"Ming Yen" is a chinese restaurant in downtown Novato that serves Americanized-Chinese food. I had a nice early dinner here. It probably would of been better if it wasn't near 90*F outside. It didn't appear like they have AC, since all the doors were open. This restaurant looks new on the outside, but looks "old-school" on the inside. The only thing missing was.....chopsticks on the table. I ordered: -Tomato Beef Chow Mein, $15.95, serves two. Very good Tomato Beef Chow Mein. Every piece of beef was tender and easy to eat. The chunks of tomato, bell pepper and onion were in small bite sized pieces. Perfect for eating with chopsticks. The sauce was tangy and lightly sweet. What was missing was the "Wok Hei." Aka...."the breath of the Wok," it's the unique smoky aroma that adds a special flavor to stir fry food. - Salt & Pepper Fried Chicken Wings, $17.95, 9 wings. To be clear, these are "flats." Fresh, juicy, and fried crispy good. Seasoned in coarse salt, chili pepper and onion. My waiter/server gave me a small dish of chili oil to enhance the heat level. Overall, a nice first time experience.....4-stars. I would like to return and try their Wor Won Ton Soup. ------------------------------------------- Notes: Some of the menu photos don't match the dish. All-Gender restroom is clean and large Free off street parking in rear Located in downtown Novato, across the street from shopping center. read more

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My favorite Chinese restaurant in Marin! They are super friendly and welcoming me and my family love coming here on the weekends. The portions are very generous and delicious :) They are simply the best!! read more

Ming Yen - Mongolian beef chow mein fried rice - Chinese Near Me - Novato, California

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Dinner on a Friday was so good. Our hungry party of four was happy and full. Thank you Peggy and Frank for a fabulous meal with plenty of leftovers to enjoy later. read more

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My family and I came here for Father's Day expecting a nice meal together. Instead, we left feeling disrespected, frustrated, and deeply disappointed. The experience started the moment our waitress approached our table. (see note about this waitress at end of the review). I am Chinese, but I struggle with ordering in Chinese, so I politely asked whether she spoke English. Without making eye contact, she flatly responded, "No." I genuinely thought she was joking. My mother thought so too and asked again. The waitress simply repeated, "No," several times in a cold, dismissive tone while avoiding eye contact. Trying to make things easier, I began ordering directly from the menu by referencing the item numbers and pointing at the dishes we wanted. Rather than helping us, she immediately told me, "Can't do that. Can't order that way." At this point, ordering a simple meal felt like pulling teeth. The interaction became even more uncomfortable when she asked what meat we wanted for our chow mein. I misunderstood her question and answered incorrectly. Instead of clarifying politely, she became visibly irritated and snapped, "You still haven't answered my question. What meat you want?" I've eaten at countless restaurants throughout my life and have never felt so unwelcome while simply trying to place an order. Another server later brought water, but not enough for everyone at the table. To make matters worse, the water had such a strong chemical and chlorine taste that I could barely drink it. What happened next was perhaps the most upsetting part of the entire experience. A short while later, I watched the same waitress interact with a nearby table. Suddenly she was smiling, laughing, making conversation, and acting warm and attentive. The difference between how she treated that table and how she treated my family was startling. We received coldness, impatience, and indifference. They received friendliness and hospitality (this is Marin County - I'll let you fill in the blanks on what her intentions were based on the demographics.) Whether intentional or not, the contrast was impossible to ignore. For the remainder of the meal, she rarely checked on our table. When we asked for leftovers to be packed up, not all of the food we requested was returned to us. The only reason we didn't complain to management was because it was Father's Day. We didn't want to create a scene or ruin the occasion for the rest of our family. We quietly finished our meal and left. Good food can sometimes make up for an off day. Good service can make people overlook small mistakes. Unfortunately, this restaurant delivered neither. What should have been a special Father's Day celebration became a memorable disappointment for all the wrong reasons. We will not be returning. (Peggy is the waitress's name - look at how cold and defensive she is in other negative reviews. If you can, STAY AWAY from this business. Their food isn't good enough to go through the trouble of dealing with her). read more

I tried Ming Yen today after seeing that it was highly rated and let's just say, today may have been an "off" day for them. I placed the order online so it would be ready for pickup during my lunch hour. I ordered the Mongolian beef lunch special with chow mein. The lunch special also included the soup of the day which I believe was hot and sour. Between the 3 items I tried the chow mein was the best, however, it lacked flavor as well, the Mongolian beef tasted like unseasoned beef and pepper flakes, and I don't like hot and sour soup so I won't comment on it. On the plus side my order was ready when I arrived at the restaurant and there was a fork, spoon, napkins and soy sauce in the bag with my meal. I highly doubt I'll give them another try, because the food was disappointing and I prefer other Chinese restaurants in Novato that offer an egg roll with their lunch specials and don't upcharge for chow mein. read more

