Ventura, California, is a coastal gem known for its laid-back vibe and diverse food scene. If you’re craving authentic Chinese cuisine, you’re in luck. Whether you’re looking for Szechuan spice, dim sum delights, or classic Chinese-American comfort food, Ventura has it all.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best Chinese restaurants in Ventura, what dishes to try, and expert tips for the ultimate dining experience.
Top Chinese Restaurants in Ventura
Ventura offers a wide variety of Chinese dining experiences, ranging from quick takeout spots to full-service restaurants with authentic flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for spicy Szechuan dishes, comforting dim sum, or classic American-Chinese favorites, there’s a spot for you. Here’s a closer look at some of the best Chinese restaurants in Ventura that locals and visitors alike love.
Lalo’s Chinese Express
Why It’s a Must-Try
- A local favorite for quick, affordable, and flavorful Chinese food.
- Offers a mix of classic Chinese-American dishes with fresh ingredients.
- Perfect for takeout and delivery.
Must-Try Dishes
- Orange Chicken – Crispy, sweet, and tangy.
- Chow Mein – Stir-fried noodles with fresh vegetables.
- Egg Rolls – Crispy and stuffed with flavorful fillings.
Insider Tips
- Best for lunch specials and quick meals.
- Portions are huge—great for sharing.
- Call ahead for faster pickup.
Golden China Restaurant
Why It’s a Must-Try
- One of Ventura’s oldest and most beloved sit-down Chinese restaurants.
- Offers a full-service bar, live entertainment, and a welcoming atmosphere.
- Features a vast menu with a mix of traditional Chinese dishes and American-Chinese favorites.
- Known for consistent quality, generous portions, and friendly service.
Must-Try Dishes
- Mongolian Beef – Tender slices of beef stir-fried with scallions in a rich, garlicky sauce.
- Peking Duck – A signature dish featuring crispy skin, succulent meat, and hoisin sauce.
- Handmade Dumplings – Available steamed or pan-fried, stuffed with flavorful pork or veggies.
- Sizzling Rice Soup – A comforting broth with shrimp, chicken, and crispy rice.
- Kung Pao Chicken – A balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors with peanuts and vegetables.
Insider Tips
- Happy Hour Specials – Visit during happy hour (3-6 PM) for discounted drinks and appetizers.
- Weekend Live Music – Enjoy a unique dining experience with live piano performances.
- Sunday Buffet – A rotating selection of the restaurant’s best dishes for an all-you-can-eat feast.
- Large Group-Friendly – Ideal for family gatherings, business dinners, or celebrations.
- Custom Orders Available – Request adjustments to spice levels or dietary preferences.
Golden China is a true Ventura staple, offering an authentic, enjoyable dining experience with a mix of tradition and modern comfort. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick lunch or an elaborate dinner, this spot won’t disappoint.
Why It’s a Must-Try
- One of Ventura’s oldest sit-down Chinese restaurants.
- Features a full bar and live entertainment.
- Authentic flavors with an extensive menu.
Must-Try Dishes
- Mongolian Beef – Tender beef with a savory garlic sauce.
- Peking Duck – Crispy skin with hoisin sauce.
- Handmade Dumplings – Steamed or pan-fried to perfection.
Insider Tips
- Visit during happy hour for discounted drinks.
- Try their Sunday buffet for a variety of flavors.
- Great for family gatherings and group dinners.
Rice by Mama (Pan-Asian with Chinese Influences)
Why It’s a Must-Try
- A modern take on Chinese-Thai fusion cuisine.
- Uses high-quality ingredients and bold flavors.
- Cozy ambiance, perfect for date nights.
Must-Try Dishes
- Garlic Butter Shrimp – Packed with flavor and spice.
- Crispy Tofu – A must-try for vegetarians.
- House Fried Rice – Perfectly cooked with fresh ingredients.
Insider Tips
- Reservations recommended for weekends.
- They have vegan and gluten-free options.
- Don’t skip their homemade sauces!
