If you’ve ever craved delicious Chinese food that feels both comforting and authentic, chances are you’ve heard of a Peking House. These restaurants, often family-owned and operated, have become a staple in many towns and cities. For many people, Peking House is not just about food—it’s about warm service, affordable meals, and flavors that remind you why Chinese cuisine is loved worldwide.
Personally, my first memory of visiting a Peking House was with my family on a rainy evening. We ordered crispy spring rolls, General Tso’s chicken, and fried rice. The aroma alone made me hungry before the food even touched the table. It wasn’t just about eating—it was about sharing plates, laughing together, and feeling at home in a cozy restaurant.
In this article, we’ll explore everything about Peking House: the menu, dining experience, history, and why it remains such a favorite for so many people.
What is Peking House?
Peking House is a common name for Chinese restaurants across the world. The term “Peking” refers to the old name for Beijing, the capital of China, famous for dishes like Peking Duck. A Peking House usually serves a wide range of Chinese-American dishes, from fried rice and noodles to specialty items inspired by traditional Chinese cooking.
Unlike fine dining establishments, Peking House restaurants are usually casual, affordable, and family-friendly. The charm lies in their consistency: you can always expect good portions, flavorful food, and friendly staff.
Peking House Menu Highlights
One of the main reasons people keep coming back is the variety of the menu. A typical Peking House menu will include:
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Appetizers – Egg rolls, crab rangoon, dumplings, hot and sour soup.
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Fried Rice – Chicken, pork, beef, shrimp, or vegetable.
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Noodles – Lo mein, chow mein, Singapore noodles.
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Chicken Dishes – General Tso’s chicken, sesame chicken, orange chicken.
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Beef & Pork – Mongolian beef, sweet and sour pork.
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Seafood – Shrimp with broccoli, kung pao shrimp.
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Vegetarian – Stir-fried tofu, mixed vegetables.
Each dish is usually cooked to order, which means you can ask for customization like “less spicy” or “extra sauce.”
Lunch and Dinner Specials
Peking House is also popular for its lunch specials, which usually include:
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An entrée of your choice.
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Fried rice or white rice.
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Soup or an appetizer.
These specials are not only affordable but also filling, making them a favorite for people on their lunch breaks. Dinner portions are often bigger and come with family-style sharing in mind.
Vegetarian and Healthy Choices
Not all Chinese food is heavy or fried. Many Peking House locations now offer healthier options such as:
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Steamed vegetables with chicken or shrimp.
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Brown rice instead of white rice.
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Low-sodium soy sauce upon request.
Vegetarians can enjoy dishes like tofu with broccoli or vegetable lo mein. I once brought a vegetarian friend to Peking House, and she was surprised at how many plant-based options were available—she especially loved the garlic sauce vegetables.
Dining Experience at Peking House
The experience of dining at a Peking House is just as important as the food. Most locations have a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, with friendly staff who remember regular customers.
Another highlight is family-style dining. Dishes are served in large portions, meant to be shared. This makes it easy to try multiple dishes in one meal.
The casual setup also makes it perfect for quick meals, family gatherings, or even takeout nights when you don’t feel like cooking.
Locations & Services
Most towns have at least one Peking House near me if you search online. Many locations also provide:
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Takeout – Quick and convenient packaging for meals on the go.
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Delivery – Many use apps like DoorDash or Uber Eats.
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Catering – Some Peking Houses offer catering for parties, serving large trays of popular dishes.
Customer Reviews and Real Experiences
When you check reviews for Peking House online, you’ll notice a pattern. Customers love:
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The generous portions.
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The affordable prices.
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The consistency of flavor.
One reviewer shared that Peking House was their “go-to family restaurant” for over 10 years. Another said they drive across town just for their sesame chicken. Personally, I love how every visit feels familiar, like a tradition that never changes.
Cultural Side of Peking House
The dishes at Peking House may not always be identical to traditional Beijing cuisine, but they reflect the way Chinese food has adapted to local tastes while keeping its cultural roots alive.
For example:
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Sweet and Sour Chicken is more of a Chinese-American invention.
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Peking Duck is a traditional Beijing dish, often found at more authentic spots.
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Fried Rice has variations worldwide but remains a staple.
By blending tradition with local preferences, Peking House restaurants manage to keep both authenticity and approachability.
What to Order at Peking House: Personal Recommendations
If it’s your first time visiting a Peking House, here’s what I recommend:
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Appetizer: Crab Rangoon or dumplings.
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Main Dish: General Tso’s chicken (if you like sweet and spicy).
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Side: Fried rice or lo mein.
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Vegetarian Option: Mixed vegetables with garlic sauce.
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For Sharing: Mongolian beef or sesame chicken.
This combination gives you a good balance of flavors—crispy, saucy, sweet, savory, and filling.
Conclusion
Peking House is more than just a restaurant—it’s a part of local communities, offering comfort food that brings people together. Whether you’re dining in with family, ordering takeout after a long day, or exploring new flavors, the experience is always memorable.
The appeal of Peking House lies in its simplicity: good food, generous portions, and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s the kind of place you return to again and again because it feels like home.
FAQs
Q1: What is Peking House known for?
It’s known for affordable, delicious Chinese-American food like fried rice, lo mein, and General Tso’s chicken.
Q2: Does Peking House have vegetarian options?
Yes, most menus include tofu dishes, steamed vegetables, and veggie noodles.
Q3: Can I order Peking House for delivery?
Many locations offer delivery through food apps or directly.
Q4: What’s the most popular dish at Peking House?
General Tso’s chicken and sesame chicken are customer favorites.
Q5: Is Peking House authentic Chinese food?
It’s a blend of Chinese-inspired dishes and American-style adaptations.
