New Mandarin Garden
111 W Avenida Palizada, San Clemente, CA, 92672
New Mandarin Garden Menu
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Appetizers
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Soup
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Shrimp
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Scallops
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Moo Shu
Healthy Meal suggestions for New Mandarin Garden
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Appetizers
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Soup
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Shrimp
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Scallops
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Moo Shu
Visit below restaurant in San Clemente for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in San Clemente for healthy meals suggestion.
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Address :
111 W Avenida Palizada
San Clemente, CA, 92672 - Phone (949) 492-7432
- Website https://www.oldcityplaza.com/mandarin.html
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
Sorry, Store hours have not been updated. If you are the owner of this restaurants. Please update the store hours.
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : Yes
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Lunch, Dinner
Parking : Private Lot
Bike Parking : No
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : Yes
Categories
Chinese Cuisine
The popularity of Chinese food in America can be adjudicated by the appearance of China Town in many major cities in the United State of America. The popular trend of ordering or opting for Chinese take away food isn't unknown in America. Chinese take away food comes to rescue when you're too tired from work or too exhausted to cook. No one can resist the temptation of eating spicy noodles, shrimp, chicken, beef or pork cooked in the sweet and spicy sauce. The cooking method of authentic Chinese food is a lot different compared to what is served in America.
Generally, Chinese use dark meat small bones and organs to cook dishes but this changes when you are eating American-Chinese fusion food prepared using white boneless meat cooked with broccoli, carrots and onions. Back in China, the food is less spicy and oily as they favor steaming and braising method for cooking the most popular dishes. So, if you have a taste for authentic Chinese food, then try finding a real Chinese restaurant in the city. You can also try the most popular fusion Chinese food like Pecking Duck, Chicken Feet, Hot Pot, Shrimp Dumpling Soup, Mapo Tofu, Wontons, Chop Suey, Egg Rolls and not to forget Fortune Cookies.
There are not many restaurants in America serving authentic Chinese food. A little research on Restaurant Listings directory can help you locate the best Chinese restaurants in the city. Chinese cuisine is continuously evolving, and you can find a variety of dishes categorized as the food for lactose intolerant, gluten intolerant, vegan, vegetarian, and diabetic friendly. So, if you have a group of friends with different taste patterns, save the hassle and visit the nearest Chinese restaurant in your city.
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Camille E.
my favorite. the BOMB orange chicken lunch special cream cheese wontons fried dumplings hot tea on a cold day/ lemonade on a hot day then the almond cookies and fortune cookies are the best. the owners and servers that work there are so incredibly sweet and the food comes out fast! def my fav Chinese
(5)Hannah K.
Great for take out! The boyfriend and I ordered family dinner B for two. It was an insane amount of food. Included was: cream cheese wontons, spring rolls, ribs, soup, 2 entrees, and fried rice. The option we picked came with wonton soup- we asked if we could get hot and sour soup instead and that was no problem. I was full after the appetizers and soup which were very tasty. The hot and sour soup is my favorite thing there now. The entrees we got were cashew chicken and beef with broccoli. They were a little bland but the meat was delicious, the beef was very tender. We will be back!
(4)Rebecca R.
We've been coming here for twenty years. The food was outstanding and reasonably priced, and the service was over the top. Whenever we ordered to-go, they would advise us if we were ordering too much for the amount of people we were feeding. What a blessing to have a fine Chinese establishment in our backyard. Until, the remodel. We recently took the family for dinner and found that they changed the way family style is ordered. Evidently, if you order family style, you are required to order an entree for every person at the table. Since half my family eats like birds, that was way too much food. But, you know, leftovers for lunch, so no biggie, but why? The remodel is beautiful, the service is still over the top and the staff very friendly, but the food wasn't the same. My favorite dish is the cilantro chicken. It was all I could think about all day. The presentation of the food was picture perfect, yet, left much to be desired when it came to taste. This was definitely not the same chicken dish that we've been enjoying for years. I'm not certain if they were having a bad day in the kitchen or if this is the new norm. Either way, I'll just stick to the lunch specials and have our family style dinners elsewhere.
(2)John T.
Great food! I have been coming here for 10 years and they nail it every time! Be sure to try the Hot Garlic Chicken, and get a side of plain noodles for a great meal! The Hot and Sour Soup is my go to on the rare rainy days here in San Clemente!
(5)Rhoda S.
We enjoyed our dinner, however the chop suey we ordered had very little spice so little taste. This is one of the few Chinese Restaurants in San Clemente. With a little effort it could be very good.
