China Cafe
24299 Novi Rd, Novi, MI, 48375
China Cafe Menu
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Visit below restaurant in Novi for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Novi for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Novi for healthy meals suggestion.
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Address :
24299 Novi Rd
Novi, MI, 48375 - Phone (248) 449-4888
- Website https://www.chinacafenovi.com/
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Tue
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : Yes
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Lunch, Dinner
Parking : Private Lot
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Classy
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : Full Bar
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : Yes
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : No
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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Maya C.
Recently ate at China Cafe with my husband. We enjoyed some wine and cocktails, which were brought out quickly and presented nicely. The decor and atmosphere was tasteful and pleasant. The service was prompt and friendly. The owner, also, personally came and greeted the patrons. All of those elements made for a comfortable and welcoming experience. We ordered the potstickers and vegetable spring rolls. The potstickers were homemade! The dinner was delicious! We had the general tsao chicken and a couple other dishes. They had fresh vegetables, quality meats and tasty sauces. We had a great dinner and I would definitely return.
(5)Jack B.
China Cafe is one of my favorite places to eat in Novi. Owner Suzanna is talkative and gregarious, but in the best way possible. The interior is sleek and dark, with Chinese motifs inside. You're started with complimentary fried wontons, which come with a selection of two sauces. Drinks, etc etc, but then the food comes! The sauces on all the dishes are so rich and flavorful, it's probably my favorite part of the entire meal. Try the Mongolian combination or Kung Pao. China Cafe is also offering some small plates which are equally delicious and unique, and are sort of a American-Chinese fusion. Sweet Potato & Potato Garlic Fries are really good. All in all, I really enjoy coming here! I'd definitely recommend it.
(5)Jennifer E.
Last night I took my husband (and our 3 year old) out for a Father's Day meal to a restaurant of his choice and he chose China Cafe. We pulled up and my first thought was, "THIS is where you want to go...are you sure?" It is in a corner spot in a dingy looking plaza. However it DID have outdoor seating and it was pretty full! We walked in and were welcomed and seated quickly. Our waitress took quite a bit of time getting to us. And with a toddler in tow, not great. But we were given free fried wontons which held her over for a bit, which was a nice touch. The waitress did not read back our order and got it wrong. We were charged for the larger dish of potstickers when we clearly ordered the small. They brought my husband the wrong dish as well. Two saving graces if you will: they made my daughter her own side of steamed veggies that she loved and my asparagus beef was A-Mazing! Oh--and the Japanese White Ale was pretty terrific too. (Drink list had more up-to-date options than other Chinese restaurants I've been to). PROS: dishes were pretty good overall! (Asparagus beef FANtastic; I would pas on potstickers altogether now though having eaten them). Drink list. CONS: service could have been much better and waitresses should read back orders to make sure they have it correct. No one likes to be charged for something they didn't order.
(3)Debapriya S.
Nice place to hangout. Bring a crowd..
(4)Vlad K.
Pretty descent food, my date and I split the general toa's chicken, angle hair seafood pasta and a side of chicken fried rice. The general toa's chicken was our favorite. The scallops and shrimp were great but the calamari was like chewing on a rubber band. Like I said food was decent, for the price.
(3)Ana P.
MY parents have been telling me about this place for years so my wife and i finally got a chance to go. This will for sure be our new local Chinese Go-to. Hands down the best chinese food in the Novi area. Very clean restaurant and a very attentive and friendly staff. It's not super cheap but so worth the few extra bucks. Great flavors and good portion sizes. I got the chicken lo mein and my wife got the thai egg plant chicken and we had enough to share and bring home. Annoyed that i have been going to the not so great or clean buffet down the street when this place has existed in my midst! Great cocktail selection! Bottom line: Perfect for a date night..great food at a moderate price.
(5)Nathasja T.
