Nestled in the heart of Elmhurst, the Red Dragon Chinese Restaurant offers an authentic culinary journey through the diverse flavors of Chinese cuisine. Known for its warm ambiance and attentive service, this establishment has become a favorite destination for both locals and visitors seeking a memorable dining experience.
The menu at Red Dragon is a vibrant tapestry of traditional and contemporary dishes, crafted with fresh ingredients and seasoned to perfection. Whether you crave the bold spices of Szechuan fare or the subtle sweetness of Cantonese specialties, the menu caters to every palate with remarkable variety.
What truly sets Red Dragon apart is its commitment to balancing classic recipes with innovative twists that keep diners coming back for more. From appetizers to desserts, each dish is thoughtfully prepared to showcase the rich culinary heritage of China while embracing modern tastes.
This blend of authenticity and creativity is reflected in the carefully curated menu, which offers something for everyone—from hearty meat lovers to vegetarian enthusiasts. The restaurant’s dedication to quality and flavor makes exploring the Red Dragon Chinese Restaurant Elmhurst menu a delightful adventure.
For those looking to savor exquisite flavors in a comfortable setting, Red Dragon promises an inviting atmosphere paired with dishes that tell a story. The menu is not just a list of options but a gateway into the vibrant world of Chinese gastronomy, inviting diners to indulge in a feast that delights all senses.
Appetizers and Starters
The appetizer section at Red Dragon Chinese Restaurant Elmhurst offers a tempting array of small plates designed to awaken the palate. These starters are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a light beginning to a meal.
They range from crispy fried delicacies to fresh, steamed options, each prepared with a keen eye for texture and flavor balance.
Among the favorites are the classic Spring Rolls, known for their crunchy exterior and savory vegetable filling. The Dumplings, available steamed or fried, are crafted with tender meat or vegetarian fillings wrapped in delicate skins.
For those who prefer something with a bit of heat, the Spicy Szechuan Wontons provide a satisfying kick with their chili-infused sauce.
Each appetizer is designed to complement the main dishes that follow, offering a preview of the restaurant’s culinary style. The use of fresh herbs, aromatic spices, and house-made sauces elevates these small bites into memorable starters.
Popular Starters
- Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with shredded vegetables and glass noodles, served with sweet chili sauce.
- Steamed Pork Dumplings: Juicy pork wrapped in thin dough, steamed to perfection and served with soy-vinegar dip.
- Spicy Szechuan Wontons: Wontons tossed in a fiery chili oil, garnished with scallions and sesame seeds.
- Crab Rangoon: Fried wontons stuffed with crab and cream cheese, a rich and creamy delight.
“The appetizers here set the tone for the whole meal, offering a perfect balance of textures and bold flavors that excite the senses.” – Local Food Critic
Soup Selection
Soups at Red Dragon are crafted to provide comfort and complexity, reflecting the diverse soup traditions of Chinese cuisine. Whether you seek a light broth or a hearty, flavorful bowl, the menu offers several options that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences.
Signature soups include the Hot and Sour Soup, which combines tangy vinegar with spicy pepper to create a harmonious depth of flavor. The Wonton Soup features delicate wontons swimming in a clear, aromatic broth enriched with vegetables and scallions.
For those wanting something richer, the Egg Drop Soup offers a silky texture with wisps of cooked egg suspended in chicken broth.
The soups are ideal as a starter or a light meal on their own, providing warmth and satisfaction. Their preparation emphasizes freshness and balance, ensuring each spoonful is both nourishing and flavorful.
