Discovering the culinary delights of Somerville, NJ, often leads food enthusiasts to Canton Palace, a standout destination renowned for its authentic Chinese cuisine and inviting atmosphere. The Canton Palace menu offers a diverse array of dishes that cater to both traditional tastes and adventurous palates.
Whether you’re craving classic dim sum, flavorful stir-fries, or innovative fusion creations, this restaurant brings a rich tapestry of flavors to the table, emphasizing freshness, quality ingredients, and skillful preparation.
At Canton Palace, each dish is crafted with care, reflecting the rich heritage of Cantonese cooking while embracing a modern dining experience. The menu is designed to accommodate various dietary preferences and group sizes, making it an ideal spot for family dinners, casual lunches, or special celebrations.
The balance of spice, texture, and aroma in every plate leaves a lasting impression, offering more than just a meal but an immersive culinary journey.
From appetizers to desserts, the Canton Palace menu in Somerville, NJ, invites diners to explore the depth and breadth of Chinese cuisine. With attentive service and a warm ambiance, it’s no surprise that this establishment has become a local favorite for both residents and visitors seeking authentic, flavorful meals.
Appetizers and Dim Sum Delights
The beginning of any great meal sets the tone, and Canton Palace excels in offering an impressive selection of appetizers and dim sum that awaken the senses. These small plates are perfect for sharing and showcase the subtle complexities of Cantonese flavors.
Popular appetizers include crispy spring rolls, savory dumplings, and delicate shrimp toast. Each option is prepared with fresh ingredients and balanced seasoning, delivering a delightful burst of flavor with every bite.
The dim sum offerings are especially noteworthy, featuring steamed buns, shumai, and sticky rice wrapped in lotus leaves.
These starters are not only delicious but also provide a glimpse into the culinary techniques that define Cantonese cooking, such as steaming, frying, and marinating.
- Steamed Shrimp Dumplings – Light and translucent wrappers with juicy shrimp filling
- BBQ Pork Buns – Soft, fluffy buns stuffed with sweet and savory roasted pork
- Fried Wontons – Crispy and golden, served with a tangy dipping sauce
- Scallion Pancakes – Flaky, layered, and perfectly seasoned
“Dim sum at Canton Palace is like a celebration of textures and tastes that honor tradition while inviting innovation.”
Main Course Specialties
The heart of the Canton Palace menu lies in its expansive main course selections, offering a variety of dishes that satisfy diverse preferences. These entrees are crafted to highlight authentic Cantonese culinary principles, focusing on freshness, balance, and harmony of flavors.
From succulent Peking duck to tender beef with broccoli, each dish reflects meticulous preparation and bold seasoning. The menu also features seafood specialties like steamed fish with ginger and scallions, showcasing the kitchen’s commitment to quality and authenticity.
Vegetarian options are thoughtfully integrated, ensuring that every diner finds something flavorful and satisfying. The main courses can be paired with steamed rice or fried rice, contributing to a well-rounded meal experience.
Signature Dishes
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
| Peking Duck | Duck, hoisin sauce, scallions, pancakes | Rich, crispy, savory, slightly sweet |
| Beef with Broccoli | Beef, broccoli, oyster sauce, garlic | Umami, tender, garlicky |
| Steamed Whole Fish | Fresh fish, ginger, scallions, soy sauce | Delicate, aromatic, light soy |
| Ma Po Tofu (Vegetarian) | Tofu, chili bean paste, garlic, scallions | Spicy, silky, savory |
Fried Rice and Noodles
Complementing the hearty main courses, Canton Palace features a variety of fried rice and noodle dishes that serve as staples in Chinese cuisine. These options are perfect for those seeking comfort food with a flavorful twist.
The fried rice dishes are cooked with fragrant jasmine rice, eggs, vegetables, and a choice of protein such as chicken, shrimp, or pork. Each plate is infused with soy sauce and hints of sesame oil, creating a perfect balance of aroma and taste.
Noodle offerings range from lo mein to chow fun, featuring stir-fried noodles with vegetables and meats, delivering a satisfying chewiness and robust flavor. These dishes can be customized to accommodate spice preferences or dietary restrictions.
- House Special Fried Rice – A colorful mix of shrimp, chicken, eggs, and vegetables
- Beef Chow Fun – Wide rice noodles stir-fried with tender beef and bean sprouts
- Singapore Noodles – Thin rice noodles tossed with curry powder, shrimp, and vegetables
- Vegetable Lo Mein – Soft egg noodles stir-fried with fresh garden vegetables
Soups and Salads
Canton Palace’s menu includes a selection of soups and salads, offering light and refreshing options that balance richer dishes. These starters or accompaniments provide comforting warmth or crisp, fresh flavors.
