Best Chinese Restaurants in Tyler and Chandler, Texas

Chinese restaurants have become a familiar sight in Tyler, Texas and even in the smaller towns like Chandler. The exotic flavors of the Chinese menu have created a niche in the restaurant scene. Tyler is the home of three Chinese restaurants that are unique in their presentation and approach. For Chandler residents or travelers on Hwy 31, China Chef is a convenient stop. For this reason, I will include the Chinese restaurant in Chandler in this review.

Liangs is an established Chinese landmark in the shopping center on the corner of Loop 323 and Old Troop Hwy, 1828 ESE Loop 323. Liangs offers white tablecloth service and a full menu. As is the custom in Chinese food, chicken, shrimp, beef, and pork are represented. I particularly like the Vegetarian Delight on the lunch menu. I also found the Broccoli and Beef to be very good.

The portions of the evening meal served at Liangs are very generous. I really enjoyed the Wonton Soup, and members of our party shared some entrees´. The Bobo Platter served as an entree´ for two of us after we had enjoyed the soup. Since the menu is quite extensive, I am still working my way through it.

Lunch combos include soup of your choice, entree´, and egg roll. The lunch menu begins a $6.95 for a combo meal plus beverage, and the dinner menu goes to about $17.00 for an individual. They also have family service of dinner meals that are priced at about $14.00 for each person.

Décor is formal and classical Chinese music provides an interesting background. The atmosphere is quiet and soothing.

China Café is a buffet style restaurant located at 2001 WSW Loop 323. The choice of food is wide including some Mexican influence. The vegetables are fresh and hot, and the steam table is refreshed often. The tables are not crowded, and highchairs and carriers for babies are accommodated easily. Their fresh vegetables and fruits are very attractive for salad choices. I am fond of the Rice Noodles. They also have a fairly extensive dessert table. It is something of a paradox in Chinese cooking that some of the sauces are sweet while the traditional desserts incorporate other flavors like nuts and cream. They also have excellent iced tea. Their prices are moderate.

Mings Café is a cafeteria style restaurant located at 5707 S. Broadway. They serve your plate, but you can also order from the menu at the counter. Their food is very good, fresh, and well-prepared. The dining area is small and crowded, but that did not interfere with my enjoyment of the food. The Hot and Sour Soup was excellent. The service consists of delivery to the table, and I got a refill on tea at the counter. The prices made eating more enjoyable-good food, cheap price.

China Chef is located at 631 W. Hwy 31 in Chandler, Texas. It is a small café decorated in what to East Texans is traditional Chinese style-polished wooden tables and chairs with Chinese art and writing on the walls. The food is excellent and popular. They have a drive-through window that makes take out convenient, especially if you call ahead. Dine-in portions are generous, but take-out is more so. I usually make at least two meals from one trip. They offer similar Chinese specialties to other Chinese restaurants-they have added General Tso's Chicken to their already extensive menu. I really like their Vegetable Lo Mein. They have one specialty I had never tried before- Sesame Ball. This delicacy is a pastry covered in sesame seeds. Try it-you might like it.

I recommend all these Chinese restaurants depending on the time you have and the atmosphere you want to create. Their food has always been excellent. All offer take-out and catering. And all of them speak Texan.