The China Dragon Spokane menu represents a delightful fusion of traditional Chinese culinary artistry and modern American tastes. Nestled in the heart of Spokane, Washington, this restaurant has become a beloved local destination for those craving authentic flavors and generous portions.
Whether you’re a fan of classic dishes like General Tso’s chicken or adventurous enough to try more intricate specialties, China Dragon offers an extensive menu that caters to every palate.
With a focus on fresh ingredients and bold seasonings, the menu reflects the rich diversity of Chinese cuisine. From savory soups and freshly steamed dim sum to sizzling stir-fries and crispy appetizers, every dish promises a satisfying experience.
The restaurant’s commitment to quality and flavor shines through each offering, making it a go-to spot for both casual dinners and special occasions. Exploring the China Dragon Spokane menu reveals an impressive variety of options, ensuring customers leave with their cravings fully satisfied.
Appetizers and Starters
The appetizer section at China Dragon Spokane sets the tone for a memorable meal. It features a carefully curated selection of dishes designed to awaken the appetite and introduce diners to the restaurant’s signature flavors.
These starters range from light and crispy to rich and savory, making them perfect for sharing or enjoying solo.
Popular choices include the classic egg rolls, which are stuffed with seasoned vegetables and meat, then fried to a golden crisp. Another favorite is the potstickers, known for their delicate wrappers and juicy fillings.
The menu also offers unique items such as crab rangoons, blending creamy cheese with a hint of seafood tang.
- Egg Rolls: Crispy exterior with a savory vegetable and pork filling.
- Potstickers: Pan-fried dumplings served with a tangy soy dipping sauce.
- Crab Rangoons: Cream cheese and crab meat wrapped in wonton skin, fried until golden.
- BBQ Spare Ribs: Tender ribs glazed with a sweet and smoky sauce.
Signature Starter: Hot and Sour Soup
The Hot and Sour Soup is a standout appetizer that perfectly balances spicy and tangy flavors. This soup features a rich broth infused with vinegar, white pepper, and a variety of ingredients such as tofu, bamboo shoots, and mushrooms.
It serves as a warming introduction to the meal and showcases the restaurant’s dedication to authentic preparation.
“The Hot and Sour Soup at China Dragon is a beautifully balanced blend that excites the palate without overwhelming it.” – Local Food Critic
Classic Entrees
The classic entrees section of the China Dragon Spokane menu offers timeless dishes that have become staples in Chinese-American cuisine. These dishes are characterized by their hearty portions, familiar flavors, and comforting textures.
Perfect for those seeking tradition alongside bold taste, the entrees range from sweet and tangy to savory and spicy.
One of the most beloved dishes is General Tso’s Chicken, known for its crispy battered chicken pieces tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce. Another favorite is Beef with Broccoli, where tender strips of beef are stir-fried with fresh broccoli in a flavorful oyster sauce.
The menu also includes favorites like Sweet and Sour Pork and Kung Pao Chicken, each prepared with attention to detail and balanced seasoning.
- General Tso’s Chicken: Crispy chicken in a sweet, tangy, and mildly spicy sauce.
- Beef with Broccoli: Tender beef sautéed with fresh broccoli in oyster sauce.
- Sweet and Sour Pork: Crispy pork bites coated in a vibrant sweet and sour glaze.
- Kung Pao Chicken: Spicy stir-fried chicken with peanuts and chili peppers.
Comparing Popular Entrees
Dish | Spice Level | Key Ingredients | Texture |
General Tso’s Chicken | Medium | Chicken, chili sauce, soy, sugar | Crispy, saucy |
Beef with Broccoli | Mild | Beef, broccoli, oyster sauce | Tender, crunchy |
Sweet and Sour Pork | Mild | Pork, pineapple, vinegar, sugar | Crispy, tangy |
Kung Pao Chicken | High | Chicken, peanuts, chili peppers | Spicy, crunchy |
Seafood Delicacies
China Dragon Spokane’s seafood dishes highlight the freshness and versatility of ocean ingredients prepared with traditional Chinese techniques. These entrees often feature delicate sauces that enhance the natural flavors of the seafood without overpowering them.
