Yen Ching is a beloved Chinese restaurant known for its authentic flavors and generous portions. Their lunch menu offers a wide variety of dishes that cater to diverse tastes, ranging from traditional Cantonese specialties to popular American-Chinese favorites.
Whether you prefer spicy, sweet, or savory flavors, Yen Ching’s lunch options are designed to satisfy every craving.
Lunch hours are typically from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, making it an ideal stop for a quick yet flavorful meal during the workday. The menu balances affordability with quality, providing excellent value for money.
Many items are served with complimentary rice or fried rice, depending on your preference.
“One of the best things about Yen Ching’s lunch menu is the variety — you can enjoy everything from classic Egg Foo Young to Szechuan Beef, all freshly prepared and bursting with flavor.”
Appetizers
The lunch menu starts with a selection of appetizers that are perfect to share or enjoy as a light starter. These dishes are crafted to whet your appetite and showcase the range of textures and flavors typical of Chinese cuisine.
| Appetizer | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Egg Rolls (2 pcs) | Crispy fried rolls stuffed with seasoned cabbage, carrots, and pork. | $4.50 |
| Crab Rangoon (6 pcs) | Deep-fried wontons filled with cream cheese and crab meat, served with sweet and sour sauce. | $5.75 |
| Fried Wontons (8 pcs) | Golden fried wontons filled with ground pork and spices, perfect for dipping. | $4.95 |
| Chicken Wings (6 pcs) | Marinated and fried wings tossed in a tangy sauce. | $6.25 |
| Steamed Dumplings (6 pcs) | Soft dumplings filled with pork and vegetables, served with soy ginger dipping sauce. | $5.95 |
Main Courses
The main courses at Yen Ching’s lunch menu are hearty and flavorful. Each dish is prepared with fresh ingredients and traditional cooking techniques.
Most entrees come with your choice of white rice or fried rice, helping to complete your meal.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| General Tso’s Chicken | Deep-fried chicken pieces coated in a sweet and spicy sauce with a hint of garlic and ginger. | $9.95 |
| Beef with Broccoli | Thinly sliced beef stir-fried with fresh broccoli in a savory brown sauce. | $10.25 |
| Szechuan Shrimp | Spicy shrimp stir-fried with bell peppers and onions, seasoned with Szechuan peppercorns. | $11.50 |
| Sweet and Sour Pork | Lightly battered pork tossed in a tangy sweet and sour sauce with pineapple and peppers. | $9.75 |
| Chicken with Cashew Nuts | Stir-fried chicken with crunchy cashews, water chestnuts, and vegetables in a light brown sauce. | $10.00 |
| Ma Po Tofu | Soft tofu cooked in a spicy chili and bean paste sauce with minced pork (can be made vegetarian). | $9.50 |
Chef’s Specials
For those seeking something a bit more unique, Yen Ching offers several chef’s specials, highlighting regional Chinese flavors and more intricate cooking styles.
| Special Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Hunan Beef | Spicy stir-fried beef with dried chili peppers, garlic, and fresh vegetables. | $11.75 |
| Orange Chicken | Crispy chicken glazed in a zesty orange sauce with hints of ginger and chili. | $10.50 |
| Kung Pao Shrimp | Sautéed shrimp with peanuts, chili peppers, and vegetables in a spicy and tangy sauce. | $12.00 |
| Beef Chow Fun | Wide rice noodles stir-fried with beef, bean sprouts, and scallions in soy sauce. | $11.25 |
Vegetarian Options
Yen Ching is committed to accommodating vegetarian diners by offering a variety of meat-free dishes. These meals are full of flavor and made with fresh vegetables, tofu, and savory sauces.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Vegetable Lo Mein | Soft egg noodles stir-fried with assorted seasonal vegetables in a light soy sauce. | $8.95 |
| Mixed Vegetable Delight | Stir-fried fresh vegetables including broccoli, carrots, baby corn, and snow peas. | $8.50 |
| Tofu with Garlic Sauce | Firm tofu cooked in a spicy garlic sauce with mushrooms and bamboo shoots. | $9.25 |
| Vegetarian Fried Rice | Classic fried rice with eggs, peas, carrots, corn, and green onions. | $7.95 |
Combo Lunch Specials
For those who want a little bit of everything, Yen Ching offers combo specials that include two entrees served with fried rice and an egg roll. These combos are both filling and economical, ideal for busy lunch breaks.
