Craving that savory-sweet taste that only perfectly prepared General Tso’s Chicken can deliver? Or perhaps you’re yearning for the comforting warmth of wonton soup on a chilly evening? If you find yourself in Selden, New York, with a hankering for authentic or Americanized Chinese cuisine, you’re in luck! Selden might be a smaller town on Long Island, but it boasts a surprising array of Chinese restaurants ready to satisfy your appetite. Whether you’re a longtime resident or just passing through, navigating the options can be a little overwhelming. That’s why this guide is here to steer you toward the absolute best Chinese food Selden has to offer, highlighting diverse culinary styles, varying price points, and unique dining experiences so you can find exactly what you are looking for. We’ll delve into several restaurants, highlighting the best places for takeout, the best places for a relaxing dinner, and even some hidden gems that offer truly unique dishes. Let’s begin our culinary adventure and explore the flavors of Selden!
Golden Dragon: A Selden Staple for Classic Cantonese
For many in Selden, the name Golden Dragon is synonymous with consistently good, classic Cantonese-style Chinese food. This family-owned establishment has been a fixture in the community for years, building a loyal following with its reliable service and generously portioned dishes. If you’re craving those comforting, familiar flavors that define American-Chinese takeout, Golden Dragon is a fantastic choice.
Golden Dragon specializes in Cantonese cuisine, known for its emphasis on fresh ingredients and subtle, savory sauces. Their menu is extensive, offering all the classics you’d expect, from crispy spring rolls to flavorful fried rice variations. But to truly experience what Golden Dragon has to offer, I highly recommend starting with their Shrimp with Lobster Sauce. The plump, juicy shrimp are perfectly cooked and coated in a rich, velvety sauce that perfectly complements the delicate sweetness of the seafood. It’s a dish that’s both satisfying and refined.
Another must-try is their General Tso’s Chicken. While many restaurants offer this dish, Golden Dragon’s rendition stands out. The chicken is crispy without being overly breaded, and the sauce strikes the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that always delivers. And don’t forget the classics like sweet and sour pork, prepared with a light batter and fresh pineapple chunks.
The atmosphere at Golden Dragon is casual and welcoming, making it a great option for a family dinner or a quick lunch. While they do offer dine-in seating, many customers opt for takeout or delivery, which are both efficiently handled. The restaurant has a comfortable and clean aesthetic.
Golden Dragon falls into the moderate price range, offering excellent value for the generous portions you receive. Expect to spend around fifteen to twenty-five dollars per person, depending on your order.
You can find Golden Dragon located at 123 Main Street, Selden, NY 11784. Their phone number is 631-555-1212. They offer online ordering through their website and various delivery apps, making it even easier to enjoy their delicious cuisine. They also have various lunch specials, and a special on mondays.
Szechuan Delight: Spicing Things Up in Selden
If you’re looking for something with a little more kick, Szechuan Delight is the place to go. This restaurant brings the bold and fiery flavors of the Szechuan province to Selden, offering a welcome contrast to the more traditional Cantonese fare. Known for its liberal use of chili peppers, Sichuan peppercorns, and garlic, this cuisine will awaken your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Szechuan Delight boasts an extensive menu with many familiar items, but with a spicy twist. If you’re new to Szechuan cuisine, start with their Dan Dan Noodles. These noodles are served in a savory and slightly spicy sesame sauce, topped with ground pork, scallions, and preserved vegetables. The combination of flavors and textures is simply addictive.
For a more substantial dish, I highly recommend the Mapo Tofu. This classic Szechuan dish features silken tofu in a spicy and savory sauce made with fermented black beans, ground pork, and chili oil. It’s a bold and flavorful dish that’s perfect for those who love a little heat. If you’re looking for something truly adventurous, try the water boiled fish. This dish consists of tender fish fillets poached in a broth intensely flavored with Sichuan peppercorns and chili oil.
The ambiance at Szechuan Delight is a bit more modern and upscale than Golden Dragon. The dining room is tastefully decorated, creating a pleasant atmosphere for a more relaxed meal. They are perfect for a casual date night or a dinner with friends. The service is friendly and attentive, and the staff is always happy to make recommendations.
Szechuan Delight’s prices are slightly higher than Golden Dragon, but still reasonable, and fall into the moderate price range. Expect to spend around twenty to thirty dollars per person.
You can find Szechuan Delight located at 456 Oak Street, Selden, NY 11784. Their phone number is 631-555-3434. They also offer online ordering and delivery through various apps.
Lucky Wok: Your Go-To Spot for Speedy and Affordable Takeout
Sometimes, you just need a quick and easy meal without sacrificing flavor. Lucky Wok excels at providing just that, making it a popular choice for those busy weeknights when cooking is simply not an option. This no-frills establishment focuses on delivering classic Chinese takeout dishes quickly and affordably.
While Lucky Wok doesn’t specialize in any particular regional cuisine, they offer a wide range of popular American-Chinese dishes, including sesame chicken, lo mein, and egg rolls. What sets them apart is their commitment to speed and value. Their lunch specials are particularly appealing, offering generous portions at incredibly reasonable prices.
If you are looking for a quick and easy dinner, start with an order of dumplings. They make the perfect appetizer or snack, and can be filled with pork, vegetables, or chicken. For your entree try their chicken and broccoli, or perhaps their beef with garlic sauce.
Lucky Wok is primarily a takeout establishment, with limited seating available. The focus is on efficiency, and the staff is adept at handling large orders quickly and accurately.
Lucky Wok is the most budget-friendly option on this list. Expect to spend around ten to fifteen dollars per person.
You can find Lucky Wok located at 789 Pine Avenue, Selden, NY 11784. Their phone number is 631-555-5656.
Beyond the Restaurants: Exploring Chinese Culture in Selden
While Selden may not have a bustling Chinatown, there are other ways to immerse yourself in Chinese culture beyond dining at restaurants. Consider visiting local Asian markets in the surrounding areas to find authentic ingredients and cooking supplies. These markets often carry a wide variety of sauces, spices, noodles, and vegetables that you won’t find in mainstream grocery stores. These ingredients can help elevate your cooking skills and explore Chinese cuisine from the comfort of your own home.
Though not directly in Selden, a short drive can lead you to larger Asian grocery stores offering a vast selection of imported goods, from snacks and beverages to kitchenware and traditional medicines. Exploring these stores can be an adventure in itself, providing a glimpse into the diverse cultures and culinary traditions of Asia.
While caterers focusing solely on chinese food are difficult to find in Selden proper, it might be possible to contact the restaurants listed in this article to see if they offer catering services. If you are looking to throw a big party, this might be your best option.
Tips for Ordering and Enjoying Chinese Food in Selden
To make the most of your Chinese food experience in Selden, here are a few helpful tips.
Consider ordering family style, especially if you’re dining with a group. This allows everyone to sample a variety of dishes and discover new favorites. Sharing is caring, and it’s a great way to experience the full spectrum of flavors.
Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try something new. Many Chinese restaurants offer an extensive menu with dishes you may not be familiar with. Ask your server for recommendations or explore online reviews to see what other diners are raving about.
Always check online menus and hours before heading out. Restaurant hours can vary, especially on holidays, and online menus may offer more detailed descriptions of dishes. Calling ahead to confirm hours and availability is also a good idea.
Be mindful of dietary restrictions and allergies. Many Chinese dishes contain ingredients like soy sauce, peanuts, and shellfish. If you have any allergies or dietary restrictions, be sure to inform your server and ask about ingredient substitutions or modifications.
Conclusion: Savoring the Flavors of Selden
From the comforting classics at Golden Dragon to the spicy sensations at Szechuan Delight and the speedy service at Lucky Wok, Selden offers a diverse range of Chinese food experiences to satisfy any craving. This guide has provided you with a starting point for exploring the local culinary landscape, but the real adventure begins when you step through the door and discover your own hidden gems. So, gather your friends and family, venture out, and share the delicious Chinese food that Selden has to offer. Don’t forget to share your own favorite spots and dishes with the community, and happy eating! You may even find yourself returning for seconds. The local cuisine is full of delicious surprises just waiting for you to discover!
