Number One Chinese restaurants have become a beloved staple in communities across the United States, offering a diverse array of authentic Chinese cuisine. With a rich history dating back to the 1970s, this chain has grown from humble beginnings to boast over 100 locations nationwide.
The story of Number One Chinese began when a family of Chinese immigrants opened their first restaurant in New York City, aiming to share the flavors and traditions of their homeland. Through unwavering dedication to quality ingredients and time-honored recipes, they quickly gained a loyal following, leading to the expansion of their business.
Today, Number One Chinese restaurants are renowned for their extensive menus, which cater to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences. From classic Cantonese dishes to regional specialties, each location offers a unique culinary experience that celebrates the diversity of Chinese cuisine.
Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a newcomer to Chinese flavors, Number One Chinese promises an unforgettable dining adventure. With their commitment to authenticity and customer satisfaction, these restaurants have become a beloved destination for families, friends, and food enthusiasts alike.
Appetizer Offerings
Indulge in a delightful array of appetizers that set the tone for your Chinese culinary adventure at Number One Chinese. The menu offers a tantalizing selection of classic starters, each bursting with flavors that tantalize the taste buds.
Egg rolls, a beloved staple, are a must-try. These crispy, golden-brown cylinders are filled with a savory blend of shredded cabbage, carrots, and sometimes pork or shrimp, all wrapped in a delicate dough wrapper. Served piping hot, they make for a perfect start to your meal, especially when accompanied by a tangy dipping sauce.
Spring rolls, another crowd-pleaser, boast a delicate rice paper wrapping encasing a vibrant mix of fresh vegetables, like shredded cabbage, carrots, and bean sprouts. These light and crispy appetizers offer a refreshing contrast to the heartier egg rolls and are often served with a sweet and tangy dipping sauce.
For those seeking a more substantial starter, dumplings are a fantastic choice. These bite-sized pockets of deliciousness come stuffed with a variety of fillings, from classic pork and vegetables to innovative combinations like shrimp and chives. Whether steamed or pan-fried, dumplings are a beloved favorite, offering a burst of flavor in every bite.
Soups, too, make for an excellent appetizer or accompaniment to your meal. The menu features a range of options, including the ever-popular wonton soup, with its savory broth and tender pork-filled dumplings, and the tangy and comforting hot and sour soup, a harmonious blend of flavors that awakens the senses.
Pricing for appetizers at Number One Chinese is reasonable, with egg rolls and spring rolls typically ranging from $2 to $4 per order, dumplings priced between $4 and $6 for a serving, and soups ranging from $2 to $5 for a generous portion.
Soup Selections
At Number One Chinese, the soup selections offer a delightful start to your meal, tantalizing your taste buds with a range of flavors and textures. One of the standout options is the beloved Wonton Soup, a comforting broth brimming with tender pork-filled wontons and garnished with fresh scallions. This classic dish is a must-try for any soup lover.
For those seeking a burst of tangy and spicy flavors, the Hot and Sour Soup is a perfect choice. This iconic Chinese soup combines a harmonious blend of vinegar, chili, and aromatic spices, creating a complex and invigorating taste. Loaded with mushrooms, tofu, and shredded vegetables, it’s a satisfying and nourishing option.
Another popular choice is the Egg Drop Soup, a simple yet delightful concoction of rich chicken broth infused with silky egg ribbons. Its comforting flavor and velvety texture make it an ideal accompaniment to any meal, offering a soothing respite from the more robust dishes.
The soup selections at Number One Chinese are generously portioned and reasonably priced, typically ranging from $2 to $5 for a small bowl, and $4 to $8 for a larger serving. These soups not only whet the appetite but also provide a glimpse into the rich culinary traditions of Chinese cuisine.
Sweet and Sour Dishes
Number One Chinese restaurants are renowned for their delectable sweet and sour dishes, which strike a perfect balance between tangy and sweet flavors. The most popular options are Sweet and Sour Chicken and Sweet and Sour Pork, both of which showcase the restaurant’s culinary expertise.