(2)Brandon T.
My wife and I love coming here when we're in San Clemente and jonesing for some good Chinese. I always get their House Special Chicken and her favorite is the steamed fish with some added spice. The staff is kind, courteous and makes one feel at ease. Of course, their soothing music doesn't hurt either. After you sit down, they bring out a complimentary pot of piping hot tea, which is one of those small yet crucial details for me. Most other Chinese restaurants I've frequented tend to charge extra for it. Shanghai Charlies used to be our go-to place for Chines cuisine (mainly because of the impassive, stoic waiter we always tried to make laugh), but since their unfortunate demise we have been forced to branch out. And we're quite pleased with the result!
(4)K T.
Always great service and delicious food! My favorite dishes are the orange chicken, mongolian beef, and the egg rolls.
(5)Kelsey M.
I highly recommend the Sunday Champagne Brunch! For only $15, you get an all you can eat buffet (I loved the orange chicken and the shrimp dumplings) and all you can drink champagne (they have OJ if you want mimosas). What a steal! This is a great place to have a birthday! I was here last Sunday with a group of 20 people for a birthday and the service was AMAZING! Every 10-15 minutes they would come in to refill our champagne glasses. The servers were extremely generous, attentive, and nice. I absolutely loved eating here and can't wait to come back for another Sunday Champagne Brunch.
(5)Tom E.
This place has every other Chinese restaurant within a 25 mile radius beat. The most attentive service without being overbearing, but know exactly when a guest was in need of service. The food was fresh hot and delicious! I suggest the family dinner B. It's was absolutely phenomenal and I'll be back everytime I crave chinese food.
(5)Suzanne W.
We're from out of town and we chose this place due to other yelp reviews. It did not disappoint. Service was a bit slow, but worth the wait. Entrees were generous and true to Chinese style dining, we all ordered something different and shared. The house beef was a tad bit salty but still pretty darn tasty.
(4)Jamie M.
My family and I are very picky when it comes to Chinese food but this place was Amazing! Very friendly and helpful, the food was fresh and very flavorful. We can't wait until we visit this gem again...
(5)Danielle C.
Just visiting from Las Vegas not very good Chinese food Kung pow shrimp has no veggies and not much flavor and kinda pricy .... Plus the place was under construction not sure if to sanitary
(1)Brandon S.
My family has been going here for years, we love the food, the service and the portions, but today was whole nother' story. The waiter we got took my nephews cup that he was playing with, he disregarded my sister who asked for a cup of water, none of the food was fresh and the portions were way to small for the price given, I was about to explode. Not too happy with their new manager.
(2)Sandra S.
Just tried New Mandarin Garden and WOW!!!! It was terrific!!! I got the shrimp and pecans and my hubby got the house chicken.. We shared and loved every bite. They gave us so much we finished the shrimp and took half of the chicken home. Very helpful and friendly people. It is tucked away in the Palizada Plaza where the old jail is. We will be back for dinner and try the Sunday Brunch! Thank you Yelp reviewers, we'd been looking for good chinese food after Shanghai Charlie's went out. Glad you pointed us in this direction.
(5)Michelle J.
Amazing food & excellent service! We have been going here for years and it has always been a very wonderful experience...Favorites are Honey Walnut Shrimp & Spicy Garlic Shrimp W/ Mushrooms!!!! Sunday brunch is great too, but we usually go for a family dinner 1-2 times a month. Service is always TOP notch & very accommodating! Food comes out super fast, always refilling drinks. Overall very efficient & courteous.
(5)Suzi S.
For an Asian, I am not smitten by Chinese food. I rarely crave it. When I do get a hankering, however, I come to this place if I'm in South County. I've been here about four times and the food and service have always been commendable. I dig that they're consistent. The honey walnut shrimp is the belle of the ball but the other dishes have never disappointed. (Sorry, I can't recall the exact names, but combo noodle-type entrees. All very tasty, never bland.) The portions are just right and the quality never seems to lack. The last time I ate here our server was Alan. He was charming, warm and attentive. I would be disappointed if I didn't get seated in his station the next time I visit. I would love to give the fifth star but they're a little skimpy with the wine pour. An extra ounce would do me good. Anyway, boo-hoo me. Bottom line: This place is definitely worth a shot.
(4)hillary C.
Delicious!! Best Chinese in town. Love their Egg Drop Soup and Sesame Chicken
(5)Don T.