Ming Yen - Digital receipt - Chinese Near Me - Novato, California

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Ming Yen is my go for great costumer service, flavorful food, and fast service. I am always greeted with a smile and immediately sat. My father is in a wheelchair and they always help accommodate the table for him. The staff is always helpful in explaining any and all questions we have about the menu. Overall, I would recommend Ming Yen to anyone who is looking for a yummy meal and quick service with a smile. read more

I just ate here about 5 minutes ago, The food was fresh, flavorful, and well-prepared. Every dish was delicious, and the service was friendly and prompt. Overall, it was a great dining experience, and I would happily visit again. read more

(0/5 if I could) The food here is genuinely amazing, which makes this review even more disappointing to write. Unfortunately, the customer service I experienced during a recent pickup order was the worst I've ever encountered. When I arrived, I was told my total was $51. I then asked to add two drinks, and was told my new total was $71. Confused, I politely asked if I had misheard the original amount because I thought I had been told $51. Instead of simply clarifying, the employee responded with a rude and condescending comment implying that I didn't know how to listen. I immediately apologized and explained that I was only trying to confirm the amount and that it wasn't a big deal. The interaction should have ended there, but it only got worse. After having some trouble with my card, I asked for a receipt. At that point, I was spoken to in an incredibly disrespectful manner and was told I needed to "calm down" and stop rushing her, despite the fact that I had remained polite throughout the entire interaction. I've worked with the public long enough to understand that everyone can have a bad day, but there is absolutely no excuse for speaking to customers this way. The food is excellent, but no customer should be treated with such hostility and disrespect over a simple question about their bill. I rarely leave negative reviews, but this was genuinely the rudest customer service experience I have ever had. I won't be back EVER read more

Biggest rip off We ordered veggie pot stickers and there were no veggies nothing but dough We told them and they agreed saying that's how they come Well a sucker is born every day and I am the sucker They should not have charged us or better yet why is it even on the menu Worst Chinese place I have ever been to! read more

Ming Yen - Chinese Near Me - Novato, California

The best Chinese Food in Novato!! The family that owns this place is so kind, & the food is amazing. Everytime we order from Ming Yen, we order for Pickup just so that we can visit all the kind, wonderful workers at Ming Yen. Truly a staple of Novato. I highly recommend stopping by if you're in town- you'll leave with both your heart & stomach full. We need more Kind people like them in this world. read more

Peggy has done it again. Her food is amazing the atmosphere is amazing and always welcoming and clean. Tonight she gave me extra food like she always does. 10 stars for sure. With panda and china palace down the street, this is the best Chinese place in Novato for sure. Thanks Peggy! Keep up the great work and delicious food! read more

Ming Yen - Chinese Near Me - Novato, California

I've been eating at Ming Yen for decades, and it's consistently excellent. The food is always fresh, flavorful, and generously portioned. Whether dining in or ordering takeout, everything is delicious and satisfying. Prices are very reasonable, especially for the quality and consistency you get. It's one of those rare places that truly stands the test of time. If you're looking for dependable, tasty Chinese food with great value, Ming Yen is a go-to spot. read more

they are too rude to the customers . The first syltuoid restau they I see that close for 1-4 them to have break, we were here at three ( we didn't know) and the lady told us to come earlier next time. Nobody is gonna tell me what time I go to restaurants. I will never come back. read more

I was on a road trip and decided to find a place to eat. I found a Chinese restaurant near Novato. The reviews were mixed, but since I'm a big fan of Chinese food, I decided to give it a try. It turned out to be one of the best Chinese restaurants I've ever had. The owner, Peggy, was very friendly and even gave us hot and sour soup and crab meat cheese puffs. Before leaving, I also packed an order of salt and pepper fish fillet to go. Maybe everyone's taste is different, which is why there are some negative reviews online, but Ming Yen is definitely much better than what the online reviews suggest. read more

Ming Yen - Salt & Pepper Fish Fillet - Chinese Near Me - Novato, California

Highly recommend the Mongolian beef, Szechuan chicken and the green beans. Huge portions. Photos show what we took home after three of us ate our fill. We used to come to this location 33 years ago before we moved away. It is ALWAYS on our list to return to when we visit. We have never been disappointed. I only wish lived closer. The owner is very personable. The staff friendly and attentive but not on top of you all the time. Just enough. We will be back next visit read more

