5 Stars - Garfield Park, You Have a Hidden Gem
As someone who is still fairly new to the Garfield Park area, New China has quickly become my go-to Chinese takeout spot. I've ordered several times now, and every visit seems to give me a new favorite.
First, let's talk about the portions. The regular-sized entrées are generous, filling, and easily satisfy my cravings without needing to size up. Today's Hunan tofu was packed with vegetables, perfectly cooked tofu, and plenty of flavor. If tofu is on the menu, I'm probably ordering it. (I ate plenty before taking the photo).
Now for the real addiction: the sesame balls.
I honestly couldn't tell you how many come in an order because I never make it long enough to count them. I tell myself I'll pace myself over a few days, but somehow they're usually gone within 48 hours. By day two, I'm down to the last few, trying to convince myself not to eat them all at once.
I've also ordered the crab rangoon every single time. I love that they offer both 4-piece and 8-piece options depending on your appetite and budget.
Today was my first time trying the chicken egg rolls, and I immediately regretted ordering two of them for someone else. After taking one bite of mine, I wanted another... and then another after that. Crispy, flavorful, and exactly what you want from a good egg roll.
The orange chicken was ordered for someone else, and they mentioned that it contains actual orange pieces. They weren't a fan of fruit pieces in savory dishes, so if you're the same way, you may want to ask whether they can leave them out. Personally, I appreciate when restaurants lean into the flavor they're advertising.
And then there's the lunch special.
Friends, prepare yourselves.
An entrée, fried rice or white rice, PLUS your choice of soup or a canned drink, all before 3 p.m. for $8.35.
I had to double-check the menu because prices like that feel like a time machine back to 2015. In a world where fast food combos are pushing $12-$15, New China is serving a full meal for less than the price of a drive-thru burger combo.
Great food, generous portions, affordable prices, and a menu with plenty of vegetarian-friendly options. New China has absolutely earned a spot on my regular rotation, and if you're in Garfield Park and haven't tried it yet, you're missing out. read more