Chinese restaurants in greater Milwaukee: Your ultimate guide

From neighborhood takeout to authentic Szechuan, Milwaukee families have dozens of excellent options worth exploring across the Milwaukee metro.

Whether you're craving quick weeknight lo mein, handcrafted soup dumplings for a special occasion, or mouth-numbing Szechuan heat, this comprehensive guide covers everything from your favorite local spots to hidden gems worth the drive. We've organized this guide to help you find exactly what you're looking for—by neighborhood, cuisine style, and family-friendliness—so you can spend less time searching and more time eating.

North Shore neighborhood favorites

The North Shore communities offer convenient Chinese dining options that deliver consistent quality without requiring a long drive. These restaurants have become trusted go-tos for busy families seeking reliable takeout or casual sit-down meals.

Royal Garden Chinese Restaurant — Glendale

The North Shore's most established Chinese restaurant has been serving families since 1998.

• Address: 206 W Silver Spring Dr, Glendale, WI 53217 (near Bayshore Mall)

• Phone: (414) 906-0998

• Hours: Mon–Thu 11am–8:30pm, Fri–Sat 11am–9pm, Sun 12pm–8:30pm

• Price Range: $$ (lunch $8–12, dinner $12–18)

Royal Garden stands out for its extensive menu spanning Mandarin, Szechuan, Cantonese, and Hunan cuisines. The Mongolian beef receives consistently rave reviews, described by regulars as "phenomenal." Other standouts include the crab rangoons, pan-fried combo noodles, and brisket noodle soup. Families appreciate the casual atmosphere, outdoor seating, and high chairs for little ones. The restaurant operates its own mobile app and offers 10% off your first online order. Unique among North Shore spots, Royal Garden also serves Nepalese cuisine through its virtual restaurant concept Everest Café—try the momo dumplings for something unexpected.

Insider tip: Skip the now-discontinued buffet and explore the expanded lunch menu. The green bean/black bean appetizer is a hidden gem worth ordering.

Hong Anh Palace — Mequon

Home to what many consider the best egg rolls in Wisconsin, this 33-year institution draws devoted fans from across the region.

• Address: 10046 N Port Washington Rd, Mequon, WI 53092

• Phone: (262) 241-7768

• Hours: Mon–Thu 11am–9pm, Fri–Sat 11am–10pm, Sun 4pm–9pm

• Price Range: $$ ($12–20 per person)

Hong Anh Palace has earned legendary status among North Shore families for one reason above all others: the egg rolls. Reviewers routinely drive 30+ minutes specifically for these crispy, perfectly seasoned rolls. The rest of the menu doesn't disappoint either—the hot and sour soup, sesame chicken, and appetizer platter (featuring egg rolls, wontons, beef skewers, shrimp, and chicken) all deliver consistent quality. All chicken dishes use white meat, and the kitchen readily accommodates MSG-free and allergen requests.

The dining room features a beautiful fish tank and seats about 20 tables, creating a tranquil atmosphere. One critical note for evening visitors: dine-in service ends at 2pm—after that, it's carryout only until closing. Hong Anh Palace does not partner with any delivery services or offer online ordering, so call ahead to place your order.

Family-friendliness: Clean restrooms, welcoming staff, and a calm environment make this excellent for families with children of all ages.

Yen Ching Express — Mequon

The fast-casual heir to Milwaukee's legendary Yen Ching restaurant delivers those beloved flavors in a quick-service format.

• Address: 10944 N Port Washington Rd, Mequon, WI 53092 (Mequon Pavilions)

• Hours: Daily 11am–8:30pm

• Price Range: $ to $$ (fast-casual pricing)

The Wang family, who founded the original Yen Ching in 1986, opened this express concept to serve the North Shore. Longtime Yen Ching devotees will recognize their signature cashew chicken, which anchored the original restaurant's devoted following. The streamlined menu of 20–25 items also features sesame chicken, Mongolian beef, sizzling rice soup, and the familiar egg rolls and crab rangoons. Smaller lunch portions are available for lighter appetites, and the kitchen accommodates gluten-free and peanut-free requests.

