fan favorite for its authentic flavors and wide range of dishes. Known for its beautifully crafted Peking Duck and savory dumplings, this restaurant offers a traditional Chinese dining experience with a modern Austin twist.

2. Din Ho Chinese BBQ

If you’re a fan of barbecue, Din Ho Chinese BBQ should be at the top of your list. Known for its Hong Kong-style roasted meats, including duck, pork, and chicken, this place brings a flavor-packed experience that will keep you coming back.

Authentic Chinese Cuisine in Austin

Austin offers a variety of Chinese food, but for those seeking truly authentic dishes, it's important to know where to look. Authentic Chinese cuisine often goes beyond the typical Americanized Chinese dishes like General Tso’s chicken or egg rolls. Here are a few places to get a genuine taste of China:

1. Szechuan House

Szechuan House specializes in the bold and fiery flavors of Szechuan cuisine. The menu features dishes like spicy mapo tofu, kung pao chicken, and dan dan noodles, all brimming with the signature numbing spice that defines Szechuan food. If you're a spice lover, this place will be a real treat.

2. Bamboo Garden

Bamboo Garden is known for offering a wide range of regional Chinese dishes that you won’t find anywhere else in Austin. Their hot pot is a crowd favorite, allowing you to customize your broth and ingredients, providing a truly authentic and interactive dining experience.

Must-Try Chinese Dishes in Austin

Every Chinese food lover has their go-to dishes, but when in Austin, you need to try some of the local favorites that stand out:

1. Dim Sum

Dim sum is a must-try when exploring Chinese food in Austin. From steamed buns to shrimp dumplings, dim sum offers a fun and interactive way to sample a variety of flavors. The Chinese Lantern and Din Ho Chinese BBQ are two places known for serving exceptional dim sum.

2. Hot Pot

Hot pot has become increasingly popular in Austin. Bamboo Garden offers one of the best hot pot experiences in the city, with a range of broths and fresh ingredients. It’s perfect for sharing with friends or family, and it’s a great way to experience authentic Chinese communal dining.

Local Favorites for Chinese Food in Austin

Local Austinites have their favorite spots for Chinese food, and you can’t go wrong by checking out these hidden gems:

1. Salt & Time

Known for its unique fusion of Chinese ingredients with local Texan flavors, Salt & Time offers a diverse menu with a creative twist on traditional Chinese food. Their pork belly bao buns are a crowd favorite, and the flavor combinations are a delightful surprise.

2. Tso’s Kitchen

While a relatively new addition to Austin’s food scene, Tso’s Kitchen has quickly garnered a loyal following. This casual spot serves up Chinese-American favorites like sesame chicken and beef and broccoli, but with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients.

Finding Hidden Gems for Chinese Food in Austin

Sometimes, the best Chinese food can be found off the beaten path. Keep an eye out for smaller, family-owned restaurants that offer unique regional dishes or hidden local spots with incredible flavors. These places often provide a more intimate dining experience with a personalized touch.

For those who prefer to explore, we recommend visiting food blogs and forums to discover the latest hotspots for Chinese food in Austin. You never know, you might stumble upon your next favorite restaurant!