Little Mandarin
536 3rd St, San Rafael, CA, 94901
Little Mandarin Menu
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Address :
536 3rd St
San Rafael, CA, 94901 - Phone (415) 485-0888
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :10:30 am - 9:00pm
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : No
Good For : Lunch, Dinner
Parking : Street
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
Caters : 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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Danny N.
The Mongolian Beef is awesome. This is a great small little hole in the wall. The only thing that will keep people away is them not accepting credit cards. I will be back!
(5)Brett K.
They are cash only-had to walk down the block to CVS. There is no parking. They don't even take time to get your order, "what's your order?" Very rude and lacking customer service skills. This particular establishment also claims "no MSG" but I sure did take a nap afterward. I ordered chow mein, fried rice, and sweet & sour chicken. My plate had 3 bites of chow mein and a pound of rice, spare me the rice and run me my nuudul. This review is of my personal opinion and experience granted by the first amendment. This is not to portray slander in any form.
(2)Jade F.
The food is good, the people are nice, and it's DIRT cheap. However, that wasn't the only thing that was dirty... We tried: - Egg Drop Soup (Complimentary) 5/5 - Crab Wontons 3/5 - Mongolian Beef 3.5/5 - General Tso's Chicken 3.5/5 Again, everything was alright except for the lack of cleanliness. The teapot and some of our silverware was dirty. The look of the place was very dingy: tables, condiments, and floors needed a good scrub. It wouldn't surprise me if I saw something scurrying about or found an unpleasantry in my dish. I still cleaned my plate, however, but that's more due to deeply ingrained personal issues. Bottom line: If the lack of sanitation doesn't bother you, then give it a go. I, on the other hand, will not return.
(3)Em C.
I've been coming here since high school which was over 10 years ago at this point. And the food is still hella yummy! That Mongolian beef so so tasty and it's even better spicy with the chili oil they have. You mix it all around and you have one satisfying meal. The beef chow fun is one of the best I've had. And the egg drop soup is a perfect stater to the meal. Yes it's a hole in the wall but I find that the best gems are the ones you least suspect. I'll be dreaming about you, you tasty plates you. Nom! I'm getting hungry just thinking and writing about the beef.
(5)Bobby M.
This is right around the corner from where I work. The portions are huge, the vegetables and meats are obviously fresh and not overcooked and where else can you have lunch or dinner for under eight bucks per entree? Always packed and waiting lines so if you do take out call ahead. If you're waiting for your take out they bring you complimentary soup. NO CREDIT CARDS....but it's a gold mine none the less.
(5)Kalie G.
Quick, tasty, huge portions and cheap prices.
(4)Richi C.
My friend & I dropped in here for dinner. He is from New York & San Francisco. He raved we found a place with good food & generous portions for reasonable rate. It is noisy. Wheelchair ramp up front. It was busy. Soup & Food came promptly. We never got our tea. Locals & children in attendance. Health dept PASS certificate in window, so reasonably clean. Restroom wheelchair accessible. Near downtown & transit center.
(5)M W.
The spicy beef and rice is killer!!! Great lunch time choice!!
(5)Byung S.
The food was really good. The staff over there acts like they don't want to be there. The ambiance was a typical Chinese food place. Get the food to take out, wouldn't want to eat there. The food is really good though.
(4)Dominique F.
Definitely one of the best options in town if you're eating on a budget ($6-7 per entree). Little Mandarin does not skimp on portions for any of their dishes, which are always prepared quickly and taste so good, so you are definitely getting your money's worth. There are a few vegetarian options (Hot Tofu with Rice or the Nappa Cabbage) that are just as fine as the other choices, but seriously, go for any of these: Mongolian Beef with Broccoli, Hong Kong Pan Fried Noodles with Prawn, Orange Chicken, or Chow Mein. The free egg soup for dine-in orders is yummy, too. In a county like Marin, where it seems every food establishment has to have an interior design done by Restoration Hardware (with the menu prices to match), I always feel so much more welcome in this busy little restaurant- the owners are a joy to talk to, especially if you are a returning customer. There are often not enough tables to seat everyone, so don't be surprised at the long line of take-out orders. They are cash only, too. tl,dr: Mongolian Beef with Broccoli.
(5)Lety R.
I love there Mongolian beef & noodles good service if u sit and eat there they will bring u a free soup
(5)Melissa C.