Service is notably fast—reviewers consistently mention "crazy fast" turnaround times. Delivery covers Mequon, Bayside, Thiensville, River Hills, Brown Deer, Fox Point, and surrounding communities.

Peking Chef — Fox Point

A multi-cuisine Asian restaurant where Chinese, Thai, and Indonesian dishes share the menu.

• Address: 8673 N Port Washington Rd, Fox Point, WI 53217

• Phone: (414) 228-8222

• Hours: Tue–Thu 11am–8:30pm, Fri–Sat 11am–9pm, Sun 12pm–8:30pm, closed Monday

• Price Range: $$ (lunch $7–10, dinner $12–18)

Peking Chef's Indonesian-born owners bring an unusual diversity to the North Shore dining scene. While the Chinese menu covers all the classics—lo mein, fried rice, sweet and sour dishes, General Tso's chicken—adventurous families can explore Thai curries and Indonesian specialties like Bali Beef. The egg rolls receive particular praise from regulars who call them the best in the area.

High chairs are available, and the staff readily accommodates dietary restrictions. The strip-mall setting offers easy parking, though some reviewers note the disabled parking situation could be better. Orders over $60 earn free sugar donuts—a fun surprise for kids.

Insider tip: Try the Singapore Rice Noodles with chicken and shrimp for a departure from typical Chinese-American fare.

No. 1 Chinese Restaurant — Shorewood

A cozy Oakland Avenue fixture built for takeout, offering budget-friendly portions that feed the whole family.

• Address: 4501 N Oakland Ave, Shorewood, WI 53211

• Phone: (414) 332-2222

• Hours: Mon 11am–9:30pm, Wed–Thu 11am–9:30pm, Fri–Sat 11am–10pm, Sun 11:30am–9:30pm, closed Tuesday

• Price Range: $ (lunch specials $7–9, dinners $10–15)

This small carryout-focused spot has earned its "cornerstone" status through consistent quality and generous portions at wallet-friendly prices. The lo mein receives the most consistent praise for freshness, and the boneless spare ribs—increasingly hard to find—draw devoted fans. Limited seating (approximately 5 booths) means most customers opt for takeout, which the restaurant handles efficiently. Available on DoorDash for delivery.

Family tip: The vegetarian options and customizable spice levels make this a flexible choice for families with varying preferences.

King's Wok — Glendale

Family-owned since 2006, this Port Washington Road stalwart delivers reliable Cantonese, Hunan, and Szechuan cooking.

• Address: 6969 N Port Washington Rd, Glendale, WI 53217

• Phone: (414) 352-3338

• Hours: Open 6 days a week, typically 11am–9pm

• Price Range: $ to $$ (pints $8–10, quarts $13–16)

King's Wok offers practical portion sizing—order by pint or quart depending on your family's appetite. The sesame chicken is the house favorite, and the spicy lo mein satisfies those seeking heat. The personable family owners have built a loyal following through consistent quality and friendly service. Delivery available through GrubHub.

Lee Kong Chinese Fast Food — Glendale

A fast-food concept delivering exceptional value and surprisingly good fried chicken.

• Address: 5312 N Port Washington Rd, Milwaukee/Glendale, WI 53217

• Phone: (414) 964-3888

• Hours: Mon–Sat 11am–8pm, closed Sunday

• Price Range: $ (plates $9–11, entrees $10–17)

Lee Kong's "Personal Deluxe Plate" is the best seller for good reason—it's an outstanding value. But the sleeper hit is the Chinese fried chicken, which multiple reviewers call "the best darn fried chicken in the area." This Asian American and Pacific Islander-owned business maintains a 98/100 health score and uses reusable containers. Available on DoorDash, GrubHub, Uber Eats, and Seamless.

