Let’s be honest: finding great Chinese food in Omaha might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of this Midwestern city. But, you’d be surprised! If you’re sitting at home thinking, Where can you get the best Chinese food in Omaha?, you’re in for a treat. The city’s Chinese food scene is full of hidden gems, family-run establishments, and flavorful dishes that will have you coming back for more.
As someone who loves food and keeps tabs on Omaha’s growing dining scene, I’ve explored every nook and cranny to bring you the best spots for Chinese cuisine. Whether you crave a big bowl of spicy noodles or delicate dim sum, Omaha has something for every Chinese food lover. So, buckle up because this list is going to make you hungry.
The Diverse Chinese Food Scene in Omaha
Although Omaha might be famous for its steak, the Chinese food scene is thriving. From small, family-owned restaurants to busy downtown eateries, Omaha offers a wide range of Chinese food options that cater to everyone’s taste. You’ll find authentic dishes straight from China’s different regions, as well as those familiar American-Chinese classics we all love. The diversity here means there’s something for every palate.
If you’re looking to explore even more dining options or stay updated on events, LaParizone is the perfect resource for locals and visitors alike. We cover everything from food recommendations to upcoming events in Omaha, helping you discover new spots and experiences around town.
The Top Chinese Food Spots in Omaha
Blue & Fly Asian Kitchen
A personal favorite of mine, Blue & Fly Asian Kitchen is tucked away in an unassuming strip mall. But don’t let the simple exterior fool you. The moment you step inside, you’re hit with the aroma of ginger, garlic, and soy sauce. The garlic chicken, dumplings, and stir-fried dishes are packed with flavor and prepared fresh. Their scallion pancakes are a must-try, too. It’s a hidden gem that will definitely surprise you.
New Gold Mountain
For dim sum lovers, New Gold Mountain is a must. Located just a short drive from downtown, this spot serves the best dim sum in Omaha. You can’t go wrong with their shrimp dumplings, pork buns, or fried taro puffs. The variety of dishes here makes it perfect for sharing, especially during weekend brunches when the restaurant buzzes with families and friends eager for that perfect dumpling.
Jade Palace
Jade Palace is a long-standing favorite for Chinese-American classics. If you’re in the mood for crispy General Tso’s chicken or egg foo young, this is the place to go. It’s one of those restaurants that offers comfort food in large portions, ideal for a satisfying meal that brings you back to your favorite childhood takeout spot.
Why Omaha’s Chinese Cuisine Stands Out
You might wonder how Omaha ended up with such a rich Chinese food culture. Over the years, the city has welcomed diverse immigrant communities, including many from China. These communities have brought their culinary traditions with them, adding layers of flavor and authenticity to the local food scene. You’ll find regional specialties from Sichuan, Cantonese, and other Chinese cuisines in restaurants that range from tiny family-owned spots to more modern fusion eateries. This means you’re always just a short drive away from an incredible meal.
Omaha’s Best Takeout Chinese Food
When you need a quick meal without sacrificing quality, Omaha has plenty of great Chinese takeout options. Here are a few favorites:
Dragon Café
Dragon Café is an ideal option for those evenings when you don’t feel like cooking but still want a fantastic meal. Known for its tender Mongolian beef and crispy orange chicken, Dragon Café offers dishes that are both flavorful and travel well. Their egg rolls are always crispy, and their portions generous, making it perfect for sharing with the family or saving leftovers for the next day.
House of Lee
House of Lee is another top takeout choice. Their sweet and sour pork is particularly good, and they make one of the best fried rice dishes in Omaha. Whether you want to sit down with friends or take it home for a cozy night in, House of Lee never disappoints.
Great Wall Express
Fast, affordable, and delicious, Great Wall Express serves up reliable takeout for those nights when you just want a solid meal in no time. Their lo mein is flavorful, with plenty of veggies and tender slices of beef. Their egg drop soup also deserves a mention, with its rich and comforting broth.
