It’s Friday night. You could spend your evening scrolling through endless delivery apps, debating between the same three familiar options – or you could discover authentic Chinese cuisine right here in Novato. You need a place that’s weekend-ready, though: reliably delicious, worth the trip, and welcoming enough for both adventurous eaters and classic dish lovers. Here are 10 of our top picks for exceptional Chinese dining.
Panda Express
$ | (415) 892-2163 | WEBSITE
Few things are better in the middle of your week (or anytime, really) than a quick and relatively healthy meal, and this Chinese restaurant in Novato has one of our favorites. It also has options that are a lot more interesting than what you’ll find at your typical fast-food spot. Order their Chile Fried Shrimp, which is a popular dish, or a salad so fresh and excellent it could easily satisfy any craving.
Because Panda Express understands that sometimes you want to eat something that seems less indulgent than orange chicken.
Chinatown Restaurant
$ | (707) 763-7057 | WEBSITE
Chinatown Restaurant is exactly where you want to be after a long day at work. The friendly service and relaxed atmosphere make it welcoming, and the Chinese food is delicious across the board. Get the hot and sour soup, the Kung Pao chicken, some Sweet and Sour pork, or whatever else appeals – it will all be very, very good. And you’ll enjoy it even more if you’re sitting in the clean, tasteful dining room.
Lily Kai Chinese Cuisine
$ | (707) 782-1132 | WEBSITE
Speaking of Chinese food, it’s the focus at Lily Kai Chinese Cuisine in Novato. There are a number of different dishes, and they all work really well. The classic (like General’s Chicken or BBQ Pork Chow Mein) tastes like what you might imagine a reliable neighborhood Chinese spot to be, but there are also more complex options, like the Sichuan eggplant or yellow curry that’s delicious, if very flavorful.
The space is surprisingly spacious, with clean tables, booths, and a well-organized dining area. Come here with your family, or even just by yourself for a quick meal.
Canton
$ | (707) 778-8000 | WEBSITE
This family-run spot in Petaluma serves a menu of authentic Chinese dishes that have been consistently delicious for over 14 years. Gather with family and share a few favorites, along with some plates of crispy (and reasonably priced) orange chicken and crab Rangoons. Ordering takeout for a quiet night in is also a great idea.
Little Mandarin
$ | (415) 485-0888 | WEBSITE
Little Mandarin knows you want generous portions without breaking the bank. So they deliver exactly that, a Novato staple that has been serving the community for over two decades. The concise menu features standout dishes like garlic chicken, mandarin chicken with beef, and walnut prawn, plus beef chao fen and various chow mein options. Stick with the classics for a satisfying meal, or try the Mongolian beef spicy with steamed rice if you’re looking for something the regulars swear by.
The waitstaff are generally friendly, though they can occasionally come across as a bit abrupt. The overall vibe brings back childhood memories for many, with the owner and staff creating a welcoming atmosphere that keeps people coming back.
HuLu Wa Cuisine
$ | (415) 479-5838 | WEBSITE
When you want to have a miniature Saturday night in the middle of your week, go to HuLu Wa Cuisine in Novato. It has a cozy dining room and a clean, quiet atmosphere, and while the space is welcoming, you still won’t feel like you’re out having dinner in a crowded spot. Order a few dishes like the beef chow fun or Shanghai dumplings from the classic Chinese menu. The servers are really friendly, and will help you forget that your work week isn’t over yet.
Uncle Wing’s Restaurant
$ | (415) 459-2212 | WEBSITE
Uncle Wing’s Restaurant is a Chinese spot in Novato with a focus on classic comfort dishes (like potstickers and kung pao chicken) and fantastic beef broccoli. But our favorite things here are the consistent staples, like sweet & sour prawns and wonton soup with generous portions. They maintain a down-to-earth vibe, so while you’ll still feel like you’re eating in a cozy, intimate dining room, it’s now a dining room with an excellent chef at the helm.
Yet Wah Restaurant
$ | (415) 460-9883 | WEBSITE
Yet Wah Restaurant is a well-regarded Chinese spot serving satisfying meals in Novato. The space is mainly at tables, in those comfortable booths that invite lingering. Stop here for the almond pressed duck, or the honey walnut shrimp with crispy batter. Sit facing the late-night Marin streets and get some people-watching in before you head home to your couch.
China Villa
$$ | (415) 453-2468 | WEBSITE
This Novato spot is one of our favorite Chinese restaurants in the entire area. It serves authentic Chinese-American classics, cooked with care until the flavors are perfectly balanced in every bite. You can’t go wrong with any of the dishes here, and the space feels quiet and welcoming no matter how busy it gets. If you can score some takeout for a cozy night in, even better.
China House
$ | (415) 897-9630 | WEBSITE
We’re still trying to find a day of the week when we don’t crave China House. It feels like a reliable neighborhood spot, and it’s ideal for grabbing takeout for the whole family. All of their dishes are flavorful, but the best strategy is to go with options that stand out, like the pork chop with its mystery ingredient and onions. And you’re going to need an order of potstickers every time. Trust us on that.