Downtown Milwaukee and surrounding neighborhoods

The urban core offers Milwaukee's most diverse Chinese dining scene, from James Beard–nominated upscale experiences to beloved neighborhood institutions.

DanDan — Third Ward

A five-time James Beard semifinalist serving chef-driven Chinese-American cuisine in a stylish setting.

• Address: 360 E Erie St, Milwaukee, WI 53202

• Phone: (414) 488-8036

• Hours: Daily 5pm–9pm (Fri–Sat until 10pm), closed Tuesday

• Price Range: $$$ ($15–30 per person)

Co-head chefs Dan Jacobs and Dan Van Rite have created what they describe as "a restaurant with a Chinese soul and Midwestern sensibility." This isn't traditional Chinese cooking—it's refined, creative interpretation that has earned DanDan a place among Milwaukee's most acclaimed restaurants. The Sichuan pork dumplings ($15) deliver complex layers of flavor, while the General Tso's cauliflower ($17) stands as one of the city's best vegetarian dishes. The namesake DanDan noodles ($17) showcase the kitchen's skill with umami-rich, deeply flavored preparations.

The atmosphere skews trendy and can get loud, but the beautiful decor and full cocktail bar make this ideal for date nights or celebrations. For families, the Friday lunch buffet ($30 all-you-can-eat) offers a more casual way to experience DanDan's cooking. Free parking is available after 5pm. A 5% wellness surcharge is added to all bills.

Special experience: The Peking Duck dinner ($105 for 2–3 people) must be reserved in advance and delivers a multi-course feast.

Momo Mee — Walker's Point

Wisconsin's only restaurant handcrafting xiao long bao (soup dumplings), earning back-to-back "Best Chinese Restaurant" honors.

• Address: 110 E Greenfield Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53204

• Phone: (414) 316-9003

• Hours: Mon–Sat 11am–10pm, Sun 12pm–8pm

• Price Range: $$ ($12–16 per entrée)

Chef/owner Tony Ho, who trained in Hong Kong and Japan, became Wisconsin's first chef to handcraft xiao long bao—delicate soup dumplings made fresh twice daily starting at 5:30am. Nothing is pre-made; every dish emerges from the kitchen to order. The famous xiao long bao ($12) arrive in a bamboo steamer with ginger black vinegar soy for dipping—bite carefully to release the hot, rich broth inside. Critical note: Soup dumplings are available for dine-in only.

Beyond the signature dumplings, the menu spans pan-Asian influences: Szechuan spicy wontons, DanDan noodles, Cantonese beef chow fun, Taiwanese braised pork rice bowls, and various ramen options. The crispy orange beef receives frequent praise.

The contemporary space features windows on three sides and an L-shaped layout with restaurant seating and a bar area. It gets very busy—reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends. The restaurant accepts parties up to 8 people.

Awards: Best Chinese Restaurant and Best Korean Restaurant (Best of Milwaukee 2022 & 2023), Milwaukee's Top 25 Restaurants 2024, Eater's "38 Essential Milwaukee Restaurants."

Emperor of China — Brady Street

A family-owned institution since 1986, recently crowned "Best Chinese in Wisconsin" by LoveFood.

• Address: 1010 E Brady St, Milwaukee, WI 53202

• Phone: (414) 271-8889

• Hours: Tue–Sun 11:30am–8:30pm (last order 8pm), closed Monday

• Price Range: $$ ($11–25)

Emperor of China has anchored Brady Street for nearly four decades, earning devoted regulars who drive 25+ miles for the consistently excellent cooking. The menu spans regional Chinese cuisines with particular strength in Cantonese preparations. Signature dishes include Peking duck spring rolls, Mandarin dumplings, Chinese BBQ ribs, and fried squid with garlic and cilantro. The staff—notably owner Jimmy—maintains a welcoming family atmosphere.

