Address: 489 Highbury Ave N, London, Ontario, Canada, N5W 4K2

Phone: +1 519 455 6511

Price Range: $$$$

Dragon Gate Restaurant

Dragon Gate Restaurant has been a staple for Chinese cuisine in London, Ontario for over two decades. Located at 489 Highbury Avenue N, this place is known for its fresh, flavorful food prepared to order. The staff is friendly but the dining atmosphere is non-existent, which is fine because this spot mainly caters to takeout and delivery. Despite the longevity and loyal customer base, opinions on Dragon Gate’s offerings vary widely.

One standout dish that continues to garner praise is their Spicy Chicken. This dish consistently impresses with its bold flavors and perfect heat balance. Another crowd favorite is the Honey Garlic Spareribs, despite some recent complaints about the sauce consistency and ingredient skimping. When these spareribs hit right, they’re succulent and coated in a sticky, sweet, and garlicky glaze that makes them a must-order.

Dim Sum is another highlight, with options available during lunchtime. However, be prepared for a wait of about 20-30 minutes and don't expect traditional food carts service. Despite these minor hiccups, the steamed dumplings and buns are worth trying.

Their General Tso's Chicken and Kung Pao Shrimp also deserve a mention for their authentic taste and satisfactory portions, although some diners have noted inconsistencies in the quality. The dishes vary between exceptionally delicious to overly salty or greasy. The Sweet and Sour Chicken is also a hit, especially the sweet and tangy sauce that accompanies crispy chicken balls. On the downside, the vegetable fried rice can be hit or miss, sometimes arriving too oily and lacking in vegetables.

For soup lovers, the Won Ton Soup is typically a safe bet, loved for its savory broth and plump dumplings, paired with BBQ pork for an extra kick. However, do keep your expectations tempered as there have been recent service issues and lapses in food quality possibly due to staff changes or pandemic-related disruptions.

For those concerned about sustainability, the use of styrofoam containers is a persistent issue leading to messy takeout experiences. It would be a huge improvement if Dragon Gate could switch to more eco-friendly packaging.

This place is best visited during off-peak hours to avoid long wait times, and it’s a good idea to call around 4 PM to catch a staff member during busier periods. As for reservations, they’re not necessary since dining in isn't typically an option at this spot.