When it comes to Chinese cuisine, Omaha offers a wide array of options, but what truly distinguishes a remarkable Chinese restaurant from the rest?
At Omaha Food Magazine, we believe that it all boils down to one thing – the food. While the atmosphere certainly has its place, it's the culinary experience that takes center stage.
In our quest to uncover the best Chinese restaurants in Omaha, we've scoured the city, tasting our way through countless dishes.
The TOP Seven Chinese Restaurants in the Omaha Area
Among dozens of choices, these top six Chinese restaurants in the Omaha area stood out for their exceptional flavors and authentic culinary experiences.
- Wave Bistro
- Three Happiness Express
- Blue & Fly Asian Kitchen
- Dragon Wok
- Golden Bowl
- Ling's Asian Cuisine
- Ming's Restaurant
Now, let's explore each of these Chinese Restaurants more in depth.
Wave Bistro: A Culinary Wave of Authenticity and Flair in Omaha
In the heart of Omaha, a culinary gem shines brightly, beckoning food enthusiasts to savor a taste of genuine Asian finesse. Welcome to Wave Bistro, a sanctuary of flavor where Andy and Jenny Hsu, a couple not just in matrimony but in culinary passion, orchestrate a symphony of tastes and experiences.
Andy, a master in the kitchen, hails from Taiwan and has been weaving his magic with ingredients since the tender age of 14. His journey, rich with flavors and techniques, has seen him and his wife Jenny owning and elevating restaurants in the Omaha metro area for over three decades. Their past ventures, such as China Road and Formoza Zen, have been more than just eateries; they've been landmarks in Omaha's culinary landscape.
Now, pouring their heart and soul into Wave Bistro, the Hsus have created not just a restaurant, but an elevated Asian dining experience. Here, Andy’s wizardry is most evident in his treatment of meats, transforming them into dishes that sing with flavor. His philosophy is simple yet profound – everything must be made from scratch. This commitment to freshness is palpable in every bite, a testament to their refusal to cut corners. No cans of soup or bags of pre-made food here, just pure, unadulterated flavor.
Jenny, the other half of this dynamic duo, complements Andy’s kitchen artistry with her meticulous attention to detail in the front of the house. Dressed in her business suit, she's the epitome of grace and efficiency, ensuring every aspect of the dining experience is perfect. From the place settings to the polished cutlery and sparkling glasses, Jenny’s touch is evident, creating an ambiance of Asian fine dining that is unparalleled in Omaha.
Wave Bistro is more than a restaurant; it's a revelation, a place that many Omahans have yet to discover. The Hsus offer not just food, but an experience – a blend of European cuisine with an Asian twist, a culinary journey that begins at 144th near Maple St. and takes you to places your palate has never ventured before.
As you step into Wave Bistro, you’re not just a customer; you're a guest of the Hsu family, welcomed with open arms and served with a generosity that's as heartwarming as it is rare. This is Asian fine dining at its best in Omaha, a place where every ingredient sings and every dish tells a story.
So, for those who seek more than just a meal, for those who yearn to be part of a story that’s flavored with tradition, passion, and impeccable taste, Wave Bistro awaits. Trust us, you’ll leave not just satiated, but inspired.
Image Credits: Omaha Food Magazine
Three Happiness Express
Located at the corner of 51st and Leavenworth in the popular Elmwood neighborhood, Three Happiness Express has made a triumphant return following a devastating fire that impacted their establishment. They have captured the hearts of Omaha Foodies, locals, and visitors alike. Voted the best Chinese restaurant in Omaha by the popular Omaha Food Lovers Community Facebook Group, Three Happiness Express delivers delectable dishes that won't break the bank.
We sampled several items, including the teriyaki chicken and fried rice. With its sweet and tangy sauce, the teriyaki chicken paired perfectly with the broccoli and fried rice, making it a must-try dish. Another highlight was the vegetable fried rice with pan-fried tofu, a flavorful medley that's sure to satisfy vegetarians. And let's not forget the chicken lo mein, a delightful dish with just the right amount of spice.