Gluten-free diners should ask for suggestions; the kitchen is accommodating. Brady Street parking can be challenging during busy times, so plan accordingly.

Jing's Chinese Restaurant — Third Ward

A hidden gem with a "secret menu" of authentic Shanghai specialties that food writers call Milwaukee's best-kept secret.

• Address: 207 E Buffalo St, Milwaukee, WI 53202 (Marshall Building)

• Phone: (414) 271-7788

• Hours: Tue–Sun 3:30pm–8pm, closed Monday

• Price Range: $$ ($8–17 entrees)

Owner Jing Wang, a Shanghai native, offers two distinct experiences: the standard Chinese-American menu and an authentic Shanghai "secret menu" you must specifically request. From the secret menu, order the xiao long bao, Hong Shao Rou (Shanghai braised pork belly), and Shanghai-style duck with ginger and star anise. One food writer called the Singapore fried rice noodles "the best I've ever had."

The minimalist space creates a peaceful dining atmosphere—ideal for pre-theater meals near the Milwaukee Rep. The value-priced lunch buffet offers an affordable introduction to the kitchen's range.

Lucky Liu's — Lower East Side

Milwaukee's first Chinese-Japanese fusion restaurant, family-owned for 15+ years.

• Address: 1664 N Van Buren St, Milwaukee, WI 53202

• Phone: (414) 223-1699

• Hours: Mon 11am–9:45pm, Wed–Thu 11am–9:45pm, Fri–Sat 11am–10:45pm, Sun 1pm–9:45pm, closed Tuesday

• Price Range: $$ ($10–15 per person)

Lucky Liu's combination of Chinese cooking and hand-rolled sushi gives families flexibility—kids who want sweet and sour chicken can sit alongside parents craving fresh sushi. The Mapo tofu with Liu's spicy brown sauce ($13.50) showcases the kitchen's Szechuan skills, while the sushi combos with miso soup and salad deliver excellent value. Catering available for larger gatherings.

No. 1 Chinese Restaurant — Bay View

A Bay View neighborhood staple delivering budget-friendly Chinese-American cooking with family-sized portions.

• Address: 2678 S Kinnickinnic Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207

• Phone: (414) 482-2218

• Hours: Mon 11am–9pm, Wed–Sat 11am–9pm, Sun 12pm–9pm, closed Tuesday

• Price Range: $ (lunch $8–10, dinner $14–18, family specials $40–50)

With 45+ dinner specials and family-sized portions designed for sharing, this casual spot delivers reliable quality at accessible prices. The orange chicken, egg rolls ("the bomb" per regulars), and crab rangoon all perform consistently well. Delivery extends up to 10 miles with tiered delivery fees ($15 minimum). The extensive menu includes strong vegetarian options.

Authentic regional Chinese worth the drive

For families seeking cuisine beyond American-Chinese standards, several restaurants in the western suburbs offer remarkable authenticity—many frequented by Milwaukee's Chinese community as their go-to spots.

Sze Chuan Restaurant — West Allis

The most authentic Szechuan restaurant in greater Milwaukee, owned by chefs from Chengdu who deliver genuine mouth-numbing heat.

• Address: 11102 W National Ave, West Allis, WI 53227

• Phone: (414) 885-0856

• Hours: Mon–Sat 11am–9pm, Sun 11am–8:30pm

• Price Range: $$ ($7–24 per dish)

Owners Sun Yin and Luo Shungui hail from Chengdu in Sichuan province, and it shows in every dish. One TripAdvisor reviewer brought their Chinese wife and mother-in-law, who said it "smelled just like Mianyang hometown cooking." The menu runs 100+ items, including the signature Szechuan spicy pork dumplings ($6.95) bathed in chile oil, mapo tofu with Sichuan peppercorns and fermented black beans, twice-cooked pork, cumin lamb, and fish in chile pepper soup. The beef chow fun delivers impressive wok breath—smoky, slightly charred, deeply flavorful.

