5 Best Chinese Restaurants in Saint Paul, Minnesota to Try

Embedded in the Twin Cities’ diverse culinary culture, Saint Paul’s Chinese restaurants reflect the area’s mix of old Scandinavian neighborhoods, universities, and a thriving Hmong and East Asian community.

Here, blustery winters and riverside strolls yield to piping hot bowls of noodles, lively dim sum brunches, and dining rooms humming with the sounds of family.

1. Little Szechuan

Little Szechuan is an institution—packed on weekends and always buzzing with foodies, grad students, and families seeking bold, authentic flavors.

Standouts include the spicy mapo tofu, cumin lamb, crispy whole fish, and lightning-hot dry-fried chicken.

The room often steams with the aroma of garlic and chili oil, and staff are lightning-fast at recommending dishes for first-timers or spicing things just right.

Best enjoyed family style and with adventurous friends.

2. Sui Yep Cafe

This unassuming gem on Rice Street has been nourishing Saint Paul for decades.

It’s a cozy, two-generation operation with an American-Chinese menu that echoes neighborhood nostalgia—think pork fried rice, egg rolls, sesame chicken, beef lo mein, and portions meant for sharing.

Staff know repeat visitors’ names and swap family stories with older regulars seated by the window.

As beloved as the food is the feeling: a true “home away from home.”

3. Hunan Garden

A mainstay for family celebrations, Hunan Garden’s mild yet flavorful dishes make it appealing to every generation.

Go for the egg foo young, ginger beef, moo shu pork, and house-special fried rice, perfect for a cold Minnesota night.

The dining room’s plush booths are perfect for big groups; servers are both efficient and friendly, making sure even introverts feel at ease.

4. Tea House

One of the Twin Cities’ most sophisticated Asian restaurants, Tea House infuses Chinese classics with a metropolitan touch—Szechuan hotpots for sharing, bamboo steamer baskets with pork dumplings, and specialty seafood brought in fresh.

The wine list is distinct, service is well-paced, and the art-lined walls give every meal a sense of occasion.

5. Panda Express

From Highland Park to shopping strips on the city’s east side, Saint Paul’s Pandas are quick fixes, consistent favorites. Orange chicken, Beijing beef, veggie sides, and egg rolls draw busy students and workers, while play areas and cheerful counter staff keep kids (and parents) smiling.