Hate to say it... it's NOT the same. The restaurant supposedly underwent a management/ownership change recently and it's obvious. My family has been going to New Mandarin since they opened and in their "hey-day", they were the only game in town for good, consistent Chinese food. My understanding is they kept the same staff. If that is the case, the food should be the same. Unless ingredients were switched up. Of course new owners will bring their flavor to the mix, it's expected, and welcomed when it is to the benefit of the customers and restaurant. But this wasn't a good change. Their location is behind a 7-11, across a dim alley that is always "creeping" with some of San Clemente's creatures of the shadows... so it's not going to survive on drive-by traffic or catch some overflow from Sonny's or Taka-O. It's regulars who will make or break this place. Just like all the other businesses in the Old City Plaza. I wish the new owners all the best, but they've gotta step it up or the locals will stop coming in.
(2)Jeremy Y.
This has been one of my favorite Chinese restaurants for decades now. The staff is so nice and funny and they sure know how to make it a great evening! The food is delicious (the house special chicken is my favorite!) and the ambiance is relaxing. The shopping center parking lot is a bot tight and it can get super crowded very easily so just be prepared for that. Hope this place sticks around for a very very long time!
(4)B R.
Great food and above average service. Went here for first time with my entire family and we had a great time.
(4)Susie K.
We did the special where you order entrees then add $3 per person for all this to be added to it. Hot tea was also served with our food. We had plenty to eat and to take home. We will be back. Food was really good and a lot of it. Soup:Chef's Daily Soup Appetizers: Egg Roll, Paper Wrapped Chicken and Fried Wonton Entress: Served with Fried Rice, choice of one per person Very reasonable affordable prices. Friendly staff.
(4)Bee R.
What a great place! We took a trip to Legoland, on our way back home, we wanted to eat some good food, no fast food, my hubby searched through google, found few places, but this restaurant had few but all good responses, so we decided to give it a try.....boy I'm glad we did!! As soon as you walk in, greeted very nicely, the place look very clean and with a nice set up, The food was excellent, good portions, great price, and very tasty!! We ordered the Mongolian beef, the meet melted in our mouths!!! the house special chicken, the teriyaki flavor on point, shrimp fried rice to die for. The service is outstanding-- not once we had to ask for water/drinks refills (liquid is essential when eating), they were on it, the food didn't take long to be served and it was hot out of the kitchen! I would so go back again!! So, If you get a chance going or coming from San Diego, stop by it, you won't regret it!! Kudos to the chefs!!
(5)Aryanna H.
My boyfriend and I stumbled across this place last summer in a desperate attempt to find Chinese food near my house. Since then it's been mine, my boyfriend's, and now my family's favorite Chinese restaurant in San Clemente! We love this place and come here often; from weeknight family dinners to birthday celebrations. I highly suggest the orange flavored beef and the house chicken, but honestly everything's great!
(5)Stephanie B.
Very good! Tonight was my first time ordering take out here, and I'm very glad I did. My food was ready within 10 minutes, and the service was very friendly. I ordered sweet and sour chicke and vegetable chow mien. So good! Very generous portions too! I will absolutely be back!
(4)Kate V.
I have been going here for years, and this is my favorite Chinese food place. They have the best egg rolls it have ever had! My favorite dish is the MooGooGaiPan chicken with carrots, snap peas and mushrooms served in a tasty sauce. Their fried rice is incredible, and their sweet and sour sauce is great for dipping! The pieces are average, but the portion sizes are pretty big.
(5)Ryan G.
The best Chinese food I have ever had. Here is a list of why: Sunday Champagne Brunch is a reasonably priced and delicious all you can't eat buffet. Honey Walnut Shrimp, Mushu Pork, Hot and Sour Soup, House Special Beef, and the Orange Chicken are all great. The staff is friendly and always happy to see you Great for parties in the private side room We have been going here for years as a family get together spot. Our tradition is usually to go on Christmas Eve. We have Chinese places nearby in Mission Viejo but we will always hop on the freeway to go down to New Mandarin Garden. I am going back for brunch on December 22nd!
(5)Matt H.
Delicious Chinese Food! Take it from someone who grew up in SC! Need I say more?
(5)Rodrigo G.
Do not order the orange chicken!! It was not good at all, I would much rather have orange chicken from Panda Express . They added carrots & peanuts I don't understand why, never had orange chicken prepared like that. Chicken was too hard to chew seamed like it was a week old!
(1)Jd J.