Hot pot is available all-you-can-eat for $23.95 or à la carte with choice of spicy or herb broth. Bring friends to maximize the value.

The strip-mall setting won't win atmosphere awards, but the adjacent Chinese grocery store makes this a destination for authentic ingredients. Milwaukee Magazine included Sze Chuan in their "5 Chinese Restaurants You Need to Know," and OnMilwaukee placed it on their 52 Great Restaurants list.

Family note: Staff will adjust spice levels to preference—important for young palates unaccustomed to Sichuan heat.

Fortune Chinese Restaurant — West Allis

The most authentic Cantonese restaurant in Milwaukee, featuring a legendary seafood soup and a "secret" Chinese menu.

• Address: 2945 S 108th St, Milwaukee, WI 53227

• Phone: (414) 328-9890

• Hours: Sun–Thu 11am–9pm, Fri–Sat 11am–9:30pm

• Price Range: $$ ($7–19 per entrée)

Owner Frank Lai has operated Fortune for 27+ years, building a devoted following among those who know to ask for the "Chinese menu" (the red menu) containing authentic Cantonese dishes not listed on the standard American menu. The Seafood Superior Soup has achieved legendary status—people drive from out of state specifically for this dish.

Dim sum is available daily for lunch and dinner via menu order (approximately 30 items, no cart service). Must-orders include pork shu mai, shrimp har gow, and shrimp pot stickers. Other standout Cantonese preparations include salt and pepper fish, Cantonese BBQ pork, braised eggplant in plum sauce, and gai lan (Chinese broccoli).

The large dining room accommodates families and groups comfortably. Look for Asian customers filling the tables—a reliable indicator of authenticity.

J.J. Chen's Eatery — West Allis

The best dedicated dim sum selection in Milwaukee, operated from a no-frills strip-mall spot frequented by the Chinese community.

• Address: 10722 W Oklahoma Ave, West Allis, WI 53227

• Phone: (414) 329-8333

• Hours: Mon 10:30am–10pm, Wed–Sat 10:30am–10pm, closed Tuesday

• Price Range: $ ($8–15 per person)

This compact restaurant punches well above its modest appearance. The dim sum selection draws particular devotion: lotus leaf wrapped sticky rice, chicken feet, har gow (shrimp dumplings), shu mai, and stuffed eggplant. Beyond dim sum, the salt and pepper flounder and pan-fried noodles with XO sauce showcase the kitchen's Cantonese expertise.

Limited seating (3–4 tables) means many customers opt for takeout. Service quality can vary, but the food consistently delivers authentic flavors. The menu is available in Chinese—another marker of authenticity.

Laojiu Rice Noodles — West Allis

Opened November 2024, this newcomer showcases regional Sichuan and Jiangxi noodle dishes rarely found anywhere in Wisconsin.

• Address: 10714 W Oklahoma Ave, West Allis, WI 53227

• Phone: (414) 252-0633

• Hours: Mon–Tue 11am–9:30pm, Thu–Sun 11am–9:30pm (Fri–Sat until 10pm), closed Wednesday

• Price Range: $

For families who appreciate authentic Asian noodles, Laojiu represents a goldmine. The Nanchang noodles (南昌拌粉) come flavored with chili and sesame oils in the style of Nanchang city. The Helen udon noodles with special sauce deliver delightful spice, while stewed beef brisket with tomato in hot pot provides warming comfort. Other standouts include bang bang chicken, spicy clams, and salty crispy chicken.

Located near J.J. Chen's—visit both in one trip for a comprehensive West Allis Chinese food crawl.

Fusion Cafe — West Allis

Despite the generic name, this hidden gem specializes in rare Northeastern Chinese (Dongbei) cuisine.

