Great Wall Chinese restaurants are popular for their extensive menus offering a wide array of classic and sometimes innovative Chinese dishes. While specific menu items vary from location to location, a typical Great Wall menu boasts a diverse selection catering to various tastes and preferences. This exploration delves into the common menu categories and highlights some signature dishes you might find. Let's embark on a virtual culinary journey!
What are some popular dishes at Great Wall Chinese Restaurants?
Great Wall restaurants typically offer a comprehensive selection reflecting different regional Chinese cuisines. Expect to find popular appetizers like spring rolls, pot stickers (or gyoza), and egg rolls. These are often served with a sweet and sour dipping sauce. Moving on to main courses, you'll likely encounter a variety of dishes featuring:
- Noodles: Lo mein, chow mein, and other noodle dishes are staples, often with your choice of protein like chicken, beef, pork, or shrimp.
- Rice Dishes: Fried rice, often customized with various meats and vegetables, is a classic choice. Egg fried rice is another frequently seen option.
- Meat Dishes: Sweet and sour chicken, General Tso's chicken, and kung pao chicken are among the most recognizable and frequently ordered dishes. Beef and pork variations of these dishes are also commonly available.
- Seafood: Depending on location and availability, you might find dishes featuring shrimp, lobster, or other seafood.
- Vegetarian Options: Many Great Wall restaurants offer a selection of vegetarian dishes, such as tofu stir-fries and vegetable-based noodle dishes.
What is the difference between chow mein and lo mein?
This is a common question! The key difference lies in the preparation of the noodles:
- Chow mein: These noodles are stir-fried, resulting in a drier, crispier texture. The noodles often have a slight char to them.
- Lo mein: Lo mein noodles are typically boiled or steamed and then tossed in sauce, creating a softer, wetter dish.
What kind of sauces do Great Wall restaurants use?
Great Wall restaurants employ a range of sauces, each adding distinct flavor profiles to the dishes. Common sauces include:
- Sweet and Sour Sauce: A tangy, sweet, and slightly savory sauce often used for chicken or pork dishes.
- General Tso's Sauce: A spicy and sweet sauce with a slightly garlicky and gingery flavor, famous for its use with chicken.
- Kung Pao Sauce: A spicy and nutty sauce featuring chili peppers, peanuts, and often sesame oil. This sauce is generally used with chicken or other meats.
Does Great Wall have lunch specials?
Many Great Wall restaurants offer lunch specials, usually at lower prices than their dinner menu. These specials often include a choice of an appetizer and a main course, providing excellent value. It's always a good idea to check the restaurant's website or call ahead to verify their lunch special offerings and availability.
Are there any Great Wall locations near me?
To find a Great Wall restaurant near you, I recommend using an online search engine like Google Maps or Yelp. Simply search "Great Wall Chinese Restaurant" followed by your city or zip code. The search results will provide you with locations, hours, reviews, and other relevant information.
What are the price ranges at a Great Wall restaurant?
The price range at Great Wall restaurants can vary based on location and the specific dishes ordered. Generally, you can expect to find a range of affordable to moderately priced options. Appetizers tend to be less expensive than main courses.
This exploration of a typical Great Wall Chinese Restaurant menu provides a general overview. Remember to always check the specific menu at your local branch for the most accurate and up-to-date information on their offerings. Enjoy your culinary adventure!