Royal Dragon Restaurant in Maplewood is a culinary gem that brings authentic Asian flavors to the heart of the community. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and exceptional hospitality, this dining destination offers a menu that exquisitely balances traditional recipes with modern twists.
Whether you’re seeking a casual lunch or an elegant dinner, the Royal Dragon Restaurant’s menu is designed to cater to all palates, showcasing an extensive range of dishes that celebrate the rich diversity of Asian cuisine.
With a focus on fresh ingredients, bold spices, and meticulous preparation, the menu at Royal Dragon is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a journey through the culinary landscapes of China, Thailand, and other parts of Southeast Asia.
Each dish is crafted to highlight unique flavors while maintaining harmony and balance, making every bite an experience to savor. The restaurant’s dedication to quality and authenticity sets it apart, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts in Maplewood and beyond.
From appetizers that awaken the senses to decadent desserts that provide the perfect finish, the Royal Dragon menu offers something for everyone. Its carefully curated selection ensures that diners can explore new tastes or enjoy their favorite classics in an inviting, comfortable setting.
The staff’s knowledge and passion further enhance the dining experience, guiding guests through the diverse offerings with personalized recommendations and attentive service.
Appetizers: The Perfect Start
The appetizer section at Royal Dragon Restaurant Maplewood is thoughtfully crafted to provide a flavorful introduction to the meal. These starters are perfect for sharing and designed to stimulate the palate with a variety of textures and spices.
Traditional favorites like spring rolls and dumplings sit alongside more adventurous options such as spicy tuna tartare and crispy calamari. Each appetizer is prepared with care, using fresh vegetables and quality proteins to ensure vibrant flavors and appealing presentation.
Light yet satisfying, these dishes also cater to various dietary preferences, offering vegetarian and gluten-free options. The appetizers set the tone for the meal, balancing richness with freshness to whet the appetite without overwhelming it.
Popular Appetizers
- Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with a medley of fresh vegetables, served with a tangy dipping sauce.
- Pork Dumplings: Steamed or pan-fried dumplings, bursting with savory pork and aromatic herbs.
- Spicy Tuna Tartare: Finely diced tuna mixed with chili and sesame oil, served with wonton chips.
- Calamari: Lightly battered and fried, served with a zesty aioli.
“Appetizers at Royal Dragon are crafted to awaken your senses and prepare you for a memorable dining experience.”
Signature Entrées: Heart of the Menu
The entrée offerings at Royal Dragon Restaurant showcase the kitchen’s expertise in blending traditional techniques with modern influences. These dishes form the core of the dining experience, featuring bold flavors and hearty portions.
The menu includes a variety of protein options such as chicken, beef, seafood, and tofu, each paired with complementary sauces and sides. The cooking styles range from stir-fries and braises to grilled specialties, providing a wide spectrum of tastes and textures.
Special attention is paid to the balance of flavors, with dishes ranging from sweet and savory to spicy and aromatic. These entrées are designed to satisfy both casual diners and those looking for a sophisticated meal.
Entrée Highlights
- General Tso’s Chicken: Crispy fried chicken tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce, garnished with scallions.
- Beef and Broccoli: Tender beef slices stir-fried with fresh broccoli in a savory oyster sauce.
- Thai Basil Seafood: A fragrant mix of shrimp, squid, and fish sautéed with fresh basil and chili.
- Maplewood Tofu Stir-Fry: Firm tofu cooked with seasonal vegetables in a tangy garlic sauce.
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile | Recommended Pairing |
| General Tso’s Chicken | Chicken, soy sauce, chili, garlic | Sweet, spicy, savory | Jasmine Rice, Green Tea |
| Beef and Broccoli | Beef, broccoli, oyster sauce | Umami, slightly sweet | Steamed Rice, Light Lager |
| Thai Basil Seafood | Shrimp, squid, basil, chili | Spicy, aromatic | Coconut Rice, Riesling |
| Maplewood Tofu Stir-Fry | Tofu, mixed vegetables, garlic sauce | Savory, tangy | Brown Rice, Green Tea |
Noodle and Rice Dishes: Comfort in Every Bite
Noodles and rice form the backbone of many Asian meals, and Royal Dragon Restaurant Maplewood elevates these staples with creative recipes and high-quality ingredients. This section of the menu offers a variety of options that cater to both traditional tastes and contemporary preferences.
From classic fried rice to delicate noodle bowls, each dish is carefully prepared to ensure a perfect balance of texture and flavor. The use of fresh herbs, spices, and sauces adds layers of complexity to these comforting staples.
Whether you prefer something light or more substantial, the noodle and rice dishes provide satisfying options that can be customized with your choice of protein or vegetables.
Popular Selections
- Singapore Noodles: Thin rice noodles stir-fried with curry powder, shrimp, and vegetables.
- Yang Chow Fried Rice: Classic fried rice with shrimp, pork, peas, and eggs.
- Pad Thai: Rice noodles stir-fried with tamarind sauce, peanuts, bean sprouts, and lime.
- Vegetable Lo Mein: Soft wheat noodles with mixed vegetables in a savory soy-based sauce.
“The noodles and rice dishes at Royal Dragon are a perfect blend of tradition and innovation, offering comfort with every bite.”
Soups and Salads: Light and Refreshing Choices
To complement the rich and flavorful entrées, Royal Dragon offers a variety of soups and salads that provide light and refreshing alternatives. These dishes are perfect for those seeking a balanced meal or a starter to share.
The soups range from hearty broths filled with meats and vegetables to delicate and aromatic options that soothe and invigorate. Salads are prepared with crisp, fresh ingredients and bold dressings that enhance their natural flavors.