• Address: 1427 S 108th St, West Allis, WI 53227

• Price Range: $$

Dongbei cuisine from Northeastern China emphasizes hearty stews, pickled vegetables, and substantial dumplings—comfort food perfectly suited to Wisconsin winters. Order the handmade dumplings (pickled cabbage & pork, or pork & chives), beef pancake (xiang bing), guobaorou (Northeastern-style sweet sour pork), and stewed pork belly with napa cabbage and glass noodles.

This is one of the only places in Wisconsin showcasing authentic Dongbei specialties.

West suburbs for families

Several excellent options serve families in Brookfield, Wauwatosa, Elm Grove, and beyond—many offering unique experiences not found elsewhere.

Serious Sanji Dumpling & Dim Sum — Wauwatosa

A brand-new dumpling house (opened 2024) featuring robot servers and Wisconsin's best fast-casual dim sum.

• Address: 853 N Mayfair Rd, Wauwatosa, WI 53226

• Phone: (414) 226-6055

• Hours: Sun–Thu 11am–9pm, Fri–Sat 11am–10pm

• Price Range: $$ (dumplings $9.95–$15.99)

Serious Sanji brings a fresh concept to Milwaukee: fast-casual dumplings with high-tech flair. Robot servers deliver food to tables—an immediate hit with kids. The xiao long bao (soup dumplings) come in pork, chicken, or pork/crab combo varieties. Fried pork and chive dumplings (8 for $9.95) and BBQ pork buns round out the dim sum options. For groups, the Mini Sanji Tub ($15.99) provides excellent variety.

The modern space features burgundy walls, wooden accents, and a semi-open kitchen where families can watch dumplings being made. Bubble tea options add to the kid appeal.

Family verdict: The combination of excellent dumplings, robot servers, and bubble tea makes this a guaranteed hit with children.

Dumpling House — Elm Grove

A hidden gem where visitors from San Francisco Chinatown confirm the soup dumplings taste authentic.

• Address: 12900 W Bluemound Rd, Elm Grove, WI 53122

• Phone: (262) 784-8383

• Hours: Mon 11am–9:30pm, Wed–Thu 11am–9:30pm, Fri–Sat 11am–10pm, Sun 12pm–9:30pm, closed Tuesday

• Price Range: $$

The xiao long bao here receive consistent praise—one reviewer from San Francisco Chinatown confirmed they taste authentic. The BBQ bao buns have been described as tasting "like a cloud." Beyond dumplings, the menu includes chili oil dumplings, rice noodles, and a surprisingly good sushi selection. The cozy space transforms what was formerly a sushi house into a comfortable family dining destination.

Golden Gate Restaurant — Waukesha

A 45-year family institution named one of "America's Top 10 Chinese Restaurants" that draws devoted fans from across the region.

• Address: 1427 E Racine Ave, Suite D, Waukesha, WI 53186

• Phone: (262) 547-2171

• Hours: Tue–Thu 11am–8pm, Fri 11am–8:30pm, Sat 3pm–8:30pm, Sun 3pm–8pm, closed Monday

• Price Range: $$ (dinners for 2/3/4 offer excellent value)

Golden Gate earned national recognition as one of "America's Top 10 Chinese Restaurants" in 2010 and has won WISN Channel 12's "Best Chinese Restaurant in Milwaukee Area" from 2007–2017. The egg rolls—"the best ever" according to countless reviewers—justify the 25-minute drive from the North Shore.

The lunch buffet (Tuesday–Friday 11am–2pm) has returned and offers excellent value. The full bar serves tropical drinks including mai tais in super-large novelty glasses that delight kids and adults alike. Traditional Chinese decor and lion/dragon dance performances during Chinese New Year create a festive atmosphere.

Worth the drive: Absolutely. Families report driving from Elm Grove and Bay View specifically for this 45-year institution.

China East — Wauwatosa

A recognized community cornerstone delivering modernized Chinese-American classics.

