A well-organized menu can turn a casual lunch stop into a weekly tradition for local office workers. That is exactly why so many people search for the China Cafe Menu with Prices before they ever walk through the door. Knowing what you will pay and what you can order takes the guesswork out of a busy weekday.
This guide breaks down the current offerings, portion sizes, and price ranges you can expect. We will look at lunch specials, dinner platters, and the sides that make a meal complete. You will also find tips on how to order for a group or a solo desk lunch.
China Cafe Menu With Prices
The menu at China Cafe is built around classic American-Chinese dishes. You will find the usual suspects like General Tso’s chicken and shrimp fried rice. But there are also a few family-style options that are easy to miss if you are in a hurry.
Prices do vary by location, but the ranges below reflect the standard pricing seen in most suburban branches. Always check your local storefront for the final dollar amount. Delivery apps often add a small surcharge to each item, so call ahead if you want the base price.
Appetizers And Small Plates
Starting with a appetizer is a good way to share a little something before the main course. The portions here are generous, so one order is often enough for two people.
- Egg Roll (1 pc) – $1.95
- Spring Roll (2 pcs) – $3.25
- Fried Wontons (8 pcs) – $5.50
- Crab Rangoon (6 pcs) – $6.25
- BBQ Pork Ribs (4 pcs) – $8.95
- Chicken Wings (6 pcs) – $7.50
- Beef on a Stick (2 skewers) – $6.75
If you are feeding a crowd, the Pu Pu Platter is the best value. It comes with a mix of ribs, skewers, wontons, and egg rolls. That platter runs about $14.95 and serves three or four people as a starter.
Soup And Salad Options
Soup is a staple for many regulars. The hot and sour variety has a nice kick without being overpowering. The egg drop soup is smoother and works well for picky eaters.
- Wonton Soup (quart) – $5.95
- Egg Drop Soup (quart) – $4.95
- Hot and Sour Soup (quart) – $5.25
- Chicken Rice Soup (pint) – $3.75
- House Salad – $4.50
- Chicken Salad – $6.95
Most soup orders come with a few crispy noodles on the side. Ask for extra if you like them, they are usually free of charge.
Chef’s Specialties And House Favorites
These dishes are the reason people drive across town. They are cooked to order and often feature a thicker sauce or a spicier rub than the regular lunch items. The prices here reflect the higher quality ingredients.
- General Tso’s Chicken – $12.95
- Orange Beef – $13.50
- Kung Pao Shrimp – $13.95
- Mongolian Beef – $13.25
- Hunan Chicken – $12.50
- Sesame Beef – $13.75
- Dragon and Phoenix (shrimp & chicken) – $14.50
Each dinner order includes a choice of steamed or fried rice. You can swap that for lo mein noodles for an extra $1.50. The sauce is served on the side if you request it, which helps keep the food crispy during delivery.
Chicken And Pork Dishes
For those who like simple preparations, the chicken and pork section offers a lot of variety. These are stir-fried with fresh vegetables and a light sauce. They are not as heavy as the breaded items.
- Chicken with Broccoli – $10.95
- Chicken with Cashews – $11.25
- Sweet and Sour Chicken – $11.50
- Moo Goo Gai Pan – $10.75
- Roast Pork with Vegetables – $10.50
- Twice Cooked Pork – $11.25
- Shredded Pork with Garlic Sauce – $11.00
These dishes are reliable and come with a generous portion of vegetables. The broccoli is usually steamed crisp, not soggy. If you want extra heat, ask for the chili paste on the side.
Beef And Shrimp Entrees
Beef dishes tend to be the priciest on the regular menu. The shrimp options are close behind. Both cook fast, so they are great for takeout if you are in a rush.
- Beef with Snow Peas – $12.25
- Pepper Steak with Onions – $11.95
- Shrimp with Lobster Sauce – $12.50
- Shrimp with Garlic Sauce – $12.25
- Scallops with Vegetables – $14.95
- Curry Shrimp – $12.75
Most locations will let you mix proteins in a stir-fry for a small upcharge. For example, half beef and half shrimp with broccoli costs about $1.00 more than the regular single-protein price.
Lo Mein, Chow Mein, And Fried Rice
Noodle and rice dishes are the backbone of any takeout order. They are filling and reheat well the next day. The portion sizes are large enough for two meals if you are light eater.
- Vegetable Lo Mein – $8.95
- Chicken Lo Mein – $9.95
- Beef Lo Mein – $10.95
- Shrimp Lo Mein – $10.75
- House Special Lo Mein – $11.50
- Vegetable Fried Rice – $8.50
- Chicken Fried Rice – $9.25
- Shrimp Fried Rice – $10.25
- House Special Fried Rice – $10.95
Chow mein is a different dish here, it comes with a thicker gravy and crispy noodles on the side. That option is about the same price as lo mein. If you are counting calories, ask for the steamed rice instead of fried, it is the same price and a bit healthier.
