Nestled in the heart of Santa Rosa, Royal China Restaurant stands as a beloved culinary destination for locals and visitors alike. Revered for its authentic Chinese cuisine, the restaurant offers a menu that beautifully balances tradition and innovation, bringing together flavors from across China with a modern Californian twist.
Stepping into Royal China is more than just a meal—it’s an experience that evokes the grandeur of classic Chinese dining, from the elegant décor to the attentive service. The ambiance, paired with a diverse selection of dishes, invites guests to linger and savor each bite.
Royal China’s menu is a testament to the culinary heritage of China, featuring everything from comforting dim sum to bold Szechuan specialties. Whether you’re seeking a casual lunch, a festive family gathering, or a romantic dinner, the menu provides an array of options to suit every palate and occasion.
The chefs source the freshest local ingredients, ensuring each dish bursts with flavor and authenticity. For those eager to explore the world of Chinese cuisine, Royal China offers the perfect introduction, as well as countless favorites for seasoned connoisseurs.
Appetizer Selections: A Flavorful Prelude
Before embarking on the main courses, diners are treated to a range of appetizers that set the stage for a memorable dining experience. Royal China’s appetizer menu is carefully curated to showcase both classic and innovative small plates, each one designed to awaken the palate.
These starters highlight the importance of balance in Chinese cuisine, intertwining sweet, savory, spicy, and tangy notes.
Among the appetizer offerings, guests will discover traditional favorites such as Egg Rolls and Pot Stickers, as well as more adventurous choices like Salt and Pepper Calamari and Jellyfish Salad. Each dish is meticulously prepared to ensure freshness and vibrant flavor.
The presentation is equally impressive, with artful garnishes and elegant plating that reflect the restaurant’s attention to detail.
Appetizers at Royal China are more than just a prelude; they are an integral part of the meal, encouraging diners to share and experience a variety of tastes. The communal aspect of sharing plates fosters a sense of connection and joy, making every meal a memorable occasion.
For those new to Chinese appetizers, the friendly staff is always ready to recommend pairings and explain the ingredients that make each dish special.
- Egg Rolls: Crispy wrappers filled with seasoned vegetables and served with a tangy dipping sauce
- Pot Stickers: Pan-fried dumplings with savory pork and cabbage filling
- Salt and Pepper Calamari: Tender squid tossed with garlic, chilies, and scallions
- Jellyfish Salad: Light and refreshing with sesame and vinegar dressing
“Every meal should start with excitement. Our appetizers are designed to introduce you to the breadth of flavors found across China, setting the tone for an unforgettable dining journey.” – Chef Li, Royal China Restaurant
Dim Sum Delights: A Tradition of Sharing
Dim sum is at the heart of Chinese culinary tradition, and Royal China’s dim sum menu honors this legacy with a vibrant selection of bite-sized delicacies. Served daily, these small plates invite diners to sample a diverse array of flavors and textures, all meant to be shared among friends and family.
The artistry and skill of the chefs shine in every dumpling, bun, and roll.
The restaurant’s dim sum menu features both beloved standards and contemporary creations. Shumai, Har Gow, and Char Siu Bao are perennial favorites, each crafted with care and precision.
For those seeking something unique, options like Crispy Taro Puffs and Lotus Leaf Sticky Rice offer a taste of regional specialties seldom found outside of China’s bustling tea houses.
Dim sum at Royal China is more than a meal—it’s a cultural experience. Tables bustle with laughter and conversation as bamboo steamers and small plates are passed around.
The experience is best enjoyed leisurely, allowing time to savor each morsel and appreciate the interplay of textures and flavors. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to dim sum, the menu offers an enticing array of choices for every palate.
- Shumai: Open-faced pork and shrimp dumplings steamed to perfection
- Har Gow: Delicate shrimp dumplings in translucent wrappers
- Char Siu Bao: Fluffy buns filled with sweet and savory barbecued pork
- Crispy Taro Puffs: Light, crunchy exterior with creamy taro and minced pork inside
- Lotus Leaf Sticky Rice: Fragrant rice and meats wrapped in lotus leaves
| Dim Sum Item | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
| Shumai | Pork, shrimp, mushroom | Savory, umami, slightly sweet |
| Har Gow | Shrimp, bamboo shoots | Delicate, mildly sweet, clean |
| Char Siu Bao | Barbecue pork, steamed bun | Sweet, savory, fluffy |
Soup Selections: Comfort in Every Spoonful
Soups occupy a special place on the Royal China menu, offering comfort and nourishment with every bowl. The selection ranges from light, clear broths to hearty, robust stews, each crafted with an eye for balance and depth of flavor.
Soup is often enjoyed as the first course, preparing the palate for the meal to come.
Among the most popular choices is the Hot and Sour Soup, a vibrant blend of mushrooms, tofu, pork, and bamboo shoots in a tangy, peppery broth. Those seeking something milder may opt for the Wonton Soup, where delicate dumplings float in a clear, savory broth.
For more celebratory occasions, the Seafood Soup brings together shrimp, scallops, and fish in a luxurious, aromatic base.