• Address: 6810 W State St, Wauwatosa, WI 53213

• Phone: (414) 456-9988

• Hours: Tue–Thu 11am–9pm, Fri–Sat 11am–10pm, Sun 12pm–9pm, closed Monday

• Price Range: $$

China East has built its reputation on high-quality fresh ingredients and friendly service that make it a go-to for Wauwatosa families. The kitchen delivers modern interpretations of Chinese classics that consistently satisfy. Street and lot parking available.

Emperor's Kitchen — Brookfield

A Galleria West Shopping Mall fixture serving reliable Chinese-American comfort food.

• Address: 18900 W Bluemound Rd, Brookfield, WI 53045

• Phone: (262) 784-1617

• Hours: Mon–Thu 11am–8pm, Fri–Sat 11am–9pm, Sun 4pm–8pm

• Price Range: $$

The Hunan beef (adjustable to your preferred spice level), General Tso's chicken, and crab rangoon all perform consistently. Note: the buffet is currently closed indefinitely, and a 3% surcharge applies to credit/debit cards—cash preferred. Ample free mall parking.

South suburbs and Racine

Eat Rice — Greenfield

Reviewers call this unassuming strip-mall spot "the best Chinese food in Milwaukee County."

• Address: 7432 W Holmes Ave, Greenfield, WI 53220

• Phone: (414) 282-2338

• Hours: Tue–Thu 11am–9:30pm, Fri–Sat 11am–10pm, Sun 11:30am–9:30pm, closed Monday

• Price Range: $ (lunch specials ~$5–6, entrees $8–10)

With only 2 small tables seating 8 people maximum, Eat Rice focuses primarily on takeout—and executes it brilliantly. The garlic chicken, orange chicken, Szechuan pork, and pan-fried noodles all deliver the "fresh, hot, generous" quality that has earned this family-owned operation devoted regulars. Ranked #3 of 52 Greenfield restaurants on Yelp.

Lychee Garden Restaurant — Greenfield

A spacious full-service restaurant with a fireplace, full bar, and portions that provide leftovers for days.

• Address: 7920 W Layton Ave, Greenfield, WI 53220

• Phone: (414) 281-8883

• Hours: Mon 11am–9pm, Wed–Thu 11am–9pm, Fri–Sat 11am–10pm, Sun 11am–9pm, closed Tuesday

• Price Range: $$ ($13–24, chef specialties up to $23.95)

The "gigantic egg rolls" have achieved legendary status among regulars. Other standouts include Lychee chicken ($13.95) and Hong Kong sizzling steak ($23.95). The warm atmosphere features a fireplace and spacious seating for privacy—ideal for family celebrations. Full bar with great cocktails. Note: The buffet has been permanently discontinued.

China Chef — South Milwaukee

The area's most-praised Chinese buffet, with devoted customers spanning 20+ years.

• Address: 1224 Milwaukee Ave, South Milwaukee, WI 53172

• Phone: (414) 764-1966

• Hours: Mon–Sat 11am–8:30pm, Sun 4pm–8:30pm; lunch buffet Mon–Sat 11:30am–2pm

• Price Range: $ (buffet approximately $10.95–15.95)

The all-you-can-eat lunch buffet draws families seeking variety and value. The crab rangoon—"not over-fried, an envelope of cream cheese and crab goodness"—earns particular praise. Mongolian beef, garlic pork, and chicken lo mein round out the favorites. Delivery available to South Milwaukee, Oak Creek, and Cudahy ($15 minimum).

Main Moon 2 — Racine

A modern Racine favorite delivering reliable Chinese cooking with fast delivery.

• Address: 4915 Washington Ave, Racine, WI 53406

• Phone: (262) 638-9888

• Hours: Mon–Thu 10:30am–10pm, Fri 10:30am–11pm, Sat 10:30am–10:30pm, Sun 11am–9:30pm

• Price Range: $

The sweet sour pork, mapo tofu, and double cook pork all deliver authentic flavors in a modern dining environment. Reviewers praise the generous portions and fast delivery. A solid choice for Racine-area families.

