Do You Chinese? A list of all time favorite Chinese Restaurants in Mumbai.

It’s easy to spot foodies that love Chinese cuisine. They are everywhere. A few relish it at fine dine restaurants for an authentic experience while others can’t get enough of the greasy version served by the street food magicians across the city of Mumbai. Recognized as one of the most popular cuisines in the world, Chinese food made in roads in the Indian culinary world roughly around 85 years back and settled in our happy tummies. It’s loved by all- the affluent “Ladies who Lunch” club, kids, my 60-year-old aunt who doesn't cook on Wednesday because the neighboring Chinese take out gives an extra soup on every order…and Yours Truly.  

There are roughly more than 2500 Chinese restaurants inMumbai and its tough to pick favorites. From stand-alone restaurants that tantalize our taste buds with a wholly unique Indo-Chinese adaption or the authentic experience served at 5 stars, we are spoilt for choice. We attempted to list a few popular Chinese restaurants in Mumbai that will comfort you with their masala-fied gravies that we Indians love.

Royal China- serving an unbeatable combination of traditional and contemporary Cantonese cuisine, Royal China has been delighting foodies in South and North Mumbai, alike. The interiors are posh and the service is excellent. The dim sums are highly recommended and do not leave without enjoying a platter of their crispy aromatic duck. Step into the flagship outlet located near Sterling Cinema or the one in Bandra, the menu and the experience delights you, equally. Royal China boasts of a notable wine list and gets crowded on weekend. Prior reservations are recommended and valet parking is available.

Lings Pavilion- Located at Colaba, Ling’s Pavilion attracts a lot of homesick expats and Chinese food lovers with its authentic menu. The seafood is fresh and the meat tender. We tried the vegetarian fare too and found it equally delectable. It’s one of the oldest Chinese restaurants in Mumbai and value for money too. Check the portion size before ordering. Serves pork too.

China Garden- no introduction is needed for Nelson Wang’s restaurant. The creator of the much loved Manchurian, started China Garden, an institution in itself. The restaurant has expanded to other cities and is one of the most awarded restaurants in India.  We love the presence of Okra, potatoes and cauliflower in the menu and the coriander and onion garnish on fiery gravies. Vegetarians can enjoy a mock meat menu, what are you waiting for?

Yauatcha- the swanky Bandra Kurla Complex is coming up on the map rapidly as a food lover’s paradise. A well stocked bar, huge dining space, delectable desserts and a menu designed by stalwarts behind successful Michelin star restaurants in London is enough to pull you in and keep you there.  True to the traditional Cantonese phrase ‘Yum cha’, which means ‘to drink tea’, Yauatcha serves 24 varieties of tea for tea connoisseurs.  Open through the day, it can be the your best choice for a business lunch or to grove on weekends to foot tapping music. The prices are steep and portions not huge, but if it’s an international experience you are looking for, head to Raheja Towers to enjoy one.

The spacious and comfortable seating at Yauatcha

Delectable Cantonese Cuisine at Yauatcha!  

Mainland China- what makes Mainland China popular is the huge variety of adapted Indian Chinese cuisine they serve. Cheerful décor and well-priced dishes along with attractive lunch deals has earned Mainland China many loyal patrons. Be ready to grin and bear noisy Kitty party groups or a full house even on weekdays. We love the Hunan gravies with rice served in good portion size and dim sums make a good choice for starters.

5 Spice- why does 5 Spice feature here? Simply because we believe that, hefty prices in restaurants and taste do not necessarily go hand in hand.  The portions here are generous and the interiors not overly cramped with Chinese artifacts. We have enjoyed a quick lunch and a laid back dinner and have had no complaints. The “Rocky Road” dessert is a must try and the foodie journey here is smooth sailing.

What’s your favorite Chinese joint in Mumbai? Do tell us and we will keep adding to our list. On most days when we can’t make up our mind, we just pick a favorite dish like a juicy dimsum or a chili chicken from the vast Chinese food menu and tantalize our taste buds . Wanna join us the next time?