There are Chinese restaurants, and then there are Chinese restaurants, those places where you realize you’ve been eating glorified takeout your whole life. This is a guide for the latter. Because when you finally decide to venture beyond the neon-lit strip mall spots, you’re going to need real sustenance. And while we can’t fix your misguided lo mein allegiance, we can tell you where to go for hand-pulled noodles, soup dumplings that weep broth, and Peking duck that haunts your dreams.
Xin Wei Kitchen
$ | (614) 824-3347 | WEBSITE
Something that’s spicy, savory, and satisfying all in the same bite probably sounds good to you right now. And a flavorful Chinese meal from Xin Wei Kitchen is exactly what you need to satisfy this craving. Order the spicy chilli oil wonton or the aptly-named-for-this-moment double pepper spicy pork kidney – which is really just tender pork kidney with a fiery pepper sauce. Plus, the small restaurant never gets too busy, you won’t spend a ton of money, and you get quick service with your meal.
China Wok
$ | (614) 899-2299 | WEBSITE
Sweet and Sour Chicken and Veggie Fried Rice have all the comfort food essentials covered: crispy protein, fluffy rice, fresh vegetables, and savory sauces. China Wok makes some of the best in Columbus, not to mention their must-try egg drop soup to warm you up on a chilly day. Plus, this family-run spot is perfect for takeout, so it also works for that cozy night in when you need something delicious and satisfying.
Jade Bowl House Restaurant
$ | (614) 337-8898 | WEBSITE
Craving comfort food is kind of like needing a warm hug – except this time you can actually taste it. But in both situations, Jade Bowl House helps. Jade Bowl House is one of our favorite places for some hearty American Chinese classics, especially the generous portions with fresh vegetables. There’s even a cozy dining area, should you want to settle in for a satisfying meal. Jade Bowl House also works if you need to lean over a steaming plate and whisper “this hits the spot.”
Wong’s Golden Wok
$ | (614) 274-1871 | WEBSITE
Wong’s Golden Wok is a Chinese restaurant, but you’re not here for the ambiance right now. You’re here for orange chicken that’s the best in Columbus. They make everything with really fresh ingredients, and have a ton of options, like the awesome Wonton Soup, the crunchy strips that are a must-try, and generous portions of Kung Pao Chicken, beef with mushroom and onion, fried rice, and sweet and sour chicken.
The homemade lemon tea and lemonade travel well too so you can grab it to-go and resume your position at home if you want.
Yin Yue
$ | (614) 268-7542 | WEBSITE
It’s the day after a Thursday night Chinese New Year celebration. Your physical body is at work, but your brain is still craving those amazing flavors. If you can pull yourself away from your computer, grab dinner at Yin Yue, a fantastic Chinese restaurant that’s always worth the trip. Their delicious dishes are generous, and come with combinations like pepper steak with savory sauce (our favorite savory one) and sweet and sour chicken with tangy glaze (our favorite sweet one).
Lei’s Asian Bistro
$ | (614) 468-1805 | WEBSITE
Chinese restaurants are always a safe bet when you’re craving something comforting and familiar. And Lei’s Asian Bistro’s our favorite spot for garlic chicken or a red curry chicken hybrid involving sesame noodles or egg and spring rolls. Nothing’s too heavy, the large seating area is very comfortable, and even if you can only eat crab rangoons you’ve pulled out of an appetizer sampler right now, they serve fantastic recommendations with excellent customer service all day long.
Moy’s Chinese Restaurant
$$ | (614) 297-7722 | WEBSITE
General Tso’s chicken was practically invented for comfort food cravings. And you can find some of the best in Columbus at Moy’s, a cozy little family spot on Ohio State campus. Get their amazing white meat version with house-made sauce and make sure to try the fried dumplings and egg drop soup.
Nong’s Hunan Express
$ | (614) 486-6630 | WEBSITE
Instead of settling for another bland takeout meal, dive into something bold and flavorful at Nong’s Hunan Express. It’s a Columbus spot that serves Hunan-style Chinese food you can get with standout dishes like Crab Rangoon and War Su Gai sauce on the menu. If anything, the delicious flavors will distract you from the fact that you’re eating in a clean, convenient space where the food arrives quickly and the staff remains super friendly even after ownership changes.
P.F. Chang’s
$$ | (614) 416-4100 | WEBSITE
P.F. Chang’s will cure any case of feeling like the human embodiment of a dumpster fire. It’s a reliable spot in Columbus that serves dynamite shrimp coated in spicy sriracha sauce on a bed of chopped cabbage, as well as other Chinese favorites like spring rolls, dumplings, and California rolls. And if you need some extra cheer, servers like Lauren are known for being attentive, funny, and professional, often making the night better just by her presence.
Eastern Wok
$ | (614) 492-9300 | WEBSITE
When you’re craving something that feels like a warm hug from an old friend, Eastern Wok delivers exactly that. The bourbon chicken here is the culinary equivalent of someone handing you a cozy blanket on a chilly day, with its crispy chunks of meat swimming in that perfect sweet-savory sauce. And if you need a little extra comfort, their egg rolls are like getting a reassuring pat on the shoulder—crispy, satisfying, and easily some of the best you’ll ever taste.
For around $12-$15 per entree, you get generous portions that leave you feeling thoroughly cared for in their clean, comfortable dining room with its warm lighting and unpretentious vibe.