Quick reference for families

Best for kids

• Serious Sanji (Wauwatosa) — Robot servers and bubble tea make this irresistible for children

• Golden Gate (Waukesha) — Festive atmosphere, giant mai tais for parents, excellent egg rolls for everyone

• Royal Garden (Glendale) — High chairs, kid-friendly atmosphere, extensive menu with something for every eater

• China Chef (South Milwaukee) — Buffet format lets picky eaters choose exactly what they want

Best dim sum

• J.J. Chen's Eatery (West Allis) — Best dedicated dim sum selection in Milwaukee

• Fortune Restaurant (West Allis) — 30-item dim sum menu, excellent har gow and shu mai

• Momo Mee (Walker's Point) — Handcrafted xiao long bao (dine-in only)

• Serious Sanji (Wauwatosa) — Fast-casual soup dumplings and dim sum

Best authentic regional Chinese

• Sze Chuan Restaurant (West Allis) — Authentic Szechuan from Chengdu natives; hot pot available

• Fortune Restaurant (West Allis) — Most authentic Cantonese; ask for the Chinese menu

• Laojiu Rice Noodles (West Allis) — Regional Sichuan and Jiangxi noodle specialties

• Fusion Cafe (West Allis) — Rare Northeastern Chinese (Dongbei) cuisine

• Jing's (Third Ward) — Shanghai specialties on the secret menu

Best budget-friendly

• Eat Rice (Greenfield) — Lunch specials around $5–6

• Lee Kong (Glendale) — Fast-food prices, excellent value

• No. 1 Chinese (Shorewood and Bay View) — Generous portions at accessible prices

• Laojiu Rice Noodles (West Allis) — Authentic regional dishes at budget prices

Best special occasion

• DanDan (Third Ward) — James Beard–nominated, beautiful atmosphere, full bar

• Hong Anh Palace (Mequon) — Best egg rolls in Wisconsin, tranquil setting

• Golden Gate (Waukesha) — 45-year institution, festive atmosphere

Best for takeout

• No. 1 Chinese (Shorewood) — Designed for carryout

• Eat Rice (Greenfield) — Minimal seating, optimized for takeout

• Lee Kong (Glendale) — Fast-food concept, available on all delivery apps

• Yen Ching Express (Mequon) — "Crazy fast" service

Best for delivery

• Royal Garden (Glendale) — Multiple platforms: DoorDash, Uber Eats, GrubHub, Eat Street

• Lee Kong (Glendale) — DoorDash, GrubHub, Uber Eats, Seamless

• King's Wok (Franklin) — Known for accurate, fast delivery

• Note: Hong Anh Palace does NOT deliver

Planning your Chinese food adventure

The West Allis corridor along National Avenue and Oklahoma Avenue represents Milwaukee's most concentrated authentic Chinese dining district. Multiple restaurants, Chinese grocery stores, and bakeries cluster here—making it possible to visit Sze Chuan Restaurant for Szechuan heat, J.J. Chen's for dim sum, and Laojiu for regional noodles all in one outing.

For North Shore families seeking convenience, Royal Garden in Glendale and Hong Anh Palace in Mequon deliver consistently excellent experiences without a long drive. Both have served the community for decades and understand family dining.

For adventurous families willing to explore, the rewards are substantial. The handcrafted xiao long bao at Momo Mee, the chef-driven creativity at DanDan, and the genuine Szechuan flavors at Sze Chuan Restaurant offer dining experiences that rival major metropolitan areas.

One final tip: Many authentic Chinese restaurants maintain "secret menus" or "Chinese menus" containing traditional dishes not listed on the standard American menu. At Fortune, Jing's, and similar establishments, simply ask—you'll unlock an entirely different level of culinary experience.

All information verified as of December 2025. Hours, prices, and availability may change—calling ahead is always recommended, especially for holidays and special occasions.