Memphis is renowned for its rich culinary scene, and among its diverse offerings, Formosa Chinese Restaurant stands out as a beloved destination for authentic Chinese flavors. Nestled in the heart of the city, Formosa has cultivated a loyal following by combining traditional recipes with fresh ingredients and attentive service.
The menu reflects a deep respect for Chinese culinary heritage while embracing the preferences of local diners, offering a wide array of dishes that cater to various tastes and dietary needs.
Whether you’re craving classic stir-fries, delicate dim sum, or bold Szechuan spices, the Formosa menu delivers a balanced and satisfying experience. Each dish is crafted with care, bringing together texture, aroma, and flavor in a way that honors the legacy of Chinese cooking.
The restaurant’s commitment to quality and authenticity has made it a staple for both casual meals and special occasions in Memphis.
Exploring the menu reveals a thoughtful diversity, from appetizers to desserts, allowing guests to embark on a culinary journey through China’s many regions without leaving their seats. The atmosphere and presentation complement the food, making every visit to Formosa a memorable event.
This comprehensive overview delves into the distinct sections of the menu, highlighting signature dishes, unique offerings, and key details to help you make the most of your dining experience.
Appetizers and Small Plates
The appetizer section at Formosa Chinese Restaurant sets the stage for a flavorful meal. Offering a mix of light bites and savory starters, these dishes are designed to awaken the palate and provide a glimpse into the restaurant’s culinary philosophy.
The appetizers are perfect for sharing or for those looking to sample multiple flavors before the main course.
Among the most popular starters are the classic spring rolls, which are freshly made with crisp vegetables and a hint of seasoning wrapped in delicate pastry. The egg rolls are another favorite, packed with seasoned pork and cabbage, fried to a golden crisp.
For those seeking something with a spicy kick, the spicy chicken wings offer a bold introduction.
Vegetarians will appreciate options like the steamed edamame or the vegetable dumplings, which are filled with a savory blend of mushrooms, cabbage, and carrots. The balance of textures and flavors in these small plates demonstrates the restaurant’s attention to detail and commitment to satisfying diverse preferences.
Popular Appetizers
- Spring Rolls: Light, crispy, and served with a sweet chili dipping sauce.
- Egg Rolls: Filled with pork, cabbage, and carrots, fried until golden.
- Spicy Chicken Wings: Tossed in a flavorful Szechuan-inspired sauce.
- Vegetable Dumplings: Steamed to perfection with a savory vegetable filling.
“The appetizers at Formosa are a perfect introduction to the meal, showcasing a variety of textures and flavors that set the tone for the dishes that follow.”
Main Entrees
The main entree selection at Formosa Chinese Restaurant is where the culinary artistry truly shines. The menu offers an extensive variety of dishes, ranging from stir-fries to noodle specialties, all prepared with authentic ingredients and traditional cooking techniques.
Each entree is designed to highlight the distinctive flavors of Chinese regional cuisines, ensuring a rich and satisfying dining experience.
Popular dishes include the Mongolian Beef, known for its tender slices of beef cooked with scallions and a savory brown sauce. The General Tso’s Chicken is another signature dish, featuring crispy chicken pieces coated in a tangy, slightly sweet sauce with just the right amount of heat.
For seafood lovers, the Szechuan Shrimp combines shrimp with spicy chili peppers and garlic, delivering a bold and aromatic flavor profile.
Vegetarian options are also thoughtfully crafted, such as the Buddha’s Delight, a medley of fresh vegetables and tofu stir-fried in a light savory sauce. The menu’s diversity ensures that every diner, regardless of preference, can find a satisfying and flavorful entree.
Chef’s Recommendations
- Mongolian Beef: Tender beef strips stir-fried with scallions and garlic in a rich brown sauce.
- General Tso’s Chicken: Crispy fried chicken tossed in a sweet and spicy glaze.
- Szechuan Shrimp: Shrimp sautéed with chili peppers and garlic for a fiery kick.
- Buddha’s Delight: A vegetarian stir-fry of mixed vegetables and tofu.
| Dish | Main Protein | Flavor Profile | Spice Level |
| Mongolian Beef | Beef | Savory, slightly sweet | Medium |
| General Tso’s Chicken | Chicken | Sweet, tangy, mildly spicy | Medium |
| Szechuan Shrimp | Shrimp | Spicy, aromatic | High |
| Buddha’s Delight | Vegetables/Tofu | Mild, savory | Low |
Noodle and Rice Dishes
Noodle and rice dishes at Formosa serve as hearty and satisfying options, perfect for a complete meal or as a complement to other items. These dishes showcase the versatility of staple Chinese ingredients, prepared with an emphasis on texture and flavor balance.
Whether you prefer stir-fried noodles or steamed rice, the menu offers an array of choices.
Chow Mein and Lo Mein are prominent noodle dishes, each prepared with fresh vegetables and a choice of protein. The difference lies mainly in the preparation method: Chow Mein is stir-fried until slightly crispy, while Lo Mein is tossed with a savory sauce to remain soft.
Fried rice varieties, such as the classic Yangzhou Fried Rice, are packed with eggs, peas, and diced ham, offering a flavorful yet comforting option.
For those looking for something heartier, the House Special Fried Rice combines shrimp, chicken, and vegetables, creating a well-rounded dish that satisfies both hunger and taste buds. The noodle and rice section exemplifies how simple ingredients can be elevated to delicious heights through expert technique.
Signature Noodle & Rice Options
- Chow Mein: Stir-fried crispy noodles with vegetables and choice of meat.
- Lo Mein: Soft noodles tossed in a savory sauce with mixed vegetables.
- Yangzhou Fried Rice: Classic fried rice with eggs, peas, and ham.
- House Special Fried Rice: Fried rice loaded with shrimp, chicken, and vegetables.
“The noodle and rice dishes at Formosa perfectly balance texture and flavor, providing both comfort and excitement in every bite.”
Dim Sum and Small Bites
Dim sum at Formosa offers a delightful assortment of bite-sized dishes that are perfect for sharing or sampling a variety of flavors. Traditionally enjoyed during brunch or lunch, these small plates capture the essence of Chinese culinary tradition and provide a fun, interactive dining experience.
The dim sum menu includes steamed, fried, and baked options, catering to different tastes and textures.
Steamed dumplings are a highlight, featuring fillings such as pork, shrimp, and vegetables wrapped in delicate skins that are tender and flavorful. The shrimp har gow dumplings are particularly popular for their translucent wrappers and juicy shrimp filling.
Fried options like sesame balls are sweet and crispy, offering a perfect contrast to savory items.
Dim sum presents an excellent opportunity to taste a range of dishes without committing to large portions. It’s also ideal for groups, encouraging sharing and conversation around the table.
Formosa’s dim sum embodies both tradition and quality, making it a must-try for those exploring Chinese cuisine.
Popular Dim Sum Selections
- Pork Siu Mai: Open-topped steamed dumplings filled with seasoned pork and shrimp.
- Shrimp Har Gow: Steamed shrimp dumplings with translucent wrappers.
- Sesame Balls: Deep-fried glutinous rice balls coated with sesame seeds and filled with sweet red bean paste.
- Turnip Cake: Pan-fried savory cakes made with shredded radish and rice flour.
| Dim Sum Item | Cooking Method | Main Ingredients |
| Pork Siu Mai | Steamed | Pork, shrimp, mushrooms |
| Shrimp Har Gow | Steamed | Shrimp, wheat starch, tapioca starch |
| Sesame Balls | Deep-fried | Glutinous rice, red bean paste, sesame seeds |
| Turnip Cake | Pan-fried | Turnip, rice flour, dried shrimp |
Soups and Broths
Soups and broths are an essential component of the Formosa menu, offering warmth and comfort while enhancing the overall dining experience. These dishes feature traditional Chinese ingredients and cooking methods, often slow-simmered to extract deep, complex flavors.
Soups can be enjoyed as starters or alongside main dishes to complement the meal.
One standout option is the Hot and Sour Soup, which balances spicy, sour, and savory notes with tofu, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots. The Wonton Soup is another favorite, featuring pork-filled wontons swimming in a clear, flavorful broth.
For those seeking something more nourishing, the Egg Drop Soup provides a silky texture with its delicate ribbons of cooked egg.
Each soup is made fresh daily, reflecting Formosa’s commitment to quality and authenticity. These broths not only satisfy hunger but also provide a soothing, restorative element to the meal, making them a popular choice year-round.
Featured Soups
- Hot and Sour Soup: Spicy and tangy broth with tofu, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots.
- Wonton Soup: Clear broth with pork-filled wontons and green onions.
- Egg Drop Soup: Light broth with delicate egg ribbons and scallions.
- Seaweed Soup: Nutritious broth with seaweed and tofu pieces.
“The soups at Formosa are crafted with patience and precision, offering layers of flavor that comfort and invigorate the senses.”
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Formosa Chinese Restaurant takes pride in accommodating vegetarian and vegan diners with a variety of thoughtfully prepared dishes. The vegetarian menu emphasizes fresh vegetables, tofu, and plant-based proteins, ensuring that flavor and texture are never compromised.
These options are suitable for those following specific dietary preferences or seeking lighter, health-conscious meals.
Popular vegetarian dishes such as Ma Po Tofu feature soft tofu in a mildly spicy bean sauce, delivering robust flavor without meat. Stir-fried mixed vegetables showcase seasonal produce cooked with garlic and soy sauce, highlighting the natural sweetness and crunch of the ingredients.
Vegan-friendly fried rice and noodle dishes are also available, prepared without egg or animal products.
By offering a range of vegetarian and vegan entrées, Formosa ensures inclusivity and variety. These dishes provide satisfying alternatives that retain the essence of traditional Chinese cuisine while catering to modern dietary lifestyles.
Vegetarian Favorites
- Ma Po Tofu: Silken tofu in spicy bean sauce, rich in flavor and texture.
