Mandarin Wok

Love this place! So friendly, they'll always remember you if you come back with any regularity. Service is phenomenal and old-fashioned. Food is very tasty, served family style. All the Chinese-American classics and a few specialties of their own. The atmosphere of the place is so comforting, with classical Chinese music playing, cloth napkins, pretty fans, and mirrored walls, just like the Chinese restaurants of your youth. (Which this probably is since it's been there forever.) Hard to imagine a more relaxing place to dine.

I recently dined at a New York-style Chinese restaurant that aimed to capture the nostalgic old school vibe, although it didn’t quite hit the authenticity mark. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the fantastic lunch specials they offered. The Kung Pao beef was a true standout – a perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and nuttiness that danced on my taste buds. It’s safe to say that their rendition of this classic dish was anything but ordinary. And then there were the eggrolls – oh my, they were truly incredible. Crispy and packed with flavorful fillings, they were a delightful treat that left me wanting more. While the restaurant’s attempt at recreating the old school New York ambiance felt a bit forced, the impeccable taste of the dishes and the friendly service were certainly redeeming qualities. The staff went above and beyond to ensure a pleasant dining experience, which I greatly appreciated. For those who are willing to look beyond the slightly unauthentic atmosphere and focus on the food, this restaurant’s lunch specials, especially the Kung Pao beef and eggrolls, are a must-try. The flavors are a fusion of creativity and tradition that will leave your taste buds thoroughly satisfied.

I seldom write review since it is strickly personal preferences. But after going to this restaurant with my wife, I have found the atmosphere is warm and suitable for quite-prefered people even though one can find it at other places. The service, the food, and the price were also good and met our expectation.

Atmosphere, layout, service was quick. Food was amazing. Most people might not like this but I loved that they served beer in little plastic cups, food came out in the classic Chinese to go boxes to make things quick and easy. Also served on a paper plate! I don’t care for fancy silverware and plates sometimes….it was legitimate, simple & easy.

PLEASE READ ENTIRELY! I came here to Mandarin Wok Restaurant for the first time today to eat and I had a great experience. The food was great, cooked quickly, priced fairly, and the owner Joanne was very friendly. We talked for a little about business, and the past few years as business owners. Many businesses have suffered great financial hardship during the pandemic and mine is no different. We are all holding onto what we put our lives into and this family owned and operated business is no different. I see people complaining that their food was served to-go style, which was true for me as well. What they don’t see is a family working very hard and looking to hire to keep their dream alive. Operating understaffed is a condition of many businesses all over the world at this time, including mine. This should not be something held against a staple of the San Diego restaurant industry. They are doing everything they can to keep their customers happy and their business open. The service was great, as well as the food, as well as the price. I really liked the design and art of the place, and the music. Joanne was working the entire front restaurant and to go orders on her own. I truly believe that she, and her family deserve credit, and understanding, for the hard work and great service that they provide. This is especially true after such a difficult time in all of our lives. Thank you Joanne I will be back soon!