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We came in the other night for dinner & did not expect the dramatic scene the owner involved us in, due to another customer returning her order that was allegedly wrong, which she had just picked up. The female owner flipped out at this woman yelling at her that what they made was correct. The customer said she had ordered beef instead of chicken and 6 wontons, but instead received something else. The owner proceeded over to MY TABLE and involved my partner and I saying "they ate half the meal and want their money back!" I looked at the food and told the owner, "it doesn't look touched." The customer defended herself saying she had one bite. I felt so horrible for this woman that the owner was screaming at her in front of other customers and telling her to never come back. On the other hand, my partner and I were trying to have a peaceful dinner and did not appreciate the owner Involving us in her business issues. This was very unprofessional and really disappointing to have to observe and be around. We will not be returning but I'm sure the owner is ok with that. read more

Love this place. Big portions if you're hungry. Prices are reasonable. Flavorful and authentic.

While this is the most authentic Chinese restaurant in Novato with good service rendered by the only server in this restaurant, the owner is rude! As a result, it's unfortunate, she lost my business and my potential recommendations. I would rather support the other businesses in the area. read more

Our first visit and it did not disappoint. We were delighted with our menu choices starting with the meaty, juicy potstickers with just enough dough for a tasty appetizer. Service was quick and we were well attended. The owner was welcoming which added to the friendly ambiance of our visit. Would highly recommend! read more

Our food was AMAZING! Definitely the best Chinese food in the area! The staff is also so friendly and helpful! 10/10!

Again quality Chinese food. I ordered the Mongolian beef, chicken fried rice, and chicken chow fun. As well as the pork spare ribs - the ribs were ok but everything else was amazing! Friendly staff as well :) read more

The food taste so good and authentic. I'm so happy that they have salty fish and chicken fried rice on the menu. Don't have to go to SF read more

Ming Yen - Salty fish and chicken fried rice - Chinese Near Me - Novato, California

Very bad service , food wasn't good at all Seems like all the owners care about is putting as many to go orders and don't really care for customers who seats at the restaurant read more

We are visiting from out of town and craving spicy Chinese food. The food and service at Ming Yen was exactly what we were looking for. The food was fresh and delicious and the service was top notch. We will definitely eat here again when back in Novato. read more

We came in at 8:15pm and they welcomed us to dine in even when they were closing at 9pm. The food was amazing and the portion sizes were HUGE! The food was so flavorful and authentic. The owners even gave us complimentary tea and soup. The food was made in less than 15 minutes and the service was top-notch. This family business really makes you feel at home. The inside was clean with fun decorations. We'll definitely stop by again when we're in Novato! read more

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The waiter yelled across the room as he brought me my water. Food was tasty, but the meat in my beef broccoli was grisly. I didn't notice that the 11.95 price didn't come with rice or chow mean. When my waiter took my order he said, " you want white rice. brown rice, or chow mein" as if it came with the meal. They were very rude pointing this out when I asked about it. The ambiance was weird. I did not leave with a good feeling. I will not go back. EVER. read more

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One of the best Chinese restaurants I've ever been to! The service was great and they are really nice!

I have taken my two toddlers to dinner here twice. Both times have been great. The staff is very friendly and accommodating. The food tastes great and the portions are large for the affordable cost. It's our favorite spot for Chinese food here in Novato. I highly recommend Ming Yen if you have a family or just are looking for good Chinese food.... They have even given us extra goodies to bring home. Family friendly place! Love it read more

On a whim, my wife and I went to Ming Yen while in Novato. There aren't many Chinese restaurants I like in Marin. The food was surprisingly good. The service was excellent. We definitely will be back. read more

The best Chinese food in Novato and the best customer service. The new owner, Will, understands customer service and making things right. Love this place! read more

Love this place! Food is unbelievably good, service is immaculate, and the overall feel and vibe of the place gives me the authentic Chinese feel that most restaurants fail to do. Would recommend if you are in the area or visiting. Definitely will be coming back. read more

