China Manteo is a culinary gem nestled in the heart of Manteo, North Carolina, offering an authentic taste of traditional Chinese cuisine blended with modern flavors. Its menu is a testament to the rich diversity and depth of Chinese culinary art, catering to both adventurous food lovers and those seeking familiar comfort dishes.
Whether you’re craving the robust, savory notes of Szechuan spices or the delicate balance of Cantonese cooking, China Manteo delivers dishes that excite the palate and bring a sense of warmth and satisfaction to every meal.
The restaurant’s commitment to freshness and quality shines through in every dish, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The menu is thoughtfully curated, featuring a variety of appetizers, main courses, and specialties that reflect the broad spectrum of Chinese cooking styles.
Diners can explore a range of textures and flavors, from crispy spring rolls and tender dim sum to hearty noodle dishes and perfectly steamed rice combinations. Each plate is prepared with care, often using family recipes passed down through generations, ensuring authenticity and excellence.
For those unfamiliar with Chinese cuisine or looking to expand their culinary horizons, China Manteo’s menu provides a gateway to the complex and vibrant world of Chinese food. The balance of taste, aroma, and presentation makes every visit memorable.
This overview delves into some of the top choices and highlights of the menu, offering insights and recommendations to enhance the dining experience.
Appetizers That Set the Tone
The appetizer selection at China Manteo is designed to awaken the senses and prepare diners for the rich flavors ahead. Light, crispy, and bursting with flavor, these starters offer a perfect introduction to the meal.
One standout is the Chicken Egg Rolls, golden and crunchy on the outside with a savory filling of shredded chicken, cabbage, and spices. These are served with a tangy dipping sauce that balances the richness of the roll.
Another favorite is the Crab Rangoon, creamy and cheesy inside, wrapped in a crisp wonton shell, offering a delightful contrast of textures.
For those who prefer something lighter, the Vegetable Spring Rolls are a fantastic option, packed with fresh shredded vegetables and herbs. They are a refreshing, crisp start that complements the heavier main dishes that follow.
Popular Appetizer Choices
- Chicken Egg Rolls – Crispy and flavorful with a spiced chicken filling
- Crab Rangoon – Creamy cheese and crab wrapped in crispy wontons
- Vegetable Spring Rolls – Light, fresh, and packed with herbs and veggies
- Hot and Sour Soup – A tangy and spicy broth with tofu and bamboo shoots
“A great appetizer is the first note in a culinary symphony, setting expectations and whetting appetites.” – Culinary Expert
Signature Main Courses
The main courses at China Manteo showcase the broad range of Chinese cooking techniques and regional flavors. From stir-fries to braised dishes, each entrée is a celebration of both tradition and innovation.
One of the most beloved dishes is the General Tso’s Chicken, known for its perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy sauce coating tender, crispy chicken pieces. This dish is a crowd-pleaser and a staple in many Chinese restaurants, but China Manteo’s version stands out for its rich flavor and perfectly cooked texture.
Another popular choice is the Beef with Broccoli, featuring thinly sliced beef cooked to tender perfection alongside crisp broccoli florets. The savory oyster sauce glaze enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients, making it a wholesome and satisfying option.
For a vegetarian option, the Ma Po Tofu offers a spicy, aromatic dish made with silky tofu cubes simmered in a chili and bean paste sauce, delivering a bold punch of flavor with every bite.
Comparison of Popular Main Dishes
| Dish | Key Ingredients | Flavor Profile | Recommended For |
| General Tso’s Chicken | Chicken, chili sauce, garlic, ginger | Sweet, spicy, tangy | Lovers of bold, saucy dishes |
| Beef with Broccoli | Beef, broccoli, oyster sauce | Savory, umami-rich | Those seeking hearty, balanced meals |
| Ma Po Tofu | Tofu, chili bean paste, garlic | Spicy, aromatic | Vegetarians and spice fans |
Seafood Specialties
China Manteo’s seafood offerings reflect the freshness of the coastal region, incorporating delicate flavors and textures that highlight the natural sweetness of the ocean’s bounty.
The Salt and Pepper Shrimp is a highlight, featuring lightly battered shrimp tossed with fried garlic, chili flakes, and a hint of salt that enhances every bite. This dish is crispy, fragrant, and perfect for sharing.
Another popular dish is the Steamed Fish with Ginger and Scallions, which utilizes a whole fish steamed to tender perfection. The ginger and scallions provide a fresh, zesty contrast that cuts through the richness of the fish.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, the Spicy Crab in Chili Sauce offers a fiery kick balanced by the sweetness of fresh crab meat and a complex sauce made from garlic, chili paste, and soy sauce.
Seafood Highlights
- Salt and Pepper Shrimp – Crispy, aromatic, and slightly spicy
- Steamed Fish with Ginger and Scallions – Light, fresh, and delicately flavored
- Spicy Crab in Chili Sauce – Bold, spicy, and rich in texture
- Garlic Butter Lobster – Succulent lobster with a rich garlic butter glaze
“Seafood dishes at China Manteo embody the essence of freshness and skillful preparation, elevating every dining experience.” – Local Food Critic
Noodles and Rice Varieties
Noodles and rice form the backbone of many Chinese meals, and China Manteo’s menu offers a diverse selection that caters to different tastes and preferences. These staples are prepared with care to complement the wide range of sauces and accompaniments.
The Beef Chow Fun is a popular noodle dish featuring wide rice noodles stir-fried with tender beef slices, bean sprouts, and scallions. It’s a hearty and satisfying dish with a smoky char flavor from the wok.
For rice lovers, the Yangzhou Fried Rice is a colorful and flavorful option, packed with shrimp, pork, peas, and scrambled eggs. This dish balances texture and taste and pairs well with almost any entrée.
