Chinatown Express Baltimore offers a delightful culinary journey that captures the essence of authentic Chinese cuisine while embracing modern tastes. Located in the heart of Baltimore, this restaurant has carved a niche for itself by delivering flavorful dishes that range from traditional classics to inventive specialties.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Chinese food or a newcomer eager to explore, the Chinatown Express menu promises a diverse selection that appeals to all palates. Its thoughtfully curated offerings reflect a balance of rich spices, fresh ingredients, and bold flavors, making every meal a memorable experience.
What sets Chinatown Express apart is its dedication to quality and authenticity. The menu caters to varying dietary preferences, including vegetarian and gluten-free options, ensuring that everyone can find something satisfying.
Guests often praise the generous portions, affordable pricing, and speedy service, making it a favored spot for lunch breaks, family dinners, or casual gatherings. The vibrant ambiance complements the food perfectly, creating an inviting environment that encourages exploration of new tastes and textures.
Exploring the Chinatown Express Baltimore menu reveals not just a list of dishes, but a celebration of culinary heritage and innovation. From appetizers to desserts, each item is crafted with care, reflecting the rich traditions of Chinese cookery with a contemporary twist.
This blend of the old and new invites diners to savor familiar favorites while discovering exciting new flavors. The menu’s layout and descriptions also make it easy to navigate, allowing guests to make informed choices based on their preferences and dietary needs.
Appetizers and Starters
The Chinatown Express Baltimore menu begins with an enticing selection of appetizers designed to awaken the palate. These starters offer a perfect balance of textures and flavors, providing a satisfying introduction to the meal ahead.
Whether you prefer something light and crispy or rich and savory, the appetizer section caters to varied tastes and appetites.
Popular choices include traditional spring rolls, dumplings, and wontons, each prepared with fresh ingredients and authentic seasoning. The spring rolls are known for their crispy exterior and flavorful vegetable or meat fillings, making them a perennial favorite.
Dumplings come steamed or fried, stuffed with options like pork, chicken, or vegetables, offering a delightful burst of flavor with every bite.
Other notable starters include the hot and sour soup and egg drop soup, both staples in Chinese cuisine that provide warmth and comfort. These soups balance bold, tangy, and savory notes, making them excellent companions to the more substantial dishes that follow.
The appetizer section also features unique items like BBQ pork buns and crispy chicken wings, which are perfect for sharing.
Appetizer Highlights
- Spring Rolls: Crispy, golden rolls filled with seasoned vegetables or meat.
- Dumplings: Steamed or fried, available in pork, chicken, or vegetable varieties.
- Hot and Sour Soup: A tangy, spicy broth packed with tofu, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots.
- BBQ Pork Buns: Soft, steamed buns filled with sweet and savory barbecued pork.
“The appetizers at Chinatown Express are the perfect way to start a meal — each bite bursts with flavor and sets the tone for the dishes to come.”
Main Courses
The main courses at Chinatown Express Baltimore showcase a broad spectrum of Chinese culinary styles, ranging from stir-fried classics to slow-cooked specialties. These dishes are crafted to satisfy diverse tastes while maintaining a consistent focus on freshness and balance.
Whether craving something spicy, savory, or mildly sweet, patrons will find a main course to suit their preference.
Standout entrees include General Tso’s Chicken, Mongolian Beef, and Kung Pao Shrimp. Each dish features a signature sauce that complements the primary protein, creating layers of flavor that captivate the senses.
The General Tso’s Chicken is especially popular for its crispy texture and bold, tangy sauce, while the Mongolian Beef offers tender slices of beef cooked with scallions and garlic.
Vegetarian options also shine in this section, with dishes like Buddha’s Delight and Ma Po Tofu that incorporate a medley of fresh vegetables, tofu, and savory sauces. These selections provide excellent alternatives for those seeking plant-based meals without compromising on taste or authenticity.
Additionally, the menu allows guests to customize spice levels to suit their comfort.