I've been going to this place for my entire life. The owner even knows my whole family! Very friendly and nice! I've tried a couple things on the menu but the only thing I really love is Mongolian beef and fried rice! Also the tofu egg soup they serve as appetizer. From time to time they charge me different than the time before wether it be less money or more(I always order the same thing) but I don't mind because their service is great, so is the food, and they deserve it. If you want to try something try the Mongolian beef or chicken :)
(5)Mitzi C.
La comida es muy rica y los precios están razonables se los recomiendo vengo a este lugar desde que estaba en el lugar dónde habÃan solo unas cuantas mesas en 1990 y la que mas me gusta como Alicia es de amigable
(5)Sabine H.
A humble place with a small menu, fresh ingredients, very generous portions and amazing prices. A fantastic find.
(5)Will D.
Price is the only thing that's little about this generous, delicious restaurant. The portions are as large as the hearts of the people working there. If you're looking for Chinese food, this is the place to go. The only downside is that they don't accept credit cards - but everything else makes up for it. Did I mention the (delicious) free egg soup? You get some even if you're waiting for a takeout order!
(5)Sean B.
This is a must every time I'm passing through San Rafael. Large portions and everything is very fresh. My favorite is the Mongolian Beef and the Generals Chicken. Service is amazing and friendly.
(5)Howard F.
Great hole-in-the-wall Chinese restaurant
(4)Allie P.
What a great little place. Cash only as a warning. Had the potstickers which were perfectly cooked nice; firm on top with the charred brown on the bottom. Had the orange chicken and Mangolian Beef. HUGE portion size for a great cost and the flavor of each dish was really yummy!
(3)Robert G.
Little Mandarin is hidden gem in San Rafael their cooking from North China one of best prices in town everything on the menu is under $10,00 this include small Bowl of soup w/meal if you dine in they dont take ATMs or Credit Cards only Cash they know their regulars come to the place the service are fast and frendly and great comfort food to go
(5)Robert S.
This place is great. I go there because I have a condition with my intestines and stomach due to Myelitis (look it up). The accommodated me with the most compatible recipe for a reasonable price set aside they only accept cash, they are the best. Take it or leave it. I prefer this over the Indian cuisines as I end up with little or no pain compared to the Indian cuisine which had garlic, onion and milk in curry. The portion is not all rice ad one reviewer mentioned. It is fairly portioned to me that is. Parking isn't the best around here, but worth it.
(5)Lars S.
I have been going there regularly for about 18 years now. They used to be at the other end of the building where they had very limited seating. This place is a family owned restaurant. It is not a fancy place by any means, on the contrary, but the food is excellent. It's always served steaming hot and the portions are substantial. As an appetizer they serve you a complimentary tofu soup, which is so good. When I started going, I believe a dish was less than $5, but is now around $7:50, which is still cheap, considering what you get for your money. The sisters/owners Denise and Alice are very nice.
(5)Joyce L.
One of those REALLY hidden gems that really look tore up on the outside but honestly the food is on point. When they say, don't judge a book by it's cover, really you shouldn't. The meal starts off with free egg soup that's super simple yet flavorful. Add them hot pepper oil and mm shits on point! WITH NO EXAGGERATION AT ALL, I don't think I've tasted better Mongolian beef in my life. First off, it's sooo flavorful and the way the meat is cut is so thin allowing the marination to really soak up the meat. Might I add, the portion can feed an army. My favorite dish of all has to be their most popular entree, mandarin chicken. There's a Shitton of mushrooms, which I LOVE. It's slightly spicy with a hint of sweetness. It's freakin Amazing, especially with hot oil. Everything here is no more than $8 and it's HUGE. As a health OCD freak, this place is a treat for me. They do use oil and the place isn't the healthiest place to go, but for a splurge, I can use up a cheat meal ticket for this place! So worth it. FYI this place ain't fancy, it's straight up looks grimey. But for a place that doesn't look like much, it's easy to become a regular at this place. 10 years and still going. Through thick and thin, this place will not disappoint you! I can vouch for it:)
(5)Grace PyoungHwa L.
Looking for a cutty place that has bomb food with a cheap price? Come to little mandarin! The moment I walked in, they give us a free egg soup. The egg soup is light and has a dab of sesame oil like flavor. For our entrees, we decided to order mandarin beef, Mongolian beef, kong po prawns, and broccoli prawns. Every single dish was incredible! Also, a plus to this is that NO MSG IS ADDED! Yum yum yum~
(5)Hector C.
