Taste of China in Dyker Heights, NYC, has become a neighborhood staple. But is it truly deserving of the hype? This in-depth review dives into the menu, customer experiences, and overall value to help you decide if it's worth a visit. We'll explore what makes it tick – and what might leave you wanting more.
Exploring the Taste of China Menu
Taste of China boasts a broad menu, typical of many Chinese-American restaurants. However, the execution and quality of dishes are what truly set it apart (or not, depending on the experience).
Appetizers: A Mixed Bag
The appetizers offer a standard selection. While the spring rolls are often praised for their crispiness and fresh fillings, the pot stickers can be inconsistent, sometimes arriving slightly overcooked or under-seasoned. Many reviewers mention the hot and sour soup, highlighting its tangy flavor and generous portion size as a highlight.
Main Courses: The Heart of the Matter
The main courses form the backbone of the Taste of China experience. Popular choices include:
- Kung Pao Chicken: Often described as flavorful and spicy, with tender chicken and a well-balanced sauce.
- Sweet and Sour Pork: A classic, but opinions vary on the quality of the pork and the sweetness of the sauce. Some find it perfectly balanced, others find it overly sweet.
- Beef and Broccoli: A reliable choice, generally praised for its fresh broccoli and tender beef. However, the sauce can sometimes be a bit on the salty side.
- Noodles and Rice Dishes: Taste of China offers a variety of noodle and rice dishes, including lo mein, chow mein, and fried rice. The quality and flavor of these dishes seem to be highly dependent on the specific order and the day's preparation.
Dessert: A Sweet Ending (or Not)
Dessert options are limited. Fortune cookies are standard, and sometimes a limited selection of other desserts might be available. Reviews on the desserts are scarce, suggesting this is an area that needs improvement.
What Do Customers Say? A Deep Dive into Taste of China Reviews
Online reviews provide a mixed picture of Taste of China. While many praise the generous portions and affordable prices, consistency is a recurring theme. Some experiences are overwhelmingly positive, describing delicious food and friendly service. However, other reviews cite issues with inconsistent food quality, slow service on busy nights, and sometimes less-than-stellar hygiene in the dining area.
Positive Reviews Frequently Mention:
- Large portions: Many reviewers highlight the generous serving sizes, making the restaurant excellent value for money.
- Affordable prices: The restaurant is generally considered budget-friendly.
- Friendly service (sometimes): While service can be inconsistent, many positive reviews mention friendly and attentive staff.
- Specific dishes: Certain dishes, like Kung Pao Chicken and Beef and Broccoli, receive consistent praise.
Negative Reviews Often Highlight:
- Inconsistent food quality: This is the most common complaint. The same dish can vary greatly in taste and quality from one visit to the next.
- Slow service (at times): Long wait times are sometimes reported, particularly during peak hours.
- Hygiene concerns: Some reviewers mention concerns about cleanliness in the dining area.
The Verdict: Is Taste of China Worth Your Time?
Taste of China in Dyker Heights offers a classic Chinese-American dining experience with affordable prices and large portions. However, the inconsistent food quality and occasionally slow service present significant drawbacks. If you're looking for a guaranteed delicious meal every time, this might not be the best choice. However, if you're in Dyker Heights, on a budget, and willing to take a chance on a variable culinary experience, Taste of China might be worth a try. Remember to check recent reviews before your visit to get a better sense of the current situation.
Note: This review is based on a compilation of online reviews and does not reflect a single personal experience. Individual experiences may vary.
