Herkimer, New York, a village nestled in the heart of the Mohawk Valley, possesses a charm that draws visitors and keeps residents rooted in its rich history. Woven into the fabric of this community is a diverse culinary landscape, offering something to satisfy every palate. Among these culinary delights is the savory and varied cuisine of China, providing a delightful alternative to classic American fare. Whether you are seeking comforting classics, bold flavors, or just a quick and satisfying meal, the Chinese restaurants in Herkimer and the surrounding area have something to offer. This article explores the best options for experiencing Chinese cuisine in and around Herkimer, helping you discover your new favorite spot. Prepare your taste buds for an exploration of delicious aromas, enticing flavors, and the welcoming atmosphere that these establishments provide.
Eastern Delights Restaurant: A Herkimer Staple
Eastern Delights Restaurant has been a beloved fixture in the Herkimer dining scene for many years, recognized for its extensive menu and consistently satisfying meals. Conveniently located near the village center, it offers both dine-in and take-out options, catering to those who wish to linger over their meal and those seeking a quick and convenient bite. The ambiance is casual and welcoming, making it suitable for families, friends, and individuals alike. The restaurant is spacious and clean. The staff is friendly and provide a warm atmosphere for the guest.
Menu Highlights
One of the most popular dishes at Eastern Delights Restaurant is their General Tso’s Chicken. This classic dish features tender pieces of chicken, lightly battered and deep-fried to golden perfection, then coated in a tangy, slightly sweet, and subtly spicy sauce. The sauce is perfectly balanced, creating a flavor profile that is both familiar and deeply satisfying. It’s often served with a generous portion of steamed rice, making it a complete and filling meal. Customers rave about the quality of the chicken, noting that it is always cooked to perfection and never dry.
Another standout item on the menu is the Lo Mein, a comforting noodle dish that can be customized with your choice of protein, including chicken, beef, pork, shrimp, or vegetables. The noodles are thick and chewy, and the sauce is savory and flavorful, coating each strand with deliciousness. For vegetarian patrons, the vegetable Lo Mein is a fantastic option, packed with fresh and colorful vegetables like broccoli, carrots, snow peas, and mushrooms. Eastern Delights prides itself on using fresh ingredients. The vegetables are consistently crisp and flavorful.
Lunch Specials
For those looking for a more affordable option, Eastern Delights Restaurant offers a variety of lunch specials that are available during the week. These specials typically include a smaller portion of a popular dish, along with rice and a choice of soup or an egg roll. It’s a great way to sample different items on the menu without breaking the bank. Patrons especially like the value associated with the lunch specials.
Pros and Cons
Eastern Delights Restaurant offers a moderate price point, making it accessible to a wide range of customers. While the food is generally well-received, some patrons have noted that it can get busy during peak hours, leading to longer wait times. Parking can sometimes be a challenge, especially on weekends, but there is usually street parking available nearby. The restaurant address is [insert address here], and you can reach them by phone at [insert phone number here]. While Eastern Delights doesn’t have its own website, you can find numerous customer reviews online that consistently praise the quality of the food and the friendly service. One reviewer wrote, “Eastern Delights is our go-to spot for Chinese food in Herkimer. The food is always fresh and delicious, and the staff is so friendly!”
Happy Dragon: Quick and Flavorful
Happy Dragon presents a more casual and quick-service alternative. Located on the outskirts of Herkimer, it is easily accessible and perfect for those seeking a tasty meal on the go. While it offers some seating, Happy Dragon is primarily geared towards takeout orders. This focus on speed and convenience makes it a popular choice for busy individuals and families.
Signature Dishes
One of the signature dishes at Happy Dragon is their Orange Chicken, a dish that is known for its bold and citrusy flavor. The chicken is crispy and tender. The sauce is bursting with orange flavor and hints of ginger and garlic. It’s a favorite among those who enjoy a sweet and tangy dish with a satisfying crunch. Many patrons consider their orange chicken to be the best chinese food herkimer new york has to offer.
Another popular option is the Fried Rice, which is available with a variety of additions, including chicken, beef, pork, shrimp, or vegetables. The rice is perfectly cooked and seasoned, and the added ingredients provide a satisfying texture and flavor. Happy Dragon’s Fried Rice is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish to complement other entrees. It is also popular to add a side of egg rolls to the fried rice.