Little mandarin is the place to go! I live a couple towns up north but still do the 15-20 minute drive by myself or with friends just to get our hands on their delicious food. I've been going to this place since I was 4 and still continue to do so. If you sit to eat you get a cup of soup while you wait, which is perfect if you're eager to eat. The food comes out pretty quick within 5 to 10 minutes. The portions are more than enough so you leave with a smile on your face. Food is fantastic, very well flavored, juicy and tender. I also love that the chinese women at the register remember you by name...then again i've been going for a while...One thing I don't like and the reason I deducted a star is that the place is small, and the bathroom isn't the greatest but still decently clean most of the time. Still always worth the trip to little mandarin for the food!
(4)Sean L.
Go to for me is Wonton Soup, Pork Pot Stickers and either Mongolian Beef or LM chicken extra spicy!! So much for for a bargain price, been going there for 20 years- Alice is awesome!
(5)G S.
My go to is the mongolian beef. The Mandarin chicken is a close second. This place gets really pack during lunch and dinner which is always a good sign.
(5)john p.
The Little Mandarin is good if you dine in BUT... CAUTION!!! Their take-out is a rip-off, you'll end up with very little of the dish you've ordered as you'll discover the to-go container is 90% rice. If you love rice, cook it yourself!
(2)Dan M.
Love this place!! I have been coming to little Mandrin off and on for the last 15 years. They went from a 6 table location right next door to this location several years ago. Every time I come in the place is packed. I like the fact that they don't use MSG in their cooking. I was recently here couple days ago and the food came out within two or three minutes of placing our order. They are very consistent with the quality and consistency of their Chinese food and I would recommend the mushroom chicken over rice meal. They are located only two blocks off of Highway 101 in San Rafael and there is plenty of free parking on the streets nearby. I wish they had a location up here in Sacramento. It is always a restaurant but I look forward to going to when I visit the bay area. Keep in mind they only except cash for payment. And I also like the fact that they give you a small bowl of egg drop soup with each order. Also they are closed on Sundays.
(5)Joe B.
Good value for the money. Little mandarin chicken is a favorite. Attentive staff and free cup of soup.
(4)Terrie G.
Chicken chowfun and the mandarin beef = awesome. SUPER. AWESOME. Our new fav Chinese restaurant! Doesn't look like much from the outside, and actually the same is true for the inside, but it's cheap, fast, easy, and delicious. All the ladies are super friendly; the soup is served within seconds; the portion size is ridiculous. And we like the food a lot. I would give this place 6 stars if I could.
(5)Cate C.
Little Mandarin has been a favorite of mine for years.. It is a little hole in the wall that I always past down by the high school. I have no idea how long it has been there, but it always has a good eat at a cheap price.. Perceived value, that the is the question today. How can you find a food value and get more bang for your buck. I miss Chopsticks, but Little Mandarin can give you a rice plate with your choice of entrée for just under ten bucks. If that is not value. I don't know what is.. They have huge portions and you will be happily pleased with the selections available.. Yay, you go, Little Mandarin..
(4)Octavio Z.
This place is OKAY. A friend brought us over here on a visit to San Rafael and said great things but the experience wasn't all that great. For starters, the parking is horrible. We were rolling 4 cars deep and things got crazy. When two of us got parking we went to the front of the restaurant to wait for the others and as we were waiting, there were a lot of pervs walking by checking out the girls with no shame. It's Probably not the best idea to start problems in a place we're not from so we let it go. Finally, we go in make our orders then find out CASH ONLY. Wow what kind of food business runs on cash only nowadays, very outdated. We had to go to a nearby ATM and get charged $3 to withdraw! The food was alright, not bad but nothing special either. Next time i go to San Rafael, I'll definately go somewhere else
(2)Heidi G.
Upon landing in SFO The mandatory text message is sent out, "I'm back! Little Mandarin?" It doesn't matter how long I've been gone, the gang gets together and the woman there always recognizes me, that's home :) The mongolian beef is the ONLY thing my entire table will order, and we never leave anyone behind. Everyone gets this dish regardless if the're broke or not even hungry. It always tastes the say and is never disappointing. And as with tradition, it makes for a mean breakfast the next day too! Little Mandarin, I salut you, and will love you for ever and ever.
(5)Edward L.
Good little hole in the wall restaurant. Food is authentic and well prepared. Don't be turned off by the decor. It is a true hole in the wall restaurant so don't expect new and modern fixtures or furnishings. Staff is efficient and friendly. Definitely a great place to come for a quick bite to eat or for ordering take out.
