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Master Critic Review
Golden Tree Restaurant
7.9
A Chinatown workhorse that moves oversized plates of Cantonese-American standards—orange chicken, Mongolian beef, lo mein—at cash-only prices that feel stuck in a previous decade. It pulls late-night crowds and group diners who want to feed a table without doing math, and the 73% five-star rate across 328 reviews says the kitchen holds its line night after night.
Must-Try Dishes:
Orange Chicken, Mongolian Beef, Wonton Soup
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Chinatown mainstay serving oversized portions of Cantonese-American classics at cash-only prices that haven't kept up with inflation
Who should go: Late-night crowds and budget-conscious groups in Chinatown
When to visit: Late evening when the kitchen is firing on all cylinders
What to order: Split two entrées between three people—portions are enormous; the orange chicken and mongolian beef cover sweet and savory, add a wonton soup to start
Insider tip: Ask your server about off-menu specials or daily features
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Paid lot at the same building (640 N Broadway)—expect around $5. Street parking available in the surrounding Chinatown blocks but limited during peak hours.
Noise level: Moderate—conversational even when the lunch rush hits. You won't need to shout.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong selection—dedicated vegetable section with 12 dishes including Mapo Tofu, Salted & Pepper Japanese Tofu, Spicy Garlic Eggplant, Braised String Beans, and multiple Chinese greens. Additional options like Vegetable Tempura and Vegetarian Egg Rolls on the appetizer menu.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal — this is a casual, no-frills Cantonese spot with bright lighting, simple decor, and a family-dining atmosphere. The noise level stays moderate even during lunch rush, so conversation is easy, but the vibe is more communal family dinner than romantic evening. Better suited for a casual follow-up date where you both love Chinese food than an impression-making first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — this is primarily a walk-in spot. Guests report being seated promptly on arrival, with only brief waits during peak lunch hours on weekdays. Arrive before noon or after the lunch rush to avoid any wait. The restaurant is open until midnight most nights, making it one of the few late-night options in Chinatown, and evening visits are typically easy to walk into.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for the atmosphere — it's a casual, noise-tolerant family spot with large shareable dishes that work well for feeding a table with kids. The relaxed vibe means nobody will flinch at a noisy toddler. However, a dedicated kids menu and high chairs have not been confirmed — call ahead at 213-878-9818 if you need a high chair or booster seat.
Is it good for groups? Yes — round tables designed for family-style sharing make this a natural fit for group dining, and the generous portions are meant to be split. Groups of 4-6 should have no trouble getting seated. For larger parties, call ahead to confirm they can accommodate your size, as private dining or banquet space has not been confirmed at this location.
Is there outdoor seating? Not confirmed — the restaurant is located on a busy stretch of North Broadway in Chinatown, and no reviewers specifically mention outdoor dining. Call ahead to confirm if sidewalk or patio seating is available.
Best For
Better for: Group dinners with shareable plates on a budget—most entrees run $12-$18, portions are generous, and they're open until midnight on weekdays. Party trays available for larger gatherings.
Consider Alternatives If: You want an encyclopedic Cantonese menu—the selection here is tighter than some neighboring spots in Chinatown.
Hours
Monday11am - 3pm, 5pm - 12am
Tuesday11am - 3pm, 5pm - 12am
Wednesday11am - 3pm, 5pm - 12am
Thursday11am - 3pm, 5pm - 12am
Friday11am - 3pm, 5pm - 12am
Saturday11am - 11:50pm
Sunday11am - 11:50pm