Literally the best Chinese in Ames. Hot, fresh, flavorful and very reasonably priced. There's limited seating inside but that's not really a huge concern for me. read more

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4/16/26 6:00 p.m. Online Order for Pick Up Food: Everything was absolutely delicious! We ordered orange chicken, sesame chicken, chicken with green beans, 8pc crab rangoon, 4pc teriyaki chicken, bar-b-q spare ribs, chicken lo mein, and a side of sweet and sour sauce. For starters, the teriyaki chicken is my new favorite lol. It's not dry or overcooked and it's cooked thoroughly. The bar-b-q spare ribs are super tender and smothered in sauce; so good! We were pleasantly surprised with the orange chicken as well. It's not overly in your face orange flavored nor is it too sweet. The sesame chicken is also really well flavored. The noodles in the lo mein were firm and soft at the same time with great flavor. The chicken in it was tender and thankfully, the noodles weren't overloaded with veggies. Honestly, I'm not big on crab rangoon, but these are good! They're filled to the brim and really creamy. Chicken with green beans exceeded my expectations and it will definitely be on my "always order" list lol. Portion sizes were more than I expected as well. They really pack the to-go containers and the meat itself is good, large chunks. I can't wait to try more of the menu! Service: We were promptly greeted when we walked in and the wait time was minimal. The staff was pleasant and greeted us with a smile as well. While ordering online, it was a bit of a pain and it tells you to add a tip before checkout, which was almost not an option to opt out if you wanted to. Our order was correct and done quickly, even though they were busy. Ambiance: It's not the biggest inside, but that didn't stop others from dining in. It was packed for dinner rush and smelled amazing. Overall, it was kept clean, no debris or old food on the floor or tables. The menu is large and easy to navigate. While it was full, it wasn't uncomfortable; not elbow to elbow. read more

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We have never had a bad dinner here the takeout was always correct and the food was delicious

The Spring Roll Quest continues. Dropped in to 888 Restaurant today around 2 pm. At first I didn't know if they were open or not; the doors and windows were covered, but I'm assuming that's just to keep the sun out and the lobby cool. I should've gotten a picture of the hand-written note on the entrance listing the hours--not sure if they're different than what's listed on their website or not (special summer hours maybe?) Put my order in and the nice lady said it'd be about 10 min. before she disappeared behind the curtain. I sat down to take in the ambiance while I waited for my two spring rolls. Shiver me timbers: if you're looking for nautical coziness, this is your spot! Maximum seating looks to be about 10 people, me hearties. Not sure if they specialize in seafood here, but there's a definite maritime theme going on, with a big colorful menu-poster showcasing their entrees. When my order came out it was BLAZING hot. I reached into the bag several times, while en route to the park, to try and get a quick bite while driving, but they showed no indication of cooling down. And that's a good thing because I know my haste would've burnt my tongue and raised a blister as I tried to chew on those scorchingly-hot treats. Luckily, by the time I found a spot, they had cooled down enough for a non-painful sampling. I was greeted with velvety fried wrapper skins, my friends, with that perfect, light, flaky crunch. The interior still had plenty of heat, but that only added to the flavor, I think. Standard vegetable filling, but they tasted almost roasted somehow. The dipping sauce mostly went unused, since adding sweetness to these things is almost a suggestion of deficiency. These spring rolls were top-notch in almost every way. My only complaint would be the cost: two for $3.50, before tax? Yikes. I kind of expect them to have lobster or crab in them for that price. Or just give me a third one. But, they were delicious and expertly made and someday I'll be back to try one of their meals. read more

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if you're looking for the best chinese restaurant in ames, you've found it! My boyfriend and I always get 888 when we are craving chinese and it never disappoints. if you like your food really spicy, the orange chicken is a great option. The general tso's chicken is my personal favorite. their white rice and friend rice are very good as well. Portion sizes are huge and one entree can feed 2-4 people depending on your appetite! Service is always quick, and staff are friendly. read more

It was one of the best Chinese restaurants I ever been in, the food taste was like pure Chinese food in china and the behavior of the waiters was very kind and nice read more

The food was great, I stumbled upon this place while exploring dinner options in the area. Being from NYC, I had some expectations which were definitely exceeded! Will definitely return soon! read more

Very recommend. I love the seafood combos! They know how to cook seafood, definitely! read more

