Address: 229 Hamilton Rd, London, ON N5Z 1P9, Canada

Phone: +1 519 433 6191

Price Range: $$$$

Lucky Restaurant

Lucky Restaurant, a humble fixture on Hamilton Rd in London, Ontario, is one of those spots you might drive past a dozen times without noticing. But for fans of Chinese comfort food, it’s worth stopping in. It’s not about the ambiance here—think no-frills and unpretentious—but the food speaks for itself, particularly if you’re hankering for some deep-fried deliciousness late at night. The establishment has been serving the community for years, and while experiences can range from fantastic to forgettable, some dishes stand out for their comforting familiarity and satisfying flavors.

Fried foods are where Lucky Restaurant truly shines. The Lemon Chicken, with its perfectly crispy breading and tangy lemon sauce, is a crowd pleaser. Think KFC meets your favorite Chinese takeout but better. This dish alone has received high praise from diners of all ages, including kids who generally aren't fans of Chinese food. Pair it with the Vegetable Fried Rice, which manages to be flavorful without being overly soy-saucy, striking a harmonious balance that’s a rarity in many takeouts.

However, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. Some of the dishes occasionally miss the mark. For example, the Honey Garlic Ribs can be hit and miss—sometimes tender and sweet, other times dry and chewy. It seems consistency is one of their issues, but when they get it right, the flavors deliver a comforting punch.

On the seafood front, shrimp fans might find the Shrimp Wrapped in Bacon to be an unexpected favorite. These little treasures are deep-fried to golden perfection and showcase a balance of savory and crispy textures. On the other hand, the simple Shrimp Fried Rice tends to get better reviews for its fresh, plump shrimp and well-balanced seasoning.

For noodle lovers, the Singapore Noodles usually get a thumbs up. They’re flavorful with just the right amount of curry, making it a dish that consistently satisfies. The same can be said about the Pork Fried Rice, which is often described as a solid choice, packed with tender pieces of pork and a decent mix of veggies.

While the food is a hit for many, the service at Lucky Restaurant garners mixed reviews. Some diners have found the staff to be warm and welcoming during phone orders, while others have experienced hiccups with order accuracy and customer service. Additionally, Lucky Restaurant operates mainly as a takeout spot, so don't expect a full dine-in experience. This might be a blessing if you’re looking to grab a quick meal without the fuss.

Prices are fair, and portions are generous enough to leave you with leftovers for the next day. If budget-friendly, late-night Chinese comfort food is what you crave, Lucky Restaurant fits the bill. Pro tip: aim to order popular items and avoid peak hours for the best experience.