China Garden in Swansboro, North Carolina, has established itself as a beloved local spot for authentic Chinese cuisine. Whether you’re a long-time resident or just visiting, the menu at China Garden offers a delicious array of traditional favorites and house specialties.
Here’s everything you need to know about what makes the China Garden Menu so popular in Swansboro, NC.
Atmosphere and Dining Experience
Step into China Garden and you’ll be greeted by the warm aroma of freshly prepared dishes and the inviting décor that blends classic Chinese motifs with cozy, family-friendly seating. The staff is known for their hospitality, ensuring every guest feels welcomed and cared for.
“China Garden is my go-to spot for takeout and family dinners. The menu is huge, and everything is cooked to order.
It’s always fresh and flavorful!”
– Local Customer Review
Core Menu Categories
China Garden’s menu covers a wide range of tastes, from comforting classics to adventurous specialties. Each category is crafted to satisfy different palates, ensuring everyone finds a favorite.
| Menu Category | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Appetizers | Egg Rolls, Crab Rangoon, Dumplings, Fried Wontons |
| Soups | Hot & Sour, Wonton, Egg Drop, House Special Soup |
| Chef’s Specialties | General Tso’s Chicken, Mongolian Beef, Orange Chicken |
| Poultry | Szechuan Chicken, Lemon Chicken, Moo Goo Gai Pan |
| Beef & Pork | Beef with Broccoli, Hunan Beef, Sweet & Sour Pork |
| Seafood | Shrimp with Lobster Sauce, Kung Pao Shrimp, Scallops |
| Vegetarian | Mixed Vegetables, Tofu Dishes, Buddha’s Delight |
| Fried Rice & Noodles | Lo Mein, Chow Mein, Fried Rice, Singapore Noodles |
| Lunch & Dinner Specials | Combination Plates, Family Dinners, Value Meals |
Popular Appetizers
The appetizer selection at China Garden is both diverse and satisfying. Whether you’re sharing with friends or just setting the stage for your meal, these starters are crowd-pleasers.
- Egg Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with tender vegetables and savory meats.
- Crab Rangoon: Creamy crab filling wrapped in a golden, crunchy shell.
- Steamed or Fried Dumplings: Pork or vegetable-stuffed dumplings, perfect for dipping in soy sauce.
- Fried Wontons: Light and crispy, served with a side of sweet-and-sour sauce.
Soups to Start Your Meal
China Garden’s soups are renowned for their deep flavors and hearty ingredients. Each bowl is prepared fresh, making it the perfect way to begin any meal.
| Soup | Description |
|---|---|
| Hot & Sour Soup | Spicy and tangy, packed with tofu, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots. |
| Wonton Soup | Delicate wontons in a clear, savory broth with scallions and greens. |
| Egg Drop Soup | Silky egg ribbons in a light, seasoned chicken broth. |
| House Special Soup | A chef’s blend of meat, seafood, and fresh vegetables. |
Chef’s Specialties – The Star Dishes
Signature dishes at China Garden showcase bold flavors and creative combinations. These are the dishes that keep customers coming back.
- General Tso’s Chicken: Crispy chicken tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce, garnished with broccoli.
- Mongolian Beef: Slices of tender beef stir-fried with scallions and onions in a savory brown sauce.
- Orange Chicken: Lightly battered chicken glazed with a tangy orange sauce.
- Shrimp with Walnuts: Large shrimp lightly breaded and paired with candied walnuts in a creamy sauce.
Poultry Selections
Chicken lovers will find plenty to love on the menu, with options ranging from mild and comforting to boldly spiced.
| Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Szechuan Chicken | Spicy stir-fried chicken with bell peppers and onions in a chili garlic sauce. |
| Lemon Chicken | Crispy battered chicken breast served with a bright lemon sauce. |
| Moo Goo Gai Pan | Lightly sautéed chicken breast with mushrooms, snow peas, and bamboo shoots. |
| Cashew Chicken | Stir-fried chicken with crunchy cashews and mixed vegetables. |
Beef and Pork Favorites
The beef and pork selections at China Garden are hearty, flavorful, and made with premium cuts of meat.
- Beef with Broccoli: A classic dish featuring tender beef and crisp broccoli in a savory sauce.
- Hunan Beef: Spicy beef stir-fried with mixed vegetables and a bold, garlicky sauce.
- Pepper Steak: Slices of beef cooked with bell peppers and onions for a smoky flavor.
- Sweet & Sour Pork: Crispy pork pieces tossed in a tangy sweet and sour glaze with pineapple and peppers.
Seafood Specialties
Seafood lovers will appreciate the fresh and skillfully prepared dishes on China Garden’s menu. From shrimp to scallops, each plate is a celebration of ocean flavors.
| Seafood Dish | Main Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Shrimp with Lobster Sauce | Shrimp, ground pork, peas, and eggs in a rich garlic sauce. |
| Kung Pao Shrimp | Shrimp stir-fried with peanuts, vegetables, and spicy chili peppers. |
| Scallops with Garlic Sauce | Scallops cooked in a fragrant, slightly spicy garlic sauce. |
| Shrimp with Snow Peas | Lightly sautéed shrimp and snow peas in a delicate white sauce. |
Vegetarian and Tofu Dishes
Vegetarians and those seeking lighter options will find plenty to enjoy. China Garden offers flavorful vegetable-based dishes that are anything but boring.
- Mixed Chinese Vegetables: A medley of broccoli, carrots, mushrooms, and snow peas in a light sauce.
- Buddha’s Delight: Tofu and assorted vegetables simmered in a delicate brown sauce.