After driving by China Cafe on average once a day, we finally decided to stop in while craving Chinese food. The restaurant being on the corner of a dull strip mall location did not really prepare us for the awesome interior and vibe inside the restaurant. The restaurant looks like a beautiful rendition of a PF Chang's type dining room, contemporary and chic-ish - especially when compared to the usual strip mall Chinese restaurant. Aside from it's appealing interior design, the staff all the way from the hostesses to the waiters and bus staff are incredibly attentive and professional. Nothing but great service here! From the beginning it's clear that many (if not all) items are homemade. The mustard is slightly spicier and grittier than normal, and if you ask they will bring out their homemade soy sauce. Their soups are fresh and tasty. My husband wanted to try the chicken chop suey. When have you ever had a chop suey where you can distinguish individual ingredients in the sauce? Wine, garlic, white pepper. Very yummy indeed. I opted for the green bean and tofu curry which was absolutely delicious. The curry is slightly sweet, slightly spicy, slightly tangy and overall great. If you're in the mood for Chinese, don't pass up this restaurant. Its homemade dishes with fresh ingredients are a great alternative to the many divey restaurants offering neon colored deep fried items. China Cafe will be on our rotation of restaurants, and while the weather is nice I'm looking forward to dine out on their patio next.
(4)Jes P.
Beautiful interior, prompt service, wide selection of dishes but we must have gone on a night that the main chef was out...? Our Thai 'salad' came out with some green leaves and sesame seeds on it (all of which were only on the top and not distributed throughout the salad) but that was it. Nothing about what I could see or taste was Thai about the salad and after a couple of bites, my taste buds and stomach were not interested so I decided to take it home so I could add something to it. The firecracker chicken was better than the Thai salad but didn't capture my palate either. I wish there were more veggies in both of the dishes I ordered (especially since one was a 'salad'). Our waitress was helpful, knowledgeable about the dishes and our glasses of H2O were filled often (a BIG plus in my book). For the price range, I had higher hopes of a better meal.
(3)Jasmine N.
This may be the BEST Chinese food I have ever had and I've had a lot. Everything is so fresh and the service is great!
(5)Lynn B.
Very good quality. Most entrees $ 10-15 and up. Almost all Ala-carte menu, so soup is extra. No rolls served with dinner, only won-ton crisps. The lettuce-wraps were very good. (For a slightly-better price, try P.F. Chang's "fixed" price menu. It comes with lettuce-wraps, soup and a small dessert.) Otherwise, this is a good local alternative to B.F. Chang's and the food might even be a little better. Very busy when we were there. Does not appear to offer carry-out, but not sure. I assume that lunch is a little cheaper.
(5)Ann W.
One of my good friends always provides the best recommendations. Looking for a dermatologist? Ask her. Seeking the best pizza in the area? Ask her. So when I was in the mood for good Chinese food oh so many years ago, I asked her and she delivered. China Café is located in a nondescript shopping mall off Novi Road. The parking lot leaves a lot to be desired but the restaurant itself was contemporarily decorated and well maintained. Terracotta figurines guard the entrance to the restaurant. I generally come here for take-out and judging from the continuous stream of guests, so do many others. This crisp Saturday afternoon, a dine-in experience was called for. Complementary fried won ton strips, lightly seasoned, served with sweet and sour sauce were a welcomed start to the meal. For lunch, the noodle bowls seemed to be popular but I went with the Orange Beef - one of my favorite dishes from this restaurant. The sizable entrée included a scoop of fried rice and an egg roll. A cup of hot and sour soup with chunks of tofu accompanied the meal. The large portion of beef was lightly coated in flour, fried and covered in a flavorful sauce. Fresh orange slices fanned the dish. It was delicious - and there was enough for leftovers. The hostess and server were cheerful and friendly. Next time, I plan to try one of the noodle bowls.
(3)Drew D.
It's the best in town from the top to the bottom of the menu!!! Been coming here for over 15 years and it never disappoints.
(5)Chris B.
The chef and his wife (Suazanