10 Asian Takeout Spots in Newport Beach
Asian cuisine is synonymous with takeout and most can’t even wait to grab a plate before digging into the container of fried rice or chow mein. We’ve seen it on the big screen, on TV, and you might even be guilty of it yourself within the sanctity of your own home. Regardless of how you choose to indulge in that takeout, here are 10 spots the next time that longing hits, and you’re scratching your head wondering who to call.
Bamboo Bistro
Owner Chau Dang Heller is no stranger to the restaurant scene. Her Corona del Mar restaurant Bamboo Bistro features contemporary Vietnamese fare that is worthy of restaurants in Lil Saigon. Although it is tempting to enjoy your meal within the serenity of the restaurant, the myriad of dishes are also perfect for take out to eat at home such as the Grilled Pork Spring Rolls made famous by Brodard restaurant in Westminster, founded by Heller’s mother Diane. The Tiger Prawn and Garlic Noodles is also a perfect item to take out, as is the Seafood Pineapple Fried Rice.
Photo Credit: Anita Lau
Go & Go Asian
This tiny spot is hard to find especially if you’re not looking for it, but you’ll be pleasantly surprise by how fresh and delicious everything is once you get there. Located next door to Sgt Pepperoni’s Pizza along Bristol St, the woks are fired up once your order is placed so everything is at its optimum freshness. There is no MSG here, and each dish is prepared with that home-cooked flavor grandma used to make. Mongolian Beef, Lemon Chicken, and Garlic Miso Eggplant are all stellar take out options. Vegetarians will also find a variety of dishes perfect for their dietary requirements.
Hana Grill
Located within the Fashion Island courtyard, Hana Grill serves up healthy Japanese inspired rice bowls filled with proteins, vegetables and rice. These are quick and simple, making it ideal for carry out. Stick with classics such as teriyaki or miso ginger bowls, or pick a spicy tuna bowl to change things up a bit. California rolls as well as spicy tuna rolls are also perfect on the go. There is even a vegan bowl for those on meatless diets.
Photo Credit: Anita Lau
Mint Leaf Thai
Tucked away only steps away from the Balboa Fun Zone, Mint Leaf Thai is a quaint and cozy restaurant that attracts both locals and visitors alike. The restaurant is busy most nights with takeout being an ideal option when the restaurant is packed. The menu is a cornucopia of appetizers, salads, a handful of curries, and stir fried dishes. The Pad Thai, Drunken Noodles or Crab Fried rice are great on their own, but pair some Papaya Salad and Spicy Eggplant and it’s a complete meal for the entire family.
Panda Express
There is nothing more ubiquitous than Panda Express when it comes to take out. This southern Californian chain founded by the Cherng family in 1983 has a location at the food court in Fashion Island. Here, you’ll find a wide selection from the steam table ranging from the signature orange chicken, beef and broccoli, to honey walnut shrimp. Select one or two entrées paired with fried rice, noodles or steamed rice, all for under $10.
Pei Wei Asian Diner
The casual concept, by P.F. Chang’s founders Philip Chiang and Paul Fleming, located at The Bluffs, is a cornucopia of Asian favorites. There is sushi, noodles from across Asia – Pad Thai, Chow Mein and Ramen – as well as “Wok Classics” which includes favorites such as Kung Pao and Orange Peel flavors. The restaurant has also included gluten free options for those on dietary restrictions, as well as a children’s menu for its younger customers.
Photo Credit: Anita Lau
P.F. Chang’s China Bistro
This Asian-themed casual dining chain, located at Fashion Island, is the epitome of Chinese-American cuisine. P.F. Chang’s China Bistro combines East and West in perfect harmony both in the environment it surrounds its customers with, and also, in its menu options. Choose from favorites such as Kung Pao Chicken, Sweet and Sour Pork, and signature Lo Mein, or try some of the new menu items such as Singapore Firecracker Chicken or Wok Fired Filet Mignon. Remember at P.F. Chang’s white or brown rice is always complimentary.
Pick Up Stix
At Pick Up Stix, your order is fired up the minute you order it. There are two locations in Newport Beach, one off Westcliff, and the other, off San Miguel. The Pick Up Stix Menu offers chicken, beef and shrimp entrees with your choice of white or brown rice. If that isn’t what you’re looking for, there is a host of different chow mein, fried rice, and other noodle dishes to choose from. Pick Up Stix’s famous signature House Special Chicken is a customer favorite.
Shanghai Pine Garden
Located in the heart of Balboa Island, Shanghai Pine Garden has been a permanent fixture along Marine Ave for decades. Featuring Mandarin style Chinese food, the extensive menu has just about anything you’re hankering for. At lunch time, you can easily walk away with a meal for $10 which includes, soup, salad, your choice of entrée and rice. Choose dishes off the menu, or, if you’re ordering for a large party, the restaurant has a selection of 10 dishes under Party Trays to keep it quick and simple to order. Choices include Orange Chicken, House Fried Rice, Special Lo Mein, and Mongolian Beef.
The Flame Broiler
Looking for something quick and delicious? The Flame Broiler is a simple but tasty Korean-inspired casual eatery with two locations in Newport Beach – one off PCH and Balboa Blvd, and the other off Jamboree Road by the 73 freeway. This rice bowl concept is simple, choose your rice — white or brown – a grilled protein: chicken, beef, tofu, or a combination. If you are on a low carb diet, The Flame Broiler is perfect because you can build your bowl sans rice, and pack it with steamed vegetables instead. The Korean-inspired flavors at The Flame Broiler is reminiscent of Korean barbecue, and may be kicked up a notch or two with any of the three signature hot sauces ranging in heat from mild to killer spicy.
