Best Chinese Restaurants in Boston

Changsho

1712 Massachusetts Ave, Porter Square, Cambridge, MA 02138 · 617-547-6565

CAMBRIDGE. A nod to the grandeur of the Ming Dynasty, this Chinese restaurant between Harvard and Porter Squares is an eye-pleaser thanks its sharp, clean lines and temple-inspired elements. Changsho is far more than a pretty scene, though, and its meticulously-prepared regional dishes have bedazzled palates from all over the city. On Sundays, the buffet brunch is not to be missed - if for no other reason than sampling what may just be Cambridge's most delicious dim sum.

China Pearl

9 Tyler St, Boston, MA 02111 · 617-426-4338

CHINATOWN. Got a craving for dim sum? China Pearl offers some of Boston's best, and the kitchen consistently turns out scores of enticing goodies, like spareribs with black bean sauce, steamed shrimp dumplings, and baked buns with barbecued pork. The menu also offers Cantonese and Hong-Kong style dishes (braised duck, beef with oyster sauce, abalone and black mushrooms) along with a few "American" Chinese standbys. Prices are great, and regulars come back again and again.

East Ocean City

25 Beach St, Boston, MA 02111 · 617-542-2504

CHINATOWN. At this delicious restaurant, you'll feast on food so authentic that you may require help deciphering the menu! Exquisitely fresh seafood is the focus, popularized in such dishes as shrimp and lobster sashimi. Other delicious selections include soft shell crabs, mussels, and steamed fish. You can also have the talented chefs custom-make a dish for you after you've selected something from the live tank.

Emperor's Garden

CHINATOWN. Once a theater, the ornate building that houses this beloved Chinese eatery has seen its share of stars over the years. No doubt, Emperor's (or Empire's, depending on to whom you speak) Garden is one of the brightest, thanks to its superb Cantonese dishes. The pre-lunch and Sunday brunch crowds find much to laud about the place's imperial dim sum.

Jumbo Seafood

5-9 Hudson St, Boston, MA 02111 · 617-542-2823

CHINATOWN. Jumbo's keyword is "fresh," and the kitchen's ability to get seafood from tank to skillet in no time flat makes a noticeable difference in the quality of the cuisine. The Hong Kong-style menu boasts everything from standard favorites like shrimp to exotic dishes based around sea snails. Order fried calamari, or sample tofu with scallops, scallions, and black bean paste, and you're sure to walk away happy. Open late for folks seeking some Chinese for a midnight snack.

King Fung Garden

74 Kneeland St, Boston, MA 02111 · 617-357-5262

CHINATOWN. Although it's a bit small, this restaurant serves truly authentic Chinese dishes. As a matter of fact, locals can't get enough of the tasty dumplings, beef chow foon, wonton soup, and Shanghai chow mein. If you're in the neighborhood, Kung Fung is a must, but if you need an alcoholic drink with your meal, you'll need to bring it yourself - the spot is BYOB.

New Shanghai

21 Hudson St, Boston, MA 02111 · 617-338-6688

CHINATOWN. If you crave hot, spicy Szechuan-style cuisine, you'll be thrilled by Chinatown favorite, New Shanghai. Entrees make the most of fresh seafood and well-seasoned meats, and notable dishes include five-spice beef, Peking duck , Singapore noodles, and a great selection of dim sum. Daily specials highlight the chef's skills and provide pleasant diversions from the established menu.

Peach Farm

4 Tyler St, Boston, MA 02111 · 617-482-1116

CHINATOWN. This Chinatown restaurant dishes up heaping portions of Hong Kong-style seafood to folks who relish wonderful, well-spiced Asian cuisine. Interesting menu options include sesame-tossed jellyfish, jumbo crab spiced with ginger and scallions, braised chicken hot pot, and salted squid. The knowledgeable, friendly waitstaff contribute to a pleasant experience.

Sichuan Garden

295 Washington St, Brookline, MA 02445 · 617-734-1870

BROOKLINE. Located on Washington Street in Brookline, the Sichuan Garden offers Szechuan food that packs a punch. For starters, try the jellyfish topped with scallion pesto or the steamed dumplings, and then order the General Tso's chicken, Braised Beef with Napa Cabbage, Ma Po Tofu, or smoked duck for your main course. The friendly smiles of the wait staff and the low prices make the food taste even better!

Xinh Xinh

7 Beach St, Boston, MA 02111 · 617-422-0501

CHINATOWN. Make no mistake: It's the food that steals the headlines at this understated gem, hidden away amongst Chinatown's more high-profile restaurants. Delicious takes on Chinese soups and standards like lo mein share menu space with equally outstanding Vietnamese dishes like lemongrass chicken with vermicelli, beef stew or pho. Always friendly, the waitstaff fully embraces first-timers, hoping they depart with a deeper appreciation for the variety Chinatown offers and a new-found love of noodles. A final word: If you're on the look out for something different, try the avocado shake.