If you like Americanized Chinese food that is from a local place rather than a chain, this is the spot for you! Got the fried rice and it was decent! Prices are fair for how much you get. read more

We've never ordered for delivery, we always eat in although the seating area is very small. I don't think it's common for people to eat in. However, I suggest you do because we've never not had fresh food when eating in. I feel like a majority of the negative reviews are about the quality of the food when calling for delivery. The orange chicken is super crispy and flavorful and the noodles are steaming hot, always. It's a little pricey for Americanized Chinese but still something I prefer over a chain restaurant like Panda Express that's equally as expensive. The dinner portions are huge, we usually can't finish everything. read more

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888 restaurant is another Chinese restaurant in Ames; although it's much smaller than some of the others, the food here is still fairly good for the price. I will say though, it's not quite at the same level as what you can find elsewhere; something about the taste just isn't *quite* there. We ordered the eggplant, fried rice, and teriyaki beef, all of which lacked a little compared to those other restaurants. All in all though, you get what you pay for at each restaurant, so if you're looking for something cheap and convenient, 888 is the place to go. But for a more sit-down, authentic experience, I'd recommend a different place. read more

888 Restaurant - Chinese Near Me - Ames, Iowa

I've only had 888 for delivery but it's pretty obvious this place appeals to those accustomed to bland food and it's one of the few Chinese restaurants that delivers. Is the food terrible? No, but it's definitely not authentic or anything close to good. They're great for delivery, give large portions, cheap prices have a large menu, incredibly great with customer service, and there's a great lunch menu. It's cheap Americanized Chinese food. I wasn't a fan but I think others will be if you're unaccustomed to flavor, spice, and authenticity. read more

If you're in Ames and like chinese food, this is a must. We don't live in Ames anymore, but will drive just to get their food occasionally. It can be pricey, but is totally worth it in my opinion. We love their hot and sour soup and their egg rolls! They are always so friendly and the food is always amazing. read more

I've heard some good things about 888 from friends so I decided to give them a whirl. I like Chinese and it's one of the few restaurants in Ames I haven't tried. My first impression of 888 is that they are set up like pretty much every Chinese restaurant in this town, probably like any in America. There was one difference that the seating was cramped and there wasn't much of it to be had. You'd be better off ordering takeout or delivery from this place. One other thing of note - the restroom was very clean compared with most and was so during a busy time. Props to them for keeping a clean restroom. The food was pretty basic. You have the typical huge menu loaded with alk your favorites. I personally judge Chinese restaurants on their lo menu since that's my favorite. So far, House of Chen reins supreme in Ames. After eating at 888 I still feel the same. There's is good but not great. Overall, it was good. The service was good and the food alright. Nothing fancy but It's okay. read more

Ordered the Mongolian Beef and Sesame Chicken along with Crab Rangoons and Egg Rolls. It was Okay, definitely not great. The egg rolls were oily, the Rangoons were tough to bite in to. The main courses were again, just OK. I probably wouldn't go again and opt for somewhere in Des Moines. read more

This place is great overall. They make great food. I ordered chicken lo neon and it was amazing. I haven't had one thing that wasn't good. Also, the customer service is great and everyone here is nice. Normally I don't leave reviews but I felt like I needed to after eating here. I love this place and will be coming back often to eat here. read more

I like 888 for carry out. They are quick. I don't need overly nice. The food is good. I read through reviews to try to figure out what to get and landed on Happy Family. Delicious. read more

Attempting to order from this place takes 30 minutes if you don't have an account. Maybe I'm an idiot and that's fine, I feel like I'm relatively intelligent. Can you PLEASE make it easier for a "guest" to order delivery? Thanks! read more

They got the order right and the food was ready quickly. That's the only positive. The beef is dreadful. It had no taste and felt like I was chewing rubber. The chicken wasn't much better. I actually could not eat it. Avoid this place. read more

BEST CHINESE IN AMES We recently moved out to North Ames...and it was intriguing by the looks on the outside but decided to try it anyway. Not much a sitting area so it's better for take out or delivery. Online ordering is very easy. I seriously order takeout from them at least once a week...! Their lo mein has such an authentic taste that's unlike any other place I've had..and THE POTSTICKERS get them. Fried or steamed but omg they are huge and so good. Sometimes I order 3 things of them and that's it! I will never order from Golden Wok ever again (unless it's really late at night) read more

