I love Chinese food, and Bend, Oregon has some great options. As a local, I’ve tried many spots around town. There’s nothing quite like biting into a crispy egg roll or slurping up some savory noodles after a day of outdoor adventures.
The top 5 Chinese restaurants in Bend offer tasty dishes and generous portions. I’m excited to share my favorites with you. Whether you’re craving dumplings, fried rice, or a steaming bowl of soup, these places have you covered. Let’s dig into the best Chinese food Bend has to offer!
1. JIA Asian Street Kitchen
I recently visited JIA Asian Street Kitchen and was blown away by the experience. The restaurant’s decor transported me to the vibrant street markets of Asia, with lush greenery and a stunning cherry blossom tree.
The menu is a delightful mix of flavors from Vietnam, China, and Thailand. I loved how the dishes are served family-style, perfect for sharing with friends. The chefs’ heritage shines through in every bite, making the food feel authentic and special.
JIA’s bar caught my eye with its creative cocktails. I sipped on a tasty drink while admiring the giant moon hanging overhead. It’s a great spot for both lunch and dinner, with a cozy atmosphere that suits any occasion.
The staff was friendly and helpful, making me feel right at home. I can’t wait to go back and try more of their mouthwatering dishes. JIA has quickly become one of my top picks for Asian cuisine in Bend.
Rating: 4.7 (193 reviews)
Location: 19570 Amber Meadow Dr #100, Bend, OR 97702
Contact: (541) 241-7172
Website: Visit Website
2. Chan’s Of Bend
I recently had the pleasure of dining at Chan’s Of Bend, and I was impressed by their dedication to quality Chinese cuisine. The restaurant has been serving Bend for over 30 years, which shows in their expertly crafted dishes.
The menu at Chan’s offers a wide variety of options that reflect different regional Chinese cuisines. I found the flavors to be authentic and well-balanced. The use of fresh ingredients really shines through in each dish.
One thing I love about Chan’s is their flexibility. They offer dine-in and takeout options, so you can enjoy their food however you prefer. I also noticed they have banquet facilities and catering services, which is great for those planning events.
The atmosphere at Chan’s is welcoming and comfortable. It’s clear they’ve put a lot of thought into creating a pleasant dining experience for their customers. The staff was friendly and attentive during my visit.
Rating: 4.2 (1600 reviews)
Location: 1005 SE 3rd St, Bend, OR 97702
Contact: (541) 389-1725
Website: Visit Website
3. Dear Mom Cafe
I recently visited Dear Mom Cafe and was blown away by their unique take on Thai cuisine. The cozy atmosphere made me feel right at home as I perused their menu filled with traditional Thai dishes and local twists.
I couldn’t resist trying their Pad Thai, and it did not disappoint. The noodles were perfectly cooked, and the flavors were rich and complex. The chicken skewers I ordered as an appetizer were tender and bursting with flavor.
What really stood out to me was how every dish seemed to tell a story. The menu is inspired by family recipes passed down through generations, and you can taste the love and care in every bite. It’s clear that Dear Mom Cafe puts a lot of thought into using fresh, high-quality ingredients.
I loved how they blended Thai traditions with Central Oregon influences. It made for a truly unique dining experience that I can’t wait to repeat. If you’re looking for delicious Thai food with a personal touch, Dear Mom Cafe is a must-visit spot in Bend.
Rating: 4.6 (262 reviews)
Location: 320 SW Century Dr #410, Bend, OR 97702
Contact: (458) 281-0511
Website: Visit Website
4. Spork
I recently visited Spork in Bend and was blown away by their unique take on Chinese cuisine. The restaurant has a cool, laid-back vibe that matches the city’s atmosphere perfectly.
Their menu is a fusion of flavors, combining traditional Chinese dishes with modern twists. I tried their famous Dan Dan noodles, and they were absolutely delicious. The balance of spicy and savory flavors was spot-on.
Spork also offers a great happy hour from 2:30 to 4:30 on weekdays. It’s a perfect time to sample some of their small plates and enjoy a drink after work. The staff is friendly and always ready to recommend their favorite dishes.
One thing I love about Spork is their commitment to using fresh, local ingredients. You can really taste the difference in every bite. It’s no wonder this place is so popular among locals and tourists alike.
