Boston is home to an abundance of Chinese restaurants. Whether you’re craving sizzling platters of spiced meats coated in sauce, a bowl of mouth-numbing Szechuan noodles, or simple dumplings and cocktails for a meet-up with friends, there’s something for everyone when you book at a best Chinese restaurant in Boston.
Treat yourself to dinner and dancing in Brookline. Enjoy award-winning Southwestern Chinese cuisine in the South End or a steaming hot pot experience in the Theater District.
Book a table at a best Chinese restaurant in Boston on OpenTable today.
Read on to discover the 6 best Chinese restaurants in Boston right now.
For comforting Chinese flavors and other Asian cuisine options — check out Mr. Chan’s (Milton)
At Mr. Chan’s in Milton, expect classic Chinese dishes and other Asian favorites served in a modern, unpretentious setting. Start with Peking ravioli and wonton soup before moving on to savory family-style mains like Szechuan-spiced beef and sweet and sour pork. There are even Thai and Korean-inspired dishes on the menu for those who want to try a variety of flavors. Dark wood floors and furniture create a cozy ambiance fitting for a date night or weeknight outing.
For traditional Dian cuisine from an acclaimed chef at a best Chinese restaurant in Boston — book a table at Yunnan Kitchen (South End)
Chef-owner and James Beard nominee Yisha Siu brings bold flavors to Yunnan Kitchen. Specializing in Dian-style cuisine, the menu stars earthy dishes like stuffed lemongrass tilapia and boiled pork in chili oil that transport you straight to Southwest China. Small plates like stir-fried rice cakes are made for sharing while sipping on a refreshing sake and honey cocktail. The cozy dining room only fits about 50 people, so reservations are a must.
For classic Chinese cuisine with late-night hours, a live DJ, and dancing — head over to Golden Temple (Brookline)
After over 60 years in business, Golden Temple is practically a Brookline institution. Part restaurant and part cocktail lounge, the restaurant features an expansive menu filled with Chinese classics like sweet and sticky spare ribs and crispy roast duck. The sleek, stylish interior, with glowing lanterns and cozy booths, makes the meal feel upscale. If you want more late-night vibes, head to the restaurant’s E Room bar for creative cocktails, a live DJ, and dancing on the weekends.
For reliable Chinese food near Boston Common — try P.F. Chang’s (Back Bay)
P.F. Chang’s is beloved for its top-notch Chinese food, and the Back Bay outpost is no exception. Come here for the restaurant’s fan favorites dishes ranging from the famous lettuce wraps to Mongolian beef and handmade dumplings. The restaurant’s extensive menu also features other Asian dishes and a kid’s dishes, making this a great option for families and groups. If you’re drinking, wash it all down with a signature lychee martini or a chilled glass of sake.
For a comforting hot pot at a best Chinese restaurant in Boston — reserve a table at The Q Restaurant (Theater District)
At The Q Restaurant, enjoy interactive hot pot and other Asian cuisine. You can choose your broth and cook everything from meats to fresh vegetables right at your table. The restaurant also serves Japanese and Thai dishes like sushi and pad Thai. The sleek, contemporary dining room with glowing lights and chic decor makes it a moody spot for a lively group dinner or date night. Don’t skip the inventive cocktail list, which highlights Asian ingredients like Thai green chilis.
For Indian-meets-Chinese cuisine at a best Chinese restaurant in Boston — check out Mumbai Spice (Back Bay)
At Mumbai Spice, Chinese cuisine gets a bold, Indian-inspired twist that’s both unexpected and unforgettable. The menu is an eclectic mix of traditional Indian dishes like tikka masala, Mumbai street food, and Chinese fusion plates like Indian noodles tossed in a spicy Szechuan sauce. The sleek, colorful space buzzes with energy, making it ideal for a lively dinner with friends. Pair your meal with a refreshing mango lassi or explore the spice-forward cocktail menu.
Whether you’re in the mood for a steaming and flavorful DIY hot pot experience or some saucy noodles and proteins, there are dozens of Chinese restaurants in Boston worth checking out. But the most popular ones fill up quickly. So be sure to save time by planning ahead.
Grab a seat at a best Chinese restaurant in Boston by booking ahead on OpenTable today.
To discover more noteworthy dining options in Boston, check out these guides:
- 10 top steakhouses in Boston
- The 9 best vegetarian-friendly restaurants in Boston to book now
- 9 standout Italian restaurants in Boston
- 13 quintessential date night restaurants in Boston
Esther Carlstone is a travel and food writer based in Los Angeles. Her work has appeared in publications such as Travel + Leisure, Lonely Planet, Forbes, Tripadvisor, Insider, and more. Follow her on Instagram @familyfieldtrip.
