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MR CHOW
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
MR CHOW
8.3
Wolfgang Puck protégé Michael Chow's legendary Beijing-style restaurant has been drawing Hollywood's elite since 1974. The hand-pulled noodles show and tableside Beijing duck carving provide theatrical dining alongside expertly crafted dumplings and authentic Northern Chinese specialties.
Must-Try Dishes:
Beijing Duck, MR CHOW Noodles, Chicken Satay Dumplings
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 9.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Live hand-pulled noodle demonstrations nightly by master pasta chef
Who should go: Celebrity watchers and Beijing cuisine devotees
When to visit: Dinner service for the full theatrical experience
What to order: Beijing duck, chicken satay, Ma Mignon
Insider tip: Request the noodle demonstration table-side
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet $15, limited street parking after 5pm in Beverly Hills
Dress code: Business casual minimum, most diners dress up - avoid athletic wear
Noise level: Energetic but manageable - conversations possible without shouting
Weekend wait: 60-90 min without reservation, nearly impossible to walk-in
Weekday lunch: 15-30 min for power lunch crowd, reservations recommended
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - Buddha's Feast and vegetable dumplings, plus modifications available
Vegan options: Limited - 3-4 dishes can be made vegan on request
Gluten-free options: Some options - rice-based dishes available, inform server about allergy
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Perfect for impressing - the theatrical noodle show provides built-in conversation, though the scene can be buzzy with celebrity spotters
Can I get a table without a reservation? Very difficult, especially weekends. Bar seating sometimes available for 1-2 people after 9pm weekdays
Is it kid-friendly? Better for teens and up - the sophisticated atmosphere and $$$$ prices make it less suitable for young children
Best For
Better for: Beijing-style sophistication and Hollywood scene - more theatrical and upscale than typical dim sum spots
Skip if: You want traditional Cantonese dim sum carts or casual family dining under $50/person
MR CHOW
8.4
Since 1974, this legendary Beverly Hills institution combines theatrical Beijing cuisine with Hollywood glamour, attracting celebrities and discerning diners alike. The hand-pulled noodle show and expertly prepared Beijing Duck remain signature experiences that justify the premium pricing.
Must-Try Dishes:
Beijing Duck with Pancakes, Hand-Pulled Mr. Chow Noodles, Green Prawns
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 9.1
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 9.3
What makes it special: Nightly hand-pulled noodle performance and 50-year Hollywood legacy
Who should go: Special occasion celebrants and scene seekers
When to visit: Friday or Saturday dinner for peak energy
What to order: Beijing Duck, Chicken Satay, Ma Mignon
Insider tip: Request tableside noodle show seating
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet $18, limited street parking on Canon Drive after 6pm
Dress code: Upscale casual to business - no shorts or flip-flops, jeans acceptable if elevated
Noise level: Energetic but manageable - can hold conversation at normal volume
Weekend wait: 60-90 min without reservation, bar seating sometimes available
Weekday lunch: Walk-ins usually seated within 15 min
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - 8-10 dedicated options including tofu dishes and vegetable preparations
Vegan options: Limited - 3-4 options, kitchen can modify some vegetarian dishes on request
Gluten-free options: Yes - staff knowledgeable, can modify most dishes except noodles
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice - impressive without being overly formal, the noodle show provides natural conversation starter, and dim lighting creates romantic ambiance
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekend dinners require reservations 2-3 weeks out. Best walk-in chances are weekday lunch or bar seating after 9pm
Is it kid-friendly? Better for teens and up - no kids menu, sophisticated atmosphere may not suit young children, though staff accommodating when needed
Best For
Better for: Theater and tableside presentation unmatched in LA Chinese dining, celebrity spotting, and authentic Beijing Duck superior to most competitors
Skip if: Looking for authentic regional Chinese varieties, budget-conscious dining, or quiet intimate atmosphere - try Chengdu Taste or Bistro Na's instead