Each soup on the menu is made from scratch, using fresh stocks simmered for hours to coax out deep, layered flavors. The chefs pay careful attention to seasoning, ensuring that each bowl achieves the ideal harmony of salty, sour, sweet, and spicy notes.
Soup at Royal China isn’t just an appetizer—it’s an experience in itself, meant to be savored slowly and shared with loved ones.
- Hot and Sour Soup: Spicy and tangy with a medley of mushrooms and tofu
- Wonton Soup: Pork-filled dumplings in a delicate chicken broth
- Seafood Soup: Shrimp, scallops, and fish with fresh vegetables
- Egg Drop Soup: Silky strands of egg in a light, golden broth
“A bowl of soup is the soul of the meal. We believe that every spoonful should be comforting, balanced, and memorable.” – Chef Li, Royal China Restaurant
Szechuan and Cantonese Specialties: Bold and Balanced Flavors
The heart of Royal China’s main menu lies in its array of Szechuan and Cantonese specialties. These dishes represent two of China’s most celebrated culinary regions, each known for its distinctive approach to flavor.
Szechuan cuisine dazzles with bold, spicy notes and the signature tingle of Sichuan peppercorns, while Cantonese cuisine showcases subtlety and finesse, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and delicate sauces.
Guests can explore a world of flavor through dishes such as Kung Pao Chicken, Mapo Tofu, and General Tso’s Chicken. Each plate is a study in contrasts: fiery and cooling, sweet and savory, tender and crisp.
Cantonese classics like Steamed Fish with Ginger and Scallion or Honey Walnut Prawns highlight the region’s love for seafood and light, aromatic sauces.
The menu also features vegetarian adaptations of traditional favorites, ensuring everyone can enjoy these bold flavors. The chefs take pride in using time-honored techniques, from careful wok-tossing to meticulous steaming, to bring out the best in every ingredient.
The result is a collection of dishes that are as satisfying to the eyes as they are to the palate.
- Kung Pao Chicken: Spicy stir-fry with peanuts, chilies, and vegetables
- Mapo Tofu: Silken tofu in a rich, spicy bean paste sauce with ground pork
- General Tso’s Chicken: Crispy chicken in a sweet and spicy glaze
- Honey Walnut Prawns: Lightly battered prawns tossed in creamy honey sauce with candied walnuts
- Steamed Fish with Ginger and Scallion: Whole fish gently steamed and topped with aromatic oils
| Dish | Region | Key Flavors |
| Kung Pao Chicken | Szechuan | Spicy, nutty, savory |
| Steamed Fish | Cantonese | Clean, fresh, aromatic |
| Honey Walnut Prawns | Cantonese | Sweet, creamy, crunchy |
| Mapo Tofu | Szechuan | Spicy, numbing, umami |
Noodle and Rice Dishes: The Heart of the Table
No Chinese meal would be complete without a selection of noodles and rice dishes, and Royal China excels in offering both traditional and inventive options. Noodles symbolize longevity and prosperity, making them a staple at celebrations and family gatherings.
Rice, meanwhile, is the foundation of everyday dining, a neutral canvas for vibrant flavors and textures.
The menu includes crowd-pleasers such as Chow Mein, Beef Chow Fun, and Yang Chow Fried Rice. Each dish showcases a different cooking technique, from the smoky “wok hei” of stir-fried noodles to the delicate steaming of jasmine rice.
The chefs use only the finest imported noodles and locally sourced produce, ensuring each bite is satisfying and authentic.
Vegetarians and those with dietary restrictions will appreciate the thoughtful inclusion of plant-based noodle and rice creations, such as Vegetable Fried Rice and Tofu Lo Mein. These dishes are just as flavorful and satisfying as their traditional counterparts, ensuring a welcoming experience for all guests.
The generous portions make these dishes ideal for sharing family-style.
- Chow Mein: Stir-fried egg noodles with choice of chicken, beef, shrimp, or vegetables
- Beef Chow Fun: Wide rice noodles with tender beef and crisp bean sprouts
- Yang Chow Fried Rice: Fried rice with shrimp, BBQ pork, peas, and eggs
- Tofu Lo Mein: Soft noodles tossed with tofu and seasonal vegetables
“Noodle and rice dishes bring people together. They’re the centerpiece of the table, inviting everyone to share and savor.” – Chef Li, Royal China Restaurant
Vegetarian and Vegan Options: Inclusive and Flavorful
Royal China recognizes the growing demand for vegetarian and vegan cuisine, and the menu reflects this with a vibrant selection of plant-based dishes. These options are not afterthoughts; they are crafted with the same care and attention as the restaurant’s most celebrated specialties.
The result is a menu where everyone can find something to delight their palate.
Vegetarian diners can enjoy dishes such as Buddha’s Delight, a colorful medley of vegetables and tofu in a light, savory sauce, and Spicy Eggplant, which pairs tender eggplant with a punchy garlic-chili sauce.
Vegan adaptations are available for many classics, including Vegetable Pot Stickers and Ma Po Tofu made without animal products.
The kitchen takes care to avoid cross-contamination, using separate utensils and cookery where needed. The staff is knowledgeable about ingredients and preparation methods, making it easy for guests to customize their meal according to dietary needs.
Even meat-eaters are often surprised by the depth and complexity of the vegetarian dishes, which stand proudly alongside the rest of the menu.
- Buddha’s Delight: Tofu and mixed vegetables in light savory sauce
- Spicy Eggplant: Sautéed eggplant with garlic, ginger, and chilies
- Vegetable Pot Stickers: Steamed or pan-fried dumplings filled with fresh greens
- Vegan Ma Po Tofu: Silken tofu in spicy bean paste sauce, prepared without meat
| Vegetarian Dish | Vegan | Gluten-Free |
| Buddha’s Delight | Yes | Yes |
| Spicy Eggplant | Yes | No |
| Vegetable Pot Stickers | Yes | No |
| Vegan Ma Po Tofu | Yes | Yes |
Chef’s Specials and Seasonal Dishes: Inspired Creations
For those seeking something extraordinary, Royal China’s Chef’s Specials and Seasonal Dishes offer a window into the creativity and passion of the culinary team. These dishes highlight rare ingredients, modern techniques, and the changing bounty of California’s farms, ensuring that the menu remains fresh and exciting throughout the year.
The Chef’s Specials often feature premium seafood, such as Black Cod with Miso Glaze or Salt and Pepper Dungeness Crab, prepared with the utmost care. Seasonal vegetables and locally sourced proteins shine in dishes like Asparagus Beef Stir-Fry and Spicy Pumpkin Tofu.
The chefs draw inspiration from both Chinese tradition and contemporary trends, resulting in a dynamic menu that rewards repeat visits.
Seasonal dishes are updated regularly, reflecting what’s freshest and most flavorful at the moment. The kitchen works closely with local purveyors to source ingredients at their peak, ensuring each special is a celebration of the season.
Guests are encouraged to ask about the day’s features and to let their curiosity guide them towards new and unexpected flavors.
- Black Cod with Miso Glaze: Tender cod fillet in a sweet-salty miso marinade
- Salt and Pepper Dungeness Crab: Whole crab stir-fried with garlic and chilies
- Asparagus Beef Stir-Fry: Tender beef with crisp asparagus in savory sauce
- Spicy Pumpkin Tofu: Seasonal pumpkin and tofu in a spicy, aromatic sauce
“Our specials are where tradition meets innovation. We love surprising our guests with new flavors and creative presentations, all while honoring the roots of Chinese cuisine.” – Chef Li, Royal China Restaurant
Desserts and Beverages: A Sweet Finale
No great meal is complete without a sweet finish, and Royal China offers a dessert menu that blends Eastern tradition with local inspiration. Classic options such as Mango Pudding and Sesame Balls recall the flavors of Chinese banquets, while lighter, fruit-forward choices cater to modern tastes.
Each dessert is crafted to provide a refreshing and satisfying conclusion to the meal.
Beverage options are equally varied, ranging from fragrant teas—like Jasmine, Chrysanthemum, and Pu’er—to fine Californian wines and Asian lagers. The restaurant also offers specialty cocktails infused with ingredients like lychee, ginger, and green tea, providing a perfect pairing for every dish and palate.
For those celebrating special occasions, Royal China offers a selection of premium desserts and after-dinner drinks. The staff is always happy to recommend pairings or prepare custom beverages upon request, ensuring each meal ends on a high note.
Whether you’re savoring a traditional Chinese sweet or sipping an innovative cocktail, the dessert and beverage menu provides the perfect finale to your dining experience.
- Mango Pudding: Silky, tropical dessert topped with fresh fruit
- Sesame Balls: Crispy rice flour pastries filled with sweet red bean paste
- Jasmine Tea: Fragrant, floral tea to cleanse the palate
- Lychee Martini: House cocktail with lychee liqueur and fresh citrus
| Dessert | Key Ingredients | Gluten-Free |
| Mango Pudding | Mango, cream, gelatin | Yes |
| Sesame Balls | Rice flour, red bean paste, sesame seeds | Yes |
| Almond Cookies | Almond flour, sugar, butter | No |
Conclusion: An Invitation to Experience Royal China
Dining at Royal China Restaurant in Santa Rosa is more than just a meal—it’s an exploration of Chinese culinary artistry, hospitality, and community. The thoughtfully crafted menu honors the rich traditions of China’s regional kitchens while embracing the bounty of Northern California.
Whether you’re visiting for a quick lunch, a festive dim sum brunch, or an elegant dinner, the experience is marked by exceptional flavors, warm service, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Every section of the menu, from vibrant appetizers to signature entrées and sweet desserts, reflects the passion and expertise of the chefs. The restaurant’s commitment to quality and authenticity is evident in every dish, as is their desire to create memorable moments for their guests.
Royal China stands apart for its ability to blend tradition and innovation, providing an array of choices for every taste and dietary preference.
The next time you find yourself in Santa Rosa, step into Royal China and let your senses be transported. Discover the joy of sharing a table filled with dim sum, savor the bold flavors of Szechuan and Cantonese specialties, and finish with a sweet treat or fragrant tea.
The menu is an invitation to explore, connect, and celebrate the rich tapestry of Chinese cuisine—one delicious bite at a time.
