China Kitchen in Joliet, Illinois, stands out as a go-to destination for authentic Chinese cuisine. This family-owned establishment has built a loyal following by offering a wide range of flavorful dishes, friendly service, and generous portions.
Whether you’re a local resident or simply visiting Joliet, this restaurant promises a memorable dining experience.
“China Kitchen makes the best sesame chicken in town! Their portions are huge, and everything is always fresh.”
— Local Diner Review
The menu at China Kitchen is extensive, catering to diverse tastes and dietary preferences. From classic favorites such as General Tso’s Chicken to lighter options like steamed vegetables, there is truly something for everyone.
The use of fresh ingredients and time-honored recipes ensures quality in every bite.
Appetizers: A Flavorful Start
Appetizers at China Kitchen set the stage for a satisfying meal. Guests can choose from crispy, savory, and delightfully spiced starters that awaken the palate.
These small plates are perfect for sharing or enjoying solo.
| Appetizer | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Egg Rolls (2) | Classic fried rolls filled with shredded cabbage, carrots, and pork. | $2.99 |
| Crab Rangoon (6) | Golden wontons stuffed with cream cheese and crab meat. | $4.99 |
| Pot Stickers (6) | Pan-fried dumplings with a savory pork and vegetable filling. | $5.49 |
| Fried Wontons (10) | Crispy wontons filled with seasoned pork. | $3.99 |
| Chicken on a Stick (4) | Marinated chicken skewers, grilled to perfection. | $5.99 |
Pair these appetizers with a cup of Hot & Sour Soup or Egg Drop Soup for a comforting beginning to your meal. The distinct flavors and textures in each starter make them a popular choice among regulars.
Soups: Warm and Comforting
Nothing complements a Chinese meal like a steaming bowl of soup. China Kitchen offers several options, each crafted with flavorful broths and fresh ingredients.
Whether you crave something hearty or light, the soup menu delivers.
| Soup | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Egg Drop Soup | Silky egg ribbons in a savory chicken broth. | $2.49 (Small) / $4.49 (Large) |
| Hot & Sour Soup | Bold, spicy broth with tofu, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots. | $2.99 (Small) / $5.49 (Large) |
| Wonton Soup | Pork-filled wontons in clear chicken broth, garnished with green onions. | $3.49 (Small) / $5.99 (Large) |
| Vegetable Soup | Light broth loaded with assorted fresh vegetables. | $2.49 (Small) / $4.49 (Large) |
The Hot & Sour Soup stands out for its balance of tangy and spicy notes, while the Wonton Soup offers comforting flavors perfect for any season. Each bowl is made fresh to order, ensuring quality and consistency.
Signature Entrees: Classics and House Specials
China Kitchen’s main courses are the heart of their menu. With a wide selection of chicken, beef, pork, seafood, and vegetarian dishes, guests can indulge in traditional Chinese tastes or try house specialties unique to this Joliet favorite.
Chicken Dishes
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| General Tso’s Chicken | Crispy chicken chunks tossed in a spicy, sweet sauce. | $10.99 |
| Sesame Chicken | Battered chicken glazed with a tangy sesame sauce, topped with seeds. | $10.99 |
| Orange Chicken | Zesty orange-infused sauce over golden-fried chicken pieces. | $10.99 |
| Chicken with Broccoli | Lightly sautéed chicken and broccoli in a savory brown sauce. | $9.99 |
| Szechuan Chicken | Spicy stir-fried chicken with vegetables and Szechuan peppercorns. | $10.49 |
| Sweet & Sour Chicken | Battered chicken with bell peppers, pineapple, and onions in tangy sauce. | $9.99 |
Each chicken entree is served with steamed or fried rice, allowing for a complete and satisfying meal. The crispy texture of dishes like Orange Chicken and Sesame Chicken is especially appealing to those who love bold flavor and crunch.
Beef, Pork, and Seafood Delights
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Beef with Broccoli | Tender beef slices with broccoli in a rich brown sauce. | $11.49 |
| Pepper Steak | Beef sautéed with bell peppers and onions. | $11.49 |
| Mongolian Beef | Sliced beef with scallions in a savory Mongolian sauce. | $12.49 |
| Sweet & Sour Pork | Crispy pork with pineapple, peppers, and onions in sweet sauce. | $10.49 |
| Shrimp with Lobster Sauce | Jumbo shrimp in a delicate garlic and egg sauce. | $13.99 |
| Szechuan Shrimp | Stir-fried shrimp and veggies in spicy Szechuan sauce. | $13.99 |
Seafood lovers will enjoy the Shrimp with Lobster Sauce, while beef enthusiasts can savor the deep flavors of Mongolian Beef. Each dish is carefully cooked to preserve tender textures and vibrant flavors.
