Dayton’s Chinese food scene delivers surprising quality and diversity for a mid-sized Ohio city.
From authentic regional specialties to Air Force Base favorites, here’s where locals are getting their dumpling fix in 2025.
1. Taste of China
This unassuming spot in a Kettering strip mall serves the most authentic Sichuan cuisine in the Miami Valley, delivering those perfect numbing-spicy flavors without compromise.
Their mapo tofu brings that ideal balance of heat, numbing Sichuan peppercorns, and savory depth, while their twice-cooked pork with leeks showcases proper wok technique rarely found in Ohio.
2. China Cottage
This local mini-chain has been serving exceptional Chinese food to Dayton families for decades, balancing authentic specialties with well-executed American-Chinese classics.
Their extensive menu includes both familiar comfort foods and traditional dishes rarely found elsewhere in Dayton, satisfying diverse preferences with equal quality.
3. CJ Chan
This Beavercreek favorite delivers authentic Chinese and Japanese cuisine, with their Chinese specialties earning particular praise from those seeking quality beyond standard takeout.
Their hand-folded dumplings feature perfect thin wrappers with juicy fillings, while their extensive menu satisfies diverse preferences from adventurous eaters to those seeking familiar comfort.
4. Tsao’s Cuisine
This Centerville spot specializes in authentic Northern Chinese specialties rarely found elsewhere in the Miami Valley.
Their hand-pulled noodles showcase perfect chewy texture in both soup and dry preparations, while their xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) provide that perfect burst of rich broth.
5. Asian Gourmet
Sometimes you just need that perfect American-Chinese comfort food, and Asian Gourmet 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.
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