Nestled along the bustling corridors of Ellis Avenue, China Kitchen has become more than just a neighborhood eatery – it’s established itself as a culinary landmark. The moment you step inside, the aroma of sizzling garlic, ginger, and soy sauce fills the air, hinting at the hearty flavors that await.
Known for its extensive menu that blends traditional Chinese recipes with modern interpretations, China Kitchen draws a diverse crowd, from busy professionals grabbing a quick lunch to families seeking a memorable dinner.
The menu is a tapestry of taste, weaving together classics like General Tso’s Chicken and innovative specialties crafted by seasoned chefs.
Beyond the food, the inviting ambiance and attentive service ensure a welcoming experience for every guest. Whether you’re a fan of spicy Szechuan, crave Cantonese comfort food, or simply desire a fresh spin on stir-fried noodles, there’s something on the menu for every palate.
With generous portions, fresh ingredients, and affordable pricing, it’s no surprise that China Kitchen on Ellis Ave has garnered a loyal following. Let’s explore what makes this menu so remarkable and why so many diners keep coming back for more.
Signature Starters and Appetizers
The starters at China Kitchen set the stage for a satisfying meal. Each appetizer is crafted to entice your taste buds, offering a balance of flavors and textures that promise a memorable beginning.
Whether you’re dining solo or sharing with a group, the menu boasts options that cater to every appetite.
Among the crowd favorites, the crispy Egg Rolls are a must-try. Their golden exterior gives way to a savory filling of seasoned vegetables and tender chicken or shrimp.
Paired with tangy dipping sauces, these rolls are both comforting and crave-worthy. For those who prefer a lighter bite, the Steamed Dumplings offer a delicate wrapper enveloping juicy pork or vegetable filling, served with a soy-ginger sauce that elevates every bite.
If you’re seeking bold flavors, the Spicy Wontons will not disappoint. Bathed in a fiery chili oil and topped with fragrant garlic, these dumplings pack a punch that’s balanced by the subtle sweetness of the filling.
The Scallion Pancakes are another favorite, known for their flaky layers and subtle onion aroma, perfect for dipping into savory sauces.
- Egg Rolls: Crispy, golden, and filled with seasoned goodness
- Steamed Dumplings: Juicy, tender, and perfect for sharing
- Spicy Wontons: For those who love a kick of heat
- Scallion Pancakes: Flaky, savory, and lightly aromatic
“The appetizers at China Kitchen are the perfect way to kick off your meal – each bite is packed with flavor and sets high expectations for the courses to follow.” – Local Food Critic
Classic Entrees: Tradition on Every Plate
China Kitchen’s menu shines brightest in its selection of classic Chinese entrees. Each dish pays homage to age-old recipes, expertly prepared to deliver an authentic taste of China’s regional cuisines.
The kitchen skillfully balances tradition with local tastes, resulting in dishes that are both familiar and exciting.
The General Tso’s Chicken is a perennial favorite, featuring succulent pieces of chicken tossed in a sweet and tangy sauce with just the right amount of spice. For those who prefer beef, the savory Mongolian Beef combines tender slices of meat with crisp scallions and a rich brown sauce, served over a bed of steamed rice.
Vegetarians aren’t left out either, with options like Mapo Tofu that highlight silken tofu in a spicy, aromatic sauce brimming with flavor.
What sets these entrees apart is the attention to quality. Fresh vegetables, premium meats, and house-made sauces ensure every bite is a testament to China Kitchen’s commitment to excellence.
Portion sizes are generous, making it easy to share among friends or enjoy leftovers the next day.
- General Tso’s Chicken: Sweet, spicy, and utterly satisfying
- Mongolian Beef: Savory, tender, and packed with umami
- Mapo Tofu: A vegetarian favorite with a spicy kick
- Sweet and Sour Pork: Balancing tangy sauce with crisp pork
| Entree | Main Protein | Sauce Profile | Best For |
| General Tso’s Chicken | Chicken | Sweet, Spicy | Fans of bold flavors |
| Mongolian Beef | Beef | Savory, Rich | Meat lovers |
| Mapo Tofu | Tofu | Spicy, Aromatic | Vegetarians |
Sizzling Szechuan and Spicy Specialties
For those who crave heat, China Kitchen’s Szechuan dishes deliver fiery satisfaction. Offering a unique interplay of flavors, these specialties are marked by the bold use of chili peppers, Szechuan peppercorns, and garlic.
The menu’s spicy section is a treasure trove for adventurous eaters.
The Szechuan Chicken is a standout, featuring tender chicken stir-fried with crunchy vegetables and smothered in a vibrant, spicy sauce. Each bite brings a tingling heat, balanced with the subtle numbing sensation characteristic of authentic Szechuan peppercorns.
