Getting a great Chinese-American dish isn’t hard to do in most American cities. In fact, even more urban areas have picked up on the trend of Chinese-inspired chains. While you may be able to name a few of these spots in your own area–and no doubt you have a couple non-chain, Asian inspired restaurants, too–this list may have your mouth watering and your mind working on when you’ll get to one of these 7 best Chinese food chains across the US.
- Panda Express
Our first restaurant is probably one of the most popular chains nationwide when it comes to Chinese-American stops. This restaurant started up in the 80’s and it is still going strong. They offer many signature Chinese dishes such as beef and broccoli or orange chicken.
Of course, while you can get fried rice, fried wontons, or egg rolls, you can also opt for healthier choices like steamed rice, veggie dishes, or string bean chicken breasts.
One of the best things about Panda Express is the fact that they seem to uphold the quality standard across all franchises. You can choose from any of their dishes and know you’re getting a tasty and filling meal. If you’re looking for a casual spot to refresh, this should be on your radar.
Panda Express also has a customer survey system – panda express feedback which allows them to listen to their customers, get real feedback and make better Chinese dishes.
- Manchu Wok
If you’ve visited a shopping mall (indoor or outdoor) in recent years, you could have spotted a Manchu Wok restaurant. This chain has also been around for decades, and they are fairly popular among those looking for a fast-food type experience.. When stopping by to eat at one of their local franchises, you’ll be able to find a wide variety of your favorite Chinese-American dishes.
While Manchu Wok doesn’t always receive the highest reviews, they’ve managed to stick around for 40 years for a reason–that being they provide quality more often than not.
- P.F. Chang’s
Of the Chinese-American restaurants mentioned so far, P.F. Chang’s is the least like fast-food of the three. In fact, in most of their locations you may need to make a reservation with a popular site like Open Table. You can be prepared to sit and relax at a table while a server waits on your table, and you’ll need to leave a tip as well.
Another difference between the others and P.F. Chang’s is that their menu offers dishes that are inspired by other Asian countries besides just China. Not only that, but many popular items from P.F. Chang’s can often be purchased at chain grocery stores.
- Chinese Gourmet Express
This nationwide chain serves up piping hot dishes in a jiffy. They’re also quite popular. In fact, you may be more likely to find a Chinese Gourmet Express in your area than some of the other restaurants on this list, like Manchu Wok.
At Chinese Gourmet Express, your order will be prepared right in front of you so you can see exactly what you’re getting. This does appeal to many restaurant-goers, so if you’re the type of person who likes to see where your food is being prepared, keep this spot on your list.
- Pick Up Stix
This highly rated chain of Chinese-American dishes is often praised for its authentic and delicious foods. Its founder came from China to California and opened the chain in the 1980’s. Since then, the chain has grown across the state.
Many of their dishes are considered tasty and healthy, but, for the most part, you’ll need to be on the west coast to check them out.
- Pei Wei Asian Kitchen
Pei Wei is yet another popular fast food type restaurant which serves up Chinese-American dishes. This one was founded by P.F. Chang’s owners, and it was meant as a take-out arm of the P.F. Chang’s body.
However, the chain was eventually sold and is now run by different owners. They are still known for quality foods with authentic Chinese-American dishes.
- Nothing But Noodles
Now, this one might be a slight cheat. That’s because while Nothing But Noodles does serve some Chinese-American dishes, they are not solely an Asian restaurant. For instance, they serve up Italian dishes, and more, at their service counter.
That being said, their Chinese-inspired dishes are piping hot and delicious, and they deserve a spot on this list.
