VIRGINIA - Virginia is a culinary powerhouse, particularly in Northern Virginia (part of the DMV region) and the Hampton Roads area, both of which host exceptional Chinese dining scenes. From world-class Peking Duck to authentic Sichuan fire and hand-pulled noodles, here is a list of 10 must-visit Chinese restaurants across the Commonwealth.
1. Peking Gourmet Inn (Falls Church)
A legendary establishment in Northern Virginia, this restaurant has been a staple since 1978 and is frequently recognized as the best Chinese restaurant in the state. They pride themselves on a classic, refined Northern Chinese experience.
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Specialty: Their iconic Peking Duck, carved tableside and served with house-made hoisin sauce and unique, homegrown jumbo spring onions.
2. Peter Chang (Multiple Locations)
Chef Peter Chang is a culinary celebrity known for his vibrant and authentic Hunan and Sichuan dishes. His Virginia locations consistently draw high praise for their complex flavors and genuine authenticity.
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Specialty: Dry-Fried Eggplant, Scallion Bubble Pancake, and the Bamboo Fish.
3. Mama Chang (Fairfax)
Owned by Chef Peter Chang, his wife, Lisa Chang, and his daughter, Lydia Chang, this restaurant is a more intimate, family-focused venue celebrating the family's favorite Hunan and Hubei regional dishes.
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Specialty: Ganghood Fried Chicken, Three Pepper Beef Tenderloin, and the comforting home-style noodles.
4. Judy's Sichuan Cuisine (Virginia Beach)
A favorite in the Hampton Roads area, Judy's is highly lauded for delivering authentic, fiery Sichuan cuisine that rivals the best spots in Northern Virginia.
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Specialty: Spicy Kung Pao Chicken and various fried tofu dishes with chili peppers.
5. Mark's Duck House (Falls Church)
A longtime Cantonese dining staple in Northern Virginia, Mark's Duck House is famous for its dim sum and classic roasted meats.
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Specialty: Weekend cart Dim Sum (steamed scallop dumplings, taro puffs) and their highly praised Peking Duck.
6. Yu Noodles (Multiple Locations, Northern VA)
This casual chain, with several locations across Northern Virginia, specializes in the spicy, complex noodle soups of Chongqing.
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Specialty: Hand-pulled noodles, Yibin Spicy Dry Noodle, and spicy pork soup dumplings.
7. Guangdong Taste (Virginia Beach)
This hidden gem is celebrated for providing a truly authentic Cantonese experience in the Hampton Roads area, offering dishes rarely found in typical American Chinese restaurants.
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Specialty: Traditional Cantonese cuisine, excellent congee, and fresh seafood preparations.
8. Hot Peppercorn Asian Cuisine & Bar (Springfield)
Focusing on the mouth-numbing heat of Sichuan cooking, this popular spot also offers a wide array of excellent dim sum dishes served all day.
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Specialty: Laziji (spicy chicken with chili and Sichuan peppercorn) and various mala dry hot pots.
9. Songbird (Fairfax)
A modern take on the Chinese-American concept, Songbird offers an elevated dining experience with inventive cocktails and high-quality versions of familiar favorites.
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Specialty: Excellent General Tso's Chicken and a hip atmosphere.
10. Nanjing Bistro (Fairfax)
Bringing the unique comfort food of Jiangsu province to Northern Virginia, Nanjing Bistro stands out for its regional specialties.
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Specialty: Gingery, crisp-bottomed pork buns and the oversized Nanjing-style meatballs served over glass noodles.
