This story was updated Jan. 31, 2012.
It is reported that Confucius once said, “Eating is the utmost important part of life.” Perhaps that is why Chinese culture has spread its cuisine, so far infiltrating every corner of the globe.
Egg rolls, General Tso’s chicken, chop suey, sesame noodles and beef-and-broccoli have been the foundation on which Americans have based their love affair with Chinese food. Most people recognize the traditional Westernized favorites; now many seek out local restaurants with more of an authentic flair that dish up congee, hand-pulled noodles and hot pot meals.
Eight regions contribute to the variety of Chinese cuisine. Restaurateurs often blend a variety of regional specialties on their menus to keep guests’ interest piqued.
Szechuan, the southwestern province, is known for its bold flavors and the spiciness of garlic and chili peppers. Kung Pao chicken may be the most beloved Szechuan dish with its stir-fried chicken adorned with peanuts and hot peppers.
Shandong cuisine is all about seafood. This northern style formed an integral part of the imperial cuisine.
Cantonese style introduced dim sum, which means “touch your heart,” a term for bite-sized portions that are fried, steamed, stewed and baked.
Hunan’s various ingredients have the common denominator of hot, spicy flavors.
No matter the region, rice is a constant in Chinese cuisine and tea is ever present as a part of the dining experience.
Where do you wok on the wild side? What spot offers up the best Chinese food around?
North China at Westgate in Edmonds. Exceptional service, fresh flowers at each table and white table cloths only add to the tasty Chinese dishes. We go there weekly.
Jean and Carl, Edmonds
Tasters Wok in Lynnwood.
Becky, Lynnwood
My favorite place for Chinese food is Jade Palace in Edmonds.
Mim, Edmonds
T &T has great atmosphere and fresh, quality food with a large variety. There is seafood, of course, and traditional specials. They do dim sum lunch and have a wonderful Peking duck.
Stacy, Lynnwood
It’s a 20-minute drive, but Judy Fu’s Snappy Dragon just north of Lake City Way is delicious and authentic. The pot stickers are hand made and so are the noodles. The eggplant dish is the best. Eat it there, it doesn’t reheat very well.
Bruce, Shoreline
I want to tell you about our favorite Chinese restaurant. It is called Yen Ching located in Mountlake Terrace. We have been going there since 1989, actually it was the location of our first “dinner date” together! We were married in 1990 and (luckily) live less than 2 blocks from the restaurant. Their menu is fantastic; prices are fantastic; service is fantastic…..need I say more? The same family owns/works there today. When we have dinner there and our children, who are now 18 and 16, are not with us they always ask about them.
Wayne &Betty Evensen, Mountlake Terrace
Where to find…
Judy Fu’s Snappy Dragon
Where: 8917 Roosevelt Way NE, Seattle
Phone: (206) 528-5575
Jade Palace
Where: 182 Sunset Ave., Edmonds
Online: http://jadepalaceedmonds.com
North China
Where: 22814 100th Ave. W, Edmonds
Phone: 425-774-4310
Tasters Wok
Where: 15128 Highway 99, Lynnwood
Phone: 425-787-6789
T &T Seafood Restaurant
Where: 2511 Hwy 99, Edmonds
Phone: 425-776-3832
Yen Ching Restaurant
Where: 23202 57th Ave. W, Mountlake Terrace
Phone: 425-771-5531
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