That familiar Friday night feeling… You’re in Brick, New Jersey, Netflix is calling, and suddenly, a craving hits. A craving only satisfied by crispy spring rolls, savory dumplings, and the sweet-and-tangy perfection of General Tso’s chicken. Luckily, you’re in the right place! Brick, NJ, may be known for its beautiful beaches, but it also boasts a fantastic array of Chinese restaurants, each offering its own unique take on classic and regional dishes.
This guide is your passport to navigating the vibrant world of Chinese food in Brick. We’ll explore some of the top spots in town, highlighting their specialties, atmosphere, and what makes them stand out from the crowd. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a visitor looking for a delicious meal, get ready to discover your new favorite Chinese restaurant. We’ll cover a variety of locations, types of cuisine, and important tips for ordering that perfect meal.
What Makes a Great Chinese Restaurant?
Before we dive into the list, let’s establish what factors we’re considering when recommending these establishments. Ultimately, taste is paramount. We’re looking for fresh ingredients, authentic flavors, and dishes prepared with care. Customer service plays a crucial role, too. A friendly and attentive staff can elevate the entire dining experience. Ambiance, while less critical for takeout, is certainly important for those who prefer to dine in. Price and value are also taken into account; we want to recommend places that offer delicious food at reasonable prices. Finally, we considered online reviews and local popularity as another metric to help make our recommendations. This list is subjective and aims to assist you in finding the Chinese food that best meets your personal preferences.
Top Chinese Restaurants in Brick, NJ
Golden Dragon: A Brick Institution
Located on [Fictional Street Name] in Brick, Golden Dragon has been serving up delicious Chinese food to the community for many years. This family-owned restaurant has become a beloved institution, known for its consistently high-quality dishes and friendly service. Stepping inside, you’ll be greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a casual family dinner or a relaxed meal with friends.
Golden Dragon’s menu is extensive, offering a wide range of classic Chinese dishes, from Cantonese favorites to spicy Szechuan specialties. However, there are a few standout dishes that you absolutely must try. Their General Tso’s chicken is a crowd-pleaser, featuring crispy, lightly breaded chicken coated in a sweet and tangy sauce. The sauce has just the right amount of spice to tantalize your tastebuds without being overwhelming. Another highlight is their Peking duck, a classic that is prepared with crispy skin and tender meat. It’s served with thin pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce, allowing you to create your own delicious wraps. Finally, if you are looking for noodle dishes, their beef Lo Mein is consistently a hit.
Golden Dragon offers a comfortable dining experience, a friendly staff, and amazing food that will leave you wanting more.
Red Bowl Asian Bistro: Modern Flavors and Fresh Ingredients
Red Bowl Asian Bistro, situated on [Fictional Avenue Name], is a more modern take on Chinese cuisine. This stylish restaurant boasts a contemporary atmosphere, making it a great spot for a date night or a special occasion. Red Bowl focuses on using fresh, high-quality ingredients to create flavorful and visually appealing dishes.
Their menu features a mix of Chinese and other Asian cuisines, offering a diverse range of options to choose from. One of their most popular dishes is the Spicy Tuna Roll, a fusion dish that blends sushi with Chinese flavors. The crispy wonton nachos are another excellent choice, a creative appetizer that’s perfect for sharing. For a more traditional Chinese dish, try their Kung Pao chicken, which is cooked to perfection with just the right amount of peanuts and chili peppers. This will create a satisfying and spicy flavor that will leave you yearning for more.
Red Bowl Asian Bistro offers a stylish and modern take on Chinese cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and creative dishes. It’s a great option for those looking for a more upscale dining experience.
China Wok: Quick, Convenient, and Consistently Good
For those seeking a quick and easy Chinese food fix, China Wok on [Fictional Road Name] is the perfect choice. This no-frills takeout spot is known for its fast service, generous portions, and consistently good food. While they offer a few tables for dining in, China Wok is primarily geared towards takeout and delivery.
Their menu features all the classic Chinese takeout staples, from sesame chicken to sweet and sour pork. Their prices are incredibly reasonable, making it a great option for a budget-friendly meal. The shrimp fried rice is a standout dish, packed with flavorful shrimp and perfectly cooked rice. The egg rolls are also worth a try, featuring a crispy exterior and a savory filling. China Wok does not strive for anything particularly innovative or interesting, but instead sticks with the basics while creating a consistently reliable meal at an affordable price.