Vegetarians will appreciate the Vegetable Lo Mein, made with soft egg noodles and a medley of fresh vegetables tossed in a savory soy-based sauce, creating a comforting and nutritious meal.
Noodle vs. Rice Dishes
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Texture | Best Paired With |
| Beef Chow Fun | Rice noodles, beef, bean sprouts | Soft and chewy with a slight crisp | Saucy beef or vegetable dishes |
| Yangzhou Fried Rice | Rice, shrimp, pork, peas, eggs | Fluffy and slightly crispy | Stir-fried or braised dishes |
| Vegetable Lo Mein | Egg noodles, mixed vegetables | Soft and tender | Light, savory sauces |
Dim Sum and Small Plates
China Manteo offers an excellent selection of dim sum, perfect for sharing or enjoying as a light meal. These small plates display delicate craftsmanship and a variety of flavors.
The Steamed Pork Dumplings are a must-try, filled with juicy, seasoned pork and wrapped in thin, translucent dough. They are served hot and often accompanied by soy sauce or chili oil for dipping.
BBQ Pork Buns provide a sweet and savory treat, featuring fluffy steamed buns filled with tender, smoky pork. These buns are soft, warm, and utterly satisfying.
For variety, the Chicken Siu Mai dumplings offer a flavorful mix of minced chicken and shrimp, garnished with a bright orange roe topping that adds a pop of color and texture.
Dim Sum Favorites
- Steamed Pork Dumplings – Juicy and flavorful with delicate wrappers
- BBQ Pork Buns – Sweet, smoky, and soft steamed buns
- Chicken Siu Mai – Savory chicken and shrimp dumplings with roe garnish
- Sticky Rice in Lotus Leaf – Fragrant rice steamed with mushrooms and pork
“Dim sum transforms dining into a shared experience, inviting exploration of textures and tastes in every bite.” – Dim Sum Enthusiast
Sauces and Seasonings That Define the Flavor
The secret to many dishes at China Manteo lies in its carefully crafted sauces and seasonings. These elements elevate simple ingredients into complex and memorable meals.
Classic soy sauce is a staple, providing saltiness and umami that enhances everything from stir-fries to dipping sauces. The restaurant also uses hoisin sauce, a thick, sweet, and slightly tangy condiment that adds depth to meats and vegetables alike.
Szechuan peppercorns introduce a numbing spice that is both unique and addictive, often found in dishes like Dan Dan Noodles and spicy stir-fries. The balance of heat and flavor is carefully maintained to appeal to a broad audience.
Garlic and ginger are foundational aromatics used extensively, imparting warmth and freshness to every plate. Their presence is subtle yet essential to the authenticity of the cuisine served.
Key Sauce Profiles
- Soy Sauce – Salty, umami-rich base for many dishes
- Hoisin Sauce – Sweet and tangy with a robust flavor
- Szechuan Peppercorn – Provides a unique numbing and spicy sensation
- Garlic and Ginger – Aromatic foundations for flavor depth
| Sauce | Flavor | Common Uses |
| Soy Sauce | Salty, savory, umami | Stir-fries, marinades, dipping sauces |
| Hoisin Sauce | Sweet, tangy, slightly smoky | Glazing meats, dipping, stir-fries |
| Szechuan Peppercorn | Spicy, numbing, aromatic | Szechuan dishes, spicy sauces |
Desserts and Sweet Endings
To complete the meal, China Manteo offers a thoughtful selection of desserts that blend traditional Chinese sweets with modern influences. These treats provide a satisfying and often surprising finish to the dining experience.
The Mango Pudding is a light and creamy dessert that balances sweetness with the fresh flavor of ripe mango. It’s chilled and smooth, perfect for cleansing the palate after a spicy meal.
Another favorite is the Fortune Cookies, a fun and classic ending that offers a playful message alongside a crisp, sweet crunch. While not authentically Chinese, they are beloved by many and add a touch of whimsy.
For those who prefer something warm, the Sesame Balls are a delicious choice. These fried pastries are coated with sesame seeds and filled with sweet red bean paste, offering a contrast of crunchy exterior and soft, sweet interior.
Popular Dessert Options
- Mango Pudding – Smooth, creamy, and refreshing
- Fortune Cookies – Crisp, sweet, and whimsical
- Sesame Balls – Crunchy outside with sweet red bean filling
- Fried Banana – Lightly battered and fried, served with honey
“The perfect dessert is the final note that lingers pleasantly and invites you back for more.” – Dessert Connoisseur
Conclusion
China Manteo’s menu is a rich tapestry of flavors, textures, and culinary traditions that invites diners to embark on a delicious journey through Chinese cuisine. From the carefully crafted appetizers to the bold main courses and delicate desserts, every dish is prepared with a dedication to quality and authenticity that is unmistakable.
The restaurant’s commitment to using fresh ingredients and balancing complex flavors ensures that each bite is satisfying and memorable.
Whether you are a seasoned fan of Chinese food or new to its delights, the variety offered at China Manteo caters to all tastes and preferences. The menu’s thoughtful inclusion of vegetarian options, spicy specialties, and seafood dishes means there is something for everyone.
Moreover, the emphasis on sauces and seasonings highlights the skill and care that goes into every plate.
Ultimately, dining at China Manteo is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that celebrates the art of Chinese cooking and the joy of sharing good food. With a menu that is both diverse and approachable, it remains a standout choice for those seeking authentic flavors in a welcoming atmosphere.
Exploring the top dishes on the menu is a rewarding way to discover the essence of Chinese cuisine right in the heart of Manteo.