I brought my 8 y/io boy and my wife here tonight and we had a great meal. We were sat immediately and served at once by Allen. Allen was focused right away on our satisfaction and he really hustled and went the extra mile in terms of service. My boy LOVES the dumplings (steamed) and my wife and I LOVE the potstickers (fried). Add to that Emperors Chicken and Hot Garlic Shrimp and you have some excellent cuisine.
(4)Jessica M.
Delicious, family sharing. Good service. Going again! Great takeout! Good tea. Good Chow Mien. Big portions. Extra food to take home.
(4)Michelle P.
Fortunately for them there aren't too many other options in San Clemente which makes them my go to when I'm craving Chinese. I've always had had good service and the food is consistent. I just wish there was more authentic food rather than the generic honey walnut shrimp, fried rice, mongolian beef options. Maybe I'm just a bit picky from growing up in a city with tons of options for Chinese food.
(4)Brandon M.
I will most definitely return here. Had the hot garlic shrimp lunch special & not only was it amazing, the service was quick, the price was right & the staff were very friendly. I look forward to coming back for some additional entrees as well as their dinner menu.
(5)Katie M.
Oh man, you never feel like you have truly moved somewhere and felt at home until you find good local Chinese food. Well at least that is one of my prerequisites... The honey walnut shrimp is the best I've ever had! Super crispy and fresh and the creamy honey sauce is put on at the last second (also delicious!). Very tasty soups, I wasn't wild about the hot and sour, but it was still good. The beef vegetable was more tasty. The cream cheese wontons also amazing! Super crispy, not overly stuffed or soggy. Drooling just thinking about it. I live like a 5 minute walk from here and it sure takes a lot of willpower to not give in. The service is not the fastest, but it is enjoyable. The elderly man who served us was the most jovial, friendly guy. So sweet, and was inquiring about the baby I'm pregnant with and such. Big smile! Also, a plus is that in every San Clemente "pennysaver" you can find a 10% off discount coupon for the restaurant. Good classic family Chinese restaurant atmosphere. Overall, I'm very excited about this discovery!
(5)daniel p.
I don't know what all these people are talking about the food is horrible! It was dry over cooked And bland. The only thing good was the orange juice and champagne ! Everyone much have been drunk off it to say this food is excellent
(1)Christine C.
Usually you will get terrific Chinese food, fast service whether you dine in or carry out. I can not name a Chinese restaurant that is better than New Mandarin Garden. If you have a desire for Chinese Food you should check it out. It has proven itself and been in San Clemente for a very long time.
(4)Vivian K.
Came back tonight to give New Mandarin Garden another try. Service was excellent as usual, and the food is much better. Will be coming back. Thanks for stepping up NMG! Good job.
(4)Ramses S.
Best dine in chinees spot in san clemente!!
(5)Carolyn P.
Honey walnut shrimp is amazing!! Highly recommended!! If you like spicy food, try hot and sour Soup too! It is a family style restaurant with friendly service which makes you feel like eating at home, it is different from those up-scaled American style Chinese restaurants :) And, they have to-go too so it is a great price with quality genuine Chinese food when you don't feel like cooking that night! haha...
(4)Debbie R.
My first visit last night. Ordered the kung pao chicken, which the server stated was one of their most popular items. Flavor was good, but food was served 10 seconds after ordering, and it was barely lukewarm. They microwaved it to make it edible, but left a bad feeling, like I'd picked up Chinese food at Trader Joe's & heated it in the microwave. I will try it again & hope for a better experience.
(2)Cara H.
Service is great. Hot and sour soup is delish. Cilantro chicken was too salty for our tastes. The kung pao beef is good but salty.
(4)Cc M.
Good food Reasonable prices Great service
(4)Jessica K.
So much food and it all tastes so good!! The service was amazing. Alan is the best server out of any restaurant, so kind and fast, ready to fill anything that gets under the top of the glass
(5)Ti B.
All I have to say is Honey Walnut Shrimp!!!! The best I have had at any Chinese place. S E R I O U S L Y !!! It won't disappoint. Big juicy, big crisp, and succulent!! Wow!
(4)Linda T.
As good as it gets for a casual Chinese restaurant. - Have been going here for 7 years+. - Their service has been consistently outstanding. The owner or the manager has always been more than friendly and truly cares about the guests' experience. - They have an excellent sunday brunch with an amazing selection of items that they are very generous with. What's interesting is that their selection was not that great but they seemed to have upped the ante about a year or so ago. - Their honey walnut shrimp is amazing! Truly amazing! - Their prices are more than reasonable!
