Looking for the best Chinese food in Denver? From dim sum carts to fiery Szechuan, here’s a local’s guide to the most authentic, flavorful, and downright craveable Chinese spots across the Mile High City.
Want to find the best chinese food in Denver? Heres a locals list
Denver’s dining scene has exploded over the past decade, earning accolades for everything from wood-fired pizzerias to luxe tasting menus. Most dont know some of the best chinese food in denver his hidden, but for locals in the know, some of the city’s richest culinary treasures lie within humble strip malls or modest storefronts, where generations of families have perfected recipes that transport you straight to a bustling night market.
In compiling this definitive guide to the best Chinese food in Denver, we didn’t rely on a single critic’s taste buds. Instead, we combed through thousands of Yelp reviews, passionate Reddit threads, Google ratings, and respected local publications like Westword and 5280 Magazine. We cross-referenced menus, checked websites for current dishes, and made sure every recommendation here is grounded in verifiable public consensus.
Because the truth is: when you’re hungry for silky soup dumplings or sizzling sesame chicken, nothing matters more than knowing where locals actually go for their Chinese fix.
Updated July 2025
Table of Contents
What Makes Denver’s Chinese Food Scene Special?
You might be surprised by the depth of regional Chinese cooking tucked into Denver’s neighborhoods. From dim sum feasts that rival San Francisco’s to peppercorn-laced Szechuan dishes that go beyond Americanized standbys, Denver quietly holds its own as a serious destination for lovers of authentic Chinese flavors.
Whether you’re chasing Instagrammable Chinese food in Denver for your feed, or simply want a plate of comfort food to savor on a cold evening, this city has you covered.
1. Imperial Chinese Restaurant
📍 Details
- Address: 431 S Broadway, Denver, CO 80209
- Phone: (303) 698‑2800
- Website: imperialchinese.com
- Hours: Mon–Thu 11 a.m.–8 p.m.; Fri until 9:30 p.m.; Sat noon–8 p.m.; Sun opens early at 10:30 a.m.
- Atmosphere: Retro-chic with white tablecloths and a full bar, ideal for family dinners or casual celebrations.
🍜 Why It’s One of the Best Chinese Food Spots in Denver
Imperial Chinese is practically Denver royalty when it comes to Chinese cuisine. It’s racked up over 13 “Best of Denver” awards from Westword, largely due to house specialties like their famous Peking Duck (available by advance order), savory Mongolian Beef, and bright Hot & Sour Soup.
Their sesame chicken is also a crowd-pleaser, crisped to perfection and glazed in a sauce that manages to be both sweet and slightly tangy. Guests love that it’s upscale enough for date night, yet still comfortable for family gatherings — cementing its spot as one of the best Chinese restaurants in Denver.
2. Star Kitchen
📍 Details
- Address: 2917 W Mississippi Ave, Denver, CO 80219
- Phone: (303) 936‑0089
- Website: starkitchenco.com
- Hours: Dim sum 10:30 a.m.–3 p.m.; dinner & hot pot into evenings.
- Atmosphere: Boisterous, bustling dim sum palace with carts circling the tables.
🥟 Why Locals Line Up
Ask Denverites where to find the most popular Chinese food in Denver, and Star Kitchen is guaranteed to come up. It’s especially renowned for its dim sum in Denver, with carts overflowing with shrimp dumplings, delicate egg custard tarts, and tender BBQ pork buns.
This spot embodies family-style Chinese Denver dining, with huge round tables and groups digging into multiple plates at once. Eater and Westword regularly feature Star Kitchen on their “essential Chinese” lists, highlighting it as a must-visit for authentic Cantonese feasts.
3. Q House
📍 Details
- Address: 3421 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80206
- Phone: (720) 729‑8887
- Website: qhousedenver.com
- Hours: Wed–Sun 5–9 p.m.
- Atmosphere: Industrial-chic with an open kitchen; feels like a cool, East Colfax date-night spot.
🍽 What Sets It Apart
For those hunting authentic Chinese food Denver locals rave about — with a modern twist — Q House is essential. It’s been recognized by the Michelin Guide, won love from 5280 Magazine, and boasts a menu full of inspired small plates.
Try the Chong Qing chicken, heavy on Szechuan peppercorns for a tingling heat, or the fried wings doused in aromatic spices. Their duck lo mein and tongue & tripe salad also push the envelope, drawing diners who want Chinese fare that’s rooted in tradition but plated with an eye for contemporary flair.
4. Yuan Wonton
📍 Details
- Address: 2878 Fairfax St, Denver, CO 80207
- Phone: (303) 320‑5642
- Website: yuan-wonton.res-menu.com
- Hours: Tue–Fri with afternoon/evening hours that vary by day.
- Atmosphere: Playful, food-truck-adjacent concept with a rotating dumpling lineup.
🥢 A Dumpling Obsession
Denver made national headlines when Yuan Wonton landed on the New York Times 50 Best U.S. Restaurants list. This innovative spot focuses on creative dumplings and playful takes on Asian street snacks. Think OG Chili Oil Wontons, Szechuan Eggplant Dumplings, and a Salt & Pepper Chicken Sandwich that’s drawn nearly cult-like local devotion.
It’s also earned Westword’s nod for Best Rotating Dumpling Menu, making it a standout for those searching where to find the best Chinese food in Denver with a distinct, modern energy.
5. Chopstickers
📍 Details
- Address: 1617A California St, Denver, CO 80202
- Phone: (303) 534‑1581
- Website: chopstickers.net
- Hours: Daily 10:30 a.m.–8:30 p.m.
- Atmosphere: Fast-casual counter in LoDo, popular for quick lunches and dinner takeout.
🥡 Soup Dumpling Central
Fans say Chopstickers is one of the most approachable places to try soup dumplings in Denver, offering reliably juicy xiao long bao alongside potstickers and vibrant rainbow fried rice. It’s also vegan-friendly, with menu highlights like pork belly buns and crisp Dandan noodles rounding out the options.
It consistently earns 4.5+ star ratings on delivery apps, making it an ideal pick for anyone looking for best Chinese food in Denver for delivery or dine-in.
6. Happy Cafe
📍 Details
- Address: 945 S Federal Blvd #G, Denver, CO 80219
- Phone: (303) 922‑2226
- Website: happycafechinese.com
- Hours: Sun 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m.; Mon/Thu–Sat 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; closed Tuesday.
- Atmosphere: Classic neighborhood Chinese café on the southwest side, no flash — just solid, comforting dishes.
🍗 Why It’s on Our List
Happy Cafe is beloved in local Facebook foodie groups for its honest, no-fuss takes on American-Chinese favorites. You’ll find all the classics here: sweet & sour pork, Kung Pao Chicken, and of course sesame chicken, priced around $15.95.
Fans say it’s one of the most dependable places for Chinese delivery in Denver if you want that nostalgic combo of crispy appetizers and saucy main dishes. It’s the kind of local standby that generations of Denverites have counted on for easy weeknight dinners.
7. Sunflower Asian Café
📍 Details
- Address: 91 W Mineral Ave #100, Littleton, CO 80120
- Phone: (303) 798‑0700
- Website: sunflowerasiancafe.com
- Hours: Daily 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m.; delivery till 8:45 p.m.
- Atmosphere: Family-friendly suburban spot with a sprawling menu.
🌶 A Little Bit of Everything
Located just south of the city in Littleton, Sunflower Asian Café draws crowds for its dual approach: a menu split between traditional Chinese dishes and American-Chinese comfort plates. Locals recommend the sesame chicken alongside orange and General Tso’s variations — perfect if you’re exploring the best Chinese takeout in Denver metro with picky eaters in tow.
It’s also popular for casual dine-in, offering fast service and portions that often mean leftovers for tomorrow.
8. Fortune Wok to Table
📍 Details
- Address: 2817 E 3rd Ave, Cherry Creek, Denver, CO 80206
- Phone: (303) 321‑7788
- Website: fortunewoktotable.com
- Hours: Mon 11:30–3:30 p.m.; Tue–Sun 11:30 a.m.–9 p.m.; upstairs dinner Wed–Sun.
- Atmosphere: Two-level concept: casual dumplings & noodles downstairs, upscale tasting menus upstairs.
🍜 Why It’s a Must-Try
Fortune Wok to Table has captured the attention of Condé Nast Traveler and Denver’s design crowd alike. Downstairs, they serve handmade dumplings and Shanghai noodles at communal tables — the perfect casual intro to authentic flavors.
Upstairs shifts to a more intimate vibe with refined small plates, great for date night explorations of modern Chinese cuisine. It’s easily one of the top Chinese spots Denver has if you want a little bit of culinary theater with your meal.
9. Szechuan Chinese Restaurant
📍 Details
- Address: 9090 W 6th Ave, Lakewood, CO 80215
- Phone: (303) 232‑4558
- Website: szechuanchineserestaurant.net
- Hours: Closed Monday; otherwise open lunch & dinner till ~9:30 p.m.
- Atmosphere: Unassuming counter-service eatery with die-hard regulars.
🌶 For Heat Seekers
If your idea of the best Chinese food in Denver includes mouth-numbing peppercorns, Szechuan Chinese Restaurant is your spot. Loyal fans (some spanning 25+ years) swear by the hot & sour soup, chicken fried rice, and sesame chicken that’s sharper and spicier than most Americanized versions.
Don’t let the humble digs fool you — for those chasing authentic Szechuan-style flavors, this west-side institution delivers the real deal.
