There’s perhaps no greater culinary surprise in Edinburg than discovering that this South Texas city, known for its Tex-Mex traditions, also harbors authentic Chinese gems rivaling coastal hubs. From hand-pulled noodles in a humble strip mall to Szechuan dry pots that’ll make you forget you’re 30 miles from Mexico, these 14 spots prove the best flavors often travel unexpected routes.
Papa Lee Chinese Restaurant
$ | (956) 961-4442 | WEBSITE
You might not expect to find some of the best Chinese food in Edinburg tucked away in a strip mall, but look a little closer, and you’ll discover Papa Lee Chinese Restaurant, a popular spot dishing out quality versions of authentic dishes like lo-mein with veggies and beef, fried rice, and General Tso’s chicken.
It’s a major step up from other places that serve similar cuisine, and you can get generous lunch specials that feel like dinner-sized meals, plus easy takeout options if you’re not staying for the clean, welcoming environment.
Kokito Chinese Food and Sushi
$ | (956) 445-3080 | WEBSITE
Choosing just one Chinese restaurant in Edinburg is a tough call, because Kokito Chinese Food and Sushi and a couple other spots are all within a short drive, and each delivers excellent value in its own way. In the end, Kokito is the kind of place we keep returning to for a reliable, satisfying meal. Stick to the basics and order their General Tso or Teriyaki Chicken, served in generous portions that never disappoint.
It’s prepared fresh and arrives steaming hot, perfect for a cozy dine-in experience or a quick takeout run.
Kurai Sushi & Chinese Buffet
$ | (956) 933-0859 | WEBSITE
How we made it this far into a guide about Chinese restaurants without mentioning the buffet scene, we couldn’t tell you—but yes, this is the spot from the “Good Sushi” crowd. This lively place got a big weekend following, including a total spread overhaul with Asian-American spins on classics, like fresh sushi rolls and an oozing, over-the-top seafood soup.
Whether you’re here for lunch, or after a morning out while other people are having lunch, don’t skip the fried shrimp—it’s the most exciting part of a meal here.
Lucky Sushi Bar
$ | (956) 340-4390 | WEBSITE
A handful of sushi spots dot the strip malls along University Drive, and we’re partial to Lucky Sushi Bar. The locals are too, because there’s frequently a wait for a table with folks seeking fresh, reasonably priced sushi—most rolls clock in around $12 to $15. The display case gleams with all the standards: California rolls, spicy tuna, salmon nigiri; but the customizable creations are the real showstoppers.
Crafted with precision and care, the fish is buttery, and the rice is perfectly seasoned and tender. Order it with a side of crisp edamame and ginger.
Le Lai Eastern Restaurant
$ | (956) 630-0963 | WEBSITE
If you’re in Edinburg and craving something savory, look no further than Le Lai Eastern Restaurant. But for something sweet, this plaza spot also delivers with its mango salad that bursts with fresh flavor. A big sign near the entrance reminds you that ‘Good food brings people together.’ Take their advice—and also take some extra dishes like the kung pao chicken with its perfect spice level, or the egg soup that warms you from the inside out.
The friendly staff keeps things moving smoothly, and with prices that hover around $12-$15 for generous plates that easily feed two, it’s no wonder regulars keep coming back. When other places are closed, Le Lai’s ample parking and reliable lunch specials make it the obvious choice.
Chopstix #1
$ | (956) 386-1428 | WEBSITE
Chopstix #1, where the low-mein is served in generous portions that practically spill over the edge of the plate, is our pick for a reliable takeout or casual dine-in meal in Edinburg. The restaurant specializes in serving consistently tasty and super good Chinese-American classics, like crispy fried wings, or egg rolls and wontons that taste and feel fresher than most.
Sitting at one of the simple laminate tables as you dig into your meal, with the kind and bubbly server checking on you, you’ll forget all about the occasional wait for your food. The friendly and very polite staff, part of that amazing team, makes the overall experience here highly satisfying.
Dragon House
$ | (956) 627-3256 | WEBSITE
The honey shrimp at Dragon House has never met a craving it couldn’t satisfy. Along with its more casual cousin Panda Express, the Chinese restaurant has dominated this corner of Edinburg for the better part of a decade. The restaurant’s orange chicken and sweet and sour chicken are great, but for a proper sit-down dinner we love digging into teriyaki chicken or honey shrimp at Dragon House.
Their fresh and tasty cuisine, with friendly and attentive staff, makes for a pleasant dining experience that’s very affordable.
Golden China Restaurant
$ | (956) 383-0795 | WEBSITE
Every town needs a spot like Golden China—a no-fuss restaurant that serves up a totally solid buffet. This Edinburg place has a steady stream of regulars, and there’s just something that feels right about eating food that tastes like it came from a family kitchen in an actual home with warm lighting. But don’t worry if you’re in a hurry, because inside there’s a quick turnaround for tables.
If you live around here, we’re probably not telling you anything you don’t know, because Golden China has most likely been your casual lunch-out staple for years.
P.F. Chang’s
$$ | (956) 664-1516 | WEBSITE
Edinburg’s dining scene is more known for its Tex-Mex joints and barbecue spots than its Asian cuisine, though there are plenty of good food trucks for a quick bite. But if you’re looking for a proper sit-down meal, P.F. Chang’s is your best bet. The Chinese-American spot is famous for its meal combos (the salad, appetizer, and entree deal is one of our favorites), but don’t skip their chocolate cake, which satisfies a craving for dessert, though it might not be for everyone.
The service is outstanding with servers who make the dining experience feel extra special, creating a great atmosphere for a satisfying meal after a long day of shopping. Some customers wish for more bold flavors in the dishes, but overall, the attentive and friendly service makes this a must-visit.
Chopstix
$ | (956) 581-8488 | WEBSITE
A lot of the Chinese spots around Edinburg can feel like a compromise between convenience and quality (though not the ones on that best-of list). But Chopstix usually has tables ready when you walk in, and the reliable Chinese restaurant is great for a satisfying weeknight meal. (Tell your friends it’s like a more accessible version of those pricier places.) A few dishes, like their Crab Rangoons and Orange Chicken might be the best thing you eat all week.
Yarba Express Chinese Kitchen
$ | (956) 961-4741 | WEBSITE
Edinburg has no shortage of excellent Chinese spots, and some of our local favorites include Golden Dragon, Panda Express, and China King. But only at Yarba Express Chinese Kitchen do they have the almond chicken and almond shrimp. It works just as well for a quick lunch as it does a casual dinner with family over generous plates, which should include whatever orange chicken they’re serving that day.
China Cafe
$ | (956) 630-2328 | WEBSITE
There aren’t a lot of Chinese restaurants right in Edinburg, but China Cafe offers a comfortable and spacious dining experience with excellent service. Their food bar includes a variety of soups, creams, and Chinese dishes, with authentic and flavorful tastes. We like their crab legs on weekends—they’re a must try, always on point with flavor and hot. Grab some dessert, too—they even have a little bit of ice cream.
You’ll have to dine in here, as they don’t offer takeout, but the restaurant is very peaceful and clean with a zen atmosphere, and has wheelchair accessibility via a ramp.
Chinese Kitchen at H-E-B
$ | WEBSITE
Chinese Kitchen at H-E-B, which feels like a lucky find in the middle of your grocery run, is a casual counter inside the H-E-B store where the friendly staff greet you with a smile. Inside, there’s a row of steam trays behind the counter, and a server who looks genuinely helpful. She’ll ask if you prefer mild or spicy (no wrong choice) and then fill up a takeout container with fried rice, orange chicken with broccoli, and crispy, golden-brown egg rolls. Go for the two-entree plate.