The Sweet and Sour Chicken is a crowd favorite, featuring succulent pieces of chicken that are battered and fried to a crispy golden perfection. These morsels are then tossed in a vibrant sauce made with pineapple, bell peppers, and a harmonious blend of vinegar, sugar, and savory seasonings. The result is a burst of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds with every bite.
Similarly, the Sweet and Sour Pork dish is a delightful treat for pork lovers. Tender pieces of pork are coated in a light batter and deep-fried until crispy, then combined with the same tantalizing sweet and sour sauce. The addition of pineapple chunks and colorful vegetables creates a visually appealing and flavorful medley that is sure to delight.
Both dishes are prepared using traditional Chinese cooking techniques, ensuring that the flavors are authentic and the textures are spot on. The skilled chefs at Number One Chinese restaurants take great care in crafting these iconic dishes, balancing the sweet and sour elements to perfection.
When it comes to pricing, the Sweet and Sour Chicken and Sweet and Sour Pork dishes are reasonably priced, making them accessible to a wide range of diners. You can expect to pay around $10 to $15 for a generous portion, depending on the location and any additional sides or accompaniments you choose.
Moo Shu Specialties
Moo Shu dishes are a beloved staple on the Number One Chinese menu, offering a unique blend of flavors and textures. These stir-fried delicacies consist of thinly sliced meat or vegetables, combined with scrambled eggs and a mouthwatering sauce, all wrapped in delicate pancakes.
The Moo Shu Pork is a classic choice, featuring tender pork slices mixed with a medley of shredded cabbage, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots. The savory sauce, infused with garlic, ginger, and soy, perfectly complements the crisp vegetables and succulent meat.
For those seeking a leaner option, the Moo Shu Chicken is an excellent alternative. Juicy chicken strips are stir-fried with the same array of vegetables, resulting in a flavorful and protein-rich dish.
Vegetarians can indulge in the Moo Shu Vegetables, a meatless delight that showcases the vibrant flavors of fresh vegetables, such as cabbage, carrots, and bean sprouts, all tossed in a tantalizing sauce.
The true magic of Moo Shu dishes lies in the wrapping process. Diners are provided with thin, delicate pancakes, allowing them to create their own bite-sized bundles by scooping the stir-fried fillings onto the pancake and rolling it up. This interactive experience adds to the overall enjoyment of the meal.
Moo Shu dishes at Number One Chinese are generously portioned, ensuring that diners can savor every bite. The pricing is reasonable, with Moo Shu Pork and Chicken typically ranging from $9.95 to $12.95, while the Moo Shu Vegetables are slightly more affordable, starting at around $8.95.
Combination Plates
Combination plates at Number One Chinese restaurants offer a delightful assortment of flavors and dishes, allowing diners to sample a variety of the menu’s offerings in one convenient platter. These plates are perfect for those seeking a well-rounded meal or for groups looking to share and explore different tastes.
The combination plate selections typically include an appetizer, a main course, and a side dish, such as fried rice or chow mein. Popular combinations often feature crowd-pleasers like Sweet and Sour Pork, Beef with Broccoli, and Kung Pao Chicken. However, the exact combinations can vary across locations, providing a unique dining experience at each Number One Chinese restaurant.
One of the standout features of the combination plates is the ability to customize portion sizes. Customers can choose from options like small, medium, or large, catering to different appetites and group sizes. The pricing for these plates is generally reasonable, with small combinations starting around $8-$10, medium plates ranging from $10-$14, and large portions priced between $14-$18, depending on the specific location and dishes included.
For those seeking a more personalized experience, many Number One Chinese restaurants offer the option to create custom combination plates. Diners can mix and match their favorite appetizers, entrees, and sides, ensuring that every palate is satisfied. This flexibility, combined with the variety of dishes and portion sizes, makes the combination plates a popular choice for both casual dining and larger gatherings.