The menu caters to seafood lovers seeking dishes that are both satisfying and refined.
Popular seafood offerings include the Salt and Pepper Shrimp, which are lightly battered and fried with a zesty seasoning mix. Another key dish is the Szechuan Fish Filet, known for its spicy, numbing peppercorn sauce that invigorates the palate.
The Crab Fried Rice is a must-try, combining fluffy rice with tender crab meat and vegetables for a hearty yet delicate dish.
- Salt and Pepper Shrimp: Crispy shrimp tossed in a flavorful salt and pepper blend.
- Szechuan Fish Filet: Spicy fish cooked with Szechuan peppercorns and chili oil.
- Crab Fried Rice: Fried rice enriched with succulent crab meat and fresh vegetables.
- Garlic Lobster: Lobster stir-fried with garlic sauce and fresh herbs.
Seafood Preparation Techniques
Steaming is commonly used to preserve the natural sweetness of fish and shellfish, ensuring a tender and moist texture without excessive oil. Stir-frying allows quick cooking while retaining the crunch of vegetables and the juiciness of seafood.
Deep-frying, as seen in dishes like Salt and Pepper Shrimp, adds a contrasting crispness that elevates the flavor profile.
“Every seafood dish at China Dragon exemplifies a perfect marriage of freshness, technique, and bold seasoning.” – Seafood Enthusiast
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Recognizing diverse dietary preferences, China Dragon Spokane offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes that don’t compromise on flavor or texture. These options utilize fresh vegetables, tofu, and plant-based proteins, prepared with the same care as the meat dishes.
They are ideal for those seeking healthy, satisfying meals without animal products.
The menu features dishes like Ma Po Tofu, which is tofu cooked in a spicy bean paste sauce, and Buddha’s Delight, a medley of vegetables and mushrooms stir-fried in a light sauce. The Vegetable Fried Rice and Chow Mein provide familiar comfort with vibrant flavors.
Each dish emphasizes balance, combining wholesome ingredients with traditional seasonings.
- Ma Po Tofu: Silken tofu in a rich, spicy chili bean sauce.
- Buddha’s Delight: Mixed vegetables stir-fried with mushrooms and light sauce.
- Vegetable Fried Rice: Fried rice with assorted fresh vegetables.
- Vegetable Chow Mein: Stir-fried noodles with a variety of crisp vegetables.
Nutritional Benefits of Plant-Based Dishes
Vegetarian dishes at China Dragon are often rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals from fresh vegetables and tofu. They tend to be lower in calories and saturated fats compared to meat-based entrees.
Choosing these options can be a delicious way to enjoy traditional Chinese flavors while maintaining a balanced diet.
“The vegetarian options at China Dragon prove that plant-based meals can be both flavorful and fulfilling.” – Nutrition Expert
Rice and Noodle Selections
Rice and noodles form a staple part of the China Dragon Spokane menu, complementing main dishes or standing out as satisfying meals on their own. The restaurant offers a variety of preparations, showcasing the versatility of these fundamental ingredients in Chinese cuisine.
Fried rice options include classic Yangzhou Fried Rice, which combines eggs, shrimp, pork, and vegetables for a colorful, flavorful dish. Among the noodle options, the Chow Mein and Lo Mein are perennial favorites, with stir-fried noodles tossed alongside meats, seafood, and vegetables.
The menu also features specialty noodle soups for those craving a comforting bowl.
- Yangzhou Fried Rice: Classic fried rice with shrimp, pork, eggs, and vegetables.
- Chicken Chow Mein: Crispy fried noodles with a savory mix of chicken and vegetables.
- Beef Lo Mein: Soft egg noodles stir-fried with tender beef strips and vegetables.
- Wonton Noodle Soup: Clear broth with wontons and thin egg noodles.
Texture and Flavor Profiles
The texture of rice and noodles varies widely, from crispy chow mein to soft lo mein. Fried rice is often slightly oily with a hint of soy sauce, providing a savory and rich experience.
Noodle soups offer a lighter, soothing option with broth that infuses the noodles with subtle umami flavors.
