Nestled in the heart of Cincinnati, Chung Ching Restaurant offers an authentic taste of Chinese cuisine that has captivated locals and visitors alike. Renowned for its rich flavors and diverse menu, the restaurant has become a culinary staple for those seeking both traditional dishes and innovative interpretations.
Whether you are a fan of classic dim sum or crave spicy Szechuan specialties, Chung Ching promises a dining experience that balances quality and comfort. The menu showcases a harmonious blend of fresh ingredients, bold spices, and time-honored recipes, making every meal a memorable occasion.
Beyond just food, Chung Ching Restaurant is a place where culture meets community. The welcoming atmosphere and attentive service create an inviting space perfect for family gatherings, casual dinners, or special celebrations.
The thoughtfully curated menu reflects a commitment to authenticity while embracing contemporary tastes, ensuring there’s something delightful for every palate. Exploring the Chung Ching menu reveals an exciting journey through various regions of China, highlighting the diversity and depth of its culinary heritage.
Appetizers and Starters
The appetizer section at Chung Ching Restaurant sets the tone for the meal with a variety of tempting options designed to awaken the palate. These starters perfectly balance texture and flavor, offering both light and hearty choices to begin your dining experience.
Popular options include crispy spring rolls, delicate dumplings, and flavorful soups that showcase the skillful preparation behind each dish. The appetizers are crafted to complement the main courses, often featuring fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a mix of savory and sweet elements.
This section emphasizes the importance of first impressions in a meal, making each bite count.
For those seeking traditional tastes, the steamed shrimp dumplings and pork siu mai are must-tries, celebrated for their tender fillings and subtle seasoning. Vegetarian diners can enjoy the stuffed mushrooms or fresh cucumber salad, which provide refreshing alternatives without compromising on flavor.
- Crispy Spring Rolls: Golden, crunchy, and filled with seasoned vegetables and pork
- Steamed Shrimp Dumplings: Delicate wrappers encasing succulent shrimp
- Pork Siu Mai: Classic open-faced dumplings bursting with savory pork
- Vegetarian Stuffed Mushrooms: Filled with a savory blend of tofu and herbs
“The appetizers at Chung Ching are a perfect introduction to their culinary mastery—each bite is a balance of tradition and innovation.”
Dim Sum Selection
Dim sum is an integral part of Chinese dining culture, and Chung Ching’s menu pays homage to this beloved tradition with a wide selection of bite-sized delights. This section invites diners to enjoy a communal experience, sharing a variety of flavors and textures.
The dim sum offerings include steamed, fried, and baked options, each prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. From the classic har gow to the more adventurous pork buns, the menu caters to a broad range of tastes.
The dim sum at Chung Ching is perfect for brunch or a light meal, allowing guests to sample multiple dishes in one sitting.
Chung Ching’s dim sum chefs pay particular attention to the dough and fillings, ensuring that each piece is perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor. The delicate balance of softness and chew, combined with the aromatic fillings, creates an unforgettable dining experience.
- Har Gow: Traditional steamed shrimp dumplings with translucent wrappers
- Pork Buns: Soft, fluffy buns filled with savory barbecue pork
- Turnip Cake: Pan-fried savory cakes made from shredded radish and rice flour
- Chicken Feet: Braised in a flavorful sauce, a favorite among dim sum enthusiasts
Dish | Cooking Method | Main Ingredients | Price Range |
Har Gow | Steamed | Shrimp, wheat starch | $6 – $8 |
Pork Buns | Steamed/Baked | Barbecue pork, flour | $5 – $7 |
Turnip Cake | Pan-fried | Radish, rice flour | $4 – $6 |
Chicken Feet | Braised | Chicken feet, soy sauce | $5 – $7 |
Main Course Specialties
Chung Ching’s main courses are the centerpiece of the menu, offering a rich variety of dishes that highlight the diversity of Chinese regional cuisine. From hearty stir-fries to slow-cooked delicacies, these dishes cater to a wide spectrum of preferences.