(5)Janice M.
If I could give this place no stars I would. This place is horrible I spent $34.00 on a take out order for my mother and I. It was horrible! I didn't eat my food I gave it one bite and thru it was I ordered cream cheese won tons and they were as bad!. All the food went straight to the trash never again.
(1)C V.
Food is the best! The owners have been there for 25+ years. Sunday brunch is wonderful. There is a 10% off your bill coupon in the Pennysaver each week. The place just needs a make-over. The bathroom always has a mop inside a bucket, stacked toilet paper, etc. I've eaten here since 1986 and my family loves it! There is also a mini side room if you want a birthday party, etc. Their dumplings, Kung Pao chicken and shrimp, cilantro beef, and soups are yummy.
(4)T J.
Nice take-out. Tucked away in a little shopping center off of Avenida Palizada is this good Chinese. Had House Special Fried Rice and Jade Chicken. Both very fresh and very good. Would be a regular if it was close to home.
(4)Elizabeth M.
Best Chinese food ever!!!! I used to live in San Clemente and eat here 1-2 times a week it was so tasty. Now I love 1 1/2 hours away and I find myself craving it. I have tried other places and nothing ever measures up. My family even drives out special from las Vegas to eat here. Reccommendations: Cilantro chicken, cheese wontons (I usually eat two orders myself), green beans, and egg foo young! Also for the ultimate pig out, the have a all you can eat Sunday brunch (sadly no cilantro chicken though :( ) I am surprised that they don't have a ton of reviews. The locals keep this place slammed with to go orders.
(5)Andrew G.
My go to place when I want Chinese food in San Clemente. Staff is extremely friendly and accommodating to my vegetarianism. Food is always authentic and delicious. Great for groups and families. I always get the Moo Shu which I love there.
(5)Bonnie H.
The food is amazing! Some of my favs: Hot and Sour Soup (authentic and amazing!), House Special Chicken, Honey Walnut Shrimp, Chow Mein, Moo Shu Pork and the String Beans! The Sunday Brunch is great for the days we want to try something other than our favorites including some dim sum items and unlimited champagne.
(5)Alexis B.
Well Its not the best chinese food of OC this spot is more like a 3.7 on my scale. I still think Panda inn not express don't get them confused, is my all time favorite chinese restaurant and im pissed that Ting Sing closed up shop a few years ago in Gardena, because that was the BEST chinese food around, especially those beef tomato noodles (BTW anyone have that recipe holla !!!!) Anyway I heard the buzz on this spot and had to see what it was all about. We ordered a few things: The house kung pao (all 3 meats) Cream cheese wontons, Crunchy scallops, chow mein, house fried rice...... The cheese wontons were delish, the Crunchy scallops were a great consistency BUT a tad bit salty. The chow mein very good and the friend rice was good as well. Overall their food is a tad bit on the toooooo seasoned side but when I crave chinese in San clemente, I will go back here, they have a huge menu of things I'd still like to try.
(4)Cordell M.
This business is the best Chinese Restaurant in San Clemente. Hot and sour soup awesome! Lunch menu best value. The owners and servers of all levels take pride in what they do! I always am glad to have eaten there. No businesses have done very well in that plaza, but Mandarin Garden have thrived there for about 23 years.
(5)Lisa M.
Pretty authentic Chinese food served in a very traditional environment (i.e. waiters who are actually Chinese & still wear white shirts & black bow-ties, outdated 80s decor). I know that's a turn off for some people, but for me, that means the food is REALLY good. Their honey-walnut shrimp is the best in OC. Perfectly fried large shrimp in a batter that's not to doughy, then tossed in a mayo-based honey sauce that is heavenly. The sauteed dishes are really tasty, they use fresh veggies & proteins. The sauces are perfect, not too greasy but are flavorful. Definitely worth ordering take-out here rather than a Chinese fast food place.
(4)Mark H.
This place is AWESOME... Great Food , Great Price's for 10% off coupons in the Penny saver... Sunday Brunch is excellent, Not as big as others but nice selection of their menu. My family loves coming here and so do I. Honey Walnut Shrimp is awesome and the Pork Fried rice.....Egg Foo Young is Perfect.... They always treat you like Royalty...Great Staff.....
(5)Stephanie P.
