With over 45,000 Chinese restaurants across America – more than McDonald’s, Subway, and Burger King combined – finding quality chain options can be overwhelming. From food court staples to high-end establishments, here’s our comprehensive ranking of Chinese restaurant chains from worst to best.
Asian Chao serves disappointing mall food court fare
Found primarily in southeastern U.S. shopping malls, Asian Chao consistently ranks at the bottom of Chinese chain restaurants. Bland flavors and high prices plague this establishment, with portions that often leave customers wanting more.
The chain’s bourbon chicken and orange chicken fail to stand out among competitors. Most dishes arrive overcooked and swimming in thick, cornstarch-heavy sauces that mask any authentic flavors.
Manchu Wok struggles with consistency issues
Another food court fixture, Manchu Wok’s presence in airports and malls hasn’t translated to quality dining experiences. Mushy textures and overcooked proteins are common complaints across locations.
While their honey garlic chicken occasionally hits the mark, the chain’s Shanghai noodles and fried rice often sit under heat lamps too long, resulting in dried-out dishes that barely resemble their menu photos.
Pei Wei Asian Kitchen offers fresh but pricey options
As a fast-casual spinoff of P.F. Chang’s, Pei Wei tries to bridge the gap between quick service and quality Asian cuisine. Their made-to-order approach results in fresher dishes, though prices can seem steep for portion sizes.
The chain’s rice bowls and noodle dishes showcase better ingredient quality than mall competitors. However, recent menu changes have removed some fan favorites, leaving customers with fewer options.
P.F. Chang’s maintains upscale dining standards
Despite higher prices, P.F. Chang’s earns its spot near the top with scratch-made dishes and consistent quality across locations. Their signature lettuce wraps and Mongolian beef remain popular for good reason.
The chain’s commitment to fresh ingredients and table service sets it apart from fast-casual competitors. Each location maintains strict quality standards, though premium pricing can make it an occasional treat rather than regular dining option.
Din Tai Fung elevates Chinese dining with precision
At the pinnacle of Chinese chain restaurants, Din Tai Fung has earned international acclaim for its meticulously crafted xiao long bao (soup dumplings). Each location maintains the exacting standards that earned the chain its Michelin recognition.
Beyond dumplings, their expanded menu showcases Taiwanese and Chinese classics executed with precision. The chain’s limited U.S. presence – mostly on the West Coast and in New York – makes each location a destination worth seeking out.
From humble food court stalls to refined dining rooms, Chinese restaurant chains span the full spectrum of quality and authenticity. While some chains prioritize quick service over authenticity, others maintain high standards that rival independent restaurants. What might surprise first-time visitors is how dramatically experiences can vary between different locations of the same chain – always check recent reviews for specific locations before making your choice.