What to Order: Signature Dishes & Local Favorites
Ventura’s Chinese restaurants offer an impressive variety of dishes, blending traditional flavors with local twists. Whether you’re a fan of dim sum, sizzling stir-fries, or comforting noodle dishes, here’s a deeper dive into some must-try signature dishes and where to find them.
Dim Sum Delights: Bite-Sized Perfection
Dim sum is a staple of Cantonese cuisine, featuring small, shareable portions of dumplings, buns, and rolls. These dishes are ideal for those who want to sample different flavors in one meal.
Best Spots for Dim Sum:
- Golden China Restaurant – Offers a full dim sum menu, especially on weekends.
- Lalo’s Chinese Express – Serves classic dumplings and rolls for takeout.
Must-Try Dim Sum Dishes:
| Dish | Description | Best Place to Try |
| Shrimp Dumplings (Har Gow) | Steamed dumplings with a thin, translucent wrapper filled with juicy shrimp. | Golden China |
| Pork Buns (Char Siu Bao) | Fluffy steamed buns stuffed with sweet and savory barbecued pork. | Lalo’s Express |
| Spring Rolls | Crispy, golden rolls filled with vegetables or meat. | Golden China |
| Sticky Rice in Lotus Leaf | Glutinous rice wrapped in a lotus leaf, packed with flavorful fillings. | Golden China |
| Egg Tarts | Buttery pastry with a creamy custard center. | Golden China |
Noodle Heaven: Slurp-Worthy Favorites
From wok-fried classics to spicy, brothy bowls, Ventura’s Chinese restaurants serve up some of the best noodle dishes you’ll ever try.
Top Places for Noodles:
- Rice by Mama – Specializes in pan-Asian noodle dishes, including Thai-Chinese fusion.
- China Square – Offers traditional lo mein and rice noodle stir-fries.
Noodle Dishes to Order:
| Dish | Description | Where to Find It |
| Beef Chow Fun | Wide rice noodles stir-fried with beef and soy sauce. | China Square |
| Dan Dan Noodles | Spicy Sichuan noodles in a savory peanut sauce. | Rice by Mama |
| Lo Mein | Soft egg noodles tossed with vegetables and meat. | China Square |
| Szechuan Spicy Noodles | Bold, fiery noodles with ground pork and chili oil. | Rice by Mama |
| Wonton Noodle Soup | Warm broth with pork dumplings and thin noodles. | Golden China |
Wok-Fried Wonders: Stir-Fry Sensations
Stir-frying is at the heart of Chinese cuisine, bringing together fresh ingredients, bold sauces, and high-heat cooking to create unforgettable dishes.
Best Spots for Stir-Fried Favorites:
- Szechuan Restaurant – Known for its spicy, bold flavors.
- Golden China Restaurant – Offers a mix of classic and American-Chinese stir-fries.
Top Wok-Fried Dishes to Order:
| Dish | Description | Where to Get It |
| Kung Pao Chicken | Stir-fried chicken with peanuts, chili peppers, and a savory sauce. | Golden China |
| Sweet & Sour Pork | Crispy pork tossed in a tangy, sweet sauce. | Szechuan Restaurant |
| Cashew Shrimp | Shrimp stir-fried with cashews and vegetables. | Golden China |
| Black Pepper Beef | Tender beef coated in a fragrant black pepper sauce. | Szechuan Restaurant |
| General Tso’s Chicken | Crispy fried chicken in a sweet and spicy glaze. | Golden China |
Honorable Mentions: Unique & Hidden Gems
While Ventura’s most popular dishes are undeniably delicious, there are some lesser-known specialties worth exploring. If you’re feeling adventurous, try these unique offerings:
| Dish | Description | Where to Try |
| Salt & Pepper Squid | Lightly battered squid with crispy garlic and chili flakes. | Golden China |
| Steamed Fish with Ginger & Scallions | Whole fish prepared with a light soy sauce and fresh herbs. | Szechuan Restaurant |
| Spicy Eggplant with Minced Pork | A rich, flavorful dish featuring tender eggplant and savory pork. | Rice by Mama |
| Hot & Sour Soup | A tangy, peppery broth with mushrooms and tofu. | China Square |
Whether you’re in the mood for something traditional or adventurous, Ventura’s Chinese restaurants deliver on flavor. Try these dishes next time you’re out, and you might just find your new favorite meal!