Sesame and General Tso’s Chicken
Sesame Chicken and General Tso’s Chicken are two of the most iconic and beloved dishes found on the Number One Chinese menu. These signature entrées showcase the restaurant’s mastery of flavor and technique, making them must-try options for any diner.
Sesame Chicken is a true crowd-pleaser, featuring crispy battered chicken pieces coated in a sweet and savory sauce, topped with a generous sprinkling of toasted sesame seeds. The sauce strikes a perfect balance between sweetness and a subtle hint of heat, creating a delightful contrast with the crunchy texture of the chicken. This dish is a prime example of Number One Chinese’s skill in combining flavors and textures to create a harmonious and satisfying dining experience.
For those seeking a bolder taste adventure, General Tso’s Chicken is the way to go. This spicy and tangy dish features succulent pieces of chicken coated in a crispy batter and tossed in a flavorful sauce made with garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and a kick of chili peppers. The sauce clings perfectly to the chicken, ensuring that every bite packs a punch of heat and umami goodness. General Tso’s Chicken is a testament to Number One Chinese’s ability to deliver authentic and bold flavors that tantalize the taste buds.
Both Sesame Chicken and General Tso’s Chicken are prepared with the utmost care and attention to detail. The chicken is expertly fried to achieve a perfect crunch, while the sauces are carefully crafted to strike the ideal balance of flavors. These dishes are not only delicious but also visually appealing, with their vibrant colors and garnishes adding to the overall presentation.
In terms of pricing, Sesame Chicken and General Tso’s Chicken are reasonably priced, making them accessible to a wide range of diners. Typically, a single serving of either dish ranges from $10 to $15, depending on the portion size and location. For those looking to share or enjoy a more substantial meal, family-sized portions are also available at a slightly higher price point.
Vegetable Offerings
Number One Chinese restaurants offer a delightful array of vegetable dishes that cater to both vegetarians and those seeking a lighter, healthier option. Among the standout choices, the Broccoli with Garlic Sauce is a crowd favorite. Tender broccoli florets are stir-fried to perfection and coated in a savory garlic sauce that tantalizes the taste buds. This dish is not only flavorful but also a great source of nutrients.
Another popular vegetable dish is the String Beans with Garlic Sauce, which features crisp string beans sautéed with a fragrant garlic sauce. The dish is a perfect balance of texture and flavor, making it a satisfying accompaniment to any main course.
For those seeking a heartier vegetable option, the Vegetable Fried Rice is a must-try. This dish combines fluffy rice with a medley of fresh vegetables, such as carrots, peas, and bean sprouts, creating a filling and nutritious meal. The fried rice can be enjoyed as a main course or as a complementary side dish.
In terms of pricing, the vegetable dishes at Number One Chinese are quite affordable. The Broccoli with Garlic Sauce and String Beans with Garlic Sauce typically range from $7 to $10, while the Vegetable Fried Rice is priced between $6 and $8, depending on the portion size and location.
Seafood Selections
Number One Chinese restaurants offer a tantalizing array of seafood dishes that are sure to delight any palate. One of the standout options is the classic Shrimp with Lobster Sauce. This dish features succulent shrimp cooked to perfection and smothered in a rich, velvety lobster sauce. The sauce itself is a masterful blend of flavors, combining the sweetness of lobster with savory notes of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. Despite its decadent taste, the dish is surprisingly light, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a flavorful yet refreshing meal.
Another must-try seafood option is the Lake Tung Ting Shrimp. Named after the famous lake in China’s Hunan province, this dish showcases the region’s culinary heritage. The shrimp are cooked with a unique blend of spices and seasonings, resulting in a burst of flavors that tantalize the taste buds. The dish is often served with a side of steamed rice, allowing the shrimp’s flavors to shine through.