Lunch Specials And Combos
The lunch menu is where you find the best deals. These are served from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM on weekdays. Each combo includes an entree, an egg roll, and your choice of fried rice or white rice.
- Chicken Chow Mein Lunch – $7.25
- Sweet and Sour Pork Lunch – $7.25
- Beef with Broccoli Lunch – $7.95
- Kung Pao Chicken Lunch – $7.50
- Shrimp with Vegetables Lunch – $8.25
- Vegetable Delight Lunch – $6.95
You can upgrade to pork fried rice for 50 cents extra. Soup is not included in the lunch special, but you can add a small cup for $1.25. This is the most economical way to try the China Cafe menu with prices that fit a tight budget.
Family Dinners And Party Trays
If you are feeding a family or hosting a small gathering, the family dinner is a smart move. These are designed for four or more people and include several dishes plus a large container of rice.
- Family Dinner for Two – $24.95
- Family Dinner for Four – $44.50
- Party Tray (Chicken Lo Mein) – $24.00
- Party Tray (Fried Rice) – $22.00
- Party Tray (General Tso’s Chicken) – $35.00
The family dinner for two usually includes one appetizer, two entrees, and fried rice. The for-four option adds a soup and an extra appetizer. Party trays are large aluminum pans that serve about eight people.
Desserts And Drinks
Dessert options are limited but satisfying. The fried banana is a favorite among regulars. Drinks are standard canned sodas and bottled water.
- Fried Banana (4 pcs) – $3.95
- Fortune Cookies (5 pcs) – $1.00
- Almond Cookies (3 pcs) – $2.50
- Canned Soda – $1.75
- Bottled Water – $1.50
- Hot Tea (pot) – $2.25
There is no alcohol served at most China Cafe locations. You are welcome to bring your own beer if the local laws allow it, but check with the staff first.
How To Order For Pickup Or Delivery
Ordering is straightforward, but a few tips can save you time and money.
- Call during off-peak hours, between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM, to avoid a long hold time.
- Ask for the sauce on the side if you are getting delivery, it keeps the food from getting soggy.
- Check if they have a online ordering system, many locations do and it shows the exact China Cafe menu with prices for your area.
- Mention any allergies clearly, the kitchen can usually adjust for peanut or shellfish allergies.
- Have your payment ready if you are paying by card over the phone.
Pickup orders are usually ready in 15 to 20 minutes. Delivery takes about 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic and distance. The delivery fee is often $2.00 to $3.00, and the driver appreciates a small tip.
Vegetarian And Gluten-Free Options
Vegetarians have more choices than you might expect. The tofu dishes are cooked separately from the meat dishes if you request it. Gluten-free eaters need to be careful with soy sauce, but some locations offer a gluten-free tamari substitute.
- Vegetable Delight – $9.50
- Tofu with Mixed Vegetables – $10.25
- Ma Po Tofu (ask for no pork) – $10.50
- Steamed Broccoli with Garlic Sauce – $8.95
- Buddha’s Delight – $10.75
Always tell the person taking your order about dietary restrictions. The kitchen is usually accommodating, but they need a heads-up to avoid cross-contamination.
Price Comparison With Other Local Spots
China Cafe sits in the mid-range for pricing. A typical lunch costs about $8.00, which is cheaper than a sit-down restaurant but slightly more than a food truck. The portions are larger than most competitors, so the value is actually quite good.
Compared to the chain delivery apps, you will save about 15% by ordering direct. The apps also mark up menu prices by 10% to 20% before adding fees. If you have a China Cafe near you, it pays to call them directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does China Cafe Have A Senior Discount?
Yes, many locations offer a 10% discount for customers over 65. You need to ask for it when you order, it is not automatically applied.
Can I Order Just A Side Of Rice?
Absolutely. A pint of steamed rice costs about $2.50 and a quart is $4.00. Fried rice is a bit more at $3.50 for a pint.
Are The Lunch Specials Available On Weekends?
No, the lunch specials are only offered Monday through Friday. On weekends, you pay the regular dinner prices for all menu items.
Do They Accept Credit Cards?
Most locations accept all major credit cards and contactless payments. A few older franchises are cash-only, so it is wise to carry a little cash just in case.
How Spicy Is The Szechuan Chicken?
It is moderately spicy, about a 3 out of 5. If you want it hotter, ask for extra dried chilies or a side of chili oil.
The China Cafe menu with prices is straightforward once you know where to look. The lunch specials are the best deal for solo diners, while the family dinners make sense for groups. Do not be afraid to ask for modifications, the staff is usually happy to adjust a dish to your taste.
Next time you are stuck on what to eat, try the General Tso’s chicken with a side of crab rangoon. It is a classic combo for a reason. And if you have a favorite dish that is not listed here, just ask, they might make it for you anyway.
Remember to check your local menu before ordering, since prices can shift slightly based on location and supply costs. But the overall structure and portion sizes will be very similar to what is described above. Enjoy your meal, and do not forget the extra napkins.