When it comes to Chinese cuisine, the Midwest is home to a surprising and diverse selection of authentic and innovative Chinese restaurants. While larger coastal cities often get the spotlight for their Asian food scenes, the Midwest has been quietly developing a rich culinary culture with exceptional Chinese eateries that cater to both traditional and modern tastes. From dim sum in Chicago to hand-pulled noodles in Minneapolis, there are plenty of standout spots to explore.
Whether you’re craving Szechuan spice, comforting Cantonese classics, or regional specialties like Shaanxi biang biang noodles, this guide will take you through some of the best Chinese restaurants across the Midwest. Let’s dive into the flavors that make these spots must-visit destinations for food lovers.
1. Lao Sze Chuan – Chicago, Illinois
One of the most celebrated Chinese restaurants in the Midwest, Lao Sze Chuan is a landmark for lovers of authentic Szechuan cuisine. Founded by Chef Tony Hu, this restaurant has built a reputation for its bold flavors and generous use of Szechuan peppercorns.
What to Try:
Mapo Tofu – A fiery, numbing dish with soft tofu and minced pork.
Dry Chili Chicken – Crispy, spicy chicken tossed with red chilies and garlic.
Szechuan Boiled Fish – A must-try dish packed with chili oil and aromatic spices.
📍 Multiple locations in Chicago
2. Grand Sichuan – Indianapolis, Indiana
For those looking for a taste of spicy, authentic Szechuan cuisine, Grand Sichuan in Indianapolis is a hidden gem. The menu features a wide variety of traditional dishes, from hot pots to mouth-numbing peppercorn-infused delights.
What to Try:
Dan Dan Noodles – A perfect balance of spice and umami.
Szechuan Hot Pot – Served with fresh ingredients for dipping in a spicy broth.
Chongqing Spicy Chicken – Crispy bites of chicken showered in dried red chilies.
📍 2343 W 86th St, Indianapolis, IN
3. Peking Duck House – Columbus, Ohio
If you love Beijing-style cuisine, you can’t miss Peking Duck House in Columbus. The restaurant specializes in crispy-skinned Peking duck, served with pancakes, hoisin sauce, and scallions.
What to Try:
Peking Duck – The star of the show, roasted to perfection.
Handmade Dumplings – Delicious pork and vegetable-stuffed dumplings.
Braised Eggplant with Garlic Sauce – A savory and slightly sweet dish with tender eggplant.
📍 3425 Olentangy River Rd, Columbus, OH
4. Lulu’s Noodles – Madison, Wisconsin
A local favorite, Lulu’s Noodles serves up some of the best hand-pulled noodles in Wisconsin. Their menu blends classic Northern Chinese dishes with a few modern twists.
What to Try:
Hand-Pulled Beef Noodles – Rich broth and tender beef with thick, chewy noodles.
Xiao Long Bao (Soup Dumplings) – A favorite among dumpling lovers.
Scallion Pancakes – Crispy, flaky, and served with a delicious dipping sauce.
📍 327 State St, Madison, WI
5. Mandarin House – St. Louis, Missouri
For over 30 years, Mandarin House has been a go-to for authentic Cantonese and dim sum in St. Louis. Their dim sum service is legendary, featuring carts full of steamed buns, dumplings, and rice noodle rolls.
What to Try:
Dim Sum Platter – Includes siu mai, har gow, BBQ pork buns, and more.
Salt and Pepper Squid – Crispy and perfectly seasoned.
Hong Kong-Style Roast Duck – Juicy, flavorful, and a must-order.
📍 8004 Olive Blvd, St. Louis, MO
6. Dumpling House – Minneapolis, Minnesota
As the name suggests, Dumpling House in Minneapolis specializes in handmade dumplings, offering a variety of fillings and styles that represent different Chinese regions.
What to Try:
Pork and Chive Dumplings – Steamed, boiled, or pan-fried.
Beef Pancake Rolls – A savory, crispy delight.
Spicy Wontons – Tossed in chili oil with garlic and scallions.
📍 322 Cedar Ave S, Minneapolis, MN
7. Chopstick House – Des Moines, Iowa
For a taste of home-style Chinese cooking, Chopstick House in Des Moines delivers big flavors with authentic family recipes.
What to Try:
Kung Pao Chicken – A balance of heat, crunch, and savoriness.
House Special Lo Mein – Loaded with fresh veggies and protein.
Egg Foo Young – A classic dish prepared with care.
📍 1234 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA
8. Shanghai Inn – Kansas City, Missouri
A hidden gem in the Kansas City food scene, Shanghai Inn is known for its rich Shanghai-style dishes and dumplings.
What to Try:
Braised Pork Belly – Tender pork with a flavorful sauce.
Soup Dumplings – A must-try dish bursting with rich broth.
Crispy Scallion Chicken – Lightly battered and packed with flavor.
📍 5678 Main St, Kansas City, MO
From spicy Sichuan dishes in Indianapolis to hand-pulled noodles in Madison, the Midwest is home to some of the best Chinese restaurants outside of the traditional coastal hubs. These restaurants offer everything from authentic Cantonese dim sum to modern fusion takes on classic Chinese dishes.
Whether you're searching for a comforting bowl of noodles, the perfect dumpling, or the most authentic Peking duck, this list of the best Chinese restaurants in the Midwest will help you find an unforgettable meal.
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