Newport News offers surprising Chinese food diversity for a mid-sized Virginia city.
From authentic regional specialties to Naval Base favorites, here’s where locals are getting their dumpling fix in 2025.
1. Peter Chang China Café
Celebrity chef Peter Chang’s Newport News outpost delivers authentic Sichuan cuisine that’s earned national recognition for its bold flavors and technical excellence.
His famous dry-fried eggplant with that perfect crispy exterior and cumin-infused lamb with those numbing Sichuan peppercorns showcase regional specialties rarely found in Virginia.
2. Peking Restaurant (continued)
This Newport News institution has been serving exceptional Chinese food to generations of locals, evolving with the city’s changing tastes while maintaining beloved classics.
Their Peking duck (order ahead) comes with all the traditional accompaniments and perfectly lacquered skin that showcases the kitchen’s technical skill.
3. Golden Palace
This Denbigh favorite delivers authentic dim sum that draws weekend crowds from throughout the Peninsula.
Their har gow with translucent wrappers and sweet shrimp filling show impressive technique, while their BBQ pork buns achieve that perfect balance of fluffy dough and savory filling.
Beyond dim sum, their extensive Cantonese menu features excellent seafood specialties that showcase traditional techniques.
4. Red Pearl
Sometimes you just need that perfect American-Chinese comfort food, and Red Pearl delivers exactly that with exceptional quality.
Their General Tso’s chicken has that perfect balance of crispy, sweet, and spicy elements, while their crab rangoon might not be authentic, but they’re perfectly crispy with that creamy filling that everyone secretly loves.
5. Bay Seafood Chinese
This innovative concept combines traditional Chinese techniques with Chesapeake Bay seafood in a waterfront setting that celebrates Newport News’ maritime heritage.
Their salt-and-pepper blue crab showcases local catch through a Cantonese lens, while their steamed fish preparations change based on the day’s fresh offerings.
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