(4)Taylor G.
Is your belly as big as your eyes? Big portions are all they have here. I enjoyed the mongolian beef with noodles. A lot of food for a small amount of money. This place is a must stop when I come to San Rafael.
(4)Sierra S.
We got sucked in by good reviews and were SO disappointed. We ordered Orange Chicken with rice, Spring Rolls and Pork Fried Rice. Everything was SO BLAND, yet salty. The orange chicken was soggy, flabby and tasted like it was coated in sweet and sour sauce, not orange sauce. I had two bites and just could not bring myself to eat more. The rice was very over-cooked and tasted like it had been cooked in some funky water. The fried rice was just rice, pork, and egg, and just tasted salty. It wasn't bad, but it definitely wasn't good. The spring rolls were tasted like they were cooked in old oil, and the veggies inside were nursing-home mushy. The portions were huge, and it was cheap...that's about all it had going for it. I've had better Chinese food at the airport.
(2)Kaitlyn J.
It's this little hole in the wall. When I went I barely missed it! I'm allergic to nuts and when I asked the lady what oil they used I didn't even finish the sentence. She knew exactly what I was gonna say and responded with "Corn and Vegetable oil. No peanuts." Its like she read my mind! I absolutely love the people here and the food is to die for. It came in a matter of minutes and did not disappoint. It's not fancy but not dirty or old. It's cheap for big plates. Everything is under $10 and enough food for the next day. Dump Panda Express and other fast food Chinese cause once you come here that will taste horrible compared to this. I'm totally coming back! ;) IT DOES NOT EXCEPT CREDIT CARDS. I found this irrelevant though since I prefer cash.
(5)Sasha R.
what. no. must be the 1st time I was led astray by fellow yelp reviews. in my eternal quest (going on 10 years) for the perfect dive chinese in the wasteland of marin, I drove up excitedly, illegally double parked, and picked up my to-go order. delicious smells assaulted me the whole way home in the car. unfortunately, the advertisement was more than the real deal. I think that if you're looking for solidly executed beef with broccoli, little mandarin is your place. if you're looking for a diamond in the rough, look elsewhere. note: cash only.
(2)tom V.
Reviews seemed to lean towards Little Mandarin as a place to get lots of good Chinese food cheaply, here in San Raf, so off I went... Woman at the counter was very pleasant, joking that I ordered too much food. We agreed that leftovers will be perfect for lunch the next day. I grabbed a Tsing Tao and headed back to wait for to-go order. Complimentary Egg Drop Soup almost beat me to the table. Usually reserved for dine-in orders, it's dense and loaded with black pepper. Tasty! My big pile of food arrives conveniently boxed, and rather quickly... just as I've finished the soup. Unfortunately the rest of the food, including beef and broccoli, chow fun, won ton soup, etc was mediocre. I might be spoiled by time spent in close proximity to Chinatown. Wanted to give 4 stars for the nice folks and excellent egg drop soup but I gotta play it straight with you Yelpers. Little Mandarin is good for the price but If you are okay with spending a bit more, Yet Wah is probably your best bet in San Rafael.
(3)Ryan K.
Good food. Superb, value making up for what it lacks in atmosphere
(4)Andrew L.
Little Mandarin is no more. The restaurant is closed down.
(1)Allan G.
The food here is great, the plates are large and waiting time is short. The only downside is the place is always full and I can't get a seat. Oh well....
(4)Zane T.
little mandarin is the shit... little hole in the wall but great food. friendly, cheap eat, and fast. can't complaint.
(5)Vlad M.
Cheap & cheerful, this hole in the wall restaurant has the best Mongolian Beef north of the Golden Gate Bridge. Also the best egg-drop soup I've ever had. Large servings and low prices. Cash only.
(4)C G.
Fact: I have $12 cash. I want good hearty meal and a nice size water glass filled with ice cold white wine and include a decent tip. I hit up Little Mandarin. Woohoo - as good as it gets!
(5)Stephanie C.
Great food! Granted the plate is piled high with rice, but the portion is also decent. Most dishes are less than $7. The building itself is not much to look at, but don't let that deter you! You don't go to this place for anything but good cheap Chinese food, and good polite service. Cash only. The dishes that I've had that are great include Mongolian beef, cashew chicken, mu shu chicken, broccoli beef, hong kong fried noodles, and chicken curry. The orange chicken was a bit dry. Enjoy!
