Introduction
Craving that perfect General Tso’s Chicken, the comforting warmth of wonton soup, or the satisfying spice of mapo tofu after a long day in the Silicon Forest? Hillsboro, Oregon, might be known for its tech industry, but it also boasts a surprisingly diverse and vibrant culinary landscape. And when it comes to Chinese food, Hillsboro offers a delicious array of options, from traditional Cantonese fare to fiery Sichuan specialties.
This isn’t just a list of restaurants; it’s a local’s guide to finding the very best Chinese food Hillsboro has to offer. We’ve considered taste, authenticity, value, atmosphere, and that intangible “x-factor” that makes a dining experience truly memorable. So, prepare your taste buds and get ready to discover your new favorite Chinese food spot in Hillsboro!
Golden Dragon: A Hillsboro Institution
Nestled on Southeast Baseline Street, Golden Dragon has been a cornerstone of the Hillsboro Chinese food scene for over two decades. This family-owned and operated restaurant exudes a warm, inviting atmosphere from the moment you step inside. Forget the trendy, modern décor; Golden Dragon is all about classic, comforting Chinese dishes made with time-honored recipes passed down through generations.
What makes Golden Dragon one of the best Chinese food Hillsboro has to offer? It’s their unwavering commitment to quality ingredients and authentic flavors. You won’t find any shortcuts here. Everything is made fresh daily, from their crispy spring rolls to their flavorful sauces. The portions are generous, the prices are reasonable, and the service is always friendly and attentive.
Must-Try Dishes
If you’re a fan of classic Chinese-American dishes, you absolutely must try their orange chicken. Forget the overly sweet, syrupy versions you find elsewhere. Golden Dragon’s orange chicken is perfectly balanced, with a crispy, lightly battered chicken coated in a tangy, citrusy sauce that’s just the right amount of sweet and sour. The sauce clings beautifully to the chicken, and each bite is an explosion of flavor.
Another standout dish is their cashew chicken. Tender pieces of chicken are stir-fried with crisp vegetables, crunchy cashews, and a savory brown sauce. The dish is both satisfying and healthy, and the variety of textures makes it incredibly enjoyable.
Golden Dragon also offers a selection of traditional Chinese dishes, including mapo tofu, twice-cooked pork, and kung pao chicken. They also cater well to special dietary requirements offering many gluten-free options. You can dine in or take-away.
Golden Dragon offers excellent value and is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week, making it a convenient choice for any occasion. One satisfied customer on Yelp raves, “Best Chinese food in Hillsboro! The food is always fresh and delicious, and the service is top-notch.”
Sichuan House: Spice Up Your Life
For those craving the bold and fiery flavors of Sichuan cuisine, look no further than Sichuan House on Northeast Cornell Road. This unassuming restaurant packs a serious punch when it comes to authentic Sichuan dishes. If you’re not afraid of a little heat, this is the place to experience some of the best Chinese food Hillsboro has to offer.
What sets Sichuan House apart is their use of genuine Sichuan peppercorns, which create a unique tingling sensation on the tongue known as “ma la.” This is a hallmark of Sichuan cuisine, and it’s what gives their dishes their distinctive flavor. They source high-quality ingredients, and you can really taste the freshness in every bite.
Signature Sichuan Dishes
Their mapo tofu is a must-try. Silken tofu is simmered in a spicy, savory sauce with ground pork and Sichuan peppercorns. The dish is intensely flavorful, with a perfect balance of heat, umami, and a hint of sweetness. It’s a true Sichuan classic, and Sichuan House does it exceptionally well.
Another popular dish is their dan dan noodles. These chewy noodles are tossed in a spicy sesame sauce with ground pork, preserved vegetables, and a generous sprinkle of chili oil. The noodles are incredibly addictive, and you’ll find yourself craving them long after you’ve finished your meal. They are amazing to share.
Sichuan House also offers a variety of other Sichuan specialties, including dry-fried green beans, water-boiled fish, and spicy cumin lamb. Be sure to ask your server for recommendations if you’re feeling adventurous.
Prices are competitive, and the portions are generous. Sichuan House is open for lunch and dinner, but be prepared for a wait during peak hours, as it’s a popular spot with locals. As one Google reviewer put it, “The real deal Sichuan food! Spicy, flavorful, and authentic. Definitely worth the wait.”
Shanghai Wok: Modern Flavors and Fresh Ingredients
If you’re looking for a more modern take on Chinese cuisine, Shanghai Wok on Southeast Tualatin Valley Highway is a great option. This restaurant offers a sleek, contemporary dining experience with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients and innovative flavor combinations.
