Introduction
Craving that perfect plate of General Tso’s chicken, where the sauce clings to the perfectly crisp pieces with a satisfying sweet and spicy kick? Or perhaps you’re longing for the delicate flavors of expertly crafted dim sum, served fresh from the steamer? Maybe you desire authentic, hand-pulled noodles swimming in a rich, savory broth? Finding truly exceptional Chinese food can sometimes feel like a quest. But fret not, food lovers, because your search for the best Chinese food in Burbank ends here.
Burbank, California, famously known as the “Media Capital of the World,” boasts more than just studios and sound stages. Nestled amidst the bustling entertainment industry lies a diverse and burgeoning culinary landscape, and within that landscape, a treasure trove of Chinese restaurants awaits discovery. From long-standing family-owned establishments serving traditional Cantonese fare to modern fusion eateries pushing the boundaries of flavor, Burbank’s Chinese food scene offers something for every palate and craving.
This guide aims to be your definitive roadmap to the most delicious and authentic Chinese dining experiences Burbank has to offer. We’ve scoured the city, sampled countless dishes, and spoken with local foodies to curate a list of the very best, considering not only the authenticity and quality of the food but also the ambiance, service, and overall value for your money. We want you to find not only the best meal, but the best *experience*.
So, prepare your chopsticks and sharpen your appetite, because we’re about to embark on a culinary journey through Burbank’s most exceptional Chinese restaurants.
Dim Sum Delights in Burbank
No exploration of Chinese cuisine is complete without indulging in the art of dim sum. These bite-sized morsels, traditionally served with tea, offer a delightful way to sample a variety of flavors and textures. Luckily, Burbank has a gem for those seeking authentic dim sum experiences: Jasmine Tea House.
Jasmine Tea House is a local favorite known for its traditional Cantonese-style dim sum, expertly prepared and served fresh throughout the day. Steaming baskets of *siu mai* (pork dumplings), *har gow* (shrimp dumplings), and *char siu bao* (barbecue pork buns) emerge constantly from the kitchen, ensuring that every bite is piping hot and bursting with flavor. The *siu mai* is particularly noteworthy, the pork filling being juicy and well-seasoned, encased in a delicate, translucent wrapper. The *har gow*, on the other hand, offer a clean, fresh taste, the plump shrimp complemented by a hint of ginger and scallion. And those *char siu bao*… the sweet, savory pork filling, glazed to perfection, is encased in a fluffy, slightly sweet bun that melts in your mouth.
Beyond the classics, Jasmine Tea House also offers a variety of more adventurous dim sum options, such as chicken feet (braised until incredibly tender) and tripe (prepared with a flavorful black bean sauce). The restaurant itself has a relaxed, inviting atmosphere, perfect for a casual lunch or a leisurely weekend brunch. Prices are reasonable, making Jasmine Tea House an accessible and enjoyable option for dim sum lovers of all budgets. Their staff are all local and make you feel like a welcome guest.
Noodle Nirvana: Discovering the Best Noodle Dishes
For many, the ultimate comfort food comes in the form of a steaming bowl of noodles. Burbank caters to the noodle craving with a variety of styles, from delicate wonton noodles to hearty, hand-pulled varieties. When talking about noodles in Burbank, one name always comes to mind: Noodle Supreme.
Noodle Supreme is a relative newcomer to the Burbank culinary scene, but it has quickly gained a loyal following for its authentic Northern Chinese noodle dishes. Their specialty is hand-pulled noodles, made fresh daily in the restaurant. You can watch the chef expertly stretch and pull the dough, transforming it into long, chewy strands before your very eyes. One of the most popular dishes is the *Dan Dan noodles*, a Sichuan specialty featuring spicy ground pork, preserved vegetables, and a generous drizzle of chili oil. The noodles are perfectly al dente, and the sauce is a symphony of flavors – spicy, savory, and slightly sweet. It is a warming dish perfect for the cold winter nights that Burbank experiences from time to time.
Another must-try is their *Lanzhou beef noodle soup*, a classic dish from Northwest China. The broth is rich and flavorful, simmered for hours with beef bones and a secret blend of spices. The noodles are thin and delicate, and the tender slices of beef add a satisfying richness. Noodle Supreme offers a casual, no-frills atmosphere, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Be prepared for a bit of a wait during peak hours, as the restaurant is often packed with locals eager to get their noodle fix. The prices are surprisingly affordable given the freshness and quality of the ingredients.
