That craving for perfectly glazed sesame chicken, delicate dumplings, or a fiery bowl of mapo tofu can strike at any time. And if you find yourself in San Bernardino, you might be wondering where to satisfy that yearning for authentic and delicious Chinese food. Forget the generic takeout options; San Bernardino boasts a surprisingly diverse array of Chinese restaurants, each with its own unique flavors and specialties. This guide is your ultimate companion to navigating the city’s Chinese culinary landscape, leading you to the very best San Bernardino has to offer. We’ve explored the depths of the local food scene, tasted countless dishes, and considered various factors to bring you a curated list of establishments that truly stand out. So, prepare your taste buds for an adventure as we uncover San Bernardino’s hidden gems and reveal the top spots for the best Chinese cuisine.
Finding the perfect Chinese restaurant isn’t just about satisfying hunger; it’s about experiencing a culture through its food. It’s about the artistry of the chef, the freshness of the ingredients, and the ambiance of the dining experience. To determine which restaurants truly deserve the title of “best” in San Bernardino, we’ve focused on several key factors.
The Authenticity Factor
Chinese cuisine is incredibly diverse, with each region of China boasting its own distinct culinary traditions. From the spicy, bold flavors of Szechuan to the delicate, seafood-focused dishes of Cantonese cuisine, the variations are endless. It’s important to consider the authenticity of the dishes being served. Does the restaurant strive to stay true to the traditional flavors and techniques of a specific region? Or does it primarily cater to Americanized palates, offering dishes that are often sweeter and less complex than their authentic counterparts? Some restaurants skillfully blend elements of both, offering a balance that appeals to a wide range of tastes. For the purpose of this guide, we’ve highlighted restaurants that showcase a clear understanding and appreciation for authentic Chinese flavors, even if they offer some modified versions.
Taste and Quality are King
Ultimately, the taste of the food is paramount. Fresh, high-quality ingredients are essential for creating flavorful and satisfying dishes. The skill of the chef in balancing flavors and properly executing cooking techniques plays a crucial role. Are the vegetables crisp and vibrant? Is the meat tender and well-seasoned? Are the sauces rich and complex, or are they overly sweet and bland? The best Chinese restaurants in San Bernardino consistently deliver exceptional taste and quality in every dish. Consistency is also key; a great restaurant is only great if it delivers a consistently positive experience.
Ambiance and Service: Completing the Experience
The atmosphere of a restaurant can significantly impact the overall dining experience. Is it a bustling, family-friendly establishment, or a more intimate and upscale setting? The décor, lighting, and music all contribute to the overall ambiance. Equally important is the quality of the service. Are the staff friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable about the menu? Do they make you feel welcome and valued as a customer? While the food is the primary focus, a pleasant atmosphere and excellent service can elevate the dining experience to a whole new level.
Value for Your Money
Price is always a consideration. Are the prices reasonable for the quality and quantity of food being offered? Do the portion sizes justify the cost? The best Chinese restaurants offer a good balance between price, quality, and portion size, providing excellent value for your money. We’ve considered the price ranges of each restaurant and assessed whether the overall experience justifies the cost.
With these factors in mind, let’s dive into the top picks for the best Chinese food in San Bernardino.
Golden Dragon Palace: A San Bernardino Staple
Golden Dragon Palace has been a San Bernardino institution for years, consistently earning rave reviews for its authentic Cantonese cuisine and impeccable service. Upon entering, you’re greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere, with traditional Chinese décor and comfortable seating. This restaurant is a local favorite, and for good reason.
The menu at Golden Dragon Palace is extensive, offering a wide variety of classic Cantonese dishes. However, some dishes truly stand out. Their dim sum selection is particularly impressive, with a wide array of steamed and fried dumplings, buns, and rolls. The siu mai (pork dumplings) are plump and juicy, the har gow (shrimp dumplings) are delicate and flavorful, and the char siu bao (barbecue pork buns) are sweet and savory perfection.
Beyond the dim sum, Golden Dragon Palace is also known for its expertly prepared seafood dishes. The steamed whole fish with ginger and scallions is a true delicacy, showcasing the freshness of the ingredients and the skill of the chef. The lobster with ginger and scallions is another must-try, with succulent lobster meat and a fragrant ginger-scallion sauce.
For those who prefer meat dishes, the Peking duck is a classic choice. The crispy skin is expertly carved and served with thin pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce. The remaining duck meat can be prepared in a variety of ways, such as stir-fried with vegetables or made into a flavorful soup.
Golden Dragon Palace is located on Hospitality Lane. You can visit their website at goldendragonpalacesb.com.