China Wok is a reliable and affordable option for those seeking a quick and easy Chinese food fix. Their generous portions and consistently good food make it a popular choice for takeout and delivery.
Sichuan Garden: Authentic Szechuan Flavors
If you’re craving authentic Szechuan cuisine, Sichuan Garden on [Fictional Place Name] is the place to go. This hidden gem specializes in spicy and flavorful dishes from the Szechuan province of China. Be warned, some of the dishes here pack a serious punch!
Their menu features a wide range of Szechuan specialties, including Mapo Tofu, Dan Dan Noodles, and Twice Cooked Pork. The Mapo Tofu is a must-try, featuring silky tofu in a spicy and savory sauce. The Dan Dan Noodles are another excellent choice, featuring chewy noodles in a flavorful sauce with ground pork and preserved vegetables. The dry pot is fully customizable and allows you to put anything your heart desires into it. Just keep in mind to order accordingly to the spice level you prefer!
Sichuan Garden offers a taste of authentic Szechuan cuisine, with spicy and flavorful dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. It’s a great option for those looking to explore the bolder side of Chinese food.
Eastern Dynasty: A Hidden Gem for Dim Sum
While many Chinese restaurants in Brick focus on the typical American-Chinese fare, Eastern Dynasty on [Fictional Court Name] sets itself apart by offering a surprisingly good selection of dim sum. Dim sum are small, bite-sized portions of various dishes, typically served with tea. It’s a great way to sample a variety of flavors and textures.
Their dim sum menu features all the classics, including steamed dumplings, pork buns, and siu mai. The shrimp dumplings are a standout, featuring plump, juicy shrimp wrapped in a delicate skin. The pork buns are also worth a try, featuring a fluffy, sweet bun filled with savory barbecued pork. While they don’t have dim sum carts that are typically found at traditional dim sum restaurants, you can select the dishes you want from a menu and they’ll be freshly prepared.
Eastern Dynasty is a great option for those looking to explore the world of dim sum in Brick. Their affordable prices and delicious dumplings make it a hidden gem for Chinese food lovers.
Honorable Mentions
While the restaurants listed above are our top picks, there are a few other Chinese restaurants in Brick that are worth mentioning:
- Lucky Star: Great for late-night cravings and fast delivery.
- New China: Known for its extensive lunch specials and affordable prices.
- Jade Garden: Offers a wide variety of vegetarian and vegan options.
Tips for Ordering Chinese Food
Navigating a Chinese food menu can be daunting, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the dishes. Here are a few tips to help you order with confidence:
- Understand Common Dishes: Familiarize yourself with classic dishes like Lo Mein (stir-fried noodles), Chow Mein (crispy noodles), Moo Shu (stir-fried vegetables and meat served with pancakes), and Kung Pao Chicken (spicy stir-fried chicken with peanuts).
- Consider Regional Variations: Chinese cuisine varies widely by region. Cantonese food is known for its light sauces and emphasis on fresh ingredients, while Szechuan cuisine is known for its spicy and bold flavors.
- Dietary Needs: For gluten-free options, ask if they can substitute soy sauce for tamari, and ensure the dishes aren’t breaded. For vegetarian and vegan needs, confirm that the sauces don’t include meat or fish products. Tofu can be substituted in many dishes.
- Spice Level: Don’t be afraid to specify your preferred spice level when ordering. Most restaurants are happy to adjust the heat to your liking. Some restaurants will ask you how spicy you would like your dish on a scale from one to ten.
- Group Orders: Ordering family style is a popular way to enjoy Chinese food, which will allow you to sample a variety of dishes and flavors. If ordering for a large group, consider ordering a few different appetizers, entrees, and sides to satisfy everyone’s tastes.
- Definitions: Lo Mein is a soft egg noodle that is often stir fried with protein and vegetables, while Chow Mein is a crispy egg noodle that has similar ingredients. Moo Shu usually features cabbage, carrots, scrambled eggs, and your choice of protein that is rolled up in a thin crepe like pancake.
Final Thoughts
Brick, NJ, offers a surprisingly diverse and delicious array of Chinese food options. From family-owned institutions to modern bistros and quick takeout spots, there’s something for everyone. We encourage you to explore the restaurants mentioned in this guide and discover your own favorites. Be adventurous, try new dishes, and don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations.
Happy eating! Share your go-to Chinese restaurant in Brick, NJ, in the comments below. We’d love to hear about your favorite dishes and hidden gems!