Dim Sum Delights
- Where to find it: Golden China Restaurant, Lalo’s Express.
- Must-try dishes:
- Shrimp Dumplings (Har Gow)
- Pork Buns (Char Siu Bao)
- Spring Rolls
Noodle Heaven
- Where to find it: Rice by Mama, China Square.
- Popular choices:
- Beef Chow Fun
- Dan Dan Noodles
- Lo Mein
Wok-Fried Wonders
- Where to find it: Szechuan Restaurant, Golden China.
- Crowd favorites:
- Kung Pao Chicken
- Sweet & Sour Pork
- Cashew Shrimp
Insider Tips for the Best Experience
Best Times to Visit
| Restaurant | Best Time to Visit |
| Golden China | Weekends for live entertainment |
| Rice by Mama | Weekday evenings |
| Szechuan Restaurant | Lunch specials |
Dietary Accommodations
- Gluten-Free Options: Rice-based dishes, stir-fried vegetables.
- Vegan Choices: Tofu-based entrees, veggie dumplings.
- Low-Sodium: Ask for light soy sauce or steamed dishes.
Takeout vs. Dine-In
- Takeout: Best for fast and casual dining.
- Dine-In: Experience the full atmosphere and special dishes.
- Delivery: Check restaurant websites for availability.
Final Thoughts
Ventura’s Chinese food scene is a hidden gem, offering a mix of authentic flavors and American-Chinese favorites. Whether you crave the bold heat of Szechuan peppercorns, the delicate flavors of dim sum, or the comforting taste of fried rice and lo mein, there’s a restaurant here to satisfy every craving. From the lively ambiance of Golden China to the quick and satisfying bites at Lalo’s Express, you have plenty of options to explore.
If you’re new to Ventura’s Chinese dining scene, start with some local favorites like Mongolian Beef, Kung Pao Chicken, or Peking Duck. Don’t forget to check out happy hour specials, weekend buffets, and live entertainment at select spots for a more immersive dining experience. And if you’re on the go, many of these restaurants offer fast takeout and delivery options so you can enjoy delicious Chinese food from the comfort of your home.
So, the next time you’re in Ventura and craving Chinese cuisine, step into one of these incredible eateries. Whether it’s a casual takeout night or a family gathering, you’re sure to find a dish that leaves you coming back for more. What’s your favorite Chinese restaurant in Ventura? Let us know in the comments! Ventura’s Chinese food scene offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite, a family dinner, or a spicy Szechuan adventure, these restaurants won’t disappoint. Try something new and share your favorite spot in the comments!
FAQs
What is the best Chinese restaurant in Ventura for spicy food?
Szechuan Restaurant offers spicy dishes like Mapo Tofu and Dan Dan Noodles.
Where can I find reasonable dim sum in Ventura?
Golden China Restaurant serves authentic dim sum, especially on weekends.
Do Ventura Chinese restaurants offer vegan options?
Yes! Rice by Mama and Szechuan Restaurant have vegan-friendly dishes.
What’s the best place for Chinese takeout?
Lalo’s Chinese Express is known for fast, delicious takeout.
Is there a buffet-style Chinese restaurant in Ventura?
Yes, Golden China occasionally offers a buffet.
Where can I get authentic Peking Duck in Ventura?
Golden China Restaurant serves one of the best Peking Ducks in town.
What’s the best time to visit for lunch specials?
Weekdays between 11 AM – 2 PM for discounted meals.
Do any of these restaurants deliver?
Yes! Check UberEats, DoorDash, or restaurant websites for delivery options.
What’s a must-try dish for first-time visitors?
Try Orange Chicken from Lalo’s Express or Mongolian Beef from Golden China.
Are there any gluten-free options available?
Yes! Many places offer steamed veggies, rice-based dishes, and gluten-free sauces.