Asheville's vibrant culinary scene extends beyond its renowned barbecue and craft breweries. The city boasts a surprising number of excellent Chinese restaurants, offering diverse menus and catering to various tastes. Finding the "best" is subjective, of course, depending on your preferred style of Chinese cuisine, but this guide will help you navigate the options and discover your new favorite spot.
What are some of the best Chinese restaurants in Asheville?
This is the million-dollar question! Asheville offers a range of options, from classic Cantonese to spicy Sichuan and everything in between. Instead of declaring a single "best," I'll highlight several highly-rated and popular choices, categorized to help you choose based on your preferences.
For Authentic Cantonese Cuisine: While many restaurants offer a blend of styles, some places focus more heavily on traditional Cantonese dishes. Look for restaurants with extensive dim sum menus (if that's your thing!) and classic Cantonese staples like sweet and sour pork, kung pao chicken, and various noodle dishes. Reviews will often highlight authenticity; read carefully for mentions of specific dishes or preparation styles that align with your expectations.
For Spicy Sichuan Flavors: If you enjoy the fiery kick of Sichuan peppercorns and bold flavors, Asheville has restaurants that specialize in this style. Expect dishes with intense heat and aromatic spices. Look for reviews mentioning the level of spiciness – some places might be significantly hotter than others.
For a Modern Take on Chinese Food: Asheville's culinary scene embraces innovation. Some Chinese restaurants might offer creative twists on classic dishes, incorporating local ingredients or fusion elements. These restaurants often appeal to those seeking a more contemporary dining experience.
What type of Chinese food is best?
The "best" type of Chinese food is entirely a matter of personal preference! Here's a breakdown of popular styles to help you decide:
- Cantonese: Known for its lighter, sweeter flavors and delicate cooking techniques. Often uses a lot of seafood.
- Sichuan: Famous for its bold, spicy flavors, often featuring the numbing sensation of Sichuan peppercorns.
- Hunan: Another spicy style, but often with a different flavor profile than Sichuan. Can be very intensely hot.
- Beijing: Features hearty dishes, often incorporating noodles and dumplings.
- Shanghainese: Known for its rich, savory flavors and often features soup dumplings (xiaolongbao).
What is the most popular Chinese food?
Nationwide, popular dishes include General Tso's chicken, sweet and sour pork, and egg rolls. However, the popularity of specific dishes can vary regionally and by restaurant. In Asheville, you'll likely find many restaurants offering these classics alongside more regional specialties.
Where can I find the best Chinese takeout in Asheville?
Many of Asheville's Chinese restaurants offer takeout services, providing a convenient option for enjoying delicious food at home. Check individual restaurant websites or apps like Grubhub, DoorDash, or Uber Eats to see their takeout menus and delivery options. Reviews often mention the quality of takeout compared to dine-in experiences; be sure to pay attention to those comments when selecting.
Conclusion: Your Asheville Chinese Food Adventure Awaits!
Exploring Asheville's Chinese food scene is an exciting culinary journey. Use this guide as a starting point, read online reviews, and don't be afraid to try something new! Happy eating!
