Nestled in the heart of Tampa, Florida, Taste of China has become a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike, renowned for its authentic and diverse Chinese cuisine. This family-owned restaurant has been serving the community for over two decades, earning a reputation for its commitment to quality ingredients, generous portions, and exceptional flavors.
Taste of China’s menu is a culinary journey through the rich and varied regions of China, offering a tantalizing array of dishes that cater to every palate. From the fiery Szechuan specialties to the delicate Cantonese classics, the restaurant’s chefs meticulously craft each dish with precision and passion, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur of Chinese cuisine or a curious newcomer, Taste of China’s extensive menu promises to delight and surprise. With a harmonious blend of traditional recipes and innovative twists, the restaurant offers a diverse selection of appetizers, soups, noodles, main courses, and house specialties, catering to both meat-lovers and vegetarians alike.
Appetizers
Taste of China’s menu offers a diverse selection of appetizers that tantalize the taste buds and set the stage for a delightful dining experience. One of the restaurant’s signature starters is the Egg Roll, a crispy golden-brown cylinder filled with a savory blend of cabbage, carrots, and pork. These mouthwatering rolls come in three sizes: small ($1.55), medium ($2.25), and large ($3.25), catering to different appetites.
For those seeking a lighter option, the Spring Roll ($1.55) is a delightful choice. These delicate rolls are filled with a harmonious combination of shredded vegetables and vermicelli noodles, offering a refreshing and flavorful start to the meal.
The Fried Wonton ($4.99 for 8 pieces) is a crowd-pleaser, featuring crispy wonton wrappers filled with a succulent mixture of pork and vegetables. These bite-sized delights are perfect for sharing and can be enjoyed with a variety of dipping sauces, such as sweet and sour or hot mustard.
Seafood enthusiasts will revel in the Crab Puff ($9.95 for 6 pieces), a delectable combination of succulent crab meat and cream cheese encased in a flaky pastry shell. These decadent puffs are a testament to Taste of China’s commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Last but not least, the Dumplings ($9.95 for 6 pieces) are a must-try. Available in both steamed and pan-fried varieties, these little pockets of joy are filled with a savory mixture of pork, vegetables, and aromatic seasonings. Each bite bursts with flavor, making them a perfect accompaniment to any meal.
Soups and Noodles
Taste of China’s menu offers a delightful selection of soups and noodle dishes, catering to various palates and preferences. The soup options are a comforting and flavorful start to any meal, with choices ranging from classic hot and sour soup to the rich and savory wonton soup.
For those seeking heartier fare, the lo mein noodle dishes are a must-try. These stir-fried noodles are available with a variety of protein options, including beef, chicken, shrimp, and vegetable combinations. The noodles are expertly tossed with a savory sauce and an array of fresh vegetables, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Prices for the lo mein dishes are very reasonable, with options ranging from $8.45 for a vegetable lo mein to $11.75 for a deluxe combination featuring shrimp, beef, and chicken. Whether you’re in the mood for a simple yet satisfying meal or a more indulgent treat, Taste of China’s noodle offerings are sure to hit the spot.
Main Dishes
Taste of China offers an extensive selection of main dishes, catering to diverse preferences and dietary requirements. The menu is thoughtfully organized by protein type, ensuring that diners can easily find their desired options.
Beef Dishes
For beef lovers, Taste of China presents a tempting array of choices. Savor the classic Beef with Broccoli ($12.25), a harmonious blend of tender beef and crisp broccoli florets in a savory sauce. Alternatively, indulge in the Mongolian Beef ($13.95), featuring thinly sliced beef cooked to perfection with scallions and a tantalizing Mongolian sauce.
Seafood Dishes
If seafood is your preference, Taste of China’s menu will not disappoint. Delight in the Shrimp with Lobster Sauce ($14.99), a delectable combination of succulent shrimp and a velvety lobster sauce. For a taste of the sea, try the Crispy Whole Fish ($13.95), expertly fried and served with a tangy sauce.
Chicken Dishes
Chicken enthusiasts will find solace in Taste of China’s flavorful offerings. The ever-popular General Tso’s Chicken ($12.50) is a must-try, featuring crispy chicken morsels coated in a sweet and slightly spicy sauce. Alternatively, the Kung Pao Chicken ($12.25) delivers a delightful blend of chicken, peanuts, and vegetables in a zesty Szechuan sauce.
Pork Dishes
Pork lovers can indulge in a variety of delectable options at Taste of China. Savor the Sweet and Sour Pork ($12.95), a classic dish featuring battered pork chunks in a tangy sweet and sour sauce. For a more traditional flavor, try the Twice Cooked Pork ($12.25), a flavorful combination of pork belly, cabbage, and aromatic spices.