For seafood lovers, the Szechuan Shrimp offers plump shrimp tossed in a garlic-chili sauce, complemented by bell peppers and onions.
If you’re new to spicy cuisine, don’t be intimidated. The kitchen can adjust the heat level to suit your preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy these bold flavors.
Spicy Eggplant is another popular choice, featuring tender eggplant simmered in a savory, slightly sweet sauce with just enough chili to enliven the palate.
- Szechuan Chicken: Classic heat with authentic Szechuan flavor
- Szechuan Shrimp: Perfect for seafood fans who enjoy a spicy twist
- Spicy Eggplant: A vegetarian delight with a bold profile
- Szechuan Tofu: Silky tofu in a chili-laden sauce
“China Kitchen’s Szechuan offerings capture the true spirit of regional Chinese cooking – fiery, complex, and absolutely addictive.” – Szechuan Cuisine Enthusiast
Rice, Noodles, and Comforting Classics
No Chinese meal feels complete without a hearty serving of rice or noodles. China Kitchen’s menu features a wide array of these comforting staples, each one prepared fresh to order.
From fried rice bursting with ingredients to silky noodle dishes, these options are perfect for both main courses and sides.
The Yangzhou Fried Rice is a customer favorite, featuring fluffy grains stir-fried with shrimp, barbecued pork, peas, and egg. Each bite is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying option for both lunch and dinner.
If noodles are more your style, the Lo Mein comes highly recommended. Available with chicken, beef, shrimp, or vegetables, the dish features perfectly cooked noodles tossed in a savory sauce with crisp vegetables.
For those seeking something on the lighter side, the Singapore Noodles offer a gluten-free option, made with thin rice vermicelli stir-fried in a fragrant curry sauce with vegetables and your choice of protein.
The House Special Fried Rice is another standout, loaded with a generous mix of meats and vegetables, making it a meal on its own.
- Yangzhou Fried Rice: Classic and loaded with flavor
- Lo Mein: Soft noodles tossed with your protein of choice
- Singapore Noodles: Fragrant, light, and gluten-free
- House Special Fried Rice: A hearty, flavorful choice
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Gluten-Free | Notable Features |
| Yangzhou Fried Rice | Shrimp, Pork, Egg, Peas | No | Traditional favorite |
| Singapore Noodles | Rice Vermicelli, Vegetables, Protein | Yes | Curry flavor, light option |
| Lo Mein | Egg Noodles, Protein, Vegetables | No | Versatile, customizable |
Vegetarian and Vegan-Friendly Choices
China Kitchen stands out for its inclusive menu, offering a variety of vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. These options highlight the kitchen’s creativity, utilizing tofu, mushrooms, and fresh vegetables to deliver hearty flavors without animal products.
Vegetarians and vegans will appreciate the care taken to ensure both taste and nutrition.
The Buddha’s Delight is a popular choice, featuring a medley of seasonal vegetables and tofu lightly stir-fried in a delicate garlic sauce. This dish is as beautiful as it is delicious, offering a satisfying crunch and a burst of fresh flavors.
The Vegetable Lo Mein provides another plant-based alternative, with tender noodles, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce that brings everything together.
For those seeking something spicy, the Ma Po Tofu (vegetarian version) delivers all the heat and complexity of the original, with silken tofu simmered in a rich, spicy bean sauce. The Szechuan Eggplant is another standout, featuring tender eggplant in a bold, garlic-chili sauce that even meat-eaters will love.
- Buddha’s Delight: Colorful, healthy, and bursting with flavor
- Vegetable Lo Mein: Comforting and satisfying
- Ma Po Tofu: Spicy and hearty
- Szechuan Eggplant: Perfectly spicy and aromatic
“As a vegetarian, I always appreciate restaurants that offer more than just token salads. China Kitchen’s plant-based options are among the best I’ve tried – full of flavor and creativity.” – Loyal Patron
Tips for Vegan Diners
- Ask for dishes to be prepared without oyster sauce or egg
- Request extra vegetables or tofu for added protein
- Inquire about hidden ingredients in sauces for peace of mind
Chef’s Specials and House Recommendations
For diners seeking something unique, the Chef’s Specials section of China Kitchen’s menu is a source of delightful surprises. These dishes are where the chefs showcase their creativity, blending traditional techniques with modern twists or rare ingredients.
The specials change periodically, reflecting seasonal produce and new inspirations from the kitchen.
One memorable recommendation is the Peking Duck, a dish that embodies both tradition and celebration. Served with thin pancakes, hoisin sauce, and crisp vegetables, this specialty is ideal for sharing and perfect for marking a special occasion.
The Seafood Hot Pot is another highlight, featuring a bubbling clay pot filled with an assortment of fresh seafood, vegetables, and fragrant broth.