| Combo | Includes | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Combo A | General Tso’s Chicken + Beef with Broccoli + Fried Rice + Egg Roll | $12.95 |
| Combo B | Sweet and Sour Pork + Chicken with Cashew Nuts + Fried Rice + Egg Roll | $12.50 |
| Combo C | Kung Pao Shrimp + Ma Po Tofu + Fried Rice + Egg Roll | $13.50 |
| Combo D (Vegetarian) | Vegetable Lo Mein + Mixed Vegetable Delight + Fried Rice + Egg Roll | $11.95 |
Beverages
A well-rounded meal at Yen Ching is complemented by a variety of beverage options. From traditional Chinese teas to soft drinks, the menu offers refreshing choices to suit every preference.
| Beverage | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Jasmine Tea | A fragrant hot tea with a floral aroma, perfect to cleanse the palate. | $2.00 |
| Green Tea | Classic hot or iced green tea, rich in antioxidants. | $2.00 |
| Soft Drinks | Choice of Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, or Root Beer. | $1.75 |
| Bottled Water | Refreshing bottled spring water. | $1.50 |
| Hot Oolong Tea | A traditional Chinese tea with a robust flavor and astringency. | $2.25 |
Customer Favorites
Over the years, certain dishes have become iconic favorites among regular patrons of Yen Ching. These dishes are often praised for their balance of flavors, freshness, and satisfying textures.
- General Tso’s Chicken: The perfect combination of sweet, spicy, and crispy texture that keeps customers coming back.
- Beef with Broccoli: Tender beef and fresh broccoli in a savory sauce that feels both comforting and nutritious.
- Egg Foo Young: A fluffy Chinese-style omelet packed with vegetables and your choice of meat or shrimp.
- Vegetable Lo Mein: A great vegetarian option that is flavorful and filling.
- Crab Rangoon: Crispy on the outside with a creamy, savory filling that makes a delightful starter.
Nutrition and Dietary Notes
Yen Ching takes pride in using fresh ingredients and quality oils for cooking. However, customers with dietary restrictions should be aware that many dishes contain soy, gluten, or nuts.
The kitchen is happy to accommodate gluten-free requests where possible but cross-contamination may occur.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options: While several vegetarian dishes are available, vegan diners should notify staff to adjust recipes by omitting eggs or dairy where applicable.
Spice Levels: Many dishes can be customized for spice, ranging from mild to extra hot. For those sensitive to spice, it is recommended to specify your preference when ordering.
Tip: Ask your server about today’s specials or chef recommendations to experience unique flavors not listed on the standard lunch menu.
Ordering Tips and Lunch Experience
Lunch at Yen Ching is designed to be quick and satisfying. Many customers appreciate the prompt service and consistent quality.
If you have limited time, combo specials are a great way to enjoy a varied meal without a long wait.
For large groups, it’s advisable to call ahead to ensure availability and to make any special requests. Yen Ching also offers takeout and delivery options, perfect for those who prefer to enjoy their meal at home or in the office.
Conclusion
The Yen Ching lunch menu is a celebration of classic Chinese dishes with an emphasis on freshness, flavor, and value. Whether you are craving a spicy Szechuan dish, a comforting fried rice, or a vegetarian delight, this menu provides numerous options to suit your mood and appetite.
From appetizers to entrees and beverages, every item is thoughtfully prepared to bring you an authentic Chinese lunch experience. Next time you are looking for a delicious midday meal, consider Yen Ching’s lunch menu — it’s a tasteful journey through the rich culinary traditions of Chinese cuisine.