Ming Yen - Delicious Chinese food - Chinese Near Me - Novato, California

Okay, it's time to shout out Ming Yen. When I first moved to Novato, we came here and we were not that impressed. It wasn't bad, but not great. We had gotten one of the beef dishes and it had so much onion in it -- clearly they were padding the dish with onion, so they didn't have to put as much beef. I put them on the 'naaah" list. But then, as time passed by.... we went to other restaurants in Novato, and we got the gist. And if you don't know, the gist is that Novato consists of a lot of overpriced, mediocre food. There, I said it. So, now that I've lived in Novato for nearly 3 years, my expectations are different. About 6 months ago, we ordered take-out from Ming Yen because I really wanted Chinese food, and my husband was sick. I believe we got the beef chow fun and sweet and sour pork and some egg rolls. I went to pick up the food, and the bag was HEAVY. We came home, and to our surprise, they also gave us a gaggle of hot and sour soup! We tried it and everything was good. It wasn't amazing, but very decent. And everything was HUGE. Talk about classic Chinese American food portions. It took us several meals to finish it all. And now, we will get take out, or delivery sometimes. (Btw, they don't charge extra for delivery which is amazing!) And it doesn't matter what we order, there is always a mountain of food. So I appreciate Ming Yen for the value, because if you haven't noticed, sh*t's expensive around here! I will also say, I am Chinese. So if you're looking for the best, most authentic Chinese food in the Bay, this is NOT it. But if you're looking for some decent Chinese food and love left overs, then this IS it. And I will say that their Chow Fun is quite good. Tastes close to my mom's... so that's saying a lot. read more

My mom & I have been going here for a year and we xoxo the tasty dishes. Penny is always so generous & kind to us along with the staff! Highly recommend it! read more

I'm fairly new to the North Bay and every so often work in the downtown area when I'm needed to come in. Hubby and I have eaten here for dinner several times and have also had their lunch special which comes with a hot & sour soup and a plate of a protein and your choice of rice (fried, brown, or white) or veggie chow mein. Good large portion of food and enough to make me feel sleepy when I get back to work. There's a gentleman who takes orders and brings me my food and doesn't talk much but at least he's kind. The other is a woman with very short hair who seems to want to take my order in a hurry and is impatient. Over the past few months I've noticed (because it doesn't seem busy during lunch hours) that she often yells at her staff. I even hear her complain in Chinese as she inputs orders on their computer behind the front counter. As a customer it makes me feel uncomfortable and being Chinese myself, I feel embarrassed hearing it all. Doesn't make for a pleasant dining experience. I noticed earlier this month I was served by a new female server (I think her name is Emmy) and it was refreshing to see a bright & friendly face who was super kind, patient, and gives service with a smile. She got my lunch order right (because it has been wrong twice before taken by someone else), filled my water glass 3 times, and came over to check on how I was with my meal. In all the times I have eaten here, either alone or with my hubby, we were never checked on or had service by anyone else like Emmy does. I dined here a couple of weeks ago for lunch and the female manager (maybe she's the owner too?) was yelling at Emmy in front of all the customers in the dining room. It made me so upset to hear how mean that manager was to her. Why all the yelling? Was it really necessary to do that? To bark at her telling her that there were customers coming in?! It was completely rude and again, as me being Chinese, felt embarrassed to see and hear it. I really wish she had professional manners. This makes me re-think if I should continue dining here and go elsewhere. Please whoever that female manager or owner is, treat your employees with respect and be kind. They deserve better. Peace out. read more

Pan fried noodles was good. overheard the lady at the register tell her server to not give us any water. She's rude and has a bad attitude. Never going there again. read more

This is a wonderful restaurant. The woman that owns the place is super nice. The ambiance is very pleasant. The food is delicious!! You will love it. Highly recommended! read more

Ming Yen - Spring rolls are so tasty! Light wrapper and good veggies. - Chinese Near Me - Novato, California

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I got word that the head chef of China Palace went over to Ming Yen but it seems that he has now left and is working elsewhere. The gentleman named Will, he provided great customer service, always treated me and my family well and now he is no longer there too. I never dine-in here anymore due to the service here and how dirty everything is. One day I ordered to-go and let me just say...there is no way in hell that me or my family will be coming back. The owners, especially the short haired lady has issues. Try out Ming Yen if you like bad service and food. Food : 2/5 Service : 0/5 Cleanliness : 1/5 read more

Delicious. Great portions. Great flavor. The chow mein is especially good with really tender chicken.

Good restaurant, nice people. They are a typical Chinese restaurant open on Christmas day. They have inexpensive wine and good food.

We came here last minute on Thanksgiving and it was absolutely delicious. We were served and checked on by all 4 of the wait staff. We had noodles, rice and three dishes. Egg rolls were filed with fresh veggies and lightly fried.Yummy! They even gave us a full soup with our doggie bag. All the food was very fresh and great portions. Definitely coming back! read more