Best Chinese Restaurants in Marin County, California: Top Spots for Tasty Takeout

Are you craving some tasty Chinese food in Marin County? You’re in luck! This beautiful area north of San Francisco has some great options for Chinese cuisine.

From traditional dishes to modern takes on classics, there’s something for everyone.

You can find delicious Chinese restaurants all across Marin County, from Mill Valley to San Rafael and beyond.

Whether you’re in the mood for dim sum, crispy duck, or vegetarian options, local eateries serve up a variety of flavors. Let’s explore some of the top spots to satisfy your Chinese food cravings in Marin.

Ping’s Chinese Cuisine

Ping’s Chinese Cuisine is a popular spot for tasty Chinese food in San Rafael. You’ll find a wide range of dishes to satisfy your cravings. From savory stir-fries to comforting noodle soups, there’s something for everyone.

The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere that’s perfect for a family dinner or a casual meal with friends.

You can expect friendly service and generous portions that won’t leave you hungry.

Ping’s is known for its fresh ingredients and flavorful sauces. You might want to try their crispy orange chicken or the tender beef with broccoli. Don’t forget to order some steamed dumplings as an appetizer!

If you’re in the mood for Chinese food in Marin County, Ping’s is definitely worth a visit. You’ll get to enjoy authentic flavors without having to travel far from home.

Cuisine Type: Chinese
Price Point ($$): $$
Rating: 4.3 (343 reviews)
Location: 248 Northgate One, San Rafael, CA 94903
Contact: (415) 492-8808

Emma’s Restaurant

You’ll love Emma’s Restaurant if you’re looking for Chinese food with a modern twist. This place puts a fresh spin on traditional dishes using local Northern California ingredients.

The menu blends classic Chinese favorites with creative new recipes.

You’ll find flavors from different regions of China, all prepared with top-quality ingredients.

Emma’s has a stylish yet comfortable vibe. The elegant dining room makes it perfect for date night or a nice dinner out. Don’t forget to try one of their craft cocktails or wines to go with your meal.

The friendly staff aims to give you great service and a memorable experience. They just opened in August 2023, so everything is brand new and exciting.

Cuisine Type: Chinese (Modern)
Price Point ($$): $$$
Rating: 4.6 (48 reviews)
Location: 817 Francisco Blvd W, San Rafael, CA 94901
Contact: (415) 492-1638
Website: Visit Website

Lam’s Kitchen

You’ll find Lam’s Kitchen nestled in downtown Mill Valley. This gourmet Chinese restaurant offers a generous menu full of traditional dishes that will satisfy your cravings.

Their famous Orange Chicken and Mongolian Beef are must-try options. Lam’s Kitchen caters to busy schedules with convenient take-out service.

The restaurant is open Monday through Friday, serving lunch from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm and dinner from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. You can also count on them for catering services if you’re planning an event.

While there’s no dine-in option, Lam’s Kitchen makes up for it with their flavorful food and efficient service. You’ll always find a warm welcome here, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular customer.

Cuisine Type: Chinese
Price Point ($$): $$
Rating: 4.6 (105 reviews)
Location: 89 E Blithedale Ave, Mill Valley, CA 94941
Contact: (415) 383-6368
Website: Visit Website

China Palace Restaurant

You’ll find tasty Chinese cuisine at China Palace in Novato. This local favorite offers a variety of authentic dishes made with fresh ingredients.

The restaurant has a friendly vibe and great service. You can dine in to enjoy the welcoming atmosphere or get your food to go.

China Palace makes ordering simple. You can place takeout orders online through their website. Just pick your items, add them to your cart, and choose a pickup time.

The prices are budget-friendly, making China Palace a good choice for a quick lunch or dinner. With its convenient location in Novato, it’s easy to satisfy your Chinese food cravings here.

Cuisine Type: Chinese
Price Point ($$): $$
Rating: 4.3 (152 reviews)
Location: 7089 Redwood Blvd, Novato, CA 94945
Contact: (415) 892-6563
Website: Visit Website

DJ’s Chinese Cuisine

You’ll find a hidden gem tucked away in Larkspur at DJ’s Chinese Cuisine. This local favorite serves up tasty Chinese dishes made with high-quality ingredients. You won’t find any MSG here, just fresh, made-to-order meals.

DJ’s takes pride in their homemade appetizers and daily-made chicken broth.

You can choose from a variety of lunch combo plates during the week. These come with hot and sour soup, fried wontons, rice, salad, and fruit.

For dinner, you’ve got plenty of options too. The menu features popular dishes and spicy selections. Don’t worry if you like it hot – they’ll adjust the spice level to your liking. If you’re in a hurry, you can grab takeout during lunch hours.

DJ’s is open for lunch Tuesday through Friday, and for dinner six nights a week. They’re closed on Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly. With their focus on fresh ingredients and made-to-order meals, you’re in for a treat at DJ’s Chinese Cuisine.

Cuisine Type: Chinese
Price Point ($$): $$
Rating: 4.6 (226 reviews)
Location: 435 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur, CA 94939
Contact: (415) 924-0717
Website: Visit Website

Tommy’s Wok Chinese Cuisine

You’ll find Tommy’s Wok Chinese Cuisine nestled in Sausalito, offering a delightful mix of traditional and modern Chinese dishes. This popular spot has been serving up tasty meals to locals and visitors alike for years.

The menu at Tommy’s Wok is packed with crowd-pleasers. You can choose from classic favorites like chow mein and sweet and sour pork, or try something a bit different. The restaurant prides itself on using fresh ingredients and creating bold flavors.

Tommy’s Wok is open most days of the week for lunch and dinner. You can stop by for a quick bite during your workday or enjoy a relaxing evening meal with friends and family. Just remember they’re closed on Tuesdays, so plan accordingly!