While the seafood offerings at Number One Chinese restaurants may vary slightly across locations, one thing remains constant – the commitment to using only the freshest and highest-quality ingredients. The shrimp and other seafood are carefully sourced from reputable suppliers, ensuring that each bite is as delicious as the last.
In terms of pricing, the seafood dishes at Number One Chinese restaurants are reasonably priced, making them accessible to a wide range of diners. The Shrimp with Lobster Sauce typically ranges from $12 to $18, depending on the portion size and location, while the Lake Tung Ting Shrimp is often priced between $14 and $20. These prices are competitive with other Chinese restaurants in the area, offering excellent value for the quality and flavor of the dishes.
Desserts and Beverages
Number One Chinese restaurants offer a delightful selection of desserts and beverages to complement your meal. One of the standout dessert options is the Sweet Donuts. These light and airy fried dough rings are coated in a sweet glaze or dusted with powdered sugar, providing the perfect balance of sweetness and warmth. The Sweet Donuts are often served fresh and hot, making them an irresistible treat to savor after a satisfying meal.
In addition to the Sweet Donuts, some locations may offer other dessert choices like almond cookies or fortune cookies, adding a touch of variety to the menu.
As for beverages, Number One Chinese restaurants typically offer a range of options to quench your thirst. Traditional Chinese teas, such as jasmine or oolong, are common choices, allowing you to experience the rich flavors and cultural significance of these brews. Sodas and juices are also available for those who prefer more familiar options.
The pricing for desserts and beverages at Number One Chinese restaurants is generally reasonable, with Sweet Donuts typically costing around $2 to $4 for a small order. Beverages like teas and sodas are usually priced between $1 and $3, making them an affordable accompaniment to your meal.
Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat or a refreshing drink, the dessert and beverage offerings at Number One Chinese restaurants are sure to satisfy your cravings and provide a delightful conclusion to your dining experience.
Regional Specialties
While Number One Chinese restaurants offer a consistent core menu across locations, many outlets also feature unique regional specialties that showcase the diversity of Chinese cuisine. Exploring these local favorites can be an exciting culinary adventure for diners.
In the San Francisco Bay Area, for example, Number One Chinese menus often highlight dishes influenced by the region’s rich Chinese-American heritage. The “Sizzling Rice Soup” is a beloved specialty, featuring a sizzling hot stone bowl filled with savory broth, seafood, and crispy rice. Another local favorite is the “Honey Walnut Prawns,” which combines succulent prawns with a sweet and creamy honey sauce and candied walnuts.
In the Midwest, Number One Chinese restaurants may offer a twist on classic dishes to cater to local palates. The “Midwestern Fried Rice” is a hearty option, packed with diced ham, peas, and scrambled eggs. Additionally, some locations serve a unique “Cashew Chicken” variation that incorporates regional spices and a touch of honey for a distinct flavor profile.
Down South, Number One Chinese menus often showcase the region’s affinity for bold and spicy flavors. The “Szechuan Shrimp” is a fiery specialty, featuring jumbo shrimp sautéed in a potent blend of chili peppers, garlic, and Szechuan peppercorns. For those who prefer a milder heat, the “Southern-Style Sweet and Sour Pork” is a popular choice, with a tangy and slightly sweet sauce that complements the crispy pork perfectly.
These regional specialties not only add variety to the Number One Chinese menu but also reflect the adaptability and diversity of Chinese cuisine. Diners are encouraged to inquire about local favorites or check the specific menu of their nearest location to discover these unique offerings and immerse themselves in the rich culinary traditions of different regions.
Ordering Experience
The “Number One Chinese” restaurants offer a seamless and convenient ordering experience to cater to diverse customer preferences. Whether you’re in the mood for a dine-in experience or prefer the comfort of enjoying your meal at home, their ordering options have got you covered.