What we love most about Three Happiness Express is not just the delicious food but also the affordability of each entree, making it a budget-friendly choice for both lunch and dinner.
Image Credit: Three Happiness
Blue & Fly Asian Kitchen
721 S 72nd Street, Suite 111, (402)504-6545
Blue & Fly Asian Kitchen is a hidden gem among Omaha's Chinese restaurants. Omaha Food Magazine appreciates the restaurant's dual menu, offering both traditional Chinese selections and Americanized options. Favorites like sautéed bok choy and mapo tofu have won our hearts, and the rotating specials board keeps us coming back for more. The restaurant's dedication to providing a wide range of choices is commendable, ensuring there's something for every palate. If you're on the hunt for authentic Chinese flavors or a taste of the familiar, Blue & Fly Asian Kitchen has it all.
Image Credit: Blue & Fly Asian Kitchen
Dragon Wok
14220 Fort Street, (402) 934-5727
Dragon Wok has earned its place as the No. 1 Chinese restaurant in Nebraska, as recognized by LoveFood.com's list of the best Chinese restaurants in each U.S. state. Known for its dragon motif, the restaurant features a unique and captivating dining room. However, it's the freshly cooked, made-to-order food that truly impresses at Dragon Wok.
Standout dishes include the delightful crab rangoon, crispy dumplings filled with flavor, and the comforting egg drop soup. With locations at Nebraska Crossing in Gretna and 144th and Fort Streets in Omaha, Dragon Wok consistently delivers on taste and quality.
Golden Bowl
511 Fort Crook Rd N, Bellevue, NE
Golden Bowl has held the title of Bellevue's best Chinese restaurant for over 30 years. This enduring success can be attributed to their superb assortment of traditional Chinese delicacies and a welcoming ambiance. At Golden Bowl, you'll embark on an extraordinary culinary adventure that will undoubtedly tantalize your palate. Their commitment to quality and consistency has made them a beloved fixture in the local dining scene. Under new ownership in November 2023, Golden Bowl promises the community an exceptional experience.
Ling's Asian Cuisine
6909 S 157th St A, (402) 894-1733
Situated in a small strip mall off 156th and Harrison, Ling's Asian Cuisine may have once been a well-kept secret, but its exceptional Chinese and Vietnamese offerings have made it a must-visit dining destination for foodies in Omaha.
The husband-wife team, Kim and Justin Ling, bring their culinary expertise to the forefront, offering a menu that spans Asia, with dishes from China, Thailand, and Vietnam. Simplicity is key at Ling's, with around 30 thoughtfully curated items that cater to both Americanized expectations and those seeking more authentic flavors.
As the new ownership takes the reins, they promise a continued dedication to quality and service, ensuring that the legacy of Ling's lives on.
Image Credit: Lisa Armour
Ming's Restaurant
828 Tara Plaza, Papillion, NE
Ming's Restaurant is known for its budget-friendly pricing and high-quality Chinese cuisine. While the atmosphere may be modest, the food more than makes up for it. Owned by Ming until his passing in June 2020, the family continues his legacy of kindness and extraordinary Chinese dishes. With a reputation for excellent Asian food, including Chinese and other Asian cuisines, Ming's Restaurant is a testament to the enduring appeal of good food served with heart.
Chinese Food Near Me in Omaha
You might have observed the noticeable absence of restaurants like Wave Bistro, Umami, and others in this article featuring the best Chinese restaurants in Omaha. You would be correct. These restaurants have transcended being the best restaurants featuring Chinese food. They are on another level and are featured in other articles and lists, such as our compilation of the best fine dining restaurants in Omaha.
Omaha has an abundance of great Chinese or Asian-inspired restaurants at our ready. In our journey to find the best Chinese food in Omaha, these standout restaurants have consistently delivered on taste, quality, and authenticity. Whether you're craving traditional Chinese dishes or exploring new flavors, these establishments offer a diverse range of options to satisfy your culinary desires.
So, if you're on the hunt for the most delicious Chinese food in Omaha, look no further than these top-notch restaurants that have captured the hearts of Omaha Food Magazine and food enthusiasts throughout the city.