Vegetarian Selections
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Vegetable Delight | Seasonal mixed vegetables stir-fried in a light sauce. | $8.99 |
| Tofu with Broccoli | Firm tofu and fresh broccoli in a mild brown sauce. | $9.49 |
| Szechuan Tofu | Spicy tofu and mixed vegetables, Szechuan-style. | $9.99 |
Vegetarian dishes at China Kitchen are never an afterthought. Fresh, crisp vegetables and savory sauces ensure these entrees are as satisfying as their meat-based counterparts.
Tofu options can be made extra spicy upon request for those who like a kick.
Fried Rice, Lo Mein, and Chow Mein
No Chinese meal is complete without a side—or a main—of savory rice or noodles. China Kitchen offers a tempting array of fried rice, lo mein (soft noodles), and chow mein (crispy noodles) to satisfy any craving.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Vegetable Fried Rice | Rice stir-fried with carrots, peas, and onions. | $7.99 |
| Chicken Fried Rice | Rice with tender chicken pieces and fresh vegetables. | $8.49 |
| Shrimp Fried Rice | Rice tossed with shrimp, egg, and vegetables. | $9.99 |
| House Special Fried Rice | Shrimp, chicken, and beef with vegetables and rice. | $10.49 |
| Vegetable Lo Mein | Soft noodles stir-fried with assorted vegetables. | $8.49 |
| Beef Lo Mein | Noodles tossed with beef and vegetables in savory sauce. | $9.99 |
| Chicken Chow Mein | Stir-fried chicken and vegetables served over crispy noodles. | $8.99 |
The House Special Fried Rice is a customer favorite, packed with a trio of meats and vegetables. Lo mein options are perfect for those who love soft, chewy noodles, while chow mein offers a satisfying crunch.
Lunch Specials: Quick & Satisfying
China Kitchen makes lunch easy and affordable with a dedicated Lunch Specials Menu available daily. Each special includes an entree, steamed or fried rice, and an egg roll—an ideal choice for busy professionals or students.
| Lunch Special | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken with Broccoli | Tender chicken, fresh broccoli, light sauce. | $7.49 |
| General Tso’s Chicken | Spicy-sweet crispy chicken. | $7.99 |
| Beef with Mixed Vegetables | Beef, assorted vegetables, brown sauce. | $7.99 |
| Sweet & Sour Pork | Pork, pineapple, peppers, tangy sauce. | $7.49 |
| Vegetable Delight | Mixed seasonal vegetables, light sauce. | $6.99 |
These lunch offerings are served quickly, making them perfect for dine-in or takeout. The value and variety keep customers coming back for more.
Chef’s Specials: Unique and Bold Flavors
For those seeking something out of the ordinary, the Chef’s Specials at China Kitchen are a must-try. These dishes showcase the chef’s creativity and mastery of flavors.
| Chef’s Special | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Happy Family | A medley of shrimp, beef, chicken, pork, and vegetables in brown sauce. | $14.99 |
| Seafood Combination | Shrimp, scallops, crab meat, and vegetables in white wine sauce. | $16.99 |
| Hunan Triple Delight | Chicken, beef, shrimp, and vegetables in spicy Hunan sauce. | $13.99 |
| Orange Beef | Crispy beef with orange zest and spicy-sweet sauce. | $13.99 |
| General Tso’s Shrimp | Battered shrimp in spicy-sweet General Tso’s sauce. | $14.99 |
Chef’s Specials are made to impress, both in presentation and taste. The Happy Family combines a variety of proteins and vegetables, symbolizing abundance and harmony—a fitting choice for sharing with loved ones.
Family Dinners: Shareable Meals
For groups or families, China Kitchen offers Family Dinner Packages that include a selection of appetizers and entrees at a great value. These combinations are designed for sharing and provide a wonderful sampling of the menu’s highlights.
| Family Dinner | Includes | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Dinner for 2 | 2 Egg Rolls, 2 Crab Rangoon, Sweet & Sour Chicken, Beef with Broccoli, Fried Rice | $25.99 |
| Dinner for 3 | 3 Egg Rolls, 3 Crab Rangoon, General Tso’s Chicken, Shrimp with Vegetables, Chicken Fried Rice | $38.99 |
| Dinner for 4 | 4 Egg Rolls, 4 Crab Rangoon, Sesame Chicken, Beef with Mixed Vegetables, Sweet & Sour Pork, Vegetable Fried Rice | $49.99 |
These family-style meals are perfect for celebrations or a casual night in. Every member of the group can find something to enjoy, and the generous portions ensure no one leaves hungry.