My favorite. Their egg rolls have a hint of five-spice that is absolutely delicious, and their "daily soup" -- I can't describe it other than sour and sweet with cabbage and ground beef. I don't know if it's Chinese, but I don't care. It tastes wonderful. Best potstickers I've ever had, too. Their main entrees are excellent. Never had a bad one. They have a Sunday brunch that's okay. It's kind of like a dim sum buffet with mimosas. The shrimp har gao are wonderful, the rest is meh, and the price is a little high. But hey, all you can eat, so if your goal is to stuff yourself silly, then mission accomplished! Personally, I would pass on it in favor of a place that specializes in dim sum. But lunch and dinner are definitely awesome, and don't forget those apps I mentioned above. Quite possibly some of the best I've ever had.
(5)L S.
I went to this place based on the 4+ star rating on Yelp. Unfortunately I didn't stay. I had been craving chinese food and egg drop soup, so I thought a lunch combo would be perfect. In reviewing the menu they had lunch specials that included soup. When I asked what type of soup I was told it was either sweet and sour (pork based) or vegetable beef. I asked if I could substitute egg drop for one of these as I didn't eat pork or beef and was told NO. I then asked if I could pay to sub the soup, as the menu mentioned "$0.75 and up" (that is kind of vague) to substitute and was told NO. I then looked at the soup menu and it said a cup of soup of the day was $2.50 (as opposed to the larger size soup choices of small and large). So I asked if I could buy the lunch entree, and then pay for a cup of egg drop soup and was told NO. The waiter went on to say that the cup of soup was only for the soup of the day, which was, you got it, sweet and sour or vegetable beef. I was told I could order a small egg drop soup for $5.50 though. Add that to the cost of a lunch entree, and you have a very overpriced chinese meal. I asked why he couldn't substitute the egg drop soup for either the soup in the lunch entree or the cup of soup and was told that it has been that way for 15 years, and they weren't going to change things now. What?? What a way to roll with the times. Needless to say I decided it was best to cut my losses, as at this point I assumed my high maintenance requests could end up with my food being altered in unpleasant ways, so I walked out.
(1)Manami Y.
I knew we should've gotten the honey walnut shrimp! But, we went for the vegetarian spring rolls, vegetable chow mein, and the Mandarin Garden shrimp. I enjoyed the spring rolls. The shrimp was supposed to be spicy, but it wasn't at all! We then asked for hot sauce and we got minced chilli in oil. My bf said it wasn't that spicy. On the upside, the service was great! Our waiter, Alan, was a very friendly man. He kept speaking to me in Japanese. Maybe he wanted to practice? Or maybe he thought I was FOB.
(3)Caren O.
Dated decor, but the friendly attitude of the staff make up for it. I love getting take out here because I can get good food made to order.
(4)Marisa M.
Another instance I wish Yelp had the half-star system (hint, hint)... 3.5 stars. I had such high hopes for this place. Based on the Yelp reviews and word around town, I thought we surely wouldn't be disappointed (maybe we're just pains in the a**?).Guess it must have been what we ordered - chicken fried rice, chicken chow mein, orange chicken and vegetable egg foo young. The rice in the chicken fried rice was dry, as was the chicken in the orange chicken. The egg foo young, however, was most excellent - probably the best I've ever had in South OC. The service was friendly and fast. Just wish the food we ordered had overall tasted a little better. Chinese food depression setting in...
(3)Sherry D.
I've only been here for brunch but I'm going to go ahead and give them 5stars! I love New Mandarin Garden! They have an amazing dim sum special for 13bucks per person and it includes unlimited champagne. They have plenty of both indulgent foods and healthier options to fit everyone's tastes. My boyfriend and I love it and this has become our new Sunday tradition. I will be sad when we move and can no longer frequent this lovely little establishment.
(5)Steph G.
Super friendly and fast service. LOVE the dumplings! Green bean and chicken great! Great neighborhood place. Seems like a traditional no-nonsense Chinese restaurant. Great for families, large parties. Similar to NY or SF style.
(4)Mary C.
New Mandarin Garden is such a treat! My family tries to go there every time we are in San Clemente. The food is an excellent mixture of traditional and American Chinese food. Some of our favorites are honey walnut shrimp (the best I've ever tasted!) hot and sour soup, moo shu pork, and house special chow mien. My 19 month old son loves the food, and the "noodles" keep him busy while we get to enjoy our food. The staff is so friendly and helpful. They've all been there as long as I've been eating at NMG, which has been about 5 years. I think it says a lot for a business if they have such loyal employees. I went to Sunday brunch for the first time lately and it was wondeful. They have a wide selection of food out buffet style with fresh fruit and cheesecake for dessert. It is a great way to try out the restaurant if you haven't been before.