(5)William W.
Price is right . Food is descent can't hate . Can't love
(3)R H.
Take out was very easy. All the dishes were done well.
(4)Savier M.
Whenever I work, move-in to, or study in a new area I try to find the best Chinese food place in town. I always seem to find my spot eventually. I personally don't know how I find these places but through cosmic workings I shuffled through the doors of Little Mandarin. LM has got to be the shittiest looking place on earth. It's almost as if the owners are trying to reflect the surrounding "meh-ness" of Marin's dull, colorless (in so many ways) culture. The interior is the literal embodiment of penny pinching; white walls and tables. What's great about ugly rooms is that you don't have to eat in them. The real star of LM, if not the only, is its food. Everything is good at this place. I ordered the Mongolian beef every time I stopped through. Not because it was the only item worth getting but because it was so good I never wanted to try anything else. Okay, I lied a little. I tried others too like the Broccoli and Beef, (Don't quote me but I believe they had) Cashew Chicken, The Little Mandarin, and a Vegetable Assortment. You are missing out if you don't order from here. This is some of the best Chinese food in the bay. The fact that its cheap and the service is cool helps. The largely Hispanic crowd is an enjoyable shift too.
(5)Jonathan H.
I great find. A bit of a dive for eating in. Great for Take-out.
(5)Mary B.
The best Chinese spot ever...short and sweet this place hands down the best bang for you buck. Their food is fresh and full of flavor. They have the best pot stickers, Mongolian beef, pan fried noodles, and ohh dont get me started on the wonton soup...Their service is fast and friendly and the family run establishment always keeps you coming back for more..
(5)Gretchen H.
Thank you yelp! This place was awesome. I had to smell the food for 30 minutes cause i ordered take out and had to wait until i got home to eat. It was agonizing since it smelled Amazing. It was that good!
(5)Kristin K.
Excellent value, big portions good food. Hole in the wall.
(5)Yumi O.
Don't judge a book by it's cover! I probably wouldn't have gone to this place if my husband didn't INSIST their food was so darn good. Honestly, I gauge how authentic and good a place is based on the customers so when I noticed that the only Chinese people there were the workers (and my husband), I had to scratch my head. I wouldn't recommend this place for your first...or second date but the food is good.! My husband only orders the Mushroom chicken-loaded w/ garlic if you like garlic. (Excuse me...he just corrected me--LITTLE MANDARIN chicken. Guess i need to give credit where it's due.) The workers there are very friendly. Good, honest, nice people who serve good food.
(5)Akiko K.
After going to this restaurant for 20+years, I will probably go for another 20 more(!?). I order to-go when I'm too tired to prepare dinner, 2 or 3 orders feed a family of 4. What a deal! Our favorite is 'Roger Special' which is not on the menu, and I love 'Tofu & vegetarian', which is really home style Chinese food to me. I occasionally order multiple orders in a big plate for me to bring to a Pot Luck party and I always get many compliments.
(5)Sarah E.
Ate lunch here for the first time yesterday. Very popular place, went in right before the tables filled up and still the service was fast. Got a complimentary bowl of delicious egg drop soup. The Mongolian Beef is also really good. Next time I will get it mild, I usually like spicy food but their version of medium was a little stronger than I'd like. Big portons, too - just finished the leftovers for dinner and it was still super yummy!
(5)Jin C.
I've eaten here for the past few years and most of the time I'm fine. I love their mongolian beef and they give you a big portion for a small price. But alas, the past 2-3 times I've eaten here I've gotten food poisoning, so sadly I will never go back. I really didn't want it to be true, but it's not worth the great bargain for me.
(1)Ha D.
I must say I love this place whether it's take out or dining in. The food is delicious and it's the best bang for your dollars! Plates are relatively inexpensive ($7-8) and LARGE. I also love how they serve all their plates with steamed rice at any time of the day! You know how some restaurants have a lunch and dinner menu? Well this place is literally lunch all hour, day, month & year round. I swear it's my birthday every time I come in. The owners are so outgoing as well. I'm always greeted with a smile and a "How are you today?" Excellent work! Now as far as decor. This isn't a typical place to take your first date. She may be impressed with the food, but she may not be impressed with the ambience sicne this place is literally a hole in the wall. Since the food and prices are so good I'd have to give it 5 stars as decor becomes irrelevant.
(5)Alice E.