Takeout Treasures: Chinese Comfort Food To Go
Sometimes, the craving for Chinese food strikes when you just want to curl up on the couch and enjoy a delicious meal in the comfort of your own home. Luckily, Burbank has several excellent takeout options, offering all your favorite Chinese dishes with speed and efficiency. A local favorite for takeout is Hong Kong Express.
Hong Kong Express is a long-standing Burbank institution known for its generous portions, affordable prices, and consistently delicious food. Their menu features a wide range of Cantonese and American-Chinese classics, from *General Tso’s chicken* and *orange chicken* to *chow mein* and *fried rice*. Their *General Tso’s chicken* is a standout, the chicken being perfectly crispy and the sauce being sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy. The portions are huge, making it perfect for sharing or for enjoying leftovers the next day.
Another popular choice at Hong Kong Express is their *beef with broccoli*, featuring tender slices of beef and crisp-tender broccoli florets in a savory brown sauce. The restaurant is strictly takeout only, so don’t expect any seating. However, the service is fast and friendly, and the food is always hot and fresh. Hong Kong Express is a great option when you are trying to get your family fed in a fast, affordable, and reliably delicious way. It’s a real local favorite for good reason.
A Fine Dining Experience: Elevating Chinese Cuisine
For a more upscale and sophisticated Chinese dining experience, look no further than Emperor’s Garden. This elegant restaurant offers a refined menu featuring innovative takes on classic Chinese dishes, as well as a carefully curated wine list.
Emperor’s Garden distinguishes itself through its commitment to high-quality ingredients and exquisite presentation. Their menu showcases a blend of traditional techniques and modern culinary sensibilities, resulting in dishes that are both familiar and surprising. One of the restaurant’s signature dishes is the *Peking duck*, prepared in the traditional style with crispy skin and succulent meat, served with delicate pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce. The presentation is impeccable, and the flavors are simply divine.
Another standout dish is their *sea bass with black bean sauce*, the fish being cooked to perfection and the sauce being rich, savory, and intensely flavorful. The restaurant also offers a variety of vegetarian options, including a delicious *mapo tofu* made with silken tofu and a spicy Sichuan sauce. The atmosphere at Emperor’s Garden is elegant and sophisticated, making it the perfect setting for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. The service is attentive and professional, ensuring a memorable dining experience. The prices are higher than at other Chinese restaurants in Burbank, but the quality of the food and the overall experience make it well worth the splurge. It is easily one of Burbank’s most luxurious Chinese restaurants.
A Taste of Sichuan: Fiery Flavors from Southwestern China
For those who crave the bold and fiery flavors of Sichuan cuisine, Sichuan Delight is a must-visit. This unassuming restaurant specializes in authentic Sichuan dishes, featuring the region’s signature spices, such as Sichuan peppercorns and chili oil.
Sichuan Delight is known for its unapologetically spicy dishes, so be prepared for some serious heat. One of the most popular dishes is the *mapo tofu*, a classic Sichuan dish featuring silken tofu in a spicy and savory sauce made with fermented black beans, ground pork, and chili oil. The Sichuan peppercorns add a unique numbing sensation, which complements the heat of the chilies perfectly.
Another standout dish is their *twice-cooked pork*, featuring thinly sliced pork belly that has been boiled and then stir-fried with vegetables and a spicy bean sauce. The pork is crispy and flavorful, and the sauce is both sweet and savory. The restaurant also offers a variety of less spicy dishes, such as *kung pao chicken* and *dan dan noodles*, but even these dishes have a subtle kick. The atmosphere at Sichuan Delight is casual and unpretentious, and the prices are very reasonable. If you’re a fan of spicy food, this is one restaurant you won’t want to miss.
Final Thoughts: Exploring Burbank’s Chinese Culinary Scene
Burbank’s Chinese food scene is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself. From the delicate flavors of dim sum to the fiery spices of Sichuan cuisine, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Whether you’re looking for a casual takeout meal or a sophisticated fine dining experience, Burbank has a Chinese restaurant to suit your needs.
So, next time you find yourself in Burbank and craving Chinese food, don’t hesitate to explore the culinary gems we’ve highlighted in this guide. Each restaurant offers a unique experience and a chance to discover the authentic flavors of China. Get out there, explore, and enjoy the delicious journey!
What is your favorite Chinese restaurant in Burbank? Share your thoughts and recommendations in the comments below!