(5)Liz H.
This is my all-time favorite Chinese restaurant. Everything is delicious, authentic, and in spite of being on the pricier side, absolutely worth it. I have been going there for years and years because the food never gets old, it's just fantastic. I love their pork dishes. Even my very old, very prim grandmother loved it, in spite of having grown up with "real Chinese food back East". The staff are very friendly and love their regulars. You won't be disappointed here!
(5)Michael N.
Great food and service. Overall very good experience!
(4)Kenny P.
Second time here wasn't the best. Service - I Called in my order and they said it would be ready in 20 minutes. I got there after 25 minutes and waited another 20 after that. I don't mind if it is going to be 45 minutes, but don't lie and make me sit there and wait. This was at about 5 o'clock on a Saturday, they just opened and it was empty. I honestly think they forgot to put the food in until I got there. Food - The honey walnut shrimp is excellent, I will probably get that every time I go here. The pot stickers are huge! and good, not the best ever but a great value. The sesame chicken wasn't very good. Battered chicken with orange sauce caked on like you would find in a $6.99 buffet. I'll be back, but disappointed after the 1st go round, maybe eating in is the only way to go.
(2)Lindsey H.
What the heck happened to this place? My fam is not a huge fan of Chinese food but occasionally they humor me. On New Years day I ordered take out. I stuck to the basics to keep the rest of the crew happy. I choose Broccoli Beef, Kung Pow Chicken and Egg Rolls. Anyone who knows Chinese food knows these two entrees are very different and therefore the taste should be. Well this was not the case. Both tasted almost identical, tasteless to be more specific. Kung Pow chicken tasteless? Yep and slimy, so was the Beef and Broccoli. I was so disappointed and so were the boys. Mike said the beef was what he imagined re hydrated pork rinds would taste like. I think he nailed the overall experience. This disaster is going to make it near impossible to convince them to do this again anytime soon. Which sucks because I love love love Chinese food. I even really enjoy eating Chinese leftovers the next day (I know not everyone's cup of tea but I do). I actually tried and heated it up again the next day. The end result was me throwing away all the leftovers. What a waste. I don't think I could ever go back and I've eaten there for years. Sometimes one bad experience is bad enough to be a game changer. Sad
(2)Anonymos A.
Since it was within walking distance from the house we were renting my husband and I decided to try it on our last night in town. Wow, it was great. Wished we would have tried it earlier during our visit. Best Chinese food we have had in CA. Good menu, fine service and nice enough atmosphere. We will be back every time we are in San Clemente. Barbara, Chandler, AZ
(4)Benita T.
LOVE LOVE LOVE the Honey Walnut Shrimp & also the Sweet and Pungent Shrimp!! SO GOOD!!!
(4)Liz f.
My fiancée and I decided to go out for chinese one night during our weekend vacation in Dan Clemente. After reading pretty good reviews about New Manderine, we decided to try it. We were absolutely blown away by how amazing the food AND the service were! The waiter was sooo nice, and made sure we were taken care of. We ordered the hot and sour soup and it was some of the best I've ever had, hands Down, a must try! The potstickers were Devine and the orange beef, superb! I recommend it to anyone wanting good Chinese food at a nice restaurant! I wish we had something that delicious in Marin county!
(5)Ryan K.
Not bad! We stopped in on Sunday for lunch, but ended up having the brunch. There was a small selection of dim sum and finger foods that were all pretty good. The bbq ribs are outstanding. All of the dishes had quality chunks of beef and chicken. The Corn and Chicken soup was really good too. Topped off with some jasmine tea, it was a good meal! If you're on the 5 and need a break in San Clemente, stop in.
(4)E M.
I've been going to this place often in the past 20 years I've lived here. And to be honest, the quality of the food here has gone down significantly. It just isnt as good as it used to be. It doesn't taste as fresh as before. They do make great crispy shrimp and honey walnut shrimp though. Their service is excellent though. I know the owner of the place and she is a very nice lady. She and her husband have been running the place for years. I hope she doesnt see this and know who this is. HAHA Well actually if she does see this, I hope she takes the criticism constructively because I still do love this place.
(3)harry m.
We've lived in SC for thirteen years and have seen Chinese restaurants come and go and have eaten at most. Traveled to San Juan Cap, Dana Point, etc, same deal. Word of mouth was that this place was good. Finally made our first visit and were very pleased. Sesame Chicken - very good. House Chow Mien - good. Hot and Sour Soup - in the top three I've ever had anywhere anytime. Definitely going back. Gotta try that Honey Walnut Shrimp!
(4)Ian H.
I love this place, the lunch special is one of the best deals in town. For around $7 you get soup, salad, a wonton, rice (fried or white) and an entree, its plenty to share. Dinner is awesome! The prices are fair, and the service is great. On Sundays they have a delicious champagne brunch buffet. I know the decor is 80's but, it's all about the food, and service.
(5)Jerimy S.
Best Chinese I've had. Service is great and food has always impressed. Nuff said
(5)Kat k.
Great food. Yeah a bit pricey but well worth it. Hot and sour soup was so very good. We had a chicken dish and a veggie dish......both very good. Top notch service as well. We will definitely be back.........i finally found good Chinese in San Clem.
(4)Susan P.
I've been to this place a billion times and when i need a good chinese fix and Pick-Up-Stix won't cut it i usually go here. Food has always been good, but not fantastic. THEN something amazing happened!! I tried their Sunday brunch!! I was elated!! They had such a huge selection of grub, all of it super tasty and with unlimited champagne, I couldn't have been happier (could be the champ). The service there is always outstanding, they anticipate your every need. I am a true believer. And for two people only $30 bucks!!
(4)Luis P.
Nothing sadder, and financially unfulfilling, to order a $17 seafood dish that consist of shrimp and scallops only to find out that the cook in the little tiny kitchen (this is no chef, trust me on that assessment) impregnates the dish with salt. To the point that all traces of culinary abilities are soundly dismissed. Even worst: spend almost $80 on the whole tab and discover (too late) that this establishment does not know how to cook. Fried rice cover in soy sauce, egg foo young completely submerged in a thick dark brown sauce, I mean ladle after ladle. Fish fillet covered with an equally looking sauce (no mention of it on the menu description), and the worst of all their barbecue pork arrived to the table with this black thin liquid, smothered with it, and more vegetables than actual meat. No taste on the pork or hints of the barbecue (the reason why we friggin order it in the first place!) Big miss and the only thing they serve that was acceptable was their seafood soup, which arrive in large side in the smallest container, it was the highlight of the night. Yes, we could have said take it away and caused a commotion, but it is not in our nature to be this way, so like good little victims we basically ate what they dish out. New Mandarin Garden is beyond redemption, there is no possible way we will ever step foot inside this little, nicely decorated establishment. Panda Bear makes them look bad. Same sauce in three dishes? Loads of it? I previously had rated them 4 Stars and that is why I went there in the first place. This time around we tried a new set of dishes and it backfired in our faces to the tune of $80. All previous praises are indeed obsolete! 2 Stars.
(2)Yley S.
Had an early dinner here with the b.f. Our waiter was very friendly and attentive. We started off our meal with the Sizzling Rice Soup which was delicious. I love how the rice snaps, crackles and pops when they mix it in at your table. The chicken pieces in the soup were especially good- very tender with great flavor. I added just a dash of the low sodium soy sauce and it was perfect. Next came the fried pot stickers which were okay- I don't think I would order them again though. They were a little too big for my taste with too much filling. The sauce they serve them with is very good though. For dinner we had the House Beef and it was excellent! Tender and flavorful- couldn't stop eating it. We of course had to try the Honey Walnut Shrimp after reading all of the reviews on here. Verdict: BEST I've ever had. This is a dish I order at every Chinese restaurant I go to. It has been perfected here. Large, perfectly crispy shrimp in just a glaze of sweet sauce. Yum. The prices were about what you'd expect them to be- and the portions are quite large. We had plenty of leftovers to take home and I eat a lot. The decor is very cheesy and outdated but who the hell cares??! The food is great and the service is good. I will be coming back!
(4)Sylvia H.
This restaurant has great food. We recently moved to San Clemente & are seeking out the best restaurants. We tried a couple of other small chinese restaurants, but none were good enough, so we kept looking. We found this little gem tucked inside a small little "courtyard" style shopping center, off the beaten path. Their Honey Walnut Shrimp is heavenly. The patties of the Egg Foo Yung are huge. Everything we have tried has been perfect. Can't wait to go again!
(5)Matias A.
best chinese food in so cal. sweet n sour pork. kung pow chicken, hot n sour soup.
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