I've been coming to Little Mandarin since I was 16... Hmmm lets count how many years that is... (I counted past my 10 little fingers!) The food always, ALWAYS hits the spot. Living in San Francisco, driving up to San Rafael to this restaurant is always a pleasure. I usually order one more dish to take home for leftovers. The left overs taste just as good old. I love day old food lol. Also their hot chili sauce is home made is absouletly SINFUL. The restaurant is run by a loving, caring family. I remember seeing the 3 brothers jetting in and out helping their Mom. I believe its run now by the oldest of the 3 brothers. The decor is plain and simple. My fav dishes - Zucchini Chicken over Rice and Mushroom Beef w/ Tofu. Writing this review makes me want to drive the 45 minutes.. which I actually might do today! Last but def not least - the price is GREAT! I don't think they raised their prices very much since I was coming here as a teenager. The food still tastes the same, and the service is always great.
(5)Mike M.
Excellent! Love this place. Complimentary egg drop soup, fast service, great prices, and delicious Chinese food!
(5)nancy l.
I ordered mushu pork for lunch today and was shocked when I got my bill and it came out to $4 more than the menu item was priced. Shocked at my bill, I went up the register to inquire about my bill. The lady told me they charged $.50 for the mushu wrappers...per wrapper! What a joke?! Mushu wrappers are supposed to come with the dish! It's like charging 1.00 extra for a tortilla when you order a burrito! What a crock! The person taking my order should have atleast said something or they should clearly state on the menu that they charged extra for wrappers. Needless to say I won't be making a return trip here.
(1)Po L.
Good place to go for lunch. The decor isnt' the nicest but it's cheap. They are very friendly here, which convinced me to stay as I normally do not eat this kind of Chinese food. Reminded me of my friends Mom when she would cook for us. I ordered off the menu for more traditional dishes. It's helps when you have slanted eyes. Good Food Friendly Service Good Price
(4)Zlarty B.
If it's quantity over quality, this is your Chinese restaurant. Good prices. I liked the Mu Shu Pork, in spite of the liquid in the filling dissolving the pancakes. Tried the shrimp chow mein, not bad. Had a vegi chow mein as well, since someone was allergic to the shrimp, and tasted better than the shrimp. The lemon chicken was gross. So was the (free) soup, overly thick like a heavy dose of bullion in way too little water. Dining room is spare and almost dingy, chairs and tables and little else. Unofficial Beer Rating: 1 (of 5): A few varieties in bottle. All macrobrews.
(3)Todd W.
When you walk into this place you will be like is the food safe? But OMG its the best and the people that work here are the best as well. Not exactly the atmosphere for a romantic first date, unless you are getting it to go and eat it somewhere more romantic! Its very fast and yummy food!
(5)christine e.
If you can look past the aging carpet, the tired chairs, peeling paint and the guy sitting in front of you with dreadlocks that have sticks and leaves in them and that look they have a hidden colony of creatures living in them, and you want a great, inexpensive meal, this is the place to go. Most things are $6.79 and it is a HUGE plate of food. The people are so nice in here as well. I was very cold lastnight and asked if I could buy another soup, and she just gave it to me. Maybe she thought I was sitting with bug man! I love these places. No pretense, just good food, and the people eating it were grateful for it. Some people looked a bit down on their luck. Me, I'm getting over the flu and didn't look great either! It was the last $8 I had until payday today. Money well spent. No atmosphere, a bit on the chilly side, I don't think they put the heat on. It reminds me of an old cafeteria that gives out free meals, but the food is good, and the people working here are real. 3.5 stars. Mu moo shoo chicken was good, fed my belly and the place, it nourished my soul. I am grateful.
(3)Stevoway S.
This place is the best if you want bottom dollar place to eat with a whole plate of food worth every penny.
(3)Nick S.
I could conceivably give it another try, but my orange chicken was borderline disgusting. The sauce tasted rancid and bitter, like it had been reheated twenty times.
(2)Eddy Z.
Some places you go to eat and that is all you do is eat. This is the closest I found to authentic Chinese Food without it laying out buffet style. It is all cooked to order and is so packed with flavor. Maximum POW for your dollars. I just wish they had a DRIVE THRU...Hmmm Closed Sundays and Opened M-St from 10:30am- 9pm
(5)Nicole M.
Go across the street to Szechwan 7. 100xs better food and 100xs better serive. Prices are about the same.
(2)Don D.