Main Course Comparison
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile | Spice Level |
| General Tso’s Chicken | Chicken, soy sauce, garlic, chili | Sweet, tangy, slightly spicy | Medium |
| Mongolian Beef | Beef, scallions, soy sauce, ginger | Savory, slightly sweet | Low |
| Kung Pao Shrimp | Shrimp, peanuts, chili peppers | Spicy, nutty, savory | High |
| Buddha’s Delight | Mixed vegetables, tofu, soy sauce | Mild, savory, fresh | Low |
Rice and Noodle Dishes
Rice and noodle dishes form a cornerstone of the Chinatown Express Baltimore menu, offering comfort and versatility in every bite. These dishes are expertly prepared to highlight the textures and flavors inherent in quality grains and noodles.
They make excellent accompaniments to main entrees or stand well on their own for a lighter meal.
Signature rice dishes include Fried Rice with options like chicken, shrimp, or vegetable, each cooked with eggs, peas, and carrots to create a colorful and flavorful plate. The Chow Mein noodles stand out for their perfect balance of softness and slight crispiness, tossed with a mix of vegetables and your choice of protein for a satisfying mouthfeel.
In addition to classic preparations, the menu features more inventive dishes such as Singapore Noodles, which combine thin rice vermicelli with curry spices, shrimp, and pork. These dishes showcase a fusion of flavors that provide dynamic contrasts and layers of taste.
Popular Rice and Noodle Options
- Chicken Fried Rice: Wok-tossed rice with tender chicken, eggs, and vegetables.
- Beef Chow Mein: Stir-fried noodles with sliced beef and assorted vegetables.
- Vegetable Lo Mein: Soft noodles mixed with fresh, sautéed vegetables.
- Singapore Noodles: Curried rice vermicelli with shrimp and pork.
“The rice and noodle dishes at Chinatown Express are a perfect blend of tradition and innovation, making them a must-try for any visit.”
Chef’s Specials
Chinatown Express Baltimore offers a selection of Chef’s Specials that showcase the culinary creativity and expertise of their kitchen. These dishes often blend unique ingredients and techniques not found in the regular menu, providing an elevated dining experience for adventurous eaters.
One standout is the Crispy Duck, which features succulent duck meat with a perfectly crisp skin served alongside hoisin sauce and thin pancakes. This dish requires skillful preparation and is highly regarded for its rich flavors and elegant presentation.
Another special, Salt and Pepper Calamari, delivers a crispy, lightly seasoned seafood option that is both addictive and flavorful.
These specials often rotate seasonally, introducing diners to fresh ingredients and innovative combinations. They are ideal for those looking for something extraordinary beyond the standard fare, and pairing these dishes with recommended sides or beverages can enhance the overall meal.
Chef’s Special Dishes
- Crispy Duck: Roasted duck with crispy skin, served with hoisin sauce and pancakes.
- Salt and Pepper Calamari: Lightly fried calamari with a peppery seasoning.
- House Special Fried Rice: Fried rice with a mix of shrimp, chicken, pork, and vegetables.
- Spicy Szechuan Beef: Beef cooked with chili peppers and Szechuan peppercorns for heat and aroma.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Understanding the diverse dietary needs of its patrons, Chinatown Express Baltimore offers a robust selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes. These options are thoughtfully prepared to deliver the same depth of flavor and satisfaction as their meat-based counterparts.
Fresh vegetables, tofu, and plant-based proteins are combined with traditional sauces and spices to create hearty meals.
Popular vegan choices include the Vegetable Stir-Fry, which features a colorful array of seasonal vegetables sautéed in a light garlic sauce. The Ma Po Tofu, traditionally a spicy Sichuan dish, is also available in a vegan version that uses tofu and mushrooms to replicate the classic texture and heat.
These dishes not only cater to dietary preferences but also emphasize health-conscious eating.
Chinatown Express also offers customization options, allowing diners to request modifications such as no oyster sauce or substitution of proteins with tofu. This flexibility ensures that vegan and vegetarian guests can enjoy the rich culinary heritage without compromise.
Vegetarian Delights
- Vegetable Stir-Fry: Seasonal vegetables cooked with garlic and soy sauce.
