It's impossible to pick the best Chinese cuisine in a city. Everyone has their own favorite spot, often tucked away in strip malls or off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods. This is not a list of those undiscovered gems. But if you have a favorite spot that you want to share, post it in this site's message board. Be sure to leave the address, phone or website, so others can find it.
These restaurants, known for their innovation or authenticity, tend to be the critics darlings. Or, their high traffic and longevity show that the people have spoken.
1. P.F. Chang's Bistro
Inner Harbor
The sophisticated atmosphere dazzles as much as the food at the Columbia location of this national chain. Innovative cuisine with Southeast Asian influences balance the menu of traditional Chinese entrees. Using Mandarin-style wok cooking, the chef turns out lightly sauced dishes made with fresh ingredients. The dessert menu, however, is American through and through. Entrees $10-$18.
2. Café Zen
Govans
While the fresh ingredients and subtle sauces give this eclectic eatery's dishes a light but flavorful taste, the heaping portions are anything but light. Curries, crispy and soft noodles and sushi round out a menu that also offers traditional dishes, like Peking duck and General Tsao chicken. Entrees $7-$25
3. Chinatown Café
Mount Vernon
You know your dinner is going to be fresh when it greets you at the door. Tanks of fish awaiting their fate line the foyer at this plain restaurant on a lonely block in Mount Vernon. Sauces are tasty and do not overpower the fresh seafood and vegetables. Dim sum is served all the time. Entrees $7-$20.
4. Asean Bistro
Columbia
Think outside the (takeout) box with dishes like XO Chicken, a plate of well-seasoned chicken strips tossed with a Cognac sauce, celery and a variety of peppers. This downtown Columbia eatery also serves more traditional fare like wonton soup and egg rolls. Entrees $9-$20.
5. Jang Won
Catonsville
Serving up what it dubs Korean-style Chinese food, Jang Won's specialty is homemade noodles. Soups are brimming with noodles and fresh meats and seafood. Many dishes come in family-size portions, so bring a friend. Entrees $12-$25.