Szechuan & Hunan Style Dishes
For those who crave a fiery kick, Taste of China’s Szechuan and Hunan style dishes are sure to satisfy. These bold and flavorful offerings are renowned for their liberal use of chili peppers, garlic, and pungent spices, creating a delightfully numbing and tingling sensation.
One of the most popular choices is the iconic General Tso’s Chicken ($12.95). Crispy battered chicken is wok-tossed in a savory, slightly sweet, and undeniably spicy sauce, resulting in a dish that perfectly balances heat and flavor. The Sesame Chicken ($12.50) is another crowd-pleaser, featuring crispy chicken morsels coated in a tangy sesame sauce and garnished with toasted sesame seeds.
For those seeking an extra punch of heat, the Kung Pao Chicken ($12.25) is a must-try. This classic Szechuan dish combines diced chicken, roasted peanuts, and an array of vegetables in a fiery sauce that packs a serious punch. Vegetarians can indulge in the Kung Pao Tofu ($10.25), a meatless alternative that delivers the same bold flavors.
Other hot and spicy dishes on the menu include the Hunan Triple Delight ($13.75), a medley of shrimp, chicken, and beef sautéed with vegetables in a tongue-tingling Hunan sauce, and the Szechuan Shrimp ($13.95), featuring succulent shrimp swimming in a fiery blend of chili oil, garlic, and Szechuan peppercorns.
House Specialties
At Taste of China, our house specialties are the epitome of our culinary expertise, showcasing the finest ingredients and authentic flavors. These unique dishes are a testament to our commitment to providing an exceptional dining experience.
The Happy Family is a true crowd-pleaser, featuring a harmonious blend of shrimp, beef, chicken, and assorted vegetables in a savory brown sauce. This dish is a celebration of flavors and textures, priced at $13.95.
For seafood lovers, the Seafood Combination is a must-try. This extravagant dish combines succulent shrimp, scallops, and fish fillets, expertly prepared with a delightful blend of vegetables in a tantalizing white sauce. Indulge in this oceanic delight for $15.50.
Mongolian Beef is a classic favorite that never fails to impress. Tender strips of beef are wok-fried with scallions and a secret blend of savory sauces, creating a dish that is both flavorful and satisfying. Enjoy this iconic dish for $13.25.
Vegetable Dishes
For those seeking a delightful vegetarian dining experience, Taste of China offers a diverse selection of flavorful and satisfying vegetable dishes. Embrace the vibrant flavors of fresh, locally sourced produce expertly prepared by our skilled chefs.
One of the standout options is the Mixed Vegetables dish, a harmonious medley of crisp greens, vibrant bell peppers, and tender-crisp broccoli, carrots, and snow peas. This colorful array is stir-fried to perfection with a savory sauce that enhances the natural flavors of each vegetable. Priced at $10.25, it’s a satisfying and affordable choice for vegetarian diners.
Tofu enthusiasts will delight in the variety of tofu dishes available at Taste of China. From the classic Tofu with Mixed Vegetables ($11.95) to the flavorful Szechuan-style Tofu with Black Bean Sauce ($12.95), each dish showcases the versatility of this protein-rich ingredient. Perfectly seasoned and cooked to the desired texture, these tofu dishes are sure to impress even the most discerning palates.
Vegetarians can also indulge in the delectable Vegetable Lo Mein ($10.95), a comforting dish featuring tender lo mein noodles tossed with an assortment of fresh vegetables and a savory sauce. For those seeking a heartier option, the Vegetable Fried Rice ($10.25) is a satisfying choice, packed with a medley of vibrant veggies and fluffy, perfectly cooked rice.
Lunch Specials
Taste of China offers a tantalizing selection of lunch specials, perfect for those seeking a delicious and affordable midday meal. These combos are available from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday, and are priced between $8.45 and $8.95.
Each lunch special comes with a choice of soup (hot and sour, wonton, or egg drop) and an egg roll or a can of soda. The main entrée options include a variety of classic Chinese dishes, such as:
- Sweet and Sour Chicken or Pork
- Beef with Broccoli
- Kung Pao Chicken
- Vegetable Lo Mein
- Shrimp with Lobster Sauce
The portions are generous, ensuring that you’ll leave feeling satisfied without breaking the bank. The lunch specials are an excellent way to sample the flavors of Taste of China’s menu at a great value.
Health & Diet Menu
Taste of China understands the growing demand for health-conscious dining options and has curated a dedicated menu section to cater to those preferences. Whether you’re watching your calorie intake, following a specific diet, or simply looking for lighter fare, you’ll find a variety of delicious choices.
