Buffet-style Chinese restaurants often list a la carte prices alongside their all-you-can-eat options for flexibility. If you are looking for the China Max menu with prices, you probably want to know what a single dish costs before you commit to the buffet line. This guide breaks down the current pricing structure, popular dishes, and how to get the best value for your money.
China Max operates in a few locations, and the menu can shift slightly depending on the day and time. However, the core items remain consistent across the board. We have gathered typical price points based on recent visits and standard market rates, so you have a reliable reference before you walk in the door.
China Max Menu With Prices
Below you will find the standard categories you can expect at the counter. The prices listed here are for the regular lunch and dinner service. Keep in mind that seafood items and chef specials often carry a higher tag than the standard chicken or pork dishes.
Appetizers And Small Plates
These are perfect if you want a quick bite or a side dish to share. The portions are generous, so you might not need a full entree if you grab two of these.
- Egg Roll (1 piece) – $1.95
- Spring Roll (2 pieces) – $2.50
- Crab Rangoon (6 pieces) – $5.25
- Fried or Steamed Dumplings (6 pieces) – $6.75
- BBQ Pork Slices – $8.50
- Chicken Wings (6 pieces) – $7.25
- Wonton Soup (bowl) – $3.50
- Hot and Sour Soup (bowl) – $3.50
- Egg Drop Soup (bowl) – $3.25
Chef Specials And Large Plates
These are the dishes you order when you want a full meal with rice on the side. Most entrees come with a choice of steamed or fried rice. The prices below reflect the standard portion size for one person.
- General Tso’s Chicken – $12.95
- Orange Chicken – $12.95
- Kung Pao Chicken – $12.50
- Sesame Chicken – $12.95
- Mongolian Beef – $14.50
- Beef with Broccoli – $13.95
- Shrimp with Lobster Sauce – $15.75
- Sweet and Sour Pork – $12.25
- House Special Chow Mein – $11.95
- Vegetable Delight – $10.50
- Moo Shu Pork (with pancakes) – $13.25
Combo Plates
Combo plates are the best way to get a full meal without ordering sides separately. They usually include an entree, an egg roll, and your choice of rice. This is often a better deal than ordering the entree alone.
- Chicken Chow Mein Combo – $10.95
- Sweet and Sour Chicken Combo – $11.25
- Beef Pepper Steak Combo – $12.95
- Shrimp Fried Rice Combo – $13.50
- Vegetable Lo Mein Combo – $9.95
Fried Rice And Noodle Dishes
If you are skipping the buffet, these staples are filling and budget-friendly. You can often add extra protein for a small upcharge.
- Vegetable Fried Rice – $8.95
- Chicken Fried Rice – $10.25
- Pork Fried Rice – $10.25
- Beef Fried Rice – $11.50
- Shrimp Fried Rice – $12.50
- House Special Fried Rice – $12.95
- Singapore Rice Noodles – $11.75
- Pad Thai (Chinese style) – $11.50
Desserts And Drinks
Dessert options are limited at most locations, but you can usually grab a fortune cookie or a canned soda. Some locations offer fried ice cream on the weekends.
- Fortune Cookies (2 pieces) – $0.50
- Canned Soda – $1.75
- Bottled Water – $1.50
- Fried Ice Cream – $4.50
Buffet Pricing Vs. A La Carte
The buffet price is the main draw for most customers. However, you need to know the difference between the weekday lunch price and the weekend dinner price. The gap can be significant.
Here is the typical breakdown for the all-you-can-eat option:
- Monday to Friday Lunch (11:00 AM – 3:30 PM) – $12.99 per adult
- Monday to Thursday Dinner (3:30 PM – Close) – $16.99 per adult
- Friday Dinner (3:30 PM – Close) – $18.99 per adult
- Saturday and Sunday All Day – $18.99 per adult
- Children (Ages 4-10) – $7.99 to $9.99 depending on the time
- Children (Under 3) – Free
Senior citizens usually get a 10% discount on the buffet price. You should ask the cashier about this before you pay, as they do not always apply it automatically.
When To Choose The Buffet
The buffet is the better choice if you are very hungry or if you want to try multiple items. You can sample the fried chicken, the sushi rolls, and the mongolian grill station all in one sitting.
However, the buffet is not always the smartest financial move. If you only want a small plate of noodles or a single entree, the a la carte menu is cheaper. You also avoid the temptation to overeat just to get your money’s worth.