- Ma Po Tofu (Vegan): Silken tofu in a spicy, savory sauce with mushrooms.
- Vegetable Lo Mein: Noodles tossed with a medley of fresh vegetables.
- Steamed Mixed Vegetables: Simple yet flavorful, steamed to preserve nutrients.
“Offering flavorful vegan and vegetarian dishes is a priority for Chinatown Express, ensuring every guest leaves satisfied and nourished.”
Desserts and Beverages
To complete the dining experience, Chinatown Express Baltimore presents a curated selection of desserts and beverages that complement the bold flavors of the main menu. The dessert options range from classic Chinese sweets to more familiar treats, providing a satisfying end to any meal.
Favorites include Mango Pudding, a creamy and refreshing dessert that balances sweetness with a subtle tang from fresh mango. Fortune Cookies, a staple in Chinese dining, add a playful touch with their hidden messages.
For those craving something richer, the sesame balls filled with sweet red bean paste offer a delightful combination of crunch and softness.
On the beverage side, the menu features traditional teas such as jasmine and oolong, which are perfect for cleansing the palate. Soft drinks, specialty Asian-inspired beverages, and sake are also available to suit varied preferences.
These options enhance the meal and provide a well-rounded culinary experience.
Dessert and Drink Highlights
| Item | Description | Recommended Pairing |
| Mango Pudding | Creamy mango-flavored pudding with a smooth texture. | Jasmine Tea |
| Sesame Balls | Deep-fried dough filled with sweet red bean paste and coated with sesame seeds. | Oolong Tea |
| Fortune Cookies | Crunchy cookies with a hidden fortune inside. | Green Tea |
| Hot Jasmine Tea | Fragrant tea with floral notes, served hot. | Any Dessert |
Ordering and Dining Experience
Chinatown Express Baltimore ensures that ordering is straightforward and the dining experience is both comfortable and efficient. Whether dining in, taking out, or ordering for delivery, the restaurant emphasizes convenience without sacrificing quality.
The staff is knowledgeable and attentive, ready to assist with menu recommendations or dietary inquiries.
The dining area is designed to be welcoming and accommodating, with clean, modern decor and ample seating. This creates a pleasant atmosphere suitable for families, solo diners, and groups.
The kitchen operates with a focus on promptness, ensuring that meals are prepared fresh and served quickly to meet the pace of busy schedules.
For those new to Chinese cuisine, the staff encourages asking questions and trying the Chef’s Specials or sampler platters. These options provide a great introduction to the variety and richness of the menu, allowing guests to explore different flavors and textures in one meal.
Ordering Tips
- Call ahead for takeout: Reduces wait time during peak hours.
- Customize spice levels: Request mild, medium, or hot to suit your preference.
- Ask about daily specials: Discover new and seasonal dishes.
- Consider combo meals: Great value and variety in one order.
“Chinatown Express makes every effort to provide a seamless experience, ensuring guests enjoy both the food and the service.”
Conclusion
Chinatown Express Baltimore’s menu is a testament to the rich and diverse world of Chinese cuisine, offering an impressive array of dishes that cater to all tastes and dietary needs. From flavorful appetizers to satisfying entrees, and from traditional desserts to refreshing beverages, every element is crafted with attention to quality and authenticity.
The menu’s diversity ensures that whether you are a fan of spicy dishes, prefer vegetarian options, or seek comforting familiar flavors, Chinatown Express has something to delight your palate.
Beyond the food, the restaurant’s commitment to excellent service and a warm dining environment makes it a standout choice for casual dining and special occasions alike. The flexibility in ordering and the knowledgeable staff further enhance the experience, making it accessible and enjoyable for newcomers and regulars.
Embracing both tradition and innovation, Chinatown Express Baltimore invites you to explore a culinary journey that celebrates the best of Chinese flavors in a welcoming setting.
In every bite, there’s a story of heritage and passion, making Chinatown Express not just a place to eat, but a destination to savor and remember. Whether you visit for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner, the menu promises an experience that is both satisfying and inspiring, reflecting the vibrant food culture of Baltimore and the rich traditions of Chinese cooking.