Signature entrees include the fiery Szechuan chicken, tender Mongolian beef, and savory General Tso’s chicken. Each dish is crafted with a perfect balance of spices, sauces, and fresh ingredients, reflecting the restaurant’s commitment to authenticity and flavor.
For seafood lovers, options such as salt and pepper shrimp and steamed whole fish provide fresh, delicate tastes that are both satisfying and elegant. Additionally, the menu includes a selection of vegetarian mains, ensuring that every guest finds something to savor.
- Szechuan Chicken: Spicy, bold flavors with chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns
- Mongolian Beef: Tender strips of beef in a savory brown sauce
- General Tso’s Chicken: Crispy chicken tossed in a sweet and tangy sauce
- Salt and Pepper Shrimp: Lightly battered shrimp with a hint of spice
“The main courses at Chung Ching showcase the depth and complexity of Chinese cooking, with each plate telling a story through its ingredients.”
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Recognizing the growing demand for plant-based dishes, Chung Ching offers a thoughtfully curated vegetarian and vegan menu. These options are designed to deliver the same rich flavors and satisfying textures as their meat counterparts.
The vegetarian dishes emphasize fresh vegetables, tofu, and mushrooms, prepared with traditional Chinese sauces and spices. Whether you prefer stir-fried greens or hearty tofu stews, the menu presents a variety of choices that cater to both health-conscious diners and those seeking culinary adventure.
Special attention is given to ensuring that vegetarian dishes are nutritionally balanced and flavorful. Many of these options are also suitable for vegan guests, with clear labeling and careful preparation to avoid cross-contamination.
- Mapo Tofu (Vegan): Silken tofu in a spicy bean sauce
- Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Fresh greens sautéed with garlic and ginger
- Mushroom Fried Rice: Aromatic rice with mixed mushrooms and vegetables
- Vegetable Lo Mein: Soft noodles tossed with a medley of fresh vegetables
Dish | Main Ingredients | Vegan Friendly | Price Range |
Mapo Tofu | Tofu, chili bean sauce | Yes | $9 – $11 |
Stir-Fried Bok Choy | Bok choy, garlic, ginger | Yes | $7 – $9 |
Mushroom Fried Rice | Rice, mushrooms, vegetables | Yes | $8 – $10 |
Vegetable Lo Mein | Noodles, mixed vegetables | Yes | $8 – $10 |
Soups and Noodle Dishes
Soups and noodles form a comforting and essential part of Chinese cuisine, and Chung Ching’s menu offers a diverse range of these dishes. From light broths to hearty noodle bowls, this section provides warmth and nourishment.
The soups range from delicate egg drop soup to more robust hot and sour varieties, each crafted with layers of flavor and fresh ingredients. Noodle dishes include hand-pulled, stir-fried, and soup-based options, catering to both simple and complex tastes.
Many noodle dishes feature fresh vegetables, tender meats, or seafood, combined with house-made sauces. The menu encourages diners to customize their noodle bowls with different toppings and spice levels, allowing for a personalized dining experience.
- Hot and Sour Soup: A flavorful broth with tofu, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots
- Beef Chow Fun: Wide rice noodles stir-fried with beef and vegetables
- Wonton Noodle Soup: Clear broth with delicate pork-filled wontons
- Dan Dan Noodles: Spicy noodles tossed with minced pork and peanuts
“The soups and noodles at Chung Ching provide a perfect balance of comfort and complexity, ideal for any time of day.”
Rice and Side Dishes
Complementing the main courses, Chung Ching offers a selection of rice and side dishes that enhance the overall dining experience. These staples provide texture, flavor, and balance to the meal.
Rice dishes range from simple steamed jasmine rice to more elaborate fried rice varieties, each prepared with care and attention to detail. Side dishes include sautéed vegetables, braised tofu, and pickled delicacies, all designed to pair seamlessly with the larger entrees.