If you’re looking to try something adventurous, the Honey Walnut Shrimp blends sweet, creamy sauce with crispy shrimp and candied walnuts for a dish that’s both indulgent and refreshing. The Black Pepper Beef offers a bold, peppery flavor profile that pairs perfectly with steamed rice or noodles.
- Peking Duck: Crispy, succulent, and a feast for the senses
- Seafood Hot Pot: Hearty, comforting, and packed with flavor
- Honey Walnut Shrimp: Sweet, creamy, and delightfully crunchy
- Black Pepper Beef: Robust and aromatic
| Special | Main Feature | Ideal For |
| Peking Duck | Crispy skin, savory meat | Celebrations, group dining |
| Seafood Hot Pot | Assorted seafood, vegetables | Seafood lovers, cold nights |
| Honey Walnut Shrimp | Sweet, crunchy, creamy | Adventurous eaters |
“Don’t miss the Chef’s Specials – they’re where the kitchen’s passion and innovation truly shine.” – Regular Customer
Lunch Combos and Family-Style Dining
China Kitchen understands the importance of value and convenience. Their lunch combos and family-style offerings make it easy to enjoy a delicious meal without stretching your budget.
These options are especially popular with busy professionals and families seeking variety and affordability.
Lunch combos come with your choice of entree, steamed or fried rice, and a side of soup or egg roll. Popular picks include Orange Chicken, Beef with Broccoli, and Sesame Tofu.
The combos are portioned for a satisfying midday meal and are available for dine-in, takeout, or delivery.
For larger groups, the family-style menu offers generous platters of entrees, appetizers, and sides designed to be shared. This setup encourages sampling a variety of dishes, making it perfect for gatherings or celebrations.
The staff is always happy to recommend combinations based on your group’s preferences.
- Lunch Combos: Fast, affordable, and satisfying
- Family-Style Platters: Ideal for group dining and celebrations
- Customizable Options: Mix and match your favorites
| Combo | Includes | Best Time |
| Lunch Combo | Entree, Rice, Soup/Egg Roll | Weekdays, 11am – 3pm |
| Family-Style | Multiple Entrees, Sides, Appetizers | Dinner, Gatherings |
“The lunch combos at China Kitchen are unbeatable for quality and price – I always leave satisfied and ready to tackle the rest of my day.” – Office Worker
Desserts, Beverages, and Dietary Accommodations
After a savory meal, China Kitchen’s dessert menu offers a sweet finale. The selection includes both classic Chinese sweets and popular Western treats, ensuring that everyone can find something to satisfy their cravings.
The beverage menu is equally diverse, highlighting refreshing options to complement your meal.
Favorites include the Mango Pudding, a creamy, fruit-forward dessert that’s both light and satisfying. The Fried Sesame Balls offer a chewy texture with a sweet red bean filling, while Fortune Cookies provide a whimsical ending to every meal.
For those who prefer something more familiar, vanilla ice cream is also available.
Beverage choices range from traditional Chinese teas, such as jasmine and oolong, to soft drinks and fresh juices. The tea selection is curated to enhance your dining experience, with green tea offering a cleansing finish and oolong tea providing a robust aroma.
- Mango Pudding: Light, creamy, and refreshing
- Fried Sesame Balls: Sweet, chewy, and addictive
- Jasmine and Oolong Tea: Traditional and aromatic
- Fortune Cookies: A fun tradition
Accommodations for Special Diets
- Gluten-free options available upon request
- Vegetarian and vegan dishes clearly marked
- Staff happy to assist with food allergies and preferences
“China Kitchen’s team goes above and beyond to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. Their attention to detail is truly commendable.” – Allergy-Conscious Guest
Conclusion: Why China Kitchen Ellis Ave Stands Out
With its carefully curated menu, China Kitchen Ellis Ave has set the standard for exceptional Chinese dining in the neighborhood. Every dish reflects a commitment to quality, authenticity, and innovation, ensuring that each visit is both familiar and new.
Diners are welcomed not just with delicious food, but with genuine hospitality and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The menu’s breadth means that everyone – from meat lovers to vegans, from spice aficionados to comfort food seekers – can find something to delight their palate. Generous portions, affordable pricing, and attention to dietary needs make China Kitchen a top choice for lunch, dinner, and special occasions.
The family-style options and lunch combos add even more value, while the desserts and teas provide a satisfying finish to every meal.
In a city filled with dining choices, China Kitchen’s blend of tradition, creativity, and community focus makes it a true standout. Whether you’re a regular or a first-time visitor, the menu invites you to explore, savor, and return.
Rediscover your favorite Chinese classics or embark on a culinary adventure with new specialties – at China Kitchen Ellis Ave, every meal is a celebration.