- Stir-Fried Mixed Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables sautéed with garlic and soy sauce.
- Vegetable Fried Rice: Egg-free fried rice loaded with fresh vegetables.
- Vegetable Lo Mein: Soft noodles tossed with assorted vegetables and savory sauce.
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Suitable For |
| Ma Po Tofu | Tofu, bean paste, chili oil | Vegetarian, Vegan |
| Stir-Fried Mixed Vegetables | Broccoli, carrots, snap peas, garlic | Vegetarian, Vegan |
| Vegetable Fried Rice | Rice, mixed vegetables, soy sauce | Vegetarian, Vegan |
| Vegetable Lo Mein | Noodles, assorted vegetables, soy sauce | Vegetarian, Vegan |
Desserts and Beverages
Completing the meal at Formosa Chinese Restaurant is a selection of desserts and beverages that provide a sweet and refreshing finish. The dessert menu features traditional Chinese sweets alongside popular favorites that appeal to a broad range of tastes.
These treats offer a satisfying conclusion to the meal without overwhelming the palate.
One of the standout desserts is the Mango Pudding, a creamy and fruity delight that’s light and refreshing. The Sesame Seed Balls, previously mentioned as a dim sum item, also appear here as a popular sweet option.
For those who prefer something warm, the sweet red bean soup offers a comforting and subtly sweet finish.
Beverages at Formosa complement the food perfectly, with a variety of teas, soft drinks, and specialty drinks available. Traditional jasmine and green teas cleanse the palate, while soft drinks and juices provide familiar options for all ages.
These drinks enhance the overall dining experience by balancing flavors and refreshing the senses.
Dessert and Drink Highlights
- Mango Pudding: Smooth, sweet, and chilled for a perfect summer treat.
- Sesame Seed Balls: Crispy exterior with sweet red bean filling.
- Sweet Red Bean Soup: Warm and subtly sweet dessert soup.
- Jasmine Tea: Fragrant and light, ideal for pairing with the meal.
“The dessert and beverage offerings at Formosa provide a harmonious capstone to an authentic and satisfying meal.”
Specialty and Seasonal Dishes
Formosa Chinese Restaurant also features a rotating selection of specialty and seasonal dishes that highlight unique ingredients and regional flavors. These dishes reflect the chef’s creativity and responsiveness to seasonal produce, offering guests something new and exciting with each visit.
The specials often include rare or luxurious ingredients, prepared with the same care and authenticity found throughout the menu.
Seasonal seafood dishes, for example, may include fresh fish or shellfish prepared with light sauces that accentuate natural flavors. The chef’s specials sometimes introduce uncommon vegetables or innovative combinations, inviting diners to explore beyond familiar favorites.
These offerings create an exclusive dining experience that celebrates the diversity and richness of Chinese cuisine.
Frequent patrons appreciate these rotating dishes as they provide opportunities to discover new favorites and enjoy the best of what each season has to offer. The specials section embodies the dynamic spirit of Formosa, blending tradition with innovation.
Examples of Seasonal Specials
- Steamed Whole Fish: Fresh catch prepared with ginger and scallions.
- Lobster with Garlic Sauce: Succulent lobster cooked in a rich garlic-infused sauce.
- Seasonal Vegetable Stir-Fry: Featuring fresh, locally sourced produce.
- Duck with Plum Sauce: Crispy duck served with a sweet and tangy plum glaze.
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Seasonality |
| Steamed Whole Fish | Fresh fish, ginger, scallions | Spring and Summer |
| Lobster with Garlic Sauce | Lobster, garlic, chili | Fall and Winter |
| Seasonal Vegetable Stir-Fry | Varies by season | Year-round |
| Duck with Plum Sauce | Duck, plum sauce | Fall |
“Seasonal specials at Formosa invite diners to experience the freshest ingredients and innovative dishes, ensuring every visit offers something unique.”
Conclusion
Formosa Chinese Restaurant in Memphis offers a menu that is both expansive and meticulously curated, reflecting the rich traditions of Chinese cuisine alongside local preferences and seasonal freshness.
From the enticing appetizers to the hearty main entrees, and from delicate dim sum to comforting soups, each dish demonstrates careful preparation and a passion for authentic flavors. The availability of vegetarian and vegan options further highlights the restaurant’s commitment to inclusivity and customer satisfaction.
Specialty and seasonal dishes provide an additional layer of excitement, encouraging guests to explore new tastes and experience the dynamic nature of Chinese cooking. The thoughtfully selected desserts and beverages create a well-rounded dining experience that leaves a lasting impression.
Whether you are a longtime fan of Chinese cuisine or a newcomer eager to explore, the Formosa menu offers something for everyone, blending tradition, quality, and innovation in every bite.
Dining at Formosa is more than just a meal; it is an invitation to savor the essence of Chinese culinary artistry within the welcoming atmosphere of Memphis. The menu’s diversity and depth make it a go-to destination for authentic, flavorful, and satisfying Chinese food that continues to delight and inspire its guests.