The side dishes also reflect regional influences, showcasing ingredients like Chinese broccoli, water chestnuts, and fermented sauces. These accompaniments add depth and variety, allowing diners to tailor their meals to personal preferences.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: Light and fluffy, the perfect base for any dish
- Yangzhou Fried Rice: Classic fried rice with shrimp, ham, and vegetables
- Sautéed Chinese Broccoli: Fresh greens cooked with garlic and oyster sauce
- Braised Tofu: Soft tofu simmered in a savory sauce
Dish | Main Ingredients | Best Paired With |
Steamed Jasmine Rice | Jasmine rice | Main courses, stir-fries |
Yangzhou Fried Rice | Rice, shrimp, ham, vegetables | Dim sum, noodle dishes |
Sautéed Chinese Broccoli | Chinese broccoli, garlic, oyster sauce | Main courses, rice dishes |
Braised Tofu | Tofu, soy sauce, spices | Vegetarian mains, rice |
Desserts and Beverages
No meal at Chung Ching is complete without indulging in the tempting selection of desserts and beverages. This section captures the sweet and refreshing finale to a flavorful culinary journey.
Traditional desserts such as mango pudding and sesame balls provide a satisfying sweetness without overwhelming the palate. Other options include fresh fruit plates and more contemporary treats inspired by Chinese flavors.
The beverage menu pairs well with the food, offering a selection of teas, soft drinks, and specialty cocktails. The carefully chosen tea blends not only complement the dishes but also aid digestion and refresh the senses.
- Mango Pudding: Creamy, fruity, and perfectly chilled
- Sesame Balls: Crispy on the outside with a sweet red bean filling
- Jasmine Tea: Fragrant and soothing, ideal for pairing with meals
- Lychee Martini: A modern cocktail with a tropical twist
“The desserts and beverages at Chung Ching provide a delightful conclusion to a meal, leaving guests with lasting memories of both flavor and ambiance.”
Specialty and Seasonal Offerings
Chung Ching Restaurant frequently updates its menu with specialty and seasonal dishes, showcasing the freshest ingredients and inspired culinary creativity. These offerings provide guests with unique tastes that highlight the changing seasons and festivals.
Seasonal items often include mushroom medleys in autumn, fresh seafood in summer, and festive dishes during Chinese New Year celebrations. These dishes are crafted to reflect traditional customs while incorporating modern techniques and presentation.
Specialty dishes may also feature chef’s recommendations or experimental fusions that push the boundaries of classic Chinese cuisine. This dynamic section of the menu keeps the dining experience fresh and exciting for repeat visitors.
- Winter Melon Soup: A cooling and nourishing broth, popular in colder months
- Dragon Boat Festival Rice Dumplings: Sticky rice wrapped in lotus leaves with savory or sweet fillings
- Seasonal Seafood Platter: Fresh catches prepared with light sauces highlighting natural flavors
- Chef’s Special Braised Pork Belly: Slow-cooked with spices and a rich glaze
Season | Special Dish | Main Ingredients | Availability |
Spring | Chef’s Special Braised Pork Belly | Pork, soy sauce, spices | March – May |
Summer | Seasonal Seafood Platter | Assorted seafood, herbs | June – August |
Autumn | Winter Melon Soup | Winter melon, broth | September – November |
Winter | Dragon Boat Festival Rice Dumplings | Sticky rice, lotus leaf | December – February |
Conclusion
Chung Ching Restaurant in Cincinnati stands as a beacon of authentic Chinese cuisine, blending tradition with modern flair through its thoughtfully crafted menu. Every section, from appetizers to specialty offerings, reflects a deep respect for culinary heritage paired with a passion for quality and innovation.
The wide variety of dishes ensures that diners can experience the rich tapestry of Chinese flavors, whether they prefer spicy, savory, mild, or sweet profiles.
With attentive service and a warm atmosphere, Chung Ching not only serves food but creates lasting memories centered around taste and community. The menu’s balance of classic staples and seasonal creativity invites guests to return often, discovering new favorites and savoring beloved classics.
For anyone seeking a genuine and satisfying Chinese dining experience in Cincinnati, Chung Ching Restaurant’s menu is a compelling invitation to explore and enjoy.