7 Best Chinese Restaurants in Champaign, IL Near UIUC Campus

What’s for dinner? If you’re in college, you know the drill. Doubt your fridge is full, so where do you go? Scrolling on DoorDash is easy, but picking the best option sometimes isn’t. 

But one type of food you can never go wrong with eating hits exceptionally well on a late night in college when all you have in your fridge is ramen and expired spinach you told yourself to eat. Chinese! Chinese food is top-tier takeout, but where do you start? With places a dime a dozen, it’s easy to get lost in the sauce. Check out our recommendations for the best Chinese Restaurants in Urbana/Champaign.

Peking Garden 

Known for its delicious and crispy pot stickers and dumplings, Peking Garden is a staple of Urbana/Champaign. They make amazing food and have a tight grip as a favorite of many students at UIUC. Their website invites you to come to join them, saying, “. Our restaurant is known for its variety in taste and high-quality fresh ingredients. Come and experience our friendly atmosphere and excellent service.” 

Super Wok

If you’re looking for a cool place to have a sit-down dinner, Super Wok might be your top choice. They only serve in person and are dedicated to providing awesome service and a great experience at their restaurant. Their website says, “We pick ingredients carefully and use only the freshest and nature ones to prepare every dish, and have been trying to cook them in a healthier way to provide the most nutritious food. Much attention has been attached to ensure you a cozy and inviting ambiance where you could enjoy not only the great meal but also the authentic atmosphere.” Champaign couldn’t survive without Super Wok! 

Rainbow Garden

With a huge menu – Rainbow Garden is one of the most visited Chinese places in the area. With authentic Szechuan, this place makes food that is just a little bit elevated compared to the other dozens of Chinese restaurants in Urbana/Champaign. One of the top reviews on wanderlog.com says “Szechwan Chinese wonton was on point as an appetizer. Their west lake beef soup also rich of flavour. Deep fried pork is crunchy […]. Their Peking duck also great, and their seafood noodle also great, loved their sauce” Check out the rest of their menu here! 

Lao Sze Chuan

On the more upscale side, this charming place is great for a date night or if you’re craving high-quality food at a reasonable price. A reviewer on wanderlog.com gave it five stars, saying “Probably the best Chinese restaurant in town. As a Chinese, Lao Sze Chuan is definitely the place I go the most often for Chinese food with my friends. The taste of the classical dishes are really the same as in China. In Chinese, we say 有那味儿~ 味儿正~ The environment is also good. This place would not let you down! Highly recommend!” Check out their menu here! 

Golden Harbor

With a lengthy translated menu, this place features a traditional flare that’s simple and delicious. When you think of classic Chinese food dishes, this place has everything you want, exactly how you want it. The best part of their menu? They have EVERYTHING. From pork dishes to chicken, beef, tofu, noodles, and rice, the world is your oyster. Need some inspiration? Check out all the pictures of their delicious dishes on their website here. 

Cravings 

Cravings caters to a specific audience – hungry! The main review is their generous portion sizes, keeping you full for a few meals. They are a regular spot for UIUC students and have a huge menu. If you’re feeling extra hungry, don’t miss Cravings. 

Lai Lai Wok 

Right off campus, this place is a favorite because it’s close and affordable. Easy to get to and quick to get a delicious meal. They are known for their awesome lunch deals and catering to students’ pockets and tastes. And something they offer that is not at every other Chinese restaurant – squid! Check out which buns they have on their website.