Christmas Day in Metro Phoenix doesn’t have to be all about turkey and ham. For many, especially those observing traditions outside of typical Christmas fare, seeking out Chinese food on Christmas Day is a beloved custom. Rooted in a history of shared experiences between Jewish and Chinese communities in America, enjoying Chinese cuisine on December 25th has become a delicious and anticipated holiday tradition. If you’re wondering where to satisfy your cravings for dumplings, noodles, or Peking duck this Christmas, look no further than this guide to Metro Phoenix Chinese restaurants open on Christmas Day.
The tradition of Jewish families eating Chinese food on Christmas dates back to the early 20th century, highlighting a unique cultural intersection in America. As two significant non-Christian immigrant groups, Jewish and Chinese communities found common ground, and Chinese restaurants, remaining open on Christmas, became a welcoming culinary haven. This practice, particularly prominent in cities like New York City, has spread across the nation, becoming a cherished part of the holiday for many. As Ross Wolman, a cantor at Temple Chai in Phoenix, aptly puts it, “Jews and Chinese food! It’s just something that has always been a tradition.” This love for Chinese food is so ingrained that Wolman even incorporated fortune cookies into his wedding celebrations and enjoys Chinese takeout every Friday for Shabbat dinner.
Metro Phoenix boasts a vibrant Chinese food scene, offering a diverse range of options from classic American-Chinese dishes to authentic regional specialties. Whether you’re a dim sum devotee, a Peking duck aficionado, or simply in search of comforting lo mein, you’ll find a restaurant open to celebrate the holiday. From Glendale to Mesa, here are 11 Chinese restaurants ready to welcome you on Christmas Day in Metro Phoenix.
Selection of Chinese dishes including dumplings and noodles
Explore Metro Phoenix’s Chinese Restaurants Open This Christmas
Best China
Located in a West Valley shopping center, Best China provides a comforting menu of familiar American Chinese dishes. From savory lo mein to sweet and tangy orange chicken, Best China offers classic flavors for your Christmas Day meal. They will be open from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. on December 25th.
Details: 8987 W. Olive Ave., Suite 126, Peoria. 623-878-8828, bestchinainc.com.
Chef J Dim Sum & Chinese Bistro
For a diverse culinary experience, Chef J Dim Sum & Chinese Bistro in Scottsdale presents an extensive menu. Diners can indulge in a variety of dim sum, alongside classic American Chinese favorites, and even explore pan-Asian options like Korean short ribs. Chef J will be serving customers on Christmas Day from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Details: 9030 E. Via Linda, Scottsdale. 480-860-5508. chefjscottsdale.com.
China Chili
A Phoenix favorite, China Chili is celebrated for its regional Chinese cuisine. Spice lovers will appreciate their Sichuan spicy garlic chicken, while those seeking traditional dishes can enjoy their renowned Peking duck. Please note that China Chili will be open for takeout only on Christmas Day, operating from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Details: 302 E. Flower St., Phoenix. 602-266-4463, chinachilirestaurant.com.
D&Y Chinese Food
D&Y Chinese Food in Glendale offers a taste of Cantonese cuisine with two distinct menus. An English menu features American Chinese classics like chop suey, while a Chinese menu showcases authentic Hong Kong-style dishes. D&Y Chinese Food will be open on Christmas Day from noon to 9 p.m.
Details: 6666 W. Peoria Ave., Suite 119-120, Glendale. 623-302-9227, dychinesefood.com.
Great Wall Cuisine
Known for its bustling dim sum service, Great Wall Cuisine in Phoenix is a long-standing favorite. Experience the lively atmosphere with carts circulating dim sum from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Christmas Day, followed by their dinner menu from 3 to 9 p.m.
Details: 3446 W. Camelback Road, Suite 155, Phoenix. 602-973-1112. greatwallcuisineaz.com.
Iron Chef
Iron Chef boasts an extensive menu catering to diverse tastes. Alongside a wide selection of Chinese dishes, including Sichuan chicken and Kung Pao chicken, they also offer a substantial sushi menu. Iron Chef will be open from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Christmas.
Details: 10810 N. Tatum Blvd., Ste 106, Phoenix. 602-765-6888. ironchefphoenix.com.
Jade Palace Chinese Restaurant
A popular choice within the Metro Phoenix Jewish community, Jade Palace Chinese Restaurant offers both American Chinese and Cantonese dishes. With two Scottsdale locations, Jade Palace will be open from 2 to 9 p.m. on Christmas Day.
Details: 8876 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Suite 104, Scottsdale. 480-585-6630. Also, 9160 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale. 480-391-0607, jadepalacescottsdale.com.
Liz Modern Asian
For a modern take on American-style Chinese cuisine, Liz Modern Asian in Scottsdale presents a unique menu. Enjoy steamed buns with crispy chicken, flavorful fried rice, lo mein, and the option to pre-order a whole Peking duck. Liz Modern Asian’s Christmas Day hours are from noon to 8 p.m., with a special chef-curated menu for the holiday.
Details: 15323 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite #E-145, Scottsdale. 480-292-7689. lizmodernasianrestaurant.com.
Mekong Palace Restaurant
Mekong Palace Restaurant in Mesa rivals Great Wall for its impressive dim sum service. On Christmas Day, Mekong Palace will offer its classic dim sum menu from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., featuring steamed buns and egg custard tarts, followed by their dinner service until 9 p.m.
Details: 66 S. Dobson Road, Suite 120, Mesa. 480-962-0493, mekongpalace.com.
Nee House Chinese Restaurant
Nee House Chinese Restaurant is another favorite within the Jewish community, known for its Peking duck and a wide variety of Cantonese dishes. From noodle soups to American Chinese staples like chow mein and General Tso’s chicken, Nee House provides a comforting and diverse menu. They will be open for both dine-in and takeout from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Christmas.
Details: 13843 N. Tatum Blvd., Suite 15, Phoenix. 602-992-3338, neehousephoenix.com.
New Hong Kong Restaurant
Recognizable by its iconic neon sign, New Hong Kong Restaurant serves classic American Chinese food in Phoenix. Enjoy favorites like General Tso’s chicken and chow fun at New Hong Kong, open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Christmas Day.
Details: 2328 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix. 602-954-9118, newhongkongphx.com.
Make Christmas Day Delicious with Chinese Food in Metro Phoenix
This Christmas, skip the traditional holiday fare and embrace a flavorful tradition by visiting one of Metro Phoenix’s fantastic Chinese restaurants. Whether you’re continuing a family custom or starting a new one, these restaurants are ready to serve up delicious Chinese food on Christmas Day. From dim sum brunches to Peking duck dinners, explore the diverse culinary landscape and make your Christmas Day both festive and flavorful with Metro Phoenix’s open Chinese restaurants.