The restaurant’s cozy atmosphere makes it perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. You’ll feel right at home as you dig into your favorite Chinese dishes.

Cuisine Type: Chinese
Price Point ($$): $$
Rating: 4.5 (270 reviews)
Location: 3001 Bridgeway H, Sausalito, CA 94965
Contact: (415) 332-5818
Website: Visit Website

Yu Shang

Yu Shang is a hidden gem in San Rafael that’s been serving up delicious Chinese cuisine since 1980. You’ll find a mix of classic Mandarin dishes and sushi options on their menu. The restaurant has stood the test of time, proving its popularity with locals and visitors alike.

When you visit Yu Shang, you can enjoy indoor dining at limited capacity.

Keep in mind that tables are first-come, first-served, so you might want to arrive early to snag a spot. The restaurant doesn’t take reservations, which adds to its casual, laid-back vibe.

You’ll appreciate the friendly service and cozy atmosphere at Yu Shang. The restaurant’s long-standing presence in the community speaks to the quality of its food and the loyalty of its customers. Whether you’re in the mood for comforting Chinese favorites or fresh sushi, Yu Shang has got you covered.

Cuisine Type: Chinese, Sushi
Price Point ($$): $$
Rating: 4.5 (381 reviews)
Location: 180 Bellam Blvd, San Rafael, CA 94901
Contact: (415) 457-9199
Website: Visit Website

Little Mandarin

You’ll find a cozy spot for authentic Chinese cuisine at Little Mandarin in San Rafael. This local favorite serves up tasty dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.

The menu offers a range of options to satisfy your cravings for Chinese flavors. From savory stir-fries to comforting noodle soups, Little Mandarin has something for everyone.

You can enjoy classic dishes like sweet and sour chicken or venture into more unique specialties. The portions are generous, so you’ll likely have leftovers to take home.

The restaurant’s location on 3rd Street makes it easy to access. You can grab a quick lunch during your workday or settle in for a relaxing dinner with friends and family.

The friendly staff will make you feel right at home as you dive into your meal.

Don’t forget to try their popular appetizers like potstickers or spring rolls to start your meal off right. With its tasty food and inviting ambiance, Little Mandarin is a great choice for your next Chinese food fix in Marin County.

Cuisine Type: Chinese
Price Point ($$): $$
Rating: 4.3 (374 reviews)
Location: 538 3rd St, San Rafael, CA 94901
Contact: (415) 485-0888

Mamahuhu

You’ll find a tasty mix of Chinese-American flavors at Mamahuhu in Mill Valley. This spot puts a fresh spin on classic dishes, using top-notch ingredients.

Their menu features some crowd-pleasers like potstickers and cashew chicken. If you’re looking for veggie options, try the eggplant tofu.

The food here is perfect for a quick lunch or a casual dinner.

Mamahuhu cares about where their food comes from. They use local produce and responsibly raised meat. This means you can feel good about what you’re eating.

Want to enjoy Mamahuhu at home? No problem! They offer online ordering for pickup. You can even find some of their dishes in local stores, like their frozen potstickers.

Cuisine Type: Chinese-American
Price Point ($$): $$
Rating: 4.4 (102 reviews)
Location: 173 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley, CA 94941
Contact: (415) 888-3266
Website: Visit Website

Cultural Influence and Authenticity

Chinese restaurants in Marin County offer a mix of traditional and Americanized dishes. The best spots balance authentic flavors with local tastes.

Traditional Cooking Techniques

Many Marin County Chinese restaurants use time-honored cooking methods. You’ll find stir-frying, steaming, and braising on most menus.

At DJ’s Chinese Cuisine, chefs use woks to create flavorful dishes quickly.

Some places make dumplings and noodles by hand. This gives you a true taste of Chinese culinary art. Look for restaurants that use bamboo steamers for dim sum. These keep delicate flavors intact.

Marinades and sauces are often made from scratch. This attention to detail enhances the overall taste of your meal.

Regional Chinese Cuisine Variations

Marin County offers a range of regional Chinese foods. You can try spicy Sichuan dishes or mild Cantonese fare.

Ping’s Chinese Cuisine serves up dishes from various regions.

Hunan cuisine, known for its bold flavors, is available at some spots. You might also find Shanghainese dishes like xiaolongbao (soup dumplings).

Some restaurants focus on a specific region. Others offer a mix to cater to different tastes. This variety lets you explore China’s diverse food culture right in Marin County.

Look for places that highlight regional specialties. These often provide the most authentic dining experiences.

Dining Experience

Chinese restaurants in Marin County offer unique atmospheres and friendly service. You’ll find a range of settings, from cozy family-run spots to more upscale dining rooms.

Ambiance and Decor

When you step into Ping’s Chinese Cuisine in Marin County, you’ll notice a warm and inviting atmosphere. The decor often blends traditional Chinese elements with modern touches.

Red lanterns and intricate artwork may adorn the walls. You might see elegant wood carvings or calligraphy displays. Some restaurants offer private dining areas for special occasions.

Lighting is usually soft and pleasant, creating a relaxed mood for your meal. Tables are typically well-spaced, giving you privacy during your dining experience.

Service and Hospitality

You can expect friendly and attentive service at Marin County’s top Chinese restaurants.

Staff members are often knowledgeable about the menu and happy to make recommendations.

Many places pride themselves on quick and efficient service.

Your tea cup will likely be kept full throughout your meal. Servers are usually patient in explaining dishes and can accommodate special requests.

Family-run establishments like DJ’s Chinese Cuisine often provide a personal touch.

You might even meet the owner, who may stop by to ensure you’re enjoying your meal.