Discover the best Chinese food in Boulder with our list of 9 local spots serving crave-worthy dumplings, noodles, and classic dishes you’ll love.
Heres your guide to the best Chinese food in Boulder Colorado
If you’re on the hunt for the best Chinese food in Boulder, you’re in good company. Whether you’re craving steamy plates of hand-pulled noodles, crispy sesame chicken, or delicate soup dumplings, Boulder’s Chinese restaurants deliver flavors that locals keep coming back for. From casual counter spots to bustling noodle houses, this guide rounds up where to find the best Chinese food in Boulder right now.
We’ll also touch on where to grab a quick bowl of dan dan noodles between classes on The Hill, or which neighborhood favorites serve up authentic Sichuan dishes with all the fiery depth you’d hope for. If you’re exploring more local eats, don’t miss our picks for the best sushi in boulder and our deep dive into the best sesame chicken in Denver.
Let’s dig in.
Updated July 2025
Table of Contents
Zoe Ma Ma
Address: 919 Pearl St, Boulder, CO 80302
Phone: (303) 545-6262
Yelp Rating: ★ 3.7 (648 reviews)
Operating Hours: Mon–Thu & Sun 11 am–9 pm; Fri–Sat 11 am–9:30 pm
Service Type: Counter-service; dine-in & takeaway
Atmosphere: A casual spot right off Pearl Street Mall with a small patio, known for its moderate noise level and easygoing feel.
Zoe Ma Ma is a longtime local favorite, loved for its compact menu that highlights Taiwanese and Sichuan comfort foods. Expect quick counter service, a handful of tables inside, and a bustling vibe from the constant flow of loyal patrons. Dishes like the Dan Dan Mian and Sichuan Braised Beef Noodles are among the most frequently praised by diners for their depth of spice and texture. Locals also rave about the Pork Belly Bao, “Steamy Buns,” and vegan dumplings, which offer a lighter but equally satisfying bite. For Boulderites, Zoe Ma Ma remains a dependable choice when craving simple, crave-worthy Chinese classics.
Website: zoemama.com
Menu: See full menu
Flower Pepper Restaurant
Address: 1310 College Ave, Boulder, CO 80302
Phone: (720) 381-1594
Yelp Rating: ★ 4.0 (354 reviews)
Operating Hours: Daily 11 am–8:45 pm
Service Type: Order-at-counter; limited indoor seating with most diners opting for take-out.
Atmosphere: A tiny, no-frills stall tucked into “The Hill,” Boulder’s popular student district near CU campus.
Flower Pepper is often described as a hidden gem—small, family-run, and consistently dishing out bowls of noodles that pack serious flavor. Customers highlight the Dan Dan Noodles, Taiwanese Braised Beef Noodles, and savory Chili Oil Wontons as must-tries. It’s also a solid spot for dumplings and traditional stews like Stewed Pork Belly Rice, which bring a bit of authentic Taiwanese comfort to Boulder. Because of its intimate space, this is more of a quick lunch stop or takeout pick than a linger-for-hours destination, but the food quality ensures regulars keep returning.
Website: flowerpeppereats.com
Menu: View menu here (scroll to Menu section)
China Gourmet
Address: 3970 Broadway St Ste 102, Boulder, CO 80304
Phone: (303) 440-3500
Yelp Rating: ★ 3.7 (206 reviews)
Operating Hours: Sun–Fri 11:30 am–9 pm; Sat 4:30–9 pm
Service Type: Counter pick-up and dine-in booths; also offers local delivery.
Atmosphere: A laid-back, straightforward dining room that regulars appreciate for its no-fuss vibe.
This North Boulder standby has earned a steady following over the years thanks to its dependable lineup of familiar dishes. It’s often cited as the place for Sesame Chicken, Hot-&-Sour Soup, Beef Chow Fun, and Mongolian Beef, all dishes that echo classic Chinese-American flavors with a comforting consistency. China Gourmet isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel, but for Boulder locals looking for hearty, well-seasoned plates in a chill environment, it’s a top contender for some of the best Chinese food in Boulder.
Website: chinagourmetboulder.com
Menu: Full menu online
Excellent—let’s keep the flow going with the next three restaurants, all in the same editorial format.