Soup Menu Highlights
| Soup | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
| Hot and Sour Soup | Tofu, bamboo shoots, mushrooms, vinegar, chili | Spicy, tangy, savory |
| Wonton Soup | Pork wontons, chicken broth, scallions | Light, savory, aromatic |
| Egg Drop Soup | Egg, chicken broth, corn starch | Silky, mild, comforting |
| Hot Vegetable Soup | Mixed vegetables, tofu, clear broth | Fresh, light, healthy |
“A bowl of well-made soup is the heart of a great Chinese meal, and Red Dragon’s soups are a testament to that tradition.” – Chef’s Recommendation
Main Course: Poultry and Meat Dishes
The poultry and meat section showcases the Red Dragon’s expertise in preparing classic Chinese dishes with a modern twist. These dishes are rich in flavor, often featuring bold sauces and carefully balanced seasoning that enhance the natural taste of the meats.
Popular items include General Tso’s Chicken, known for its crispy exterior and sweet-spicy glaze, and Mongolian Beef, which is tender and cooked with a savory soy-based sauce. The menu also offers a variety of duck dishes, such as Peking Duck, celebrated for its crispy skin and succulent meat served with pancakes and hoisin sauce.
Each plate is presented with attention to detail, often accompanied by steamed rice or fried rice to complete the meal. The bold flavors and satisfying textures make these dishes favorites among regular patrons.
Signature Meat Dishes
- General Tso’s Chicken: Crispy fried chicken tossed in a tangy and slightly spicy sauce.
- Mongolian Beef: Thinly sliced beef stir-fried with scallions and garlic in a rich brown sauce.
- Peking Duck: Roasted duck served with thin pancakes, scallions, cucumber, and hoisin sauce.
- Orange Chicken: Lightly battered chicken with a sweet and zesty orange glaze.
“The meats here are cooked with precision, delivering a perfect balance between tenderness and flavorful sauces.” – Frequent Diner
Seafood Delicacies
Red Dragon’s seafood offerings bring the fresh flavors of the ocean to the table with a variety of preparations. From stir-fried shrimp to steamed fish, the seafood dishes are known for their delicate seasoning and vibrant presentations.
Signature items include Salt and Pepper Shrimp, which are lightly battered and fried to a crispy finish, then tossed with aromatic spices. The Steamed Whole Fish is a highlight for those seeking a pure and fresh taste, prepared with ginger, scallions, and soy sauce.
For a heartier option, the Seafood Combination features a medley of shrimp, scallops, and squid cooked in a savory sauce.
Seafood dishes are often paired with vegetables or rice, creating a balanced meal that satisfies both taste and nutrition. The freshness of the seafood is a key element, ensuring every bite bursts with natural flavor.
Seafood Favorites
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Cooking Style |
| Salt and Pepper Shrimp | Shrimp, garlic, chili, salt, pepper | Deep-fried, tossed |
| Steamed Whole Fish | Whole fish, ginger, scallions, soy sauce | Steamed |
| Seafood Combination | Shrimp, scallops, squid, vegetables | Stir-fried |
| Garlic Lobster | Lobster, garlic, butter, herbs | Sauteed |
“The freshness and preparation of seafood here make it a must-try for any visitor.” – Seafood Enthusiast
Vegetarian Options
Red Dragon Chinese Restaurant Elmhurst understands the importance of offering delicious vegetarian dishes that don’t compromise on flavor. The vegetarian menu is thoughtfully crafted to include a variety of textures and tastes, ensuring satisfaction for herbivores and health-conscious diners alike.
From stir-fried mixed vegetables to tofu-based dishes, the vegetarian options are rich in nutrients and flavor. The Ma Po Tofu, a spicy Sichuan dish, features soft tofu in a bold chili and bean sauce that delights those who appreciate a little heat.
The Buddha’s Delight is a medley of seasonal vegetables and mushrooms, lightly sautéed to preserve their natural taste.
These dishes are often paired with steamed rice or noodles, making for wholesome and balanced meals. The restaurant takes care to avoid cross-contamination, making it a reliable choice for vegetarian diners.
Popular Vegetarian Dishes
- Ma Po Tofu: Silken tofu cooked in a spicy chili and bean sauce.
- Buddha’s Delight: A mixture of fresh vegetables and mushrooms stir-fried with light seasoning.
- Stir-Fried Mixed Vegetables: Crisp seasonal vegetables sautéed with garlic and soy sauce.
