Top 10 Must-Try Chinese Dishes at Wa Lung Kitchen

New York City is known for its culinary diversity, but few experiences compare to discovering an authentic, time-honored Chinese restaurant that serves food from the heart. At Wa Lung Kitchen, we’ve proudly served traditional Cantonese and Chinese-American favorites to the Lower East Side community since 1979. With over 40 years of heritage and flavor, we’ve built a loyal following by combining rich family recipes with friendly service and generous portions.

Whether you’re a regular or visiting us for the first time, here are the top 10 must-try Chinese dishes that truly represent the flavor and tradition of Wa Lung Kitchen.

1. General Tso’s Chicken – A Sweet and Spicy Favorite

No list of must-try Chinese dishes is complete without General Tso’s Chicken. Our version features crispy chunks of white meat chicken, flash-fried to golden perfection, then coated in a tangy, slightly spicy sauce made with garlic, soy sauce, sugar, and vinegar.

Despite its American origin, this dish has become a staple of Chinese takeout menus across the U.S.—and ours stands out for its rich flavor, fresh ingredients, and perfect balance of crunch and glaze.

Perfect Pairing: Steamed white rice or pork fried rice.

2. Beef with Broccoli – A Classic for a Reason

Tender slices of marinated beef are wok-tossed with crisp, green broccoli in a rich, garlicky brown sauce. It’s hearty, healthy, and satisfying without being heavy. This dish is often the first introduction to Chinese cuisine for many people—and ours delivers bold flavor and a satisfying portion every time.

Here is an alt text for the image: Beef steak with broccoli and carrots

Did You Know? Broccoli isn’t traditionally used in Chinese cooking. Gai Lan (Chinese broccoli) is the original, but American broccoli offers a similar crunch and sweetness.

3. Shrimp with Lobster Sauce – A Seafood Favorite

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A Cantonese specialty, Shrimp with Lobster Sauce doesn’t actually contain lobster—it refers to the lobster-style sauce made with garlic, ginger, eggs, scallions, and a savory broth thickened with cornstarch.

Our version features plump, juicy shrimp bathed in this silky, aromatic sauce, perfect for spooning over a bowl of rice.

Light but luxurious, it’s a favorite among seafood lovers and one of our most-ordered dishes.

4. Roast Pork Fried Rice – The Comfort Classic

Wa Lung Kitchen’s Roast Pork Fried Rice is a fan favorite. We start with day-old rice—ideal for that perfect, slightly chewy texture—then stir-fry it with eggs, peas, carrots, scallions, and our house-made Chinese roast pork.

Noodles and meat with a soft-serve swirl

What sets ours apart is the depth of umami flavor from the pork, which is marinated and slow-cooked to perfection. This dish can easily stand alone as a complete meal or be served as a side to your entrée.

5. Chicken Lo Mein – Noodle Lovers’ Delight

Soft, chewy egg noodles are stir-fried with marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and a savory soy-based sauce. Our Chicken Lo Mein is rich in both flavor and texture—ideal for anyone who loves a well-balanced, comforting noodle dish.

Why it’s popular: It’s filling, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned. Plus, it reheats well—making it a top pick for leftovers.

6. Hot & Sour Soup – Bold, Warm, and Comforting

Perfect for chilly NYC days or when you’re under the weather, our Hot & Sour Soup is a flavorful blend of tofu, mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and egg ribbons in a tangy, peppery broth. This dish offers the ideal balance of heat and acidity.

It’s a go-to for many of our regulars who want something lighter but still packed with authentic Chinese flavor.

7. Egg Rolls – Crispy on the Outside, Flavorful Inside

No Chinese meal feels complete without an egg roll. Our egg rolls are freshly made, filled with cabbage, pork, and seasonings, then deep-fried to golden, crispy perfection. Served with sweet and sour sauce, these make the ideal starter or side.

A detailed view of a serving of crispy egg rolls. The rolls have a beautifully textured, golden-brown surface dotted with sesame seeds and bright green onion pieces. They are presented on white parchment paper, highlighting their appealing color and texture.

Pro Tip: Order a few extra—they’re addictive!

8. Sesame Chicken – Sweet, Nutty, and Irresistible

Think of Sesame Chicken as General Tso’s milder cousin. It’s deep-fried chicken coated in a sticky, sweet sesame sauce and topped with toasted sesame seeds. This dish is a crowd-pleaser for adults and kids alike.

Its combination of crunch, sweetness, and nuttiness makes it one of our most frequently ordered items.

Great for: Sharing with family or pairing with fried rice for a satisfying combo.

9. Moo Goo Gai Pan – Light and Fresh Cantonese Favorite

Moo Goo Gai Pan is a great pick for diners looking for something mild, wholesome, and veggie-forward. It features sliced chicken breast stir-fried with mushrooms, snow peas, carrots, and water chestnuts in a delicate white sauce.

This is a classic Cantonese dish that prioritizes freshness and clean flavor over spice.

10. Boneless Spare Ribs – Sweet, Smoky, and Savory

Our Boneless Spare Ribs are one of the hidden gems of the menu. We marinate thick strips of pork in a blend of soy sauce, Chinese spices, and hoisin sauce before grilling them to smoky perfection.