Tsing Tao Asian Kitchen
Address: 607 S Broadway Ste A, Boulder, CO 80305
Phone: (303) 494-6228
Yelp Rating: ★ 3.7 (190 reviews)
Operating Hours: Mon, Wed–Fri 11 am–9 pm; Sat–Sun 12–9 pm; closed Tue
Service Type: Full-service dining with popular lunch & dinner buffets, plus take-out.
Atmosphere: Relaxed, family-friendly spot with a modest buffet line and plenty of regulars.
Tsing Tao has long held its reputation as a South Boulder mainstay for casual Chinese dining. Patrons come for the well-priced buffet offerings—favorites like Vegan Hot-&-Sour Soup, Mongolian Beef, and Steamed Pork Dumplings are frequently highlighted in online reviews. It’s also an easy go-to for standards like Sesame Chicken and Orange Chicken, ensuring a broad appeal whether you’re craving something crispy and sweet or prefer lighter vegetable-forward dishes. The inviting, slightly bustling atmosphere makes it an approachable option for groups or family dinners.
Website: tsingtaoasiankitchen.com
Menu: Browse full menu
May Wah Restaurant
Address: 2500 Baseline Rd, Boulder, CO 80305
Phone: (303) 499-8225
Yelp Rating: ★ 3.8 (130 reviews)
Operating Hours: Mon–Sat 11 am–9 pm; Sun 4–9 pm
Service Type: Traditional family-run operation with delivery; three decades strong.
Atmosphere: Unpretentious and warmly welcoming, ideal for budget-conscious comfort meals.
May Wah brings a cross-cultural twist to Boulder’s Chinese scene, offering a combined menu of Thai, Vietnamese, and Chinese classics. Locals especially love it for a relaxed weekday dinner of Sesame Chicken, a steaming bowl of Pho, or crunchy Salt-&-Pepper Shrimp. The dining room is simple but homey, with quick service that keeps neighborhood fans returning. If you’re seeking a laid-back spot that delivers on old-school charm, May Wah more than fits the bill among contenders for the best Chinese food in Boulder.
Website: maywahboulder.com
Menu: Click here for menu (navigate to Menu)
Hao Way Chinese Café
Address: 1678 30th St, Boulder, CO 80301
Phone: (303) 442-5115
Yelp Rating: ★ 3.8 (115 reviews)
Operating Hours: Mon–Thu 11 am–8:45 pm; Fri–Sat 11 am–9:15 pm; closed Sun
Service Type: Quick counter-service with dine-in booths and robust take-out traffic.
Atmosphere: A no-frills strip-mall eatery that moves fast, perfect for casual meals or grabbing something to go.
Hao Way is one of those under-the-radar places that loyal customers quietly champion. Known for generous portions and a straightforward menu, it’s frequently recommended for Salt & Pepper Pork, Mapo Tofu, Kung Pao Shrimp, and the ever-popular Hot-&-Sour Soup. Regulars appreciate the speedy turnaround on orders—whether you’re stopping in for a solo lunch or picking up dinner on a hectic night. It’s exactly the kind of modest café that rounds out Boulder’s vibrant roster of places for reliably good Chinese food.
Menu: See full menu
Perfect—here’s the continuation with the final three standout spots for the best Chinese food in Boulder, plus a FAQ, conclusion, and our EEAT footer to complete the article.
Yummy Duo Asian Bistro
Address: 2835 28th St, Boulder, CO 80301
Phone: (303) 449-7950
Yelp Rating: ★ 4.6 (11 reviews)
Operating Hours: Mon–Fri 11 am–9 pm; Sat–Sun 11:30 am–9 pm
Service Type: Sit-down dining with take-out, family-owned.
Atmosphere: A sunny, casual bistro with bright décor that makes it easy to bring a group.
Yummy Duo stands out for its wide-ranging menu that crosses borders into other Asian comfort foods, while still nailing the classics. Diners rave about the well-balanced Singapore Noodles, the slight heat of the Hunan Chicken, and approachable favorites like Kung Pao Tofu. The space is clean and welcoming, and it’s quickly earned a following for generous lunch portions and an affordable dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor. With its mix of Chinese staples and a few Thai-inspired dishes, it’s a solid pick if you’re after variety.