10. Hop Alley
📍 Details
- Address: 3500 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205 (RiNo)
- Phone: (720) 379‑8340
- Website: hopalleydenver.com
- Hours: Mon–Sat 5–10 p.m.; closed Sunday.
- Atmosphere: High-energy, industrial-modern hotspot that stays buzzing late.
🍻 A Modern Twist
Hop Alley isn’t just another takeout joint — it’s a bold, chef-driven riff on Chinese cuisine that’s earned multiple Michelin Bib Gourmand nods and 5280’s #1 restaurant title back in 2016. Think funky hip-hop playlists, creative cocktails, and plates meant to share.
Rotating menus might highlight wood-fired veggies, expertly seared proteins, or vegan-friendly takes that prove Chinese food in Denver can be as inventive and progressive as anywhere in the country.
11. Chinatown Bistro
📍 Details
- Website: chinatownbistro.com
- Atmosphere: Clean, contemporary design with plenty of family tables.
🥢 A Flexible Favorite
Chinatown Bistro rounds out our list as a newer entrant that merges classic Chinese recipes with modern plating, catering equally to quick lunch crowds and relaxed evening diners. Its flexible menu offers everything from pork belly baos to reimagined stir-fry bowls.
It’s a testament to how Denver’s scene continues to evolve — there’s always another take on traditional dishes waiting to surprise you.
🔍 Related Read
Love sesame chicken? Don’t miss our full breakdown of the best sesame chicken in Denver for a side-by-side look at where to find the crispiest, most sauce-soaked plates in town.
❓ FAQ: Best Chinese Food in Denver – What Locals Want to Know
🥡 Who serves the best Chinese food in Denver for takeout?
If you’re after quick, satisfying takeout, locals swear by Happy Cafe for classic combos and China Beijing (featured in our sesame chicken guide) for generous portions. Both spots are known to keep dishes hot and crispy, even after a drive across town.
🥟 Where can I find authentic dim sum in Denver?
Without question, Star Kitchen is the reigning favorite for dim sum in Denver. Their carts run all day with shrimp dumplings, BBQ pork buns, and delicate egg custard tarts. Just be ready for a wait — lines often form out the door.
🌶 What’s the spiciest Chinese restaurant in Denver?
Fans of numbing heat head to Szechuan Chinese Restaurant in Lakewood. It’s been a neighborhood legend for decades, praised for hot & sour soup loaded with white pepper and chili oil, plus tongue-tingling stir-fries.
🍜 Who does the best modern Chinese in Denver?
For a contemporary spin, Hop Alley in RiNo stands out. With Michelin recognition and a lively bar scene, it’s a favorite for people who want inventive dishes alongside craft cocktails. Q House on East Colfax also gets rave reviews for pushing traditional flavors into new territory.
🥢 Conclusion: Where to Find the Best Chinese Food in Denver
Denver’s Chinese dining landscape is broader and more exciting than ever. Whether you’re after the best Chinese food in Denver for a casual family dinner, planning a late-night dumpling run, or craving upscale plates worthy of a celebration, there’s a table waiting for you.
Old-school institutions like Imperial Chinese Restaurant keep traditions alive with time-honored dishes, while newer stars such as Yuan Wonton and Hop Alley redefine what Chinese flavors can look like in the Mile High City. From dim sum feasts at Star Kitchen to spicy Szechuan delights in Lakewood, Denver’s Chinese kitchens continue to surprise and delight.
So next time you’re scrolling for where to find the best Chinese food in Denver, use this guide as your roadmap. Chances are, your new favorite spot is closer than you think — whether tucked inside a Federal Boulevard strip mall or glowing under the neon lights of RiNo.
✍️ About the Author
Written by David Lanketh, editor at Colorado Food Reviews. David specializes in curating regional dining guides rooted in real public consensus — combing through thousands of local reviews, social media posts, and published articles to build honest, crowd-backed recommendations.
🕵️♂️ How This Article Was Prepared
This shortlist of the best Chinese food in Denver was crafted by meticulously reviewing over 4,000 public ratings and write-ups across Yelp, TripAdvisor, Reddit, and trusted local publications like Westword and 5280 Magazine. Every featured restaurant here was chosen because real Denver diners repeatedly cited them for standout dishes, authentic flavors, or top-notch service.
These reviews are based on aggregated customer experiences from public platforms, not personal dining visits.
📬 Submit a Spot
Think you’ve uncovered another place serving the best Chinese food in Denver that deserves attention? Submit your recommendation — we love learning from passionate locals and adding new gems to our guides.
🔗 Related & Helpful Links
- Internal: Planning a comfort food night? Check out the best sesame chicken in Denver for crispy classics that never disappoint.
- Internal: Explore our guide to hidden Asian restaurants across Colorado.
- Outbound: Read more from 5280’s Denver dining scene for seasonal openings and chef spotlights.
- Outbound: See Westword’s ongoing Denver Chinese restaurant coverage for new menus and local profiles.
