Durham, North Carolina, is home to a vibrant culinary scene that celebrates diversity, flavor, and tradition. Among its many dining options, China King stands out as a beloved destination for lovers of authentic Chinese cuisine.
With a menu that caters to a wide range of tastes—from classic favorites to innovative dishes—China King offers an experience that is as rich in variety as it is in flavor. Whether you are craving the bold spices of Szechuan or the delicate balance of Cantonese cooking, this restaurant delivers with fresh ingredients and meticulous preparation.
The China King Durham NC menu is thoughtfully crafted to appeal to everyone, whether you’re dining solo, with family, or hosting a special event. It features a broad selection of appetizers, main courses, and desserts, each designed to showcase traditional techniques and vibrant tastes.
The restaurant’s inviting atmosphere complements the culinary journey, offering a relaxing setting for casual meals or celebratory dinners. Diners can expect exceptional service paired with dishes that honor the depth of Chinese culinary heritage while embracing modern sensibilities.
Exploring the China King menu reveals a dedication to quality and authenticity. From the savory soups to the hearty entrees, every dish is a testament to the skill and passion of the chefs.
This commitment to excellence has made China King a staple in the Durham food scene, drawing patrons who appreciate genuine flavors and a warm dining experience. Understanding the menu’s offerings helps enhance your visit, allowing you to select dishes that satisfy cravings and introduce exciting new tastes.
Appetizers: A Flavorful Start
The appetizer section at China King Durham NC is designed to awaken the palate with a variety of bold and subtle flavors. These starters provide a perfect introduction to the meal, combining textures and tastes that prepare you for the main courses ahead.
From crispy spring rolls to tender dumplings, the appetizers showcase a range of cooking styles and ingredients. Many dishes are ideal for sharing, making them perfect for groups eager to sample multiple flavors.
The appetizers also highlight traditional Chinese ingredients like water chestnuts, bamboo shoots, and fresh herbs.
Popular Appetizer Choices
- Egg Rolls: Crispy on the outside and filled with a savory mixture of vegetables and meat, these are a perennial favorite.
- Crab Rangoon: Cream cheese and crab filling wrapped in wonton skins, fried to golden perfection.
- Potstickers: Pan-fried dumplings with a juicy pork or vegetable filling, served with a tangy dipping sauce.
- Hot and Sour Soup: A warming bowl combining spicy and sour flavors with tofu, mushrooms, and egg.
“The appetizers at China King are more than just starters; they set the tone for a memorable meal by balancing flavors and textures that delight the senses.” — Local food critic
Main Entrees: Traditional Meets Contemporary
The main entrees at China King offer an extensive selection that reflects both classic Chinese cooking and modern adaptations. These dishes are hearty, flavorful, and designed to cater to all preferences, including meat lovers, vegetarians, and those seeking gluten-free options.
The menu features well-known dishes such as General Tso’s Chicken and Beef with Broccoli, alongside less common specialties like Ma Po Tofu and Szechuan-style fish. Each entree is carefully prepared using fresh ingredients, ensuring vibrant flavors and well-balanced meals.
Portions are generous, perfect for sharing or for those with a hearty appetite.
Signature Entrees Overview
- General Tso’s Chicken: Crispy chicken pieces coated in a slightly sweet and spicy sauce.
- Beef with Broccoli: Tender slices of beef stir-fried with fresh broccoli in a savory sauce.
- Vegetable Lo Mein: Soft noodles tossed with fresh vegetables and a hint of soy sauce.
- Kung Pao Shrimp: Spicy stir-fried shrimp with peanuts, bell peppers, and chili peppers.
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Spice Level | Vegetarian Friendly |
| General Tso’s Chicken | Chicken, soy sauce, garlic, chili | Medium | No |
| Ma Po Tofu | Soft tofu, ground pork, Szechuan peppercorns | High | Optional (without pork) |
| Vegetable Lo Mein | Noodles, cabbage, carrots, mushrooms | Low | Yes |
| Kung Pao Shrimp | Shrimp, peanuts, chili peppers, bell peppers | High | No |
Soups and Sides: Complementing Every Meal
Soups and sides at China King Durham NC add depth and variety to the dining experience. They pair beautifully with entrees or can be enjoyed as light meals on their own.
The menu offers a blend of comforting soups and flavorful side dishes that satisfy cravings for warmth and texture.
Popular soups include the classic Wonton Soup, filled with delicate dumplings and rich broth, and the Egg Drop Soup, known for its silky texture and subtle flavor. Side dishes often feature fried rice and steamed vegetables, providing the perfect accompaniment to the main courses.
Must-Try Soups and Sides
- Wonton Soup: Light broth with pork and shrimp-filled wontons, garnished with green onions.
- Egg Drop Soup: Smooth broth with wispy egg strands and a hint of white pepper.
- Fried Rice: Classic fried rice with egg, peas, carrots, and choice of protein.
- Steamed Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables lightly seasoned and steamed to retain freshness.
