Dim Sum & More: Austin's Chinese Guide
Austin, Texas — updated April 17, 2026
Discover the best Chinese food in Austin with our curated guide to top local restaurants.
AI-assisted draft, listings not yet re-verified
1. Bamboo House Austin
Located at 7010 Easy Wind Dr Suite 100, Bamboo House Austin is a culinary gem that has quickly won the hearts of local food enthusiasts. With a robust rating of 4.3/5 from 820 reviews, this restaurant offers a delightful fusion of American, Texas, and Xian flavors. "The Peking duck, thin beef slices with sauerkraut stew, and Sichuan fried chicken at Bamboo House on Chang Street was one of my favorite meals in 2022," says a local food critic from Eater.
What makes Bamboo House stand out is not just its diverse menu but also its inviting ambiance that combines modern aesthetics with a cozy feel. As you step inside, the warm colors and friendly staff make you feel right at home. If you're in the mood for something special, don't miss the Peking duck, which is a crowd favorite. Other must-try items include the thin beef slices with sauerkraut stew and the crispy, flavorful Sichuan fried chicken.
Reservations are recommended, especially during peak dining hours, to ensure you get a table. The restaurant serves lunch and dinner, making it a perfect spot for any meal of the day.
2. House of Three Gorges (三峡人家)
At 8557 Research Blvd #144, House of Three Gorges is a treasure trove of authentic Chinese cuisine, boasting a commendable rating of 4.6/5 from 824 reviews. "I adore House of Three Gorges, but the distance is a challenge. This authentic Chinese spot, though, is worth the trek," shares a local food critic. Its affordable pricing and generous portions make it a must-visit.
The restaurant has a casual vibe, perfect for families or a laid-back dinner with friends. One of the highlights here is the shrimp fried rice, which is packed with flavor and perfectly cooked. You can't go wrong with their Sichuan Dry Stir Fried Chicken or the spicy Mapo Tofu with ground pork, both of which are expertly prepared and bursting with authentic flavors.
While it may be a bit of a drive, every dish is worth the journey. The restaurant serves lunch and dinner, but be sure to check their hours, as they can get busy!
3. Mian & Bao
Mian & Bao, located at 4700 W Guadalupe St Ste A5, is a charming spot that has quickly gained popularity, holding a rating of 4.5/5 with 268 reviews. An expert notes, "I was OBSESSED with Mian & Bao when it first opened – super cute space with really, really good Chinese food that’s focused on Szechuan and Shanghai-style dishes." This restaurant is perfect for anyone looking to explore a different side of Chinese cuisine.
The ambiance is casual yet trendy, making it a great place to catch up with friends or enjoy a cozy meal. The beef noodle soup is a standout dish—considered by many to be the best in town, it's rich, hearty, and filled with tender beef. Don't forget to try the soup dumplings and pan-fried pork dumplings, which are equally delightful and showcase the chef’s talent.
Reservations aren't required, so feel free to drop by for lunch or dinner at your convenience. The restaurant's focus on quality and authenticity makes it a must-visit for any Chinese food lover.
4. Ten Seconds Noodle House
Ten Seconds Noodle House, located at 9070 Research Blvd #104, is a haven for noodle lovers, boasting a solid rating of 4.4/5 from 109 reviews. An expert suggests, "If you’re looking for noodles and/or DIY hot pot, try Ten Second Noodle." This restaurant prides itself on its Yunnan-inspired dishes, offering slow-simmered broths that are comforting and flavorful.
The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, perfect for a casual meal with friends or a satisfying dinner after a long day. Must-try items include the Fish Maw Chicken 滋补花胶鸡米线 and the Mala Spicy (Traditional) 麻辣, both of which deliver an impressive depth of flavor. The DIY hot pot is also a fun option for those looking to customize their meal.
Ten Seconds Noodle House serves lunch and dinner, and while reservations are not necessary, arriving early is recommended to avoid the dinner rush, as it can fill up quickly.
5. Asia Cafe
Asia Cafe, situated at Spicewood/183 Center, 8650 Spicewood Springs Rd #114a, is a beloved local spot with a rating of 4.3/5 from 1,337 reviews. An expert notes, "For anyone who is willing to make the drive up to Asia Cafe in North Austin, they have the best Chinese food in Austin IMO." This restaurant is known for its generous portions and affordability, making it a favorite among families and groups.
The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, perfect for those looking to enjoy a hearty meal. The honey walnut shrimp is a standout dish, beautifully prepared and bursting with flavor. Other must-try items include the braised pork with preserved veggies and stir-fried water spinach, all cooked to perfection.
Asia Cafe serves lunch and dinner, and while you can walk in, consider going during off-peak hours to enjoy a more relaxed dining experience.
6. Chen Z Noodle House
Located at 6705 US-290, Chen Z Noodle House is another gem in North Austin, holding a solid rating of 4.2/5 from 302 reviews. An expert remarks, "If you’re willing to make the drive up to North Austin, located right next door to Asia Cafe is Chen Z Noodle House." This restaurant specializes in a variety of noodle preparations, making it a go-to for noodle enthusiasts.
The ambiance is cozy and welcoming, making it ideal for a casual dining experience. Must-try items include the beef soft noodle and the house pan-fried noodle, both of which showcase the chef’s expertise in noodle-making. The stir-fried beef flat noodle is also a favorite, providing a satisfying meal.
Chen Z Noodle House serves lunch and dinner, and like many spots on this list, it’s best to arrive early to ensure a table, especially during peak hours.
7. Old Thousand
Old Thousand, found at 1000 E 11th St #150, has carved out a niche for itself with a hip vibe and a rating of 4.4/5 from 1,029 reviews. An expert recommends, "If you want to take someone on a date that includes Chinese food, I recommend Old Thousand on the East side." This trendy spot features a cocktail bar and offers happy hour discounts, making it a perfect date night location.
The ambiance is vibrant, filled with unique decor that adds to the dining experience. The mapo eggplant (vegan), green beans, and kung pao cauliflower are must-try dishes that highlight the restaurant’s creative approach to traditional recipes.
Old Thousand serves lunch and dinner, and reservations are recommended, especially for weekend nights when the vibe is lively and the place fills up fast.
8. Din Ho Chinese BBQ
At 8557 Research Blvd #116, Din Ho Chinese BBQ is a classic Taiwanese restaurant known for its impressive variety, holding a rating of 4.4/5 from 2,079 reviews. An expert states, "Din Ho Chinese BBQ is a classic Taiwanese restaurant – roasted bbq duck, BBQ pork, chai sui, ma po tofu, dungeness crab, steam fish, live lobster, walnut shrimp, and more." This restaurant is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Taiwanese BBQ dishes.
The restaurant features a casual and lively atmosphere, making it great for families or groups. Their roasted BBQ duck and BBQ pork are standout items, expertly prepared with a perfect balance of flavors. The chai sui is also a favorite, offering a delightful taste of traditional Taiwanese cuisine.
Din Ho serves lunch and dinner, and while you can walk in, it’s advisable to go during off-peak hours for a more relaxed experience.
Conclusion
When it comes to finding the best Chinese food in Austin, the city does not disappoint. Whether you’re craving Peking duck at Bamboo House, authentic Sichuan flavors at House of Three Gorges, or comforting noodles at Mian & Bao, there’s something for everyone. Each of these restaurants showcases the rich tapestry of Chinese cuisine and offers an inviting atmosphere to enjoy your meal. So gather your friends and family, and embark on a culinary adventure at these top-notch spots!