Sichuan Impression: Spice Up Your Life
If you’re craving the fiery flavors of Szechuan cuisine, look no further than Sichuan Impression. This restaurant specializes in authentic Szechuan dishes, known for their bold spices, numbing peppercorns, and complex flavor profiles. Be warned, this is not for the faint of heart!
Sichuan Impression offers a wide range of Szechuan specialties, from classic dishes like mapo tofu and dan dan noodles to more adventurous options like water boiled fish and kung pao chicken prepared with a true Szechuan peppercorn kick.
The mapo tofu is a standout dish, with silky tofu cubes simmered in a spicy and savory sauce made with fermented black beans, ground pork, and Szechuan peppercorns. The dan dan noodles are equally delicious, with chewy noodles tossed in a rich and nutty sesame sauce, topped with ground pork, pickled vegetables, and chili oil.
For a truly authentic Szechuan experience, try the water boiled fish. This dish features tender fish fillets poached in a spicy broth with vegetables, topped with a generous amount of chili oil and Szechuan peppercorns. The fish is incredibly tender and flavorful, and the broth is both spicy and numbing.
Sichuan Impression is located near the Inland Center Mall.
China One: A Classic Done Right
While not always the fanciest, sometimes you just need reliably good, classic Chinese-American takeout. China One delivers on this promise in spades. This establishment doesn’t attempt to reinvent the wheel; instead, it focuses on perfecting the standards.
The menu features all the familiar favorites, from sweet and sour pork and general tso’s chicken to lo mein and fried rice. But what sets China One apart is the quality of the ingredients and the attention to detail in the preparation. The vegetables are always fresh and crisp, the meat is tender and well-seasoned, and the sauces are perfectly balanced.
The sweet and sour pork is a standout dish, with crispy battered pork cubes coated in a tangy and flavorful sweet and sour sauce. The general tso’s chicken is another popular choice, with tender chicken pieces stir-fried in a spicy and sweet sauce.
For a more complete meal, try one of their combination plates, which include a main dish, fried rice, and an egg roll. It’s the perfect option for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
China One is located on Baseline Road and is a prime choice for a no-frills, but always satisfying, Chinese meal.
Honorable Mentions: More San Bernardino Chinese Delights
While the above restaurants are our top picks, several other noteworthy Chinese establishments in San Bernardino deserve mention.
- Wok and Roll: Known for its fresh and flavorful stir-fries and friendly service.
- Happy Family Restaurant: A family-owned establishment offering a wide range of classic Chinese dishes at affordable prices. Their lunch specials are a great value.
- Panda Express: While a chain, the consistent quality and accessibility make it a reliable option for a quick and easy Chinese meal.
Tips for Ordering Chinese Food Like a Pro
Navigating a Chinese menu can be daunting, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the cuisine. Here are a few tips to help you order like a pro:
- Understand the Menu: Take some time to familiarize yourself with the different sections of the menu. Look for descriptions of the dishes and ingredients used.
- Ask for Recommendations: Don’t be afraid to ask the staff for recommendations. They can often suggest dishes that are not listed on the menu or that are particularly popular with regulars.
- Consider Spice Levels: Be mindful of the spice levels of the dishes you’re ordering. Szechuan cuisine, in particular, is known for its fiery spices. If you’re not a fan of spicy food, be sure to ask for milder options.
- Be Aware of Dietary Restrictions: If you have any dietary restrictions, such as allergies or vegetarian preferences, be sure to inform the staff. They can often modify dishes to accommodate your needs.
- Embrace Adventure: Don’t be afraid to try something new! Chinese cuisine is incredibly diverse, and there are countless dishes waiting to be discovered.
- Family Style is the Way: Consider ordering multiple dishes and sharing them family-style. This is a great way to sample a variety of flavors and textures.
Your Culinary Journey Awaits
San Bernardino’s Chinese food scene is a delightful mix of authenticity, flavor, and cultural experiences. From the elegant Cantonese dishes at Golden Dragon Palace to the fiery Szechuan flavors at Sichuan Impression, there’s something for every palate. China One provides that classic takeout experience that always hits the spot, and the honorable mentions offer additional options for exploration.
We encourage you to embark on your own culinary adventure and discover your personal favorites. Don’t hesitate to explore different restaurants, try new dishes, and engage with the vibrant Chinese community in San Bernardino. The world of Chinese cuisine is vast and rewarding.
Now, we want to hear from you! What are your favorite Chinese restaurants in San Bernardino? What dishes do you always order? Share your recommendations and insights in the comments below! Your contributions will help other food lovers discover even more hidden gems in this diverse city. Happy eating!
