5 Best Chinese Restaurants in Knoxville, Tennessee to Try

Home to the stadium, massive malls, and a truly multicultural spirit, Arlington’s Chinese restaurants are mirror to the city’s dynamic energy.

Here, authentic hand-pulled noodles and Cantonese BBQ coexist alongside classic takeout and fusion pubs: a recipe for endless flavor and discovery.

1. Jin’s Sichuan House

Jin’s is where spice-lovers and foodies convene.

Specializing in bold Sichuan flavors, the restaurant is a feast for the senses: chili oil-laced dan dan noodles, spicy crispy chicken, and silky mapo tofu buzzing with numbing peppercorns.

The colorfully-decorated dining room buzzes with families, UT Arlington students, and adventurous locals—not least when the sizzling hot pots, bubbling with beef and lamb, hit the tables on chilly nights.

Service is attentive and staff are happy to recommend dishes for every spice-level, making it the area’s top spot for Chinese heat.

2. First Chinese BBQ

Hands down the place for Cantonese BBQ: lacquered roast duck, juicy char siu pork, and plates of crisp-skinned roast pork with soft rice and mustard greens on the side.

The menu is enormous; beyond BBQ, you’ll find comfort fare like beef chow fun and creamy scrambled eggs with shrimp.

The open kitchen lets you watch the action, and families gather here for both special occasions and regular Sunday brunches. If you’re serious about traditional Chinese flavors, don’t miss this spot.

3. Pei Wei Asian Diner

Pei Wei brings a modern, quick-casual vibe to Chinese-American dining, offering fresh, customized stir fry and noodle bowls in a bright, contemporary space.

The lettuce wraps, honey-seared chicken, and spicy Thai basil dishes are perennial favorites, and the build-your-own-bowl setup is great for picky eaters and dietary restrictions.

It’s fast, consistently delicious, and perfect for busy families or quick solo meals.

4. Xian Sushi & Noodle

Much more than its name suggests, Xian is Arlington’s go-to for hand-pulled noodles and the best dumplings in town.

Watch chefs stretch and slap noodles behind the glass, then order them stir-fried, swimming in broth, or smothered in thick Szechuan oil. Dumplings come in variety: pork, shrimp, veggie, pan-fried or steamed.

With contemporary décor and a Japanese menu alongside the Chinese, it’s always buzzing with energy, especially during lunch and dinner rushes. The bubble tea bar keeps younger diners happy too.

5. Golden China

The city’s classic takeout joint, Golden China is an anchor of Arlington’s American-Chinese scene: big combos, reasonable prices, and a menu that covers all cravings—sweet & sour, Gen Tso’s, egg foo young, and fried rice that feeds a family.

Order for delivery or settle into a corner booth; either way, you get friendly service and food hot off the wok.

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