Utah’s capital is on the culinary map for its fresh flavors, and the Chinese restaurants here are a true representation—fusing mountain-town hospitality and inventive cooking with a deep love for tradition.
The five spots below have become part of the city’s heartbeat, keeping tourists, families, and local university students well fed and delighted.
1. Little World
This humble spot is named for its philosophy: truly good food can shrink the world to a small, happy table.
Little World is famous citywide for wok hay (“the breath of the wok”) that flavors their crispy beef, smoky fried rice, and ultra-fresh bok choy with garlic.
The roast duck and multi-course Cantonese seafood feasts draw extended families on weekends, while weekday crowds stop in for bargain lunch plates. The decor is basic, but the aromas and the buzz of happy eaters instantly transports you.
2. Red Maple
Consistently ranked as one of Utah’s best for dim sum, Red Maple offers a transportive Hong Kong-style experience, especially on weekends.
Tiny plates of shumai, turnip cakes, and chicken feet glide past, and the bustling atmosphere is pure joy.
The regular menu is equally strong: the orange beef, Peking duck, and assorted clay pots are staples for multigenerational gatherings.
Servers excel at recommending new dishes to diners seeking adventure or comfort.
3. Asian Star
A white-tablecloth, slightly upscale setting distinguishes Asian Star, but the food remains warmly familiar: Mongolian lamb, sizzling rice soup, salt-and-pepper shrimp, and fragrant vegetable dishes.
The lunch crowd is mostly professionals, while dinner sees multi-generational families and couples seeking something special. The famously light batter and seasoning strategy make even the fried dishes feel fresh.
4. Sichuan Garden
As Salt Lake’s best place for spicy Chinese, Sichuan Garden delivers next-level mala (spicy-numbing) flavor in mapo tofu, dry-fried green beans, dan dan noodles, and spicy fish hot pot.
Students, spice chasers, and homesick transplants rave about both the authenticity and the warm, generous staff.
Try the cumin lamb or spicy eggplant—these are dishes that stick in your memory and your cravings.
5. Golden Dragon
For quick takeout, familiar flavors, and dependable comfort food, Golden Dragon is unbeatable.
Their sesame chicken, lo mein, and egg drop soup are local classics, and lunch specials are big enough for two meals.
Busy families love the fast, friendly service, and the kitchen’s willingness to cater to special diets is much appreciated.
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