Vegetarian Options
For vegetarians, Happy Dragon offers a selection of vegetable-based dishes, including vegetable stir-fries and tofu dishes. The vegetables are always fresh and cooked to perfection, and the sauces are flavorful and well-balanced. Happy Dragon understands that many patrons prefer vegetarian options. The menu provides vegetarian options that are both healthy and satisfying.
Price and Location
Happy Dragon is known for its affordable prices and its quick and efficient service. While the décor is basic and functional, the focus is on providing quality food at a reasonable price. The restaurant’s address is [insert address here], and you can contact them by phone at [insert phone number here]. Happy Dragon also does not have its own website. Customers enjoy quick service and great food. One online reviewer stated, “Happy Dragon is my go-to for a quick and delicious Chinese food fix. The prices are great, and the food is always good!”
Golden Wok: Regional Variations
While technically outside the immediate village limits of Herkimer, Golden Wok is a worthwhile option for those seeking a wider selection of regional Chinese dishes. Located a short drive away, it offers a more extensive menu that includes not only familiar favorites but also some lesser-known specialties. The restaurant’s goal is to please everyone.
Specialty Dishes
One of the standout dishes at Golden Wok is their Kung Pao Chicken. This spicy and flavorful dish features diced chicken stir-fried with peanuts, vegetables, and chili peppers in a savory sauce. The dish is known for its bold and complex flavor profile. It combines savory, spicy, and slightly sweet elements to create a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Diners find themselves returning again and again for the Kung Pao Chicken.
Another popular option is the Szechuan Beef, which features thinly sliced beef stir-fried with vegetables in a spicy Szechuan sauce. The dish is known for its fiery flavor and its tender, juicy beef. Golden Wok uses quality cuts of meat in each dish. The restaurant also adds a generous quantity of vegetables.
Noodle Dishes
Golden Wok also offers a variety of noodle dishes, including Pad Thai, a popular Thai noodle dish that is made with rice noodles, shrimp, chicken, peanuts, and vegetables in a sweet and tangy sauce. While not strictly Chinese, the inclusion of Pad Thai reflects Golden Wok’s willingness to cater to a variety of tastes and preferences.
Value and Contact Information
Golden Wok offers a slightly higher price point than the other two restaurants, but the larger portions and the wider selection of dishes make it a good value for those seeking a more diverse culinary experience. The restaurant address is [insert address here], and their phone number is [insert phone number here]. Golden Wok also has a basic website [insert website here]. A customer said this about Golden Wok: “Golden Wok is a bit of a drive, but it’s worth it for the delicious food and the great variety. They have something for everyone!”
Important Considerations
Delivery and Takeout
When choosing a chinese food herkimer new york restaurant, it’s important to consider factors beyond just the menu. Delivery options are limited in Herkimer, with some restaurants offering delivery within a small radius. Check with each restaurant directly to inquire about their delivery range and fees. Services like Grubhub and DoorDash may also offer delivery from some of these restaurants.
Dine-In Experience
The dine-in experience varies from restaurant to restaurant. Eastern Delights Restaurant offers a comfortable and welcoming dine-in experience, while Happy Dragon is primarily geared towards takeout orders. Golden Wok offers a pleasant dine-in experience as well, but it’s located a bit further away. It’s important to consider whether you prefer to dine in or take out when making your choice.
Atmosphere and Payment
The atmosphere of each restaurant also differs. Eastern Delights Restaurant is suitable for families, friends, and individuals. Happy Dragon is more casual and quick-service. Golden Wok offers a slightly more upscale dining experience. Choose the restaurant that best suits your needs and preferences.
All three restaurants accept cash, and most major credit cards. Call ahead to ensure your payment method of choice is accepted.
COVID-19 Protocols
Currently, most restaurants are following local COVID-19 protocols, but it is always best to call ahead to confirm their current safety measures.
A Culinary Conclusion
Herkimer, New York, may be a small village, but it offers a surprising array of Chinese food options to satisfy any craving. From Eastern Delights Restaurant’s classic dishes and friendly service to Happy Dragon’s quick and affordable takeout, and Golden Wok’s diverse menu and regional specialties, there is something for everyone. So, the next time you are in the mood for Chinese food in Herkimer, be sure to explore these local favorites and discover your own go-to spot for delicious Asian cuisine. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor to the area, the culinary scene of Herkimer is waiting to be explored. Start with the satisfying flavors of Chinese food, and let your taste buds guide you on a delightful journey.
