Best Chinese Restaurants in Walnut Creek (94596)
5 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated
Notable Picks
8.3
Pacific Northwest dumpling import known for xiao long bao, pan-fried Q-BAO®, and noodle bowls. Efficient service and a modern room make it a reliable downtown dumpling stop.
Must-Try Dishes:
Xiao long bao (soup dumplings), Q-Bao pan-fried pork buns, Cucumber salad
What makes it special: Shanghai-style dumplings and buns in a streamlined, modern setting.
Family-run Cantonese spot focused on fresh, made-daily dim sum with consistent execution. Locals lean on it for har gow, siu mai, and a reliable weekend queue that moves quickly.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baked BBQ pork buns, Har gow (shrimp dumplings), Salt & pepper wings
What makes it special: Crowd-pleasing dim sum favorites without the long Chinatown waits.
Worthy Picks
7.9
Lively downtown lounge for Chinese-American favorites and shareable plates with a full bar and late hours. Best for groups seeking cocktails alongside crowd-pleasing classics.
Must-Try Dishes:
Spicy wontons, Honey walnut prawns, Mongolian beef
What makes it special: Late-night Chinese with an all-day happy hour and patio energy.
#4
Peony Garden
7.8
Broad Cantonese-leaning menu with dim sum selections at lunch and spacious dining rooms, including a back patio. A dependable choice near Broadway Plaza for multi-generational dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Prawns lettuce cups, Beef chow fun, Sichuan-style chicken
What makes it special: Large-format menu and rooms that work for big parties.
7.6
Downtown Mandarin menu with familiar American-Chinese staples and quick lunch combos. A straightforward sit-down option steps from the Locust Street theater corridor.
Must-Try Dishes:
General Tso’s chicken, Honey walnut prawns, Beef chow mein
What makes it special: Speedy lunch specials downtown with friendly service.