Authentic vs. American-Chinese Food in Omaha
Sometimes, you’re in the mood for the sweet and sticky classics like orange chicken or beef and broccoli, but other times, you might be craving something a bit more traditional. Omaha offers both styles of Chinese food, giving you the option to enjoy the best of both worlds.
American-Chinese Favorites
If you’ve grown up eating Chinese food in the U.S., you’re probably familiar with the comforting flavors of General Tso’s chicken, crab rangoon, and fried rice. These American-Chinese dishes are often less spicy and a bit sweeter, but they’re a delicious, nostalgic indulgence. You’ll find these dishes at spots like Jade Palace, where the portions are large, and the flavors are bold.
Authentic Chinese Cuisine
For a more traditional experience, you’ll want to head to places like Blue & Fly Asian Kitchen or New Gold Mountain. These restaurants offer dishes that stay true to their roots, with options like Sichuan-style hotpot, spicy mapo tofu, and more. The complexity of flavors in authentic Chinese cuisine comes from a balance of salty, sour, sweet, and spicy, all of which are represented in Omaha’s top authentic Chinese spots.
Omaha’s Best Chinese Buffet
When you’re really hungry and can’t decide on just one dish, a buffet is the way to go. Omaha has a few Chinese buffets that serve up a wide variety of dishes, perfect for when you want to try a little bit of everything.
Imperial Palace
Imperial Palace is one of the best-known Chinese buffets in Omaha. With an extensive selection of dishes ranging from lo mein to crab rangoon, sesame chicken to egg rolls, you can indulge in a little bit of everything. The sushi bar is also a nice touch if you’re in the mood for something different. Whether you’re dining in with a group or just really hungry, this buffet won’t disappoint.
Family-Owned Chinese Restaurants in Omaha
Omaha is home to several family-owned Chinese restaurants where you can taste the love and care that goes into every dish. These spots often feature recipes passed down through generations, making each meal feel like a home-cooked experience.
Rice Bowl Chinese Restaurant
Rice Bowl is a favorite among locals, and for good reason. The food here is made fresh, with generous portions and delicious flavors. The hot and sour soup is a local favorite, perfect for warming up on a chilly day. Whether you’re dining in or taking out, Rice Bowl feels like a home away from home, with friendly service and comforting meals.
Discover More Dining Spots with LaParizone
While I’ve covered some of the top places to grab Chinese food in Omaha, there’s always more to explore. If you want to stay updated on the latest food trends, new restaurant openings, and events happening around the city, LaParizone is a fantastic resource. As someone who loves finding new spots and keeping up with Omaha’s vibrant dining scene, I use LaParizone to share recommendations and highlight the best that the city has to offer. It’s the perfect place for food lovers who want to stay in the know.
FAQs
Where can you get the best Chinese food in Omaha?
Some of the best spots include Blue & Fly Asian Kitchen, New Gold Mountain, and Jade Palace, each offering a unique take on Chinese cuisine.
What’s the top Chinese buffet in Omaha?
Imperial Palace is widely considered the best Chinese buffet, with a large variety of dishes to choose from.
Which Omaha restaurant has the best dim sum?
New Gold Mountain is the go-to place for dim sum, with a wide selection of freshly prepared dumplings and buns.
What’s the best place for Chinese takeout in Omaha?
Dragon Café, House of Lee, and Great Wall Express are among the top takeout options, each offering flavorful, quick-service meals.
Is Omaha home to any family-run Chinese restaurants?
Yes, Rice Bowl Chinese Restaurant is a popular family-owned spot known for its fresh, comforting dishes.
Does Omaha have authentic Chinese food?
Definitely! Blue & Fly Asian Kitchen and New Gold Mountain serve authentic Chinese dishes that offer a true taste of regional cuisine.
Conclusion
So, where can you get the best Chinese food in Omaha? Whether you’re after authentic regional dishes or crave some American-Chinese comfort food, Omaha has plenty of excellent spots to satisfy your hunger. From Blue & Fly’s flavorful stir-fries to New Gold Mountain’s unbeatable dim sum, there’s something for everyone. And if you’re looking for more places to explore, be sure to check out LaParizone for all the latest on dining and events around Omaha.