Rating: 4.6 (2200 reviews)
Location: 937 NW Newport Ave #130, Bend, OR 97703
Contact: (541) 390-0946
Website: Visit Website
5. CHI | Chinese and Sushi Bar
I recently visited CHI Chinese and Sushi Bar in Bend, and I was impressed by their diverse menu. The restaurant offers a great mix of Chinese dishes and sushi options, catering to different tastes.
The atmosphere at CHI is welcoming and relaxed. I found the dining area clean and comfortable, perfect for a casual meal with friends or family.
During my visit, I tried their sushi rolls and some classic Chinese entrees. The sushi was fresh and well-prepared, while the Chinese dishes had authentic flavors. The portions were generous, and I thought the prices were reasonable for the quality of food.
The service at CHI was friendly and efficient. The staff was helpful in explaining menu items and made sure I had everything I needed throughout my meal. I’d definitely recommend giving CHI a try if you’re in the mood for Chinese food or sushi in Bend.
Rating: 4.4 (718 reviews)
Location: 3118 N Hwy 97, Bend, OR 97703
Contact: (541) 323-3931
Website: Visit Website
What Defines Great Chinese Food?
I think great Chinese food is all about balance and flavor. It should have a mix of tastes – sweet, sour, salty, and umami. Fresh ingredients are key too.
Texture is super important. I love when dishes have both crispy and soft elements. Think of a stir-fry with crunchy veggies and tender meat.
Authenticity matters to me. The best Chinese restaurants use traditional cooking methods and spices. But they also know how to adapt to local tastes.
Good Chinese food should be colorful and appealing to the eye. I eat with my eyes first! A variety of vegetables adds nice pops of color.
Here’s what I look for in great Chinese cuisine:
- Bold flavors
- Fresh ingredients
- Perfect cooking techniques
- A mix of textures
- Beautiful presentation
I also appreciate when a restaurant offers regional specialties. China has so many different cooking styles to explore!
Lastly, I think portion size is important. I love when I can try a few different dishes in one meal. It’s all part of the fun of Chinese dining!
Exploring Chinese Cuisine Varieties
Chinese food offers a rich tapestry of flavors and cooking styles. I’ve found that regional influences and common ingredients play a big role in shaping the diverse dishes you can try.
Regional Influences
China’s vast geography leads to distinct regional cuisines. In the north, I love the hearty wheat-based dishes like dumplings and noodles. The south is known for its light, fresh flavors with lots of seafood and rice.
Sichuan cuisine packs a spicy punch with its famous peppercorns. I’m always amazed by the sweet and sour balance in Cantonese cooking. Each area has its own special ingredients and cooking methods.
Bend’s Chinese restaurants often blend these regional styles. You might find Hunan-style spicy dishes next to delicate Jiangsu soups on the same menu.
Common Ingredients
Chinese cooking uses some key ingredients across regions. Soy sauce is a must-have in my kitchen for that umami flavor. Garlic and ginger add aromatic depth to many dishes.
Rice and noodles form the base of countless meals. Vegetables like bok choy and mushrooms are common. I often see pork, chicken, and seafood as protein choices.
Spices and seasonings vary, but five-spice powder is popular. Chili oil adds heat, while sesame oil gives a nutty taste. These ingredients create the complex flavors I love in Chinese food.
Dining Experience and Ambiance
The best Chinese restaurants in Bend, Oregon offer more than just great food. They create an atmosphere that transports diners to China through decor and attentive service.
Cultural Decor Elements
I love how these restaurants use decor to set the mood. Many have red lanterns hanging from the ceiling, giving a warm glow. Intricate wood carvings and delicate porcelain vases add authentic touches.
Some places display traditional Chinese paintings or calligraphy on the walls. It’s fun to see zodiac placemats on the tables too.
Chan’s Chinese Restaurant has a small koi pond near the entrance. The gentle sounds of water make me feel relaxed as soon as I walk in.
Service Style
I’ve noticed the service at Bend’s top Chinese restaurants is always friendly and efficient.
Servers are quick to refill water glasses and clear empty plates.
Many places offer family-style dining. They bring out large shared dishes for the whole table. I think it’s a great way to try lots of different foods.
Some restaurants have tableside tea service.
The servers expertly pour fragrant hot tea throughout the meal. It’s a nice touch that enhances the dining experience.
At busier spots like CHI Chinese and Sushi Bar, I’ve seen servers use tablets to take orders.
It speeds things up during rush times.