The classic hot and sour soup is a favorite, combining a perfect blend of tangy and spicy notes with tofu, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots. Wonton soup is another staple, featuring delicate dumplings in a savory broth.
For those seeking something lighter, the cucumber salad with garlic dressing provides a cool and zesty contrast to the meal. These dishes are thoughtfully prepared to cleanse the palate or enhance the overall dining experience.
“A great meal always includes a nourishing soup to soothe and prepare the senses for the feast ahead.”
- Hot and Sour Soup – Tangy, spicy, with tofu and mushrooms
- Wonton Soup – Clear broth with shrimp and pork dumplings
- Seaweed Salad – Light, savory, and slightly sweet
- Cucumber Salad – Crisp, refreshing with garlic and vinegar dressing
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Understanding the importance of accommodating diverse dietary needs, Canton Palace offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes that do not compromise on flavor. These options highlight the versatility of Cantonese cooking through imaginative use of vegetables, tofu, and plant-based proteins.
The menu features dishes such as stir-fried mixed vegetables, eggplant in garlic sauce, and tofu with black bean sauce. Each item is prepared with the same attention to detail as meat-based dishes, ensuring a satisfying and wholesome dining experience.
For vegan diners, the kitchen takes care to avoid cross-contamination and uses plant-based sauces and broths. These dishes appeal not only to those with dietary restrictions but also to anyone looking to enjoy lighter, health-conscious meals.
Popular Plant-Based Dishes
- Mapo Tofu (Vegan Version) – Silky tofu with spicy bean paste sauce
- Garlic Eggplant – Tender eggplant stir-fried with garlic and chili
- Vegetable Fried Rice – Fragrant rice with assorted fresh vegetables
- Stir-Fried Bok Choy – Simple yet flavorful greens sautéed with garlic
Desserts and Beverages
No meal at Canton Palace would be complete without indulging in their dessert and beverage offerings. These selections provide a sweet finish or a refreshing complement to the meal.
Traditional Chinese desserts such as mango pudding and sesame balls are popular choices, offering a delightful contrast of textures and sweetness. Fresh fruit plates and lychee jelly provide lighter alternatives for those seeking something less rich.
The beverage menu includes a range of teas, soft drinks, and specialty cocktails. Jasmine tea, oolong, and green tea are recommended to accompany meals, aiding digestion and enhancing the flavors.
“The perfect ending to a Cantonese feast is a thoughtfully crafted dessert paired with a soothing cup of tea.”
- Mango Pudding – Creamy, smooth, with a tropical sweetness
- Sesame Balls – Crispy exterior with sweet red bean filling
- Lychee Jelly – Light, fruity, and refreshing
- Jasmine Tea – Fragrant and calming, ideal for digestion
Ordering and Dining Experience
The Canton Palace menu is designed not only for dine-in guests but also for takeout and catering, making it accessible for various occasions. The restaurant’s staff is knowledgeable and attentive, ready to assist with recommendations based on your preferences.
For first-time visitors, the friendly servers often suggest popular combinations or chef’s specials, ensuring a satisfying introduction to the menu. The ambiance is cozy yet elegant, suitable for casual family meals or intimate gatherings.
Canton Palace also emphasizes timely service and maintains high standards of cleanliness and safety, enhancing the overall dining experience. Online ordering options add convenience for busy patrons who want to enjoy quality food at home.
Tips for Ordering
- Ask for recommendations to discover daily specials or chef favorites
- Consider sharing dim sum plates to sample a variety of flavors
- Specify spice levels to tailor dishes to your taste
- Use online ordering for quick and easy takeout
Conclusion
Canton Palace in Somerville, NJ, stands as a beacon of authentic Cantonese cuisine, offering a menu that impresses with its depth, variety, and dedication to quality. From the enticing appetizers and dim sum to the rich main courses and thoughtfully crafted vegetarian options, every dish reflects a passion for culinary excellence.
The restaurant’s inviting atmosphere, attentive service, and convenient ordering options make it a go-to destination for anyone craving a genuine taste of Cantonese flavors. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor exploring the area, Canton Palace promises a memorable dining experience that honors tradition while embracing modern tastes.
Choosing Canton Palace means indulging in expertly prepared food that respects the art of Chinese cooking and satisfies the appetite with every bite. It is a place where flavors come alive, and every meal becomes an opportunity to celebrate culture, community, and the joy of good food.