I live in a community north of Ames without a Chinese restaurant. The next best thing to getting a Chinese restaurant in my hometown is one located on the north-side of Ames making quick take out runs a snap with a brief jaunt down US Highway 69, just glancing the city of Ames. This fits the bill. All of your standard Chinese favorites are here, Orange Chicken, General Tso's, Mongolian Beef. We ordered our Hunan and Orange chicken meals extra spicy, and we were warned that the items we ordered were spicy as offered, but I confirmed that I wanted a lot of heat. When we got it home it was very bland, and found the egg rolls to be very greasy. Perhaps the fryer was set too low. We did get a satiating Chinese lunch for $5.99 a piece with enough leftovers for another meal. We'll be back. 888 just recently opened and I am sure they are working out the kinks. The convenience factor is a big plus for us. Be forewarned, seating at 888 is minimal so plan accordingly or plan on take out. read more

This place is my go-to restaurant for a cheap american-chinese food. Lunch menu is even cheaper. The place is pretty small so I saw a lot of people usually just take away their food. They also have delivery service, but it usually take about almost an hour to arrive. They have an extensive menu but not all of them are that good. Most of their food under the regular american-chinese food is good, e.g. Orange chicken, mongolian beef, sweet and sour pork. But if you feel a little bit adventurous or something, try the egg foo young and singaporean noodle. They are super tasty! read more

My mom picked up some food from here right after it opened. I was on the line about ordering the orange chicken - you know how sometimes they put WAY too much orange peel in there? But I went for it anyways and it was delicious! I tried my mom's sesame chicken too and it was good. Occasionally you'll get a place where the chicken is just weird (breaded funny or something), but this chicken is just how I like it. Ordered pick-up again. The crab rangoon are so good! They're packed full and not folded all fancy, so all you get is crispy wrap. Very generous with the dipping sauce too. I ordered pork fried rice this time and it was delicious as well. This is exactly how I like my Chinese food. read more

I have no idea how anyone can call this food "Authentic Chinese". I ordered the lemon chicken, and after waiting longer than was reasonable, I got something that was closer to fish n' chips style chicken on a bed of lettuce that was covered in grease from the batter. Then there was the lemon sauce...I don't know if they bothered heating it up at all, but it was literally a vat of congealed goo. I tried dipping a piece of chicken in it and it wouldn't even stick to it, it just kind of squished around it and slid right back into the container. I didn't expect the place to be spotless, but the table had gunk all over it, and the chair I sat in had a seat that wasn't screwed on, so if I moved at all it would slide around. Plus there was a kid in the back which was less than professional. Then there's the price, for cost I was expecting something slightly nicer than styrofoam plates and plastic utensils that can barely poke into the food. I normally use chopsticks, but again, the chicken was this giant breaded greasy thing so I had to try using the flimsy knife they had to cut through it. The entire experience was pretty much repulsive, and I will never eat there again. and recommend everyone I know to avoid it. read more

This is just what I've been looking for--Chinese food delivery, good, low-cost, solid portions. We've had the sweet & sour chicken, various fried rices (egg is best!), lo mein, spring rolls (veg is best), wontons. It's more what I've come to understand is "americanized" Chinese food--which people often scoffingly refer to as "inauthentic," but which I happen to like. There's a place in the world for all styles and types of cooking, in my humble opinion; liking one approach doesn't mean you can't also like another. Everyone working there is friendly and helpful. I had to wait on an order (fried rice was still cooking), and a worker came over with free sodas for my wife and me while we waited. You can sit in-house and eat if you want. They have a handful of tables, but it's clearly mostly a take-out location. Every time I've been there, the place has been squeaky-clean. Last but not least--you can order online, which is super convenient. read more

No people in the restaurant but I waited 20 mins for a simple fried rice! They are busy for delivery but cannot see a person sitting there!!! Foods are ok. read more

Absolutely delicious I had never tried this place before and I was very surprised. It's very small. However delicious Kong pow chicken. Shrimp chowmein wonton soup. Everything was very fresh... I'll be back!! read more

Best Chinese restaurant in Ames!!!!! Their crab rangoons are perfect and I love the shape of them. Easier to eat and don't have to tear apart. Also really enjoy their sesame chicken! read more

Amazing food and great prices! Order your food for carry out and it will be hot and ready in 10-15 minutes. The lunch special prices cannot be beat! read more

