The Chinese Lunar New Year is a time of tradition, family gatherings, and incredible food, and the perfect time to review the stories and traditions of some of the oldest Chinese restaurants in the U.S.
Chinese restaurants in the U.S. are more than simply places to eat. Since their establishment in the country, they have become cultural hotspots that have helped introduce Americans to the most beloved dishes and flavors of Chinese cuisine.
From a century-old noodle parlor to iconic dim sum houses and other eateries from across the country, each Chinese restaurant has its own story to tell.
Pekin Noodle Parlor: the Oldest Chinese Restaurant in the US
The Pekin Noodle Parlor was established in 1911 in Butte, Montana. At 114 years old, it is the oldest Chinese restaurant in the country. It was founded by Hum Yow and Tam Kwong Yee and features private booths with curtains, which is a typical early 20th century design choice.
In 2023, the restaurant was honored as an American Classic by the James Beard Foundation. This award recognizes locally-owned restaurants that have ‘timeless appeal’ and are cherished by the community. Customers at Pekin Noodle Parlor highly recommended the Chop Suey.
Other classic Chinese restaurants
Nom Wah Tea Parlor: 105 years old
Located in Manhattan’s Chinatown, Nom Wah Tea Parlor is renowned for its dim sum offerings. When it was first established in 1920, it operated as a bakery and a tea parlor. Only later did it turn into a fully functional restaurant.
The establishment remains a popular dining spot in New York City, especially due to its Original Egg Roll recipe, which features a crepe-like wrapper filled with chicken and vegetables.
Tai Tung Restaurant: 90 years old
As Seattle’s oldest Chinese restaurant, Tai Tung has been a popular dining spot since 1935. The 90-year-old eatery gained fame in the 20th century, when it became the favorite dining spot of martial artists and Hollywood star Bruce Lee. The restaurant has also featured in a movie called The Paper Tigers.
Frank Fat’s: 86 years old
This restaurant was founded by an immigrant known as Frank Fat and has been a staple in Sacarmento’s dining scene since 1939. It is famous for dishes like honey-walnut prawns, and its banana cream pie. Frank Fat’s also received the James Beard Foundation Award as an American Classic in 2013.
Panda Inn: 52 Years
Founded by Andrew and Peggy Cherng, along with Chef Ming-Tsai Cherng, Panda Inn is the precursor to one of the best-known fast food chains in the country, Panda Express. Located in Pasadena, California, the restaurant was overhauled in 2024, and its menu now reflects the cuisine from Cherng’s hometown of Yangzhou.
Panda Inn’s signature dish is the Mandarin Chicken, which features crispy chicken and spicy Mandarin sauce.