- Vegetable Fried Rice: Rice with peas, carrots, corn, and scrambled egg, cooked in light soy sauce.
“The vegetarian dishes are flavorful and carefully prepared, proving that meatless doesn’t mean tasteless.” – Plant-Based Food Reviewer
Rice and Noodle Specialties
Rice and noodles form the foundation of many Chinese meals, and Red Dragon excels in offering a variety of these staples. The menu includes both classic and innovative dishes that highlight the versatility of rice and noodles in Chinese cuisine.
Fried rice options range from simple Vegetable Fried Rice to more elaborate combinations like Yangzhou Fried Rice with shrimp, BBQ pork, and egg. The noodle selection features Chow Mein, with stir-fried wheat noodles and vegetables, and Lo Mein, which is soft noodles tossed in savory sauce.
These dishes are perfect as standalone meals or accompaniments to other menu items. The textures and flavors are carefully balanced, with each bite offering a satisfying mix of ingredients and seasoning.
Signature Rice and Noodle Dishes
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Description |
| Vegetable Fried Rice | Rice, peas, carrots, corn, egg | Lightly seasoned, fluffy fried rice with mixed vegetables. |
| Yangzhou Fried Rice | Rice, shrimp, BBQ pork, egg, peas | Classic fried rice with a savory, slightly sweet taste. |
| Chicken Chow Mein | Wheat noodles, chicken, vegetables | Crispy stir-fried noodles with tender chicken and veggies. |
| Beef Lo Mein | Soft noodles, beef, soy sauce, vegetables | Soft noodles tossed with beef and savory sauce. |
“The rice and noodle dishes at Red Dragon are a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to tradition and quality.”
Desserts and Beverages
To complete the dining experience, Red Dragon offers a selection of desserts and beverages that provide a sweet finish to the meal. These items range from traditional Chinese sweets to more familiar dessert choices, ensuring a satisfying conclusion for every guest.
Popular desserts include Mango Pudding, a smooth and creamy treat with fresh mango flavor, and Fried Sesame Balls filled with sweet red bean paste, offering a delightful contrast of crispy exterior and soft interior.
For beverage options, the menu features classic Chinese teas, soft drinks, and specialty drinks like bubble tea.
These dessert and beverage offerings are thoughtfully selected to complement the menu’s savory dishes, providing balance and refreshment. They also reflect the restaurant’s commitment to a well-rounded dining experience.
Sweet Treats and Drinks
- Mango Pudding: Creamy pudding made with fresh mango puree, served chilled.
- Fried Sesame Balls: Crispy fried dough filled with sweet red bean paste.
- Fortune Cookies: Classic crispy cookies with a personalized message inside.
- Jasmine Tea: Fragrant and soothing traditional Chinese tea.
- Bubble Tea: Refreshing tea with tapioca pearls, available in various flavors.
“Ending a meal with a light and flavorful dessert truly enhances the overall dining experience at Red Dragon.”
Conclusion
The Red Dragon Chinese Restaurant Elmhurst menu is a carefully curated collection that celebrates the rich diversity of Chinese cuisine. Each section—from appetizers through to desserts—demonstrates a commitment to authenticity, quality ingredients, and culinary expertise.
Diners can expect a harmonious blend of classic dishes alongside innovative creations that cater to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences.
Whether you’re savoring the bold flavors of the meat and seafood dishes, enjoying the delicate balance of vegetarian options, or indulging in the comforting soups and satisfying rice and noodle specialties, Red Dragon offers a dining experience that is both memorable and fulfilling.
The inclusion of thoughtfully prepared desserts and beverages adds the perfect finishing touch to the meal.
For those seeking a restaurant that marries tradition with creativity in a welcoming atmosphere, Red Dragon Chinese Restaurant Elmhurst stands out as an exceptional choice. Its menu not only satisfies hunger but also invites diners to explore and appreciate the depth and beauty of Chinese culinary heritage.