When To Order From The Menu
Ordering from the menu makes sense if you are dining alone or if you want a specific dish that is not on the buffet line. The buffet often rotates items, so your favorite dish might not be available that day. Ordering a la carte guarantees you get exactly what you want.
Another reason to order from the menu is for takeout. The buffet is all-you-can-eat for dine-in customers only. You cannot fill a to-go box from the buffet line. You must order from the regular menu for takeout, and the prices listed above apply.
How To Save Money At China Max
You can lower your bill with a few simple strategies. The first is to go during lunch hours on a weekday. The price difference between lunch and dinner is usually around four dollars per person.
Another tip is to skip the drinks. A soda costs almost two dollars, and water is free. If you are on a budget, stick with water to save a few bucks.
Here are some other ways to reduce your total:
- Check for online coupons on the official website or local deal apps.
- Ask if they offer a military or student discount.
- Share a combo plate with a friend if you have a small appetite.
- Order the lunch portion of an entree if available (usually smaller and cheaper).
- Skip the appetizers if you are getting the buffet, as they fill you up quickly.
Popular Dishes Worth Trying
If you are overwhelmed by the menu, start with the crowd favorites. The General Tso’s Chicken is usually the most popular item on the menu. It has a sweet and slightly spicy glaze with a crispy texture.
The Crab Rangoon is another must-try. The cream cheese filling is smooth, and the wrapper is fried to a golden brown. You get six pieces for a reasonable price.
For something lighter, the Beef with Broccoli is a safe bet. The beef is tender, and the broccoli is still crisp. The brown sauce is savory without being too salty.
What About The Sushi Bar?
Some China Max locations have a sushi bar included in the buffet price. This is a great value if you like sushi. You can get California rolls, spicy tuna rolls, and nigiri without paying extra.
However, the sushi is not always available during weekday lunches. If you specifically want sushi, call ahead to confirm that the sushi bar is open. The quality is decent for a buffet, but do not expect high-end fish.
Location Differences In Pricing
Prices can vary slightly between the different China Max locations. The ones in higher-rent areas or tourist zones tend to be a dollar or two more expensive. The core menu items stay the same, but the specials might differ.
You should always check the menu board at the specific location you plan to visit. The prices listed on third-party delivery apps are often higher than the in-store prices. This is because the apps charge a service fee that gets passed on to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions people have about the pricing and menu options.
Does China Max have a lunch menu with lower prices?
Yes, the lunch buffet is cheaper than the dinner buffet on weekdays. The a la carte menu also has a lunch portion for some items, which is smaller and costs less. You can ask the cashier for the lunch menu if it is before 3:30 PM.
Are the prices on the China Max menu with prices the same for takeout?
Generally, yes. The takeout prices are the same as the dine-in a la carte prices. However, you might be charged a small fee for extra sauce or for splitting an entree into two boxes. The buffet price is only for dine-in.
Is there a discount for children at China Max?
Yes, children between the ages of 4 and 10 get a reduced buffet price. Children under 3 eat free. The discount is applied automatically, but you should mention the child’s age to the cashier to avoid any confusion.
Can I order just a side of rice from the China Max menu with prices?
Yes, you can order a small side of steamed or fried rice. A pint of steamed rice is usually around $2.50, and a pint of fried rice is about $3.50. This is a good option if you want to stretch a larger entree.
Does the buffet price include drinks?
No, the buffet price does not include drinks. Beverages are sold separately. Some locations offer a self-serve soda fountain, while others have waitstaff take your drink order. Water is usually free if you ask for a cup.
Final Thoughts On Pricing
The China Max menu with prices is straightforward once you understand the difference between the buffet and the a la carte options. The buffet is a good deal for big eaters, while the menu is better for those who want a specific dish or a lighter meal.
Always check the daily specials board when you walk in. Sometimes they have a featured dish at a reduced price that is not listed on the standard menu. This can be a great way to try something new without spending extra money.
Remember that the prices mentioned here are estimates based on standard market rates. You should confirm the exact prices at the register before ordering. The staff is usually happy to tell you the current cost of any item.
If you are visiting for the first time, start with the buffet. This gives you a chance to sample the cooking style and figure out which dishes you like best. On your next visit, you can order those dishes a la carte and avoid paying for the buffet if you are not that hungry.
The portions at China Max are large. Do not order too much food at once. You can always go back to the buffet line for more, but you cannot return food that you have already taken. Take your time and enjoy the meal.
One last tip: go during off-peak hours if you can. The food is fresher, and the lines are shorter. You will have a better experience overall, and you can take your time reading the menu board without feeling rushed.