One of the standout features of the Health & Diet Menu is the emphasis on steaming as a cooking method. Several entrées are prepared using this technique, ensuring that your meal is cooked without the addition of any oil or excessive fats. This not only makes the dishes lighter but also preserves the natural flavors and nutrients of the ingredients.
For those seeking to reduce their sodium intake, Taste of China offers a selection of dishes that are prepared without the addition of salt or MSG (monosodium glutamate). These options allow you to enjoy the flavors of traditional Chinese cuisine without compromising your dietary goals.
Vegetarians and vegans will appreciate the extensive range of meat-free dishes available on the Health & Diet Menu. From tofu-based entrées to stir-fried vegetable medleys, there’s something to satisfy every plant-based palate. The chefs at Taste of China have mastered the art of creating flavorful and satisfying vegetarian options that are sure to delight.
Whether you’re following a specific dietary regimen or simply looking to make healthier choices, the Health & Diet Menu at Taste of China provides a wide range of options to suit your needs. Indulge in delectable Chinese cuisine without sacrificing your health goals, and savor the flavors of a balanced and nourishing meal.
Combination Platters
Taste of China offers a variety of combination platters that provide a complete and satisfying meal at an affordable price. These platters typically include an entrée, an egg roll, and a serving of fried rice, allowing you to sample multiple components of a traditional Chinese meal.
The combination platters are a popular choice among diners, offering a convenient and value-packed option. The entrée selections range from classic dishes like Sweet and Sour Chicken or Beef with Broccoli to more unique offerings like the Hunan Triple Delight, featuring shrimp, chicken, and beef in a spicy garlic sauce.
Prices for the combination platters are reasonable, typically ranging from $11.00 to $11.75, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a filling and flavorful meal without breaking the bank. The portions are generous, ensuring that you’ll leave feeling satisfied.
Whether you’re dining in or taking your meal to-go, the combination platters at Taste of China provide a delicious and convenient way to experience the diverse flavors of Chinese cuisine. With a variety of options to choose from, there’s something to suit every taste preference.
Dining Services
At Taste of China, we offer a variety of convenient dining options to suit your preferences. Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely dine-in experience, a quick takeout meal, or the convenience of delivery, we’ve got you covered.
Dine-In: Our spacious and welcoming dining room provides the perfect setting to savor our authentic Chinese cuisine. Our attentive staff ensures a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings, business meetings, or romantic dates.
Takeout: For those on the go or looking for a quick and delicious meal, our takeout service is the perfect solution. Simply call ahead or visit us in person, and we’ll have your order ready for you to pick up and enjoy in the comfort of your own home or office.
Delivery: Can’t make it to the restaurant? No problem! We offer convenient delivery service to addresses within a certain radius of our location. Our dedicated delivery team will bring your piping hot meal right to your doorstep, ensuring you can enjoy our delectable dishes without ever leaving home.
Online Ordering: For added convenience, we offer online ordering through our website or mobile app. Simply browse our menu, select your desired items, and place your order with just a few clicks. You can even schedule your order for a future date and time, making it easy to plan ahead.
Restaurant Hours: Taste of China is open seven days a week to serve you. Our regular hours are:
- Monday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Whether you choose to dine in, take out, or have your meal delivered, you can expect the same high-quality, authentic Chinese cuisine that has made Taste of China a local favorite. We look forward to serving you soon!
Conclusion
Taste of China offers a truly diverse and unique dining experience in the heart of Tampa, Florida. With a menu that seamlessly blends traditional Chinese flavors with innovative fusion elements, the restaurant caters to a wide range of culinary preferences. From the tantalizing appetizers and comforting soups to the flavorful main dishes and house specialties, each dish is a testament to the culinary expertise of the chefs.
One of the standout features of Taste of China is its commitment to accommodating various dietary needs. The health and diet menu provides a range of options that are steamed without oil, MSG, or salt, ensuring that health-conscious diners can indulge in delicious Chinese cuisine without compromising their dietary requirements.
Moreover, the restaurant’s combination platters offer a convenient and affordable way to sample multiple dishes, making it an excellent choice for families or groups with diverse tastes. The generous portions and reasonable prices have earned Taste of China a reputation for providing exceptional value for money.
Whether you’re in the mood for a quick lunch special, a leisurely dinner with friends, or a convenient takeout or delivery option, Taste of China has you covered. Visit their website to explore the full menu and place your order online, or call ahead to make a reservation or inquire about their services. Indulge in the flavors of China and experience the warm hospitality that has made Taste of China a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.