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China Chalet

Reviewed by Jessica Kitchin   
Posted May 12, 2008

China Chalet
184 Columbia Turnpike, Florham Park
973-966-2828

Hours: Mon–Thurs, 11:30 am–9:30 pm; Fri, 11:30 am–10:30 pm; Sat, noon–10:30 pm; Sun, noon–9:30 pm

Price: $/$$

Style: Simple decor with a traditional Asian vibe: minimalist florals, pre-dinner tea, quiet music.

Don’t Miss: Steamed pork or vegetable dumplings are a good start ($4), or mix it up with sliced conch meat with roasted chili vinaigrette ($8.95). There are nine soups to choose from, including the traditional wonton ($2) or the more spicy seafood soup with peppery vinegar ($6.95 for two). The menu includes traditional gourmet Chinese fare, plus some specialties: at lunch, try the shredded pork with Peking sauce ($7.95) or the more spicy Chengdu baby shrimp ($8.95); all lunch specials are served until 3 pm and come with soup and rice. Dinner specials include braised beef and napa cabbage in a roasted chili-oil sauce, served with celery and bamboo shoots ($14.95), and the (truly) Heavenly chicken, sautéed with snow peas and a spicy ginger sauce ($13.95). 

Heads Up: Dessert options are limited, so if you have a sweet tooth (and any room left in your stomach), cross the parking lot to Baskin-Robbins for ice cream.

The Scoop: Tucked in a strip mall between a Starbucks and a King’s supermarket, this former Vermont Pancake House has plenty of long, spacious booths and tables for parties large and small. Takeout is also available.