I read the reviews and decided to take a chance on Little Mandarin. I placed an order to go and the food was ready in less than ten minutes. It is true that it is inexpensive but it's also true that you usually get what you pay for. We ordered spring rolls and chicken chow mein. The spring rolls had all the flavor of sawdust. The chow mein was better but still not great. The food was mediocre at best. I won't be returning to Little Mandarin. I would rather pay more and get good food at Yet Wah on 4th St. in San Rafael.
(2)Bryan K.
Best cheap secret Chinese restaurant in 415.
(5)L K.
huge servings for cheap prices. free chicken and corn soup super nice wait staff everything is pretty decent great cheap, fast lunch!
(4)Cassidy M.
Wonderful food and fantastic service. I have been eating here for 6 years now and can't get enough of it. I have yet to bring someone that didn't love the food, it's a great whole in the wall and my favorite dish is the Mongolian Beef! SOOO GOOD :)
(5)Leon R.
This place is a bargain dining bonanza. For no more than $6.36 plus tax, you'll get a heaping plate of hot, fresh Chinese food. The options run the gamut of your usual suspects, from mongolian beef, kung pao chicken, tofu with vegetables, to even chop suey (which lives up to its bland reputation). It's all well done, even the obligatory soup that's served at the beginning of the meal. The atmosphere is as appealing as a sweaty armpit. But alas, I'm not one to let that get in the way of a good cheap meal. 3.5 Stars
(3)Marc V.
This is your classic hole-in-the-wall great little place. They are very friendly, the complimentary soup is nice. Best chow-mein ever. The decor is, shall we say "modest"? and I wish it were cleaner, but the food, service and prices are really great.
(4)Bob I.
I'd have to call it Chinese Comfort food........if you want something really spicy, or are looking for a truly colorful plate with lots of bright vegetables, it's probably not your best bet. And I've never really liked there Chow Mein as much as many other places. If you really like a relatively simple dish sometimes, nothing complex, but tasty and filling you just might like Little Mandarin. If you are a big fan of Zuchini and Mushrooms you will probably like them! Do you ever find yourself really, really tired and really hungry at the same time? Ya know, like when you are tired enough that a huge, long menu makes a choice difficult. The times that you go to an In-and Out Burger simply because choices are easy, it's not complicated. This is Little Mandarin, you don't have 163 choices on the menu, it's a small menu, and many dishes are similar. I usually go with an "M" choice....Mandarin,Mongolian, Little Mandarin, or Mushroom.....usually chicken, sometimes beef. Some people might suggest that I only give them three stars, since I'm not exactly jumping up and down excitedly and saying there the greatest Chinese I've eaten. I believe reviews in general, and for a place like Little Mandarin in particular need to be taken in the proper context. I know that there isn't a category for " Chinese Comfort food" but that's my take on what they offer, and why I give them a solid 4 stars........I've probably had there food 50+ times, I previously lived in San Rafael, and I worked within half a mile of there location for around 4 years. To those who gave it only one or two stars, perhaps you should try what has usually worked pretty well for me, when I've tried a new Chinese restaurant, I look for a " House" dish, in this case it would be Little Mandarin beef or chicken. This is the dish THEY pride themselves in, that they think reflects there style of cooking best.
(4)Brian K.
Just checked it out because I'm too lazy to go over the bridge. Yeah for atmosphere it gets low marks, not dirty ,just nothing special. Big plates 'O food - mongolian beef was good. Seriously for about $10 with drink and tip worth a look ... Yelp - we need 1/2 stars !
(3)Angelo O.
While it's true the decor is nothing special, some would even say, sub-par, there really isn't another Chinese restaurant in Marin that could compete with Little Mandarin. I had the pleasure to grow up ordering takeout from this chibi restaurant. Not only is the staff nice, but they bring you a bowl of soup and a menu the minute you sit down. They never rush you to order and when you do make your choice, the food arrives in less than 8 minutes. The food is what this place is all about, affordable and delicious. If you dine in, they fill your plate to the brim, and if you take-out, expect an even larger amout. I always get the Cashew Chicken, but Mongolian Beef is also a win! As others have said, don't let the looks and lack of parking fool you, you'll leave full and pleased.
(5)Meredith D.
Cheap food. One of the only chinese food takeout places in San Rafael, but the food really isn't that good. I've eaten there twice, and haven't been back since.
(2)Phuong H.
This place is a great hole in the wall joint you go for cheap, good food. The dishes here are more like single portion, not family style. I've tried the shrimp with lobster sauce and the curry chicken. Both were delicious and so flavorful! I'm a fan of their egg drop soup as well.
