Discovering authentic and flavorful Asian cuisine in Urbana, Illinois, is a delightful adventure, and First Wok stands out as a premier destination for locals and visitors alike. Known for its inviting atmosphere and an extensive menu that caters to diverse palates, First Wok combines the art of traditional cooking with a modern twist.
Whether you crave savory stir-fries, aromatic soups, or delectable dim sum, this restaurant offers a culinary experience that reflects the richness and diversity of Asian flavors.
From the moment you step inside, the aroma of freshly prepared dishes and the vibrant ambiance set the stage for a memorable dining experience. The menu is thoughtfully curated, featuring dishes that balance bold spices, fresh ingredients, and expert technique.
Whether dining solo, with family, or in a group, First Wok’s offerings promise satisfaction and a taste journey across various Asian cuisines.
With a reputation for quality and consistency, First Wok has become a favorite spot in Urbana, IL. The menu’s variety ensures there is something for everyone, from classic favorites to unique chef’s specialties.
This comprehensive overview explores the highlights of the First Wok menu, providing insights into its diverse selections and helping diners make informed choices that enhance their meal experience.
Appetizers: A Flavorful Start
Appetizers at First Wok set the tone for a delightful meal, offering a range of bite-sized treats that excite the palate. These starters blend traditional textures and flavors with fresh ingredients, making them perfect for sharing or enjoying as a light introduction to the meal.
The menu boasts a variety of dumplings, spring rolls, and savory pancakes, each prepared with care and seasoned to perfection. These dishes are ideal for those seeking to explore different tastes or complement their main course with a flavorful beginning.
Some standout appetizers include:
- Steamed Pork Dumplings: Delicately wrapped and juicy inside, these dumplings are a crowd favorite.
- Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy on the outside with a fresh, crunchy vegetable filling.
- Scallion Pancakes: Flaky and aromatic, perfect for dipping in soy-based sauces.
Health-Conscious Choices
For guests mindful of nutrition, First Wok offers several appetizers that are lower in calories and fat without sacrificing taste. Steamed options and vegetable-based starters provide a lighter alternative while maintaining the authentic flavors.
“The appetizers at First Wok are not only delicious but also showcase the chef’s dedication to quality and balance,” says a local food critic.
Signature Entrees: The Heart of the Menu
The main courses at First Wok are where culinary mastery truly shines. Featuring a broad selection of entrees, the menu caters to meat lovers, vegetarians, and fans of seafood alike.
Each dish is crafted using fresh ingredients and traditional cooking methods, ensuring a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The entrees often feature bold spices and rich sauces that are emblematic of Asian cuisine, providing an authentic dining experience.
Popular signature dishes include:
- General Tso’s Chicken: Crispy chicken coated in a sweet and spicy sauce.
- Beef with Broccoli: Tender strips of beef sautéed with fresh broccoli in a savory garlic sauce.
- Vegetable Tofu Stir-Fry: A colorful medley of seasonal vegetables paired with firm tofu.
Comparing Popular Entrees
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile | Spice Level |
| General Tso’s Chicken | Chicken, chili, garlic, soy sauce | Sweet, spicy, tangy | Medium |
| Beef with Broccoli | Beef, broccoli, garlic, oyster sauce | Savory, umami | Mild |
| Vegetable Tofu Stir-Fry | Tofu, mixed vegetables, ginger, soy sauce | Light, fresh, slightly sweet | Low |
Noodle and Rice Dishes: Comfort in Every Bite
First Wok’s noodle and rice dishes provide a comforting and filling option that showcases the versatility of Asian cuisine. These dishes are perfect for those seeking hearty meals with balanced flavors.
The selection includes classic fried rice, lo mein, and chow mein, each prepared with fresh vegetables, proteins, and carefully blended sauces. The textures range from crispy to tender, ensuring a satisfying culinary experience.
Highlighted dishes are:
- Chicken Fried Rice: A flavorful combination of tender chicken, eggs, and vegetables.
- Beef Lo Mein: Soft noodles tossed with beef strips and savory sauce.
- Vegetable Chow Mein: Stir-fried noodles with a variety of fresh vegetables.
Gluten-Free and Vegetarian Options
Understanding dietary needs, First Wok offers gluten-free rice dishes and vegetarian noodle options. These dishes are prepared with careful ingredient selection to avoid cross-contamination and ensure safety without compromising on taste.
Soups: Warmth and Depth of Flavor
Soups at First Wok are a perfect way to warm up and enjoy complex flavors in a soothing format. Whether as a starter or a standalone, these soups offer a balance of textures and aromas.
From the classic hot and sour soup to a delicate wonton broth, the soups at First Wok are made using traditional recipes and fresh ingredients. The depth of flavor comes from slow simmering and the use of herbs and spices that create an inviting taste.
- Hot and Sour Soup: Tangy and spicy with mushrooms, tofu, and bamboo shoots.
- Wonton Soup: Clear broth with tender wontons stuffed with pork or shrimp.
- Egg Drop Soup: Light and silky with beaten eggs and scallions.
“A bowl of First Wok’s soup is like a warm embrace on a cold evening,” shares a regular customer.
Dim Sum and Small Plates: Perfect for Sharing
Dim sum and small plates at First Wok offer a delightful way to sample multiple flavors and textures. These dishes are designed for sharing, making them ideal for groups or those wanting to taste a variety of offerings.
The menu features steamed, fried, and baked dim sum options with fillings ranging from pork and shrimp to vegetables. The small plates include unique appetizers and side dishes that complement the main courses perfectly.
Popular choices include:
- Shrimp Har Gow: Steamed shrimp dumplings with a translucent wrapper.
- Pork Siu Mai: Open-topped steamed dumplings filled with seasoned pork.
- Sticky Rice in Lotus Leaf: Glutinous rice wrapped and steamed to aromatic perfection.
Pairing Dim Sum with Tea
To enhance the dim sum experience, First Wok offers a selection of traditional teas. These beverages complement the flavors and cleanse the palate between bites.
Desserts: Sweet Endings
Completing the meal with a satisfying dessert is a highlight at First Wok. The dessert menu offers a mix of traditional Asian sweets and creative treats that provide a gentle finish to the dining experience.
From mango pudding to sesame balls, the desserts are crafted to balance sweetness with texture. These offerings cater to a variety of preferences, including lighter options and richer indulgences.
- Mango Pudding: Smooth and creamy with fresh mango flavor.
- Fried Sesame Balls: Crispy on the outside and filled with sweet red bean paste.
- Green Tea Ice Cream: A refreshing and slightly bitter contrast to sweet dishes.
Beverages: Complement Your Meal
First Wok’s beverage menu is thoughtfully designed to accompany the rich and varied flavors of the food. From traditional teas to modern soft drinks, there is a drink for every preference.
Tea selections include jasmine, oolong, and pu-erh, each chosen for its ability to enhance the dining experience. Additionally, the restaurant offers a variety of sodas, juices, and specialty drinks such as bubble tea.
| Beverage | Description | Best Paired With |
| Jasmine Tea | Floral and fragrant, light-bodied | Dim Sum, Seafood |
| Oolong Tea | Rich and complex, slightly toasted | Beef Dishes, Fried Rice |
| Bubble Tea | Sweet, with chewy tapioca pearls | Desserts, Light Appetizers |
“Choosing the right beverage can elevate your meal from good to unforgettable,” notes the restaurant manager.
Conclusion
First Wok in Urbana, IL, offers a comprehensive menu that beautifully captures the essence of Asian cuisine. The careful selection of dishes, from appetizers to desserts, reflects a commitment to quality, authenticity, and customer satisfaction.
Whether you are a longtime fan of Asian food or exploring these flavors for the first time, the menu provides accessible options that cater to all tastes and dietary needs.
The inviting environment, combined with attentive service, ensures that every visit is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. The variety within the menu encourages diners to try new dishes and appreciate the rich culinary traditions behind them.
From the comforting soups to the vibrant entrees and delicate dim sum, First Wok delivers a balanced and memorable dining journey.
For those in Urbana or visiting the area, First Wok stands as a culinary beacon, promising a delicious and satisfying meal every time. By focusing on fresh ingredients, expert preparation, and diverse offerings, it remains a top choice for Asian cuisine lovers.
Experience the vibrant flavors and warm hospitality that make First Wok a standout destination in Urbana’s dining scene.