“The soups at China King are a perfect harmony of flavors that comfort and invigorate, making them a must-order item.” — Regular customer feedback
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
China King Durham NC pays close attention to the needs of vegetarian and vegan diners, offering a variety of dishes that are both flavorful and satisfying. The menu includes options that are free from animal products while still delivering on taste and texture.
Many vegetable-based dishes use fresh, seasonal ingredients cooked with traditional sauces that avoid animal-based additives. The chefs take care to prepare meals that respect dietary restrictions without compromising on the authentic Chinese flavors that define the restaurant.
Popular Vegetarian and Vegan Dishes
- Vegetable Lo Mein: Stir-fried noodles with a colorful array of fresh vegetables.
- Mapo Tofu (Vegan Version): Silky tofu in a spicy sauce, prepared without meat or animal broth.
- Steamed Mixed Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables served with a light garlic sauce.
- Vegetable Fried Rice: Classic fried rice made without eggs or animal products.
By offering these options, China King ensures that everyone can enjoy a rich and varied Chinese dining experience. The kitchen staff is also happy to accommodate special requests to meet dietary preferences.
Desserts: Sweet Endings
The dessert menu at China King offers a selection of treats that provide a gentle finish to the meal. While traditional Chinese desserts may be less familiar to some diners, they offer delightful flavors and textures that are worth exploring.
Options include classic dishes like fried sesame balls and mango pudding, which balance sweetness with lightness. These desserts are crafted to complement the savory flavors of the main courses without overwhelming the palate.
Featured Desserts
- Fried Sesame Balls: Crispy on the outside with a sweet red bean paste center.
- Mango Pudding: Smooth, creamy pudding made with fresh mango puree.
- Fortune Cookies: A fun and light way to close the meal, with a hint of vanilla flavor.
“Desserts at China King provide a subtle yet satisfying conclusion, inviting diners to savor the last moments of their culinary journey.” — Food enthusiast review
Beverages: Traditional and Modern Choices
The beverage menu complements the food selection by offering a range of traditional Chinese drinks alongside popular modern options. Whether you prefer hot tea, refreshing soft drinks, or something stronger, China King provides drinks that enhance the dining experience.
Tea plays a central role, with choices including jasmine, green, and oolong varieties. These teas are carefully brewed to complement the flavors of the meal and aid digestion.
For those seeking something cold, sodas and juices are readily available.
Popular Beverage Options
- Jasmine Tea: Fragrant and floral, served hot to refresh the palate.
- Green Tea: Light and slightly bitter, known for its health benefits.
- Soda and Soft Drinks: Classic options like cola and lemon-lime soda.
- Beer and Wine: Selected alcoholic beverages to pair with rich dishes.
| Beverage | Flavor Profile | Best Paired With |
| Jasmine Tea | Floral, aromatic | Light appetizers, seafood |
| Green Tea | Grassy, slightly bitter | Vegetarian dishes, fried foods |
| Beer | Crisp, refreshing | Spicy entrees, fried dishes |
| Mango Juice | Sweet, tropical | Desserts, light appetizers |
Takeout and Delivery Options
Recognizing the need for convenience, China King Durham NC offers takeout and delivery services that maintain the restaurant’s high standards. These options allow customers to enjoy authentic Chinese cuisine from the comfort of their own homes.
Orders can be placed by phone or through popular delivery platforms, with careful packaging to preserve temperature and presentation. The menu is designed to travel well, ensuring that dishes arrive fresh and flavorful, whether for a quick lunch or a family dinner.
Ordering Tips
- Call ahead: Placing orders in advance helps reduce wait times and ensures availability of popular dishes.
- Choose shareable items: Appetizers and combo plates work well for group orders.
- Specify preferences: Indicate spice levels or dietary needs when ordering to customize your meal.
“The takeout service at China King offers a seamless extension of the dine-in experience, delivering quality and flavor right to your doorstep.” — Satisfied customer testimonial
Conclusion
The China King Durham NC menu is a celebration of authentic Chinese cuisine, offering something for every palate. From the enticing appetizers to the rich entrees and delicate desserts, the menu showcases a thoughtful blend of tradition and innovation.
Whether you are seeking spicy Szechuan flavors, comforting Cantonese classics, or fresh vegetarian options, China King delivers consistently high-quality dishes that satisfy and delight.
The restaurant’s dedication to fresh ingredients, balanced flavors, and accommodating service makes it a standout choice in Durham’s competitive food landscape. Its diverse menu encourages exploration and sharing, inviting diners to experience the depth and variety of Chinese culinary arts.
With convenient takeout and delivery options, China King ensures that its delicious offerings are accessible to all, making it easy to enjoy authentic Chinese food anytime.
Dining at China King is more than just a meal—it is an opportunity to connect with rich cultural traditions and savor expertly prepared dishes in a welcoming environment. Whether for a casual dinner, family gathering, or special occasion, the China King menu promises a rewarding experience filled with flavor, warmth, and hospitality.