Dish | Texture | Flavor | Typical Ingredients |
Yangzhou Fried Rice | Fluffy, slightly oily | Savory, umami-rich | Shrimp, pork, eggs, peas, carrots |
Chicken Chow Mein | Crispy noodles | Salty, slightly sweet | Chicken, bean sprouts, celery, soy sauce |
Beef Lo Mein | Soft, chewy noodles | Rich, savory | Beef, cabbage, mushrooms, soy sauce |
Wonton Noodle Soup | Soft noodles, tender wontons | Light, flavorful broth | Wontons, egg noodles, green onions |
Chef’s Specials and House Favorites
China Dragon Spokane regularly highlights chef’s specials that showcase inventive combinations and seasonal ingredients. These dishes allow the culinary team to express creativity while maintaining the restaurant’s commitment to quality.
House favorites, meanwhile, represent tried-and-true crowd-pleasers perfected over years.
Noteworthy specials include the Peking Duck, served with thin pancakes, hoisin sauce, and fresh scallions. Another is the Crispy Orange Beef, which features tender beef strips coated with a tangy orange glaze.
The Salted Egg Yolk Prawns are a luxurious choice with a rich, savory coating that delights the senses.
- Peking Duck: Roasted duck served with pancakes and sauces.
- Crispy Orange Beef: Beef with a citrus-infused sweet glaze.
- Salted Egg Yolk Prawns: Prawns coated in a creamy salted egg yolk sauce.
- Dragon Special Fried Rice: A hearty fried rice dish with multiple meats and vegetables.
Specialty Dish Highlight: Peking Duck
The Peking Duck is a centerpiece of Chinese culinary heritage, and China Dragon Spokane prepares it with precision. The skin is roasted to crispy perfection, while the meat remains tender and flavorful.
Diners assemble their own wraps with pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce, creating a personalized and interactive dining experience.
“The Peking Duck here is a true celebration of texture and taste, elevating a classic to new heights.” – Culinary Historian
Beverages and Desserts
Complementing the extensive food menu, China Dragon Spokane offers a variety of beverages and desserts to round out the dining experience. From traditional teas to indulgent sweets, these options enhance the meal and provide a satisfying finish.
Tea selections include Jasmine, Oolong, and Pu-erh, each chosen for their distinct aromas and health benefits. For those seeking something chilled, the menu offers soft drinks and specialty iced teas.
The dessert choices feature classic items like Mango Pudding, Red Bean Soup, and Fortune Cookies, providing a sweet and refreshing conclusion.
- Jasmine Tea: Fragrant floral tea served hot.
- Mango Pudding: Creamy, sweet pudding with fresh mango flavor.
- Red Bean Soup: Warm dessert soup made from sweetened red beans.
- Fortune Cookies: Crisp cookies containing a fun fortune message.
Health Benefits of Traditional Teas
Jasmine and Oolong teas are known for their antioxidant properties and ability to aid digestion. Pu-erh tea, often aged and fermented, is believed to help with metabolism and cholesterol reduction.
These teas not only complement the flavors of the meal but also contribute to overall well-being.
“Drinking traditional Chinese teas after a meal helps promote digestion and offers a calming ritual.” – Wellness Expert
Conclusion
China Dragon Spokane’s menu is a testament to the richness and diversity of Chinese cuisine, thoughtfully adapted to delight a broad audience. Its wide array of appetizers, classic entrees, seafood dishes, vegetarian options, and house specialties ensures there is something for every taste and preference.
The balance of traditional flavors with innovative preparations reflects the restaurant’s dedication to quality and customer satisfaction.
Exploring the menu reveals a culinary journey that respects authentic techniques while embracing the expectations of modern diners. Whether savoring the crispiness of an egg roll or indulging in the complex layers of Peking Duck, guests experience a harmonious blend of taste, texture, and aroma.
The inclusion of carefully chosen beverages and desserts completes the experience, making every visit to China Dragon in Spokane a memorable occasion worth repeating.
For those seeking flavorful, diverse, and authentic Chinese food in Spokane, China Dragon provides a warm welcome and a menu that promises both comfort and excitement. Its commitment to fresh ingredients, skilled preparation, and customer satisfaction cements its position as a local favorite and a culinary treasure.