Although its name and appearance call to mind the standard Chinese takeout joint in Anywhere-Chinatown, USA.....Chinatown Express, is anything but.
What you get when you come here is authentic Asian fare and similar American style Asian eats all under one umbrella. This joint is especially popular among DC locals and tourist for its homemade dumplings and noodles, which are hand-made within view of the storefront window-entrance of the restaurant.
The menu, which does includes standard fare such as General Tso's chicken and fried rice, but also includes more in-depth menu eats like cuddle fish, lobster, congee, and additional vegetarian/healthier options served family style, such as stir-fried vegetables, tofu, and Yu Choy (Asian Greens aka Comfort Food). Dining-in, feels just like most of of the great Asian dining spots I've been to in NYC, San Francisco and Hong Kong....small, very tight but welcoming.
The food is inexpensive, the portions are plenty, and the flavor is definitely there. My favorite, of course, is the Spicy Beef Noodle soup....and the *STAR* of the entire menu imo....the Roasted Duck! It's one of the best duck renditions in the area when seeking Peking Duck or another popular menu item...the Duck Noodle Soup. Tender, juicy, crispy skin and not too salty...is middle name and highlight of this item.
Although passersby are frequently lured into Chinatown Express by the noodles being pulled by hand in the window, trust me....the Roasted Duck and the Steamed Pork Buns on display in the same window.....Doesn't play second fiddle that's for sure. As with the duck, you should try the Steamed Pork Buns for starters. Each order of eight fluffy dumplings, stuffed with spiced pork, arrives atop a bed of cabbage leaves in a simple presentation. This dish is a must try with a mix between the soy sauce and the jars of pickled ginger and vinegar at each table. Mix the two together as a dip for the Steamed Buns....and, thank me later!! One word....DELICIOUS!!
During my last visit, Chinatown Express saved the day. After a long day at work, the last thing I had time for was cooking dinner. I ordered Peking Duck, Hot n' Sour Soup, Shrimp Fried Rice & General Tso's Chicken as a take-out order. Everything was on point! Huge servings and the shrimp fried rice was boiling over with shrimp! lol. The service was fast and efficient too. And, most of all...all of this food to feed a family for less than $30 bucks! Take-out is a great option and my preferred choice when needing something fast, quick and/or even healthy here.
In the ever-changing sector of Chinatown DC, where most of the original authentic Asian restaurants are now gone or overshadowed by the likes of American chains like Hooters, Chipotle, Fuddruckers, Nandos, and Starbucks......Chinatown Express remains a big contender for finding good Asian eats in DC...without having to drive miles to VA (Eden Center) or MD. read more