(4)William S.
Its not about the place. Its about the big rice plates. Mogolian Beef, Orange Chicken, Mandarin Chicken, Beef Chow Fun!! and the list goes on. This is how chinese is done! Price is right!
(5)Gary M.
This place is a hidden Gem!!! Nestled in the busiest section of downtown central San Rafael, you'll find no better tasting, competitively priced chinese food in Marin County. This family owned and operated chinese food business has an excellent taste. The portions are HUGE - so 2 can share 1 item.... but don't expect to want to share after tasting your selected dish. And you're missing the boat if you don't try the Mongolian Chicken (or beef) and be sure to ask for Fried Rice (no vegi's etc... just white rice, but fried) - and be sure to get what I get, which is "Mongolian Chicken, spicy with Fried Rice". Oooooh yeah! You will immediately notice people from all classes of income eating there.... doesn't matter how much money you've got, this place is uniquely an excellent choice for competitively priced chinese food with a fantastic taste and terrific service... And you can't beat Alice's wonderful personality too! There's a good chance you'll see me there or spot me cruising in for take-out!!! ~ See you soon Alice, my tastebuds are already salivating!
(5)G-Man ..
Hidden in San Rafael is one of the better chinese take out places in the bay area. Sure it's ghetto looking, no atmosphere at all (unless you count all the hispanics there - which is because they got good food at dirt prices) and hard to find, but the food is good. Not all the food mind you, because all restaurants have the few dishes they do really well and the rest SUCK! But this place takes the cake for mongolian beef and tofu beef. How much for a rice plate of this stuff to go? Less than 6 duckets, yes! And it's damn good. Once a month my girl and I cross the GG just to go here to get take out, and then pay the $4 (thanks fastrak) toll back to the city. Yup, worth my time and money.
(4)Landon Y.
i love this place! everything is well priced and comes in huge portions. this is a must try for lunch but call in your order because the place is PACKED at lunch time.
(5)R M.
N: I was really expecting some amazing Chinese food after hearing about the reviews of it on yelp. When we went there, the first thing I noticed was how it was more like a soup kitchen or an eating auditorium than a restaurant--no style, no warmth. The restaurant makes no attempt to spruce up the place because they are simply concerned with cranking out as much food as possible. Good for someone looking for a quick bite, but definitely quantity over quality. The good news is they serve you egg drop soup while you wait for your(Take out OR eat in) order to be filled. The restaurant is extremely crowded, with at least 8-10 people in line waiting to place their order. Once you place the order, they just tell you to wait (they don't give you a receipt or anything), leaving you to figure out how and when to pick it up. Trying to pick up your food is a headache with all the people around. I don't see why people flock to this restaurant. The food is mediocre, the price is cheap but its not really worth it. And they really skimp on the sauce with the sweet and sour chicken :(
(2)John B.
this is the best chinese food in marin. delightfully delicious every time! ! !
(5)Ricote F.
this odd little place across from the monticeto mall, is some sort of a throw back, the food is .... okish, but not my style of chinese take away... it is near and we get the shrimp egg foo yung... and its ok.. but i dont think I would stop here if I wasnt going in that direction, and didnt want to go any further.
(2)J S.
Mongolian Beef is the food you want here!
(4)Norm P.
This is what it is all about. What this little hole in the wall lacks in space and decor, the food makes up for it. What's even better is that the food is affordable. They had a set menu, but everything was variable. My favorites were the Mongolian Beef, Mushroom Chicken, and Hong Kong style noodles. When I went to Dominican College, as it was called back then, this was a frequent eat-stop during my younger days. Everything was served lunch plate style, but it's possible to get things a la carte if you asked. The food piled up on a mountain of hot rice, the staple of asian people everywhere. Food was plentiful here, yet cheap and very satisfying. From the outside in, this place my look just like another Chinese Food restaurant, but this is more a personal stop for me. Although I haven't been there in years, I suspect if I ever roll through SR I will stop by I will get sentimental, pick up some takeout at Little Mandarin, and then the normal routine kicks in... Get a haircut at Nancy's next door. Gas up at Shell across the street, and head back to Meadowlands... ahhh, the good old days.
(4)Pho L.
I love the Mongolian beef with Extra jalepenos peppers. Food always taste better spicy, so if u can't afford adding fresh chop peppers they have that hot chilli oil. If u sit in and eat u get a free bowl of egg drop soup too. #1 fan of little mandarin.
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