Address: 566 Adelaide St N, London, ON N6B 3J5, Canada

Phone: +1 519 433 0613

Price Range: $$$$

Website: http://www.chinagardendelivery.ca/

China Garden

Located on Adelaide Street, China Garden Restaurant offers a typical Americanized Chinese takeout experience. With a history that stretches back decades, this spot has certainly seen better days. Once a popular sit-down venue, it's now strictly a takeout and delivery operation. While the building's exterior and interior might not inspire confidence, the food has its moments.

The menu at China Garden is packed with familiar Chinese-American staples, from sweet and sour chicken balls to fried rice and lo mein. Let’s get the big one out of the way: the sweet and sour chicken balls. These are hit-and-miss, with many reviews lamenting the excessive breading and lack of flavor in the sauce. When they're on point, they can be a comforting indulgence, but it's a gamble.

One of their more redeeming dishes is the Cantonese-style Lo Mein. Freshly prepared and cooked just right, this dish tends to be a favorite for those willing to stray a bit from the sweet and sour path. It's a solid choice if you're looking to venture slightly out of the usual offerings.

The Curry Shrimp is another gem. The dish features a well-executed curry that offers a bit more depth and complexity compared to other items on the menu. It's spicy, savory, and balances well with the shrimp, presenting a notable option for those who crave a bit of heat.

The Egg Rolls, while greasy, are exactly what you’d expect from a takeout joint—crispy on the outside with a comforting filling that's just right for a quick snack. Whether you enjoy them with soy sauce or sweet and sour, they’re a reliable choice.

The Beef with Broccoli is safe but uninspired. Fresh broccoli paired with tender beef sounds good on paper, but the sauce often falls flat, lacking the umami punch that would elevate the dish from mediocre to memorable. Plus, some reports suggest occasional mix-ups, like receiving carrots instead of the promised beef.

For the adventurous, China Garden also offers Szechuan Beef and Kung Po Chicken. These are not particularly authentic but do provide a more flavor-rich experience compared to the tamer menu items. They strike a balance between heat and sweetness that can be quite satisfying when done right.

Now, let's address the white elephant in the room—the Wontons. The reviews for these are overwhelmingly negative, citing issues like empty fillings and overpowering dough. It's safe to say this might be a dish to avoid if you want the best experience here.

Reservations aren't necessary since the restaurant is takeout and delivery only, but expect quick service. Many customers report their food being ready in about 15-20 minutes, which is a plus for fast food enthusiasts. Just remember to request chopsticks if you're particular about the dining experience—they're not always included by default.

For those looking to get the most out of their visit, consider picking up your order rather than opting for delivery. You’ll likely avoid delivery mishaps and get your food at its freshest. Also, keep in mind that the prices might be on the higher end for takeout, but they’re reasonable given the portion sizes, often leaving leftovers for another meal.