Shanghai Wok stands out for its commitment to using locally sourced produce whenever possible. They also offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, making it a great choice for diners with dietary restrictions. The menu features a mix of classic Chinese dishes and more creative, fusion-inspired creations.
Highlights from the Menu
Their honey walnut shrimp is a crowd-pleaser. Crispy fried shrimp are tossed in a creamy honey sauce and topped with candied walnuts. It’s a sweet and savory treat that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. The shrimp are perfectly cooked, and the honey sauce is not overly sweet, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
Another popular dish is their Mongolian beef. Thinly sliced beef is stir-fried with onions and scallions in a rich, savory sauce. The beef is incredibly tender, and the sauce is packed with flavor. It’s served over crispy rice noodles, which add a nice textural contrast.
Shanghai Wok also has an impressive selection of dim sum items, available during lunch hours. Be sure to try their steamed pork buns, shrimp dumplings, and vegetable spring rolls. They also offer a full bar with a selection of wines, beers, and cocktails.
The prices are slightly higher than some of the other Chinese restaurants in Hillsboro, but the quality of the food and the atmosphere make it worth the splurge. Shanghai Wok is open for lunch and dinner, and they also offer takeout and delivery services. A customer review online commented, “Great atmosphere, delicious food, and excellent service. A perfect spot for a date night or a special occasion.”
Asian Star: A Hidden Gem for Value
Tucked away on Southwest Baseline Street, Asian Star might not look like much from the outside, but don’t let appearances fool you. This unassuming restaurant is a hidden gem for those seeking delicious and affordable Chinese food. They specialize in Cantonese cuisine.
Asian Star is known for its generous portions, low prices, and friendly service. It’s a great place to grab a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner without breaking the bank. While the décor is simple, the food is consistently good, and that’s what really matters.
Budget-Friendly Favorites
Their sweet and sour pork is a classic done right. Tender pieces of pork are battered and fried to a golden brown, then tossed in a tangy sweet and sour sauce with pineapple, bell peppers, and onions. It’s a comforting and familiar dish that’s sure to please.
Another popular choice is their chow mein. Soft noodles are stir-fried with vegetables and your choice of meat or tofu. It’s a simple but satisfying dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Asian Star also offers a variety of other Chinese dishes, including fried rice, egg foo young, and chop suey. They offer very good value. The hours vary so be sure to check before heading over. Many online reviewers talk about how fast and attentive the staff are.
Hunan Garden: Authentic Hunan Cuisine
For a taste of Hunan province, known for its spicy and smoky flavors, Hunan Garden on Southeast Oak Street is the place to go. This restaurant prides itself on offering authentic Hunan dishes that are packed with flavor and heat.
Hunan cuisine is similar to Sichuan cuisine, but it tends to be less oily and more focused on fresh chili peppers. Hunan Garden uses a variety of authentic Hunan ingredients, including fermented black beans, dried chili peppers, and preserved vegetables.
Spicy and Smoky Specialties
Their Hunan-style shredded pork is a standout dish. Thinly sliced pork is stir-fried with chili peppers, garlic, and ginger in a savory and slightly smoky sauce. The dish is intensely flavorful and not for the faint of heart.
Another popular dish is their Chairman Mao’s braised pork. This dish features tender pieces of pork belly braised in a sweet and savory sauce with star anise, cinnamon, and other aromatic spices. It’s a rich and decadent dish that’s perfect for a special occasion.
Hunan Garden also offers a variety of other Hunan specialties, including stir-fried chicken with peanuts, spicy eggplant, and smoked tofu. They are closed Sundays.
Tips for Ordering Chinese Food in Hillsboro
When exploring the best Chinese food Hillsboro has to offer, keep these tips in mind:
- Consider Dietary Restrictions: Many Chinese restaurants in Hillsboro offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Be sure to ask your server about modifications or substitutions.
- Explore Different Regional Cuisines: Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and try different styles of Chinese food, such as Sichuan, Hunan, or Cantonese.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Recommendations: The staff at most Chinese restaurants are happy to recommend their favorite dishes.
- Check for Specials and Lunch Deals: Many Chinese restaurants in Hillsboro offer lunch specials and discounts.
- Ordering Online: Lots of these restaurants have online ordering or use delivery apps. It’s worth checking before you head out.
Conclusion
From the classic Cantonese dishes at Golden Dragon to the fiery Sichuan specialties at Sichuan House and the modern flavors of Shanghai Wok, Hillsboro’s Chinese food scene offers something for everyone. We hope this guide has helped you discover some new favorites.
So, what are you waiting for? Head out and explore the best Chinese food Hillsboro has to offer! And be sure to share your experiences in the comments below. We’d love to hear about your favorite dishes and restaurants. Happy eating!
