0 Followers
Ming Wok
Master Critic Review
Ming Wok
7.5
Longtime Northern Boulevard fixture serving solid American-Chinese with health department grade-A status and quick, efficient service. The kitchen handles Szechuan, Cantonese, and Hunan preparations competently, making it a reliable choice for the area.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pepper Steak with Onion, Shrimp Fried Rice, Wonton Soup
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 7.5
Atmosphere: 6
Cultural Relevance: 6.8
What makes it special: Health-department approved kitchen with consistent multi-regional Chinese preparations
Who should go: Those seeking quick, reliable Chinese on Northern Boulevard
When to visit: Lunch specials provide the best value
What to order: Shrimp with broccoli in garlic sauce, fried rice, soup combos
Insider tip: The diet menu offers steamed healthy options that are genuinely well-prepared
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Northern Boulevard has metered parking but heavy traffic makes it tricky; side streets toward 80th-82nd offer easier free spots.
Dress code: Completely casual - neighborhood regulars come in work clothes, gym gear, whatever. Zero pretense.
Noise level: Low-key - small space stays quiet enough for easy conversation, though most traffic is takeout.
Weekend wait: 10-20 min for food; seating usually available in the modest dining area
Weekday lunch: 5-15 min; lunch specials are prepped for speed
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - dedicated 'diet menu' section with steamed vegetable options, plus standard tofu and veggie stir-fries
Vegan options: Moderate - steamed vegetable plates work well; confirm no oyster sauce for strict requirements
Gluten-free options: Better than most - the diet/steamed menu offers safer options, though soy sauce is in most regular dishes
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not really - it's a functional neighborhood spot without romantic atmosphere. But for a low-pressure lunch with someone you already know, the quick service and easy conversation level work fine.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Always. This is a walk-in spot with no reservation system. The small dining area rarely fills completely, and service is fast enough that turnover isn't an issue.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes - quick service prevents restless waits, familiar dishes like fried rice and lo mein satisfy picky eaters, and the casual vibe means no one minds if kids are kids. Budget-friendly for family-sized orders.
Best For
Better for: Health-conscious diners who want genuinely well-prepared steamed options, solo lunchers who value quick in-and-out service, and anyone prioritizing kitchen cleanliness with that grade-A certification
Skip if: You're chasing bold flavors or authentic regional cooking - this is competent American-Chinese comfort food, not a destination for Szechuan heat or Cantonese refinement