- Ma Po Tofu: Silky tofu cubes in a spicy, aromatic sauce with minced vegetables.
- Eggplant with Garlic Sauce: Tender eggplant stir-fried in a savory garlic sauce.
Rice and Noodle Options
No Chinese meal is complete without rice or noodles. China Garden offers a diverse selection to complement any dish or to enjoy as a hearty main course.
| Rice & Noodles | Description |
|---|---|
| Fried Rice | Choice of chicken, pork, shrimp, beef, or vegetable fried rice, sautéed with eggs and scallions. |
| Lo Mein | Soft noodles stir-fried with vegetables and your choice of protein. |
| Chow Mein | Crispy noodles with stir-fried vegetables and meat or tofu. |
| Singapore Noodles | Thin rice noodles stir-fried with curry spices, shrimp, pork, and vegetables. |
Lunch and Dinner Specials
For diners seeking value and variety, China Garden’s specials are an excellent choice. Lunch specials are available daily and include an entrée, fried rice, and an egg roll or soup, making for a hearty midday meal.
Dinner combinations often come with multiple dishes, ensuring everyone at the table can share and sample. These specials are perfect for families, groups, or anyone wanting to try a bit of everything.
Family-Style Dining
China Garden encourages communal dining, with large portions designed for sharing. This tradition allows guests to sample a variety of dishes in one sitting, creating a festive and interactive experience.
“We always order a few different entrées and share everything family-style. The portions are generous, and it’s the best way to try new dishes!”
– Swansboro Local
Special Dietary Options
China Garden is attentive to diners with special dietary needs. Many dishes can be prepared gluten-free or vegetarian upon request.
The kitchen is also happy to adjust spice levels, making dishes milder or hotter based on your preference.
If you have any specific allergies or requests, be sure to let your server know. The staff is knowledgeable and strives to accommodate all guests.
Takeout and Delivery
In addition to in-house dining, China Garden offers convenient takeout and delivery options. The menu is clearly organized for quick ordering, and dishes are carefully packaged to ensure freshness and flavor.
Whether you’re grabbing lunch on the go or hosting a special occasion at home, China Garden makes it easy to enjoy restaurant-quality Chinese food wherever you are.
Pricing and Portions
China Garden is known for its fair pricing and generous portions. Most entrées are reasonably priced and can easily serve one hungry adult or two lighter eaters, especially when paired with appetizers or rice.
Lunch specials provide excellent value, while family combinations offer a cost-effective way to sample multiple dishes. It’s not uncommon for guests to leave with enough leftovers for another meal.
Customer Favorites and Recommendations
Certain dishes have developed a loyal following among regular patrons. General Tso’s Chicken, Mongolian Beef, and Shrimp with Lobster Sauce are consistently praised for their flavor and quality.
For those seeking something less common, the Singapore Noodles and Ma Po Tofu are hidden gems worth trying. Don’t overlook the appetizers, especially the dumplings and crab rangoon, which make for the perfect start to any meal.
China Garden Menu Sample – Swansboro NC
Here’s a sample menu to give you a clearer idea of what you can expect when you visit:
| Appetizers | Price |
|---|---|
| Egg Roll (2) | $3.50 |
| Crab Rangoon (6) | $5.95 |
| Fried Dumplings (8) | $6.25 |
| Fried Wontons (12) | $4.95 |
| Chef’s Specials | Price |
| General Tso’s Chicken | $11.95 |
| Mongolian Beef | $12.50 |
| Orange Chicken | $11.95 |
| Shrimp with Walnuts | $13.25 |
| Fried Rice | Price |
| Chicken Fried Rice | $7.95 |
| Shrimp Fried Rice | $8.50 |
| Vegetable Fried Rice | $7.50 |
Please note this is a sample menu; prices and selections may vary based on current offerings and seasonal ingredients.
Location and Contact Information
China Garden is centrally located in Swansboro, making it easily accessible for locals and visitors alike. Ample parking and a convenient entrance make for a hassle-free dining experience.
| Address: | 674 W Corbett Ave, Swansboro, NC 28584 |
| Phone: | (910) 326-5888 |
| Hours: | Mon-Sun: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM |
For the latest menu updates, holiday hours, or to place a takeout order, it’s best to call ahead or visit their official website, if available.
Why Choose China Garden in Swansboro?
With so many dining options available, China Garden stands out for its consistent quality, extensive menu, and welcoming atmosphere. Dishes are prepared with fresh ingredients and a dedication to authentic flavors.
Whether you’re craving a quick lunch, a sit-down dinner with family, or a convenient takeout meal, China Garden delivers on all fronts. The restaurant’s reputation in Swansboro is built on years of dependable service and culinary excellence.
“Every visit to China Garden feels like coming home. The staff remembers your favorites, and the food never disappoints.”
– Loyal Patron
Tips for Ordering from China Garden
- Call ahead during peak hours to minimize wait times for takeout or delivery.
- Ask about daily specials, as the kitchen sometimes features limited-time dishes.
- Don’t hesitate to customize your order to suit your dietary needs or spice preferences.
- Save room for leftovers – portions are generous and reheat well.
Final Thoughts on China Garden Menu in Swansboro NC
The China Garden menu in Swansboro, NC, is a testament to quality, variety, and tradition. Whether you’re a fan of classic favorites or eager to explore new flavors, the menu has something for everyone.
Friendly service, reasonable prices, and a comfortable setting make every meal memorable.
Next time you’re in the mood for Chinese food, consider China Garden for a dining experience that combines the best of East and West, right in the heart of Swansboro.
