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China Fast Wok

2020 N California Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
$
Chinese

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Master Critic Review

China Fast Wok 7.5
Logan Square / Palmer Square
A Logan Square workhorse that has dramatically improved over the years to become a reliable neighborhood go-to. Dinner specials offer remarkable value with generous portions, and dishes arrive fresh and hot from the wok. The counter-service format keeps things efficient for takeout-focused crowds.
Must-Try Dishes: Kung Pao Shrimp, General Tso's Chicken, Beef Lo Mein
Scores:
Value: 9 Service: 7.6 Consistency: 7.5 Food Quality: 7.4 Atmosphere: 6 Cultural Relevance: 7.2
What makes it special: Remarkable turnaround story with dramatically improved food quality and unbeatable dinner special value
Who should go: Late-night diners and value seekers wanting quick, fresh Chinese
When to visit: Dinner hours for best special prices; open late on weekends
What to order: Kung Pao Shrimp, Dinner Specials, Pork Egg Rolls
Insider tip: Dinner specials include so much food they often yield two meals for around $12
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Kedzie Ave usually available, easier to find than most Logan Square spots
Dress code: Ultra-casual—sweats and pajamas wouldn't be out of place for late-night runs
Noise level: Low to moderate—counter-service setup with minimal seating, mostly takeout traffic
Weekend wait: 10-20 min for food during late-night rush
Weekday lunch: 5-10 min, efficient wok turnaround
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - vegetable lo mein, tofu dishes, and mixed vegetable plates available
Vegan options: Limited - request no egg in rice dishes, vegetable-only options work
Gluten-free options: Difficult - standard soy sauce throughout, no dedicated GF preparation
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? No—this is counter-service takeout, not a sit-down spot. However, grabbing dinner specials to bring back for a cozy movie night at home? That's a budget-savvy move.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Reservations don't exist here. Minimal seating is first-come, but 90% of customers are grabbing takeout. Order at the counter and wait for your number.
Is it kid-friendly? Great for family takeout—portions are huge and prices mean you can feed everyone affordably. American-Chinese classics like sweet and sour chicken are kid-approved. Not ideal for dining in with little ones due to limited seating.
Best For
Better for: Late-night cravings when other spots have closed, plus unmatched dinner special value. Fresh wok cooking beats reheated steam-table competitors. The turnaround story means quality you can trust.
Skip if: You want ambiance, authentic regional Chinese, or a dining experience. This is about hot, fast, affordable food—not culinary exploration or date night.