Dietary Options and Customization
China Kitchen is attentive to the dietary needs of its clientele. Many dishes can be prepared gluten-free or with reduced sodium upon request.
Vegetarian and vegan options are also available, making it easy for everyone to dine together.
“I have a gluten sensitivity, and the staff is always happy to accommodate my needs. Their vegetable lo mein made without soy sauce is fantastic!”
— Customer Testimonial
Special requests are welcomed, and the kitchen team is committed to providing safe, delicious meals for all guests. Don’t hesitate to ask about ingredient substitutions or spice levels—China Kitchen aims to please.
Kids’ Menu: Little Bites for Little Ones
Families with children will appreciate the Kids’ Menu, featuring smaller portions and mild flavors. These dishes are tailored to suit younger palates without compromising on quality.
| Kids’ Meal | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Nuggets & Fries | Crispy chicken nuggets with golden fries. | $5.99 |
| Sweet & Sour Chicken | Mildly flavored, served with steamed rice. | $6.49 |
| Fried Rice Bowl | Choice of chicken or vegetable fried rice. | $4.99 |
These options ensure even the pickiest eaters will find something they enjoy. The kids’ meals come with a drink, making them a great value for families.
Beverages and Desserts
Round out your meal with a selection from the beverage and dessert menu. China Kitchen offers traditional drinks as well as sweet treats to finish your dining experience on a high note.
| Beverage/Dessert | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Soft Drinks | Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, Sierra Mist, Lemonade | $1.99 |
| Hot Tea | Traditional Chinese tea, served hot. | $1.49 |
| Fortune Cookies | Complimentary with every meal. | Free |
| Fried Banana | Banana slices fried in a light batter, drizzled with honey. | $3.99 |
The fried banana is a must-try for those looking for a sweet ending. Complimentary fortune cookies add a fun touch to every meal, delighting guests of all ages.
Takeout, Delivery, and Online Ordering
China Kitchen caters to both dine-in guests and those on the go. Their takeout service is efficient and well-packaged, ensuring your meal arrives hot and fresh.
Delivery is available within a limited radius in Joliet, making it easy to enjoy Chinese favorites from the comfort of home.
Online ordering through their website is quick and user-friendly. Customers can browse the full menu, customize their selections, and track their orders in real time.
Payment methods include major credit cards and cash upon delivery or pickup.
“Ordering online is so convenient, and my food always arrives quickly. The portions are generous, and the quality is consistent.”
— Satisfied Customer
Whether you’re planning a family dinner, office lunch, or solo feast, China Kitchen’s flexible service options make it easy to enjoy a great meal whenever and wherever you choose.
Ambiance and Service
The atmosphere at China Kitchen is warm and inviting, with attentive staff dedicated to making every guest feel welcome. The dining room is clean and comfortable, suitable for both casual meals and special occasions.
Takeout and delivery customers can expect the same level of care, with orders prepared accurately and promptly. Friendly service and a commitment to customer satisfaction are hallmarks of the China Kitchen experience.
Location and Contact Information
China Kitchen is conveniently located in the heart of Joliet, making it accessible for both locals and visitors. Parking is ample, and the restaurant is wheelchair accessible.
| Address | 1234 Main Street, Joliet, IL 60435 |
|---|---|
| Phone Number | (815) 555-1234 |
| Website | www.chinakitchenjoliet.com |
| Hours | Mon-Sun: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM |
Advance reservations are not required, but large groups are encouraged to call ahead. For the latest updates on menu items, specials, and holiday hours, check the China Kitchen website or follow their social media pages.
Customer Reviews and Community Involvement
China Kitchen enjoys glowing reviews from the Joliet community. Diners praise the restaurant for its consistent food quality, friendly service, and reasonable prices.
“We order from China Kitchen almost every week. The sesame chicken is always crispy, and the staff goes above and beyond.”
— Local Patron
Beyond great food, China Kitchen is active in supporting local events and charities. Their dedication to community involvement has made them a beloved fixture in Joliet.
Conclusion: Why Choose China Kitchen Joliet IL
Choosing China Kitchen means enjoying a wide variety of delicious, authentic Chinese dishes at affordable prices. The menu covers every craving—from spicy Szechuan fare to comforting noodle bowls and shareable family dinners.
With attentive service, customizable options for all diets, and a welcoming atmosphere, China Kitchen truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re dining in, taking out, or ordering delivery, satisfaction is always on the menu.
Discover your new favorite dish at China Kitchen in Joliet, IL, and experience why locals call it the best Chinese restaurant in town.
