China Gourmet

Reviews

• Liz W.

  star star star star star 8 June 2026

  While I was a bit surprised by the outside- it doesn't look very classy, I was tremendously surprised by the interior, food and wait staff.  Not being from Salem area, we didn't really know where to go for a reasonably priced meal after a family members funeral.  We were trepidation's about even entering the restaurant but boy were we happy when we walked in.  
  
  The restaurant was very clean, nicely but simply decorated and all ready for a table of 11.  It's not a big place but they were able set up a table for us and it worked well.  The waitress was very friendly and attentive.  She was right on with her service and knowledge.
  
  But, the shining star was the food.  The food was fresh, clean tasting yet carried authentic Chinese flavors.  The sauces were perfect.  The BBQ pork fried rice was so good... The cashew shrimp was tender, savory and the nuts and veggies were crisp.  We had lots more and it all was superb. From now on I'm driving the distance about 45 minutes to have Chinese here!

• Joe G.

  star star star star star 7 June 2026

  Easily the best Chinese restaurant in Salem!
  Every other Chinese place I have been to here seems like they haven't changed the menu since 1986 and its not that they are terrible, just that they all have the same, standard, low-ish quality food.
  China Gourmet is a huge stand-out in this regard. The space is cozy. You can tell all the food is very fresh and healthy. Most importantly, their take on all the chinese classics really are different and better than anywhere else I have been.
  The staff is also very attentive, kind and personable especially the beautiful woman that runs the place who always goes out of her way to make you feel welcomed.

• Frank K.

  star star star star star_border 27 May 2026

  You mostly hope against hope that every now and again you will find a place like THIS~~~*  This little intimate place is my latest "Go To" spot when I don't want to experiment with some spot new to myself.  This establishment and its attendants are as good as any in town.  Often times, I test a place by ordering old standards and critiquing their product and the speed with which it comes.  Standard bearers like Chicken Fried rice and Potstickers. Here at the "Gourmet", you ~barely~ get time to wash your hands and the food is on the table, delivered by a delightful young Lady who is quick to laugh and banter and share a good-natured chuckle with you or the other Patrons.
   No beer here as of now and a "Ching Dow" (Tsing Tao) would sure fit in about here, but what the Hell, ignore your wanton desires and dig in! First off the Pot Stickers.  Finally, a place that steams them rather than deep frying them with a "Death Wish".    If you wish, they WILL stick'm to a pot but I like them steamed.  I usually take half of them home to have with a beer just because I CAN!!  I eat them dipped in Chili paste and chewing them with an obnoxious "HUMMmmmmmmm".....  You will be taking home some "Chicken Fried Rice" too, as it is a humongous serving that I order it with extra breast meat just because I am trying to control the Chicken population of the Central Willamette Valley.   Some more chili paste mixed with sodium shortened "Tamari" and we're ready to go.
   MMPPHHalGUmppffhhh!!  Don't talk to me now, I'm busy!!
  ~Nicely enough, my fortune cookie sez I'm gunna be able to buy the place soon with the windfall heading my way, but I won't hold my breath and neither should you. But in the meantime Pilgrim, enjoy the "China Gourmet" and take a nap.  It goes with the fortune cookie...

• Lisa P.

  star star star star star 26 May 2026

  Lovely atmosphere,  great ingredients, exactly the taste I was craving.  Gracious hosts and nice pricepoint.  We'll drive across town for dinner!

• Jay P.

  star star star star star_border 22 May 2026

  I went here with a friend who recommended we try it, so we did. First, the space can be scarce since the dining room is on the small side, but that day we went there was plenty of room.
  
  I had my usual item that I have when going to a Chinese restaurant, which is sesame chicken and fried rice. The portion was good and the taste was a bit different than other places, but not bad.  The only negative thing I can say is that the chicken was over sauced.
  
  The staff was friendly and attentive. The experience here was good and worth a try.