I was really wanting Chinese food and was apprehensive as I know that I am picky when it comes to Chinese food. I finally gave in to my craving and selected 888. When I order from a new Chinese place, I order fried rice, fried wontons and pan fried dumplings. The reason is simple: if they cannot make the basics,they probably cannot make anything more difficult. First, it took an hour to arrive. That seems long when it is a down time. The fried rice was actually very good. Which is great since they didn't bother to add ANY sauces to the bag. The wontons were weird tasting. Not something I would order again.Tried two and tossed the rest. The pan fried dumplings were odd as well. The pastry part way too thick. I choked one down and got rid of the rest. Unfortunately, not a hit but a miss for me. read more

They have the best takeout. The food is always reallyyyyy good and the service is very friendly. This is my favorite Chinese restaurant in Ames! I recommend it. read more

I can tolerate "meh" food for delivery... but this place is getting one star for the following reasons : 1. They claim to deliver to my address (In fact over the last two years they've been here at least a dozen times) but on several occasions they have suddenly claimed they dont deliver to my address. When I try and explain that since Im on their list when the number comes up... they've been here. They refused to deliver! This inconsistency is very frustrating. The staff is rude and unhelpful. 2. The food might have saved them... but as stated in other reviews it IS bland and dull. It usually arrives warm-ish after a one hour wait. 3. Over priced for what you get. Small portions, stingy ratios and overall poor quality have finally knocked this place off my deliver list. It's a shame Ames cant support a decent Chinese delivery place. I hope one comes along soon. read more

Pissed poor food and terrible owner/manager. Chance of good food is about 10% and now they decide not to deliver to our neighborhood what a pissy way of business. Please pass this on. We have ordered from them for over 3 yrs and very seldom get good quality food. PANDA EXPRESS MUCH BETTER AND CHEAPER. GO THERE YOU WON'T BE DISAPPOINTED AT ALL read more

So excited to have a Chinese restaurant with online orders! It didn't come without it's woes. I ordered two dinner platters and an order of crab rangoons. I got all but the rangoons. When I called, the lady tried to argue that I hadn't ordered them. After I said I had the order in front of me and I see that I was charged for them, she immediately changed her tune. Then it took 25 minutes to get back to my house. BUT. I give 4 stars because the food is awesome. Don't care if it's not authentic, it's tasty. Definitely recommend. read more

Over all a great Chinese take out spot! I ordered for delivery and while it was delicious when it came, it took a whole 45 minutes for them to get to my door. They also only do delivery if your order is over $15. But I do love that you can order online. It makes it very convenient. They are very friendly and nice. And while it is moderately to more expensive for the food, it is well worth every penny! read more

The torch is officially passed, 888 is the best Chinese food in Ames. The price is very reasonable, and the portions are large but not obnoxious. Flavor of every dish I've had there is off the charts and the staff is very accommodating to special requests. Love the giant-sized eggrolls here, kind of a cool signature thing. Only other place in town that delivers is the sub-buffet quality Golden Wok and these guys beat them by a mile as far as quality and service is concerned. Their dining room right now is pretty small but you forget about that as soon as they bring in your food. No doubt in my mind you won't regret giving them a try. read more

Just not a fan. However, the egg rolls are huge if you are looking for quantity over quality.

(Food poisoning)!! I ordered from here couple of times even though the food isnt the best because its the only chinese food place that delivers. Yesterday i ate their dumplings (big flour shell and little filling, most likely cheap store) and moo shu (little meat, mostly cabbage) and got really bad food poisoning. I had to go to the ER cause it was so bad. Thank God i didnt finish them. Never ordering from this place again. read more

On good days the food is exceptional even if a little pricey. The problem is both the quality of the food and portion sizes aren't consistent, so you never know what you're getting. Their shrimp egg rolls (perhaps the best in Ames), and the Rangoons are my favorite appetizers on good days, but on bad days they are dry and hard. They deliver, so that makes them an attractive choice, and the food is generally good and sometimes great. Well worth trying, just be aware that the quality and portion sizes tend to be inconsistent. read more

I had the Sesame Chicken and an eggroll. The eggroll was just mediocre- really big and came with a big ramekin of sweet and sour sauce. The Sesame Chicken was good but there was WAY too much sauce. It was served quickly but was ridiculously hot (temperature-wise, not spicy). This place is fine and OK for an $8 meal. Not high end, but fine. read more