These menu items are not only delicious but also emphasize health and nutrition, making them ideal for diners looking for lighter fare without sacrificing taste.
Featured Soups and Salads
- Hot and Sour Soup: A tangy and spicy broth with tofu, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots.
- Wonton Soup: Clear broth with delicate pork-filled wontons and green onions.
- Seaweed Salad: Fresh seaweed tossed with sesame oil and vinegar.
- Asian Chicken Salad: Grilled chicken, mixed greens, mandarin oranges, and crispy noodles with a sesame dressing.
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Calories (approx.) | Best Paired With |
| Hot and Sour Soup | Tofu, mushrooms, vinegar, chili | 120 | Steamed Dumplings |
| Wonton Soup | Pork, wonton wrappers, broth | 150 | Spring Rolls |
| Seaweed Salad | Seaweed, sesame oil, vinegar | 90 | Grilled Fish |
| Asian Chicken Salad | Chicken, greens, mandarin oranges | 350 | Light White Wine |
Chef’s Specials: Unique Creations
Royal Dragon Restaurant prides itself on offering a selection of chef’s specials that highlight the creativity and skill of the culinary team. These dishes are unique, often seasonal, and showcase innovative flavor combinations.
The specials menu changes regularly to reflect the freshest ingredients available and to introduce guests to new tastes. Diners can expect bold spices, unexpected pairings, and exquisite presentation that elevate the dining experience.
These offerings are perfect for adventurous eaters or anyone looking to indulge in something truly special and memorable during their visit.
Notable Specials
- Dragon Fire Shrimp: Jumbo shrimp sautéed with chili garlic sauce and fresh herbs.
- Five-Spice Duck Breast: Seared duck with a five-spice rub, served with a plum glaze.
- Seafood Clay Pot: A rich, slow-cooked stew with fish, shrimp, and scallops in a savory broth.
- Vegetarian Buddha’s Delight: A medley of seasonal vegetables and tofu in a light ginger sauce.
“The chef’s specials at Royal Dragon are a testament to culinary artistry, blending tradition with innovation.”
Desserts: Sweet Endings
The dessert menu at Royal Dragon offers a delightful conclusion to the meal, featuring classic Asian sweets alongside creative modern treats. These desserts are designed to provide just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the palate.
From warm, comforting options like fried bananas to refreshing fruit-based dishes, the variety caters to all tastes. The presentation is elegant, often incorporating traditional elements that enhance the visual appeal as well.
Perfect for sharing or indulging solo, these desserts round out the dining experience with memorable flavors and textures.
Sweet Highlights
- Mango Sticky Rice: Sweet mango slices served over sticky coconut rice with a drizzle of coconut cream.
- Fried Banana with Honey: Crispy battered banana drizzled with warm honey sauce.
- Green Tea Ice Cream: Creamy ice cream infused with matcha green tea powder.
- Sesame Balls: Deep-fried glutinous rice balls filled with sweet red bean paste.
| Dessert | Key Ingredients | Texture | Flavor Notes |
| Mango Sticky Rice | Mango, sticky rice, coconut milk | Soft, creamy | Sweet, tropical |
| Fried Banana with Honey | Banana, batter, honey | Crispy, tender | Sweet, warm |
| Green Tea Ice Cream | Milk, sugar, matcha powder | Creamy, smooth | Bitter-sweet, earthy |
| Sesame Balls | Glutinous rice, red bean paste, sesame seeds | Crispy exterior, chewy interior | Sweet, nutty |
Beverages: Complementing Every Meal
The beverage menu at Royal Dragon Restaurant Maplewood is thoughtfully selected to complement the diverse flavors of the food menu. From traditional teas to contemporary cocktails, there is a drink to suit every taste and occasion.
Tea plays an essential role in the dining experience, with varieties ranging from delicate jasmine to robust pu-erh. For those seeking alcoholic options, the selection includes Asian-inspired cocktails, fine wines, and local craft beers.
Non-alcoholic choices are plentiful as well, with fresh juices and specialty sodas adding a refreshing touch. Each beverage is chosen to enhance the flavors of the cuisine, making every sip as enjoyable as every bite.
Beverage Options
- Jasmine Green Tea: Light and fragrant, perfect for cleansing the palate.
- Lychee Martini: A sweet and floral cocktail with lychee fruit and vodka.
- Craft Beer Selection: Local brews with crisp and refreshing profiles.
- Fresh Mango Juice: Sweet and tangy, made from ripe mangoes.
“The right beverage can elevate a meal from good to unforgettable, and Royal Dragon’s menu ensures every drink complements the food perfectly.”
Conclusion
Royal Dragon Restaurant Maplewood offers a menu that is as diverse as it is delightful, providing diners with an authentic taste of Asian cuisine through carefully curated dishes and innovative creations.
Each section of the menu reflects the restaurant’s commitment to quality, freshness, and flavor balance, ensuring that every guest leaves with a memorable dining experience.
From the enticing appetizers to the indulgent desserts, every dish is thoughtfully prepared to provide satisfaction and excitement. The beverage selection further enhances the meal, offering options that perfectly pair with the food’s complex flavors.
Whether you are a longtime fan of Asian cuisine or exploring it for the first time, Royal Dragon’s menu invites you to savor the richness and variety of this culinary tradition in a warm and welcoming setting.
Dining at Royal Dragon Restaurant is not just about eating; it’s about embarking on a flavorful journey that celebrates culture, creativity, and community. Each visit promises new tastes, textures, and aromas that will keep you coming back for more.
For those in Maplewood seeking an exceptional meal, the Royal Dragon menu stands out as a beacon of quality and authenticity.
