Houston’s Chinese culinary scene has dramatically evolved since the establishment of its original Asiatown in East Downtown during the 1980s. Once a vibrant hub for Asian businesses and restaurants, it was renowned as a prime destination for exceptional Chinese cuisine. The rapid pace of commercial development in the 90s led to a shift, with many businesses relocating to Southwest Houston, giving rise to the Asiatown we recognize today.
Over the past two decades, Bellaire Boulevard in Asiatown has indeed flourished into a hotspot for outstanding Chinese restaurants. However, the culinary influence extends throughout the city, with talented chefs bringing their innovative interpretations of traditional Chinese dishes to areas like Montrose, the Heights, Rice Village, River Oaks, and the burgeoning new Asiatown in Katy. From exquisite Peking duck with its crispy skin to delicate, flavorful xiao long bao, Houston’s Chinese restaurants offer a dining experience that mirrors the city’s diverse and dynamic cultural landscape.
Whether you’re seeking a convenient and satisfying takeout meal, or a leisurely and immersive dim sum brunch, this guide to the best Chinese restaurants in Houston is your perfect companion when a craving for soup dumplings or savory sesame chicken arises.
Lao Sze Chuan
Opened in Montrose in 2023, Lao Sze Chuan, an extension of celebrity chef Tony Hu’s acclaimed Chicago restaurant, has rapidly gained recognition as a premier destination for exceptional dim sum, flavorful rice and noodle dishes, and a wide array of spicy specialty chicken creations. Indulge in the crispy duck ($32), infused with the smoky aroma of black tea and camphor wood, and keep a refreshing Thai tea close at hand as you navigate the boldly flavored mapo tofu ($14), boiled fish ($20), and twice-cooked pork ($16). 3407 Montrose Blvd. Ste. A-8, Houston, laoszechuantx.com
China Garden
Step into China Garden, Houston’s oldest Chinese restaurant, where vintage menus and cherished family photographs adorn the walls, telling a story of culinary heritage. Established in 1969 by David and Marian Jue, this enduring establishment remains family-operated, now under the guidance of the couple’s children. Gather around generous servings of classic Chinese dishes such as Hunan beef ($25), sweet and sour chicken ($19), and China Garden’s iconic, oversized egg rolls ($8). Strategically located near the Toyota Center in Downtown, China Garden has long been a favored gathering spot for pre- and post-event dining for sporting events and concerts. 1602 Leeland St., Houston, originalchinagardenhouston.com
Mala Sichuan Bistro
Even before receiving a Bib Gourmand recognition from Michelin, Mala Sichuan Bistro had already earned widespread acclaim from Houston locals for its authentically tongue-tingling Sichuan dishes. Popular choices like the handmade red oil dumplings ($9), dan dan noodles with savory ground pork ($9), and spicy crispy chicken ($16) are bursting with vibrant, fiery flavors, enhanced by the distinctive and surprising numbing effect of Sichuan peppercorns. With multiple locations across Asiatown, Katy, Sugar Land, Montrose, and the Heights, Mala Sichuan Bistro offers a convenient option for both dine-in and takeout experiences of top-tier Sichuan cuisine in Houston. Multiple locations, malasichuan.com
Fung’s Kitchen
Fung’s Kitchen is a spacious restaurant specializing in Cantonese-style live seafood, showcasing a wide selection of fresh fish, lobster, shrimp, and other delicacies. Make sure to visit on weekends to experience the traditional dim sum carts circulating through the dining area, offering a diverse array of small, delectable dishes. Conclude your meal with the widely popular TikTok-famous lava buns, featuring a soft, steamed pastry filled with rich salted egg yolk custard. For those seeking authentic Cantonese cuisine and fresh seafood, Fung’s Kitchen is a must-visit in Houston’s culinary landscape. 7320 Southwest Fwy. #115, Houston, fungskitchen.com
Dim Sum at Tim Ho Wan Katy Texas
Tim Ho Wan
Tim Ho Wan, a Michelin-starred dim sum restaurant originating from Hong Kong, chose Katy for its first Texas location, further solidifying this area’s growing Asiatown as a significant culinary destination. Renowned for its baked BBQ pork buns ($8), Tim Ho Wan delivers a perfect combination of tender, flavorful meat encased in subtly sweet, fluffy buns with a delightful sugary crust. While these buns are essential, the extensive menu offers a wealth of dim sum options to explore, including har gow with fresh shrimp ($8), sticky rice wrapped in fragrant lotus leaf ($9), and comforting, bone-warming congee ($7). Tim Ho Wan provides an authentic and high-quality dim sum experience, making it a cornerstone of the Best Chinese Food In Houston. 23330 Grand Cir. Blvd. Ste. 180, Katy, timhowanusa.com
Cafe Ginger
Located in the upscale River Oaks Shopping Center, Cafe Ginger is a Japanese-Chinese fusion restaurant that attracts diners with its sophisticated, art-filled ambiance as much as its diverse menu. Alongside a comprehensive sushi selection, the menu features familiar Chinese-American favorites like moo shu ($9), sesame chicken ($18), Mongolian beef ($20), and Hunan prawns ($23). An exceptional lunch menu, offering an entree, soup, and side dish for ($16), makes Cafe Ginger a popular daytime dining destination in River Oaks. For a refined setting and a blend of Chinese and Japanese cuisine, Cafe Ginger stands out as a noteworthy option in Houston. 1574 W. Gray St., Houston, cafeginger.net
Rice Box
Follow the inviting glow of neon lights to any of Rice Box’s four brightly lit Houston locations. This fast-casual, counter-service restaurant provides satisfying and generously portioned meals, reminiscent of classic American Chinese takeout, but with a modern twist. Crowd-pleasing staples like orange peel beef and kung pao chicken are served with rice and a crispy egg roll. Guests also have the option to customize their dishes with vegetarian alternatives, substituting tofu or cauliflower for meat. For a quick, affordable, and nostalgic Chinese food experience in Houston, Rice Box is a reliable choice. Multiple locations, riceboxed.com
Duck N Bao
While ordering the whole, beautifully lacquered Peking-style duck at Duck N Bao isn’t mandatory, it’s immediately apparent why this dish lends its name to the restaurant. Offered in half ($35) or whole ($58) portions, the signature duck is roasted daily and served with delicate pancakes, crisp cucumber, scallions, and traditional duck sauce, creating a spectacular and shareable feast. Although Peking duck is the star attraction, consider exploring the diverse dim sum menu or sampling appetizers like the marinated garlic cucumbers ($8), kung pao Brussels sprouts ($10), and tea-smoked pork ribs ($21). Duck N Bao provides a memorable Peking duck experience and a range of other delicious Chinese dishes, making it a highlight of Houston’s best Chinese food offerings. 5535 Memorial Dr. Ste. O, Houston, ducknbao.com