Website: (Currently redirects via Yelp) yummyduoasianbistro.com
Menu: View illustrated DoorDash menu
You & Mee Noodle House
Address: 2850 Iris Ave Ste D2, Boulder, CO 80301
Phone: (303) 449-0400
Yelp Rating: ★ 4.2 (49 reviews)
Operating Hours: Daily 11 am–9:30 pm
Service Type: Primarily counter-order with a busy take-out line.
Atmosphere: Low-key, hole-in-the-wall inside a small food court—quietly gaining cult status.
For noodle devotees, You & Mee is one of Boulder’s gems. The menu highlights dishes like Szechuan Beef Noodle Soup, Zha-Jiang Noodles, and savory Dry Pot plates that locals say pack more authentic heat than most spots in town. It’s a humble location with straightforward service—don’t expect frills, but do expect consistent, warming bowls perfect for snowy Colorado nights. That’s helped this spot earn a reputation among students and in-the-know residents hunting for Boulder’s best Chinese food in boulder
Website: youandmeeboulder.com
Menu: See full details on MenuPages
Nana’s Dim Sum & Dumplings
Address: 1125 13th St, Boulder, CO 80302
Phone: (303) 444-0329
Yelp Rating: ★ 4.0 (53 reviews)
Operating Hours: Daily 11 am–9 pm
Service Type: QR-code ordering for fast-casual dining; big focus on small plates.
Atmosphere: Bright, modern, and student-friendly—right on University Hill.
Nana’s is all about the dumplings. Whether it’s the Truffle Soup Dumplings, spicy Chicken Soup Dumplings, or neatly pleated Pork Chive Dumplings, nearly every diner review zeroes in on these craveable bites. Add in sides like garlicky green beans and sweet house-made Gua Bao, and it’s no surprise this is a top pick for Boulder’s students and late-lunch crowds. For those on the hunt for more delicate dim sum—especially soup-filled varieties—this is easily one of the first stops to make if you are looking for the best chinese food in boulder
Website: nanasdumplingsboulder.com
Menu: Check out their food menu (click Menu > Food)
FAQ: Finding the Best Chinese Food in Boulder
Where can I find the best soup dumplings in Boulder?
Most locals head straight to Nana’s Dim Sum & Dumplings for truffle and spicy soup dumplings. You’ll also see dumplings featured at Tsing Tao and You & Mee, but Nana’s is your top bet.
Who delivers Chinese food in Boulder?
Nearly all spots on this list offer delivery through DoorDash or Grubhub. Notably, China Gourmet, May Wah, and Hao Way Chinese Café have robust delivery business, so they’re safe choices for a cozy night in.
What’s the best Chinese restaurant for big groups?
Tsing Tao’s buffet makes it easy for parties, while Yummy Duo’s bright, spacious interior is great for larger tables. Flower Pepper is tiny—best for small pairs or take-out.
Any place for late-night Chinese eats?
While hours in Boulder lean conservative, May Wah is open until 9 pm daily, and You & Mee Noodle House serves until 9:30 pm—often your best options for a last-minute fix.
Where to Find the Best Chinese Food in Boulder
Whether you’re searching for delicate soup dumplings, fiery bowls of Dan Dan noodles, or comforting plates of sesame chicken, Boulder’s Chinese restaurants cover a broad spectrum. Spots like Flower Pepper and You & Mee Noodle House shine for authentic regional flavors, while places such as May Wah and Hao Way deliver crowd-pleasing classics at prices locals appreciate. Try a few of these and you’ll quickly see why each one earns its place on our shortlist of the best Chinese food in Boulder.
About the Author
Written by our local editorial team at Colorado Food Reviews, who spend countless weekends taste-testing dumplings, noodles, and everything saucy across Boulder’s bustling restaurant scene.
About Colorado Food Reviews
Colorado Food Reviews is your trusted source for curated restaurant guides, deep-dive local rankings, and behind-the-scenes interviews with chefs across Boulder, Denver, and the mountain towns. Our mission: help you eat exceptionally well in the Rockies.
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