Dine-In
For those seeking a traditional restaurant atmosphere, “Number One Chinese” welcomes you to dine in and savor the flavors of their cuisine in a relaxed setting. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff and ushered to a cozy table, where you can peruse the menu at your leisure. The restaurants boast a warm and inviting ambiance, complete with tasteful decor and a lively energy that enhances the overall dining experience.
Takeout
If you’re short on time or simply prefer the convenience of enjoying your meal at home, “Number One Chinese” offers a hassle-free takeout option. Simply call ahead or visit the restaurant in person to place your order. The efficient staff will prepare your dishes with care, ensuring they’re fresh and piping hot when you pick them up. Takeout is an excellent choice for those busy weeknights when you crave a delicious Chinese meal without the fuss.
Online Ordering
In today’s digital age, “Number One Chinese” has embraced the convenience of online ordering, allowing customers to place their orders from the comfort of their homes or offices. Their user-friendly website or mobile app makes it easy to browse the menu, customize your order, and securely complete the payment process. With just a few clicks, you can have your favorite Chinese dishes delivered straight to your doorstep, making mealtime a breeze.
Whether you prefer the traditional dine-in experience, the grab-and-go convenience of takeout, or the modern ease of online ordering, “Number One Chinese” ensures that your culinary journey is tailored to your preferences. Their commitment to excellent service and delectable cuisine guarantees a memorable and satisfying dining experience every time.
Menu Pricing Overview
At Number One Chinese restaurants, the menu offerings cater to a variety of budgets and dining preferences. Appetizers like egg rolls, spring rolls, and dumplings typically range from $2 to $6 for an order, making them affordable starters or shareable portions. Soups, such as the classic wonton soup or the tangy hot and sour soup, are priced between $3 and $6 for a bowl or a cup, respectively.
The main course dishes showcase a wide range of prices, depending on the protein and portion size. Sweet and sour dishes, like the ever-popular sweet and sour pork or chicken, fall within the $10 to $14 range for a regular serving. Moo shu dishes, which feature a delightful blend of vegetables and protein wrapped in thin pancakes, are priced similarly, around $10 to $15.
Combination plates, offering a sampling of multiple dishes, are a popular choice for those seeking variety. These platters typically range from $12 to $18, providing a cost-effective way to enjoy a diverse array of flavors. Specialties like sesame chicken and General Tso’s chicken, known for their crispy coatings and flavorful sauces, are priced between $12 and $16 for a regular portion.
Vegetable dishes, such as the classic broccoli with garlic sauce or the sautéed mixed vegetables, are generally more affordable, ranging from $8 to $12. Seafood options, including shrimp with lobster sauce and lake tung ting shrimp, can be more expensive, with prices ranging from $14 to $20, depending on the size and type of seafood.
For those with a sweet tooth, dessert options like the sweet donuts or the classic fortune cookies are typically priced between $2 and $5. Beverages, including soft drinks, tea, and beer, range from $1.50 to $4, providing affordable accompaniments to the meal.
It’s important to note that prices may vary slightly across different Number One Chinese restaurant locations, and some establishments may offer specials or discounts on certain days or for specific menu items.
Conclusion
The “Number One Chinese” menu truly showcases the rich diversity and flavors of Chinese cuisine. From the tantalizing array of appetizers and soups to the mouthwatering main courses, vegetable dishes, and seafood specialties, there is something to delight every palate. Whether you crave the sweet and sour tang of classic dishes or the fiery punch of General Tso’s Chicken, this menu has it all.
With regional specialties and unique offerings at different locations, the “Number One Chinese” experience promises a culinary adventure. So why not embark on a journey of taste and explore the delicious possibilities? Visit your nearest “Number One Chinese” restaurant or place an order online to savor the authentic flavors and exceptional service that have made this establishment a beloved favorite.
Indulge in the comforting familiarity of traditional dishes or let your taste buds explore new horizons – the choice is yours. But one thing is certain: with the “Number One Chinese” menu as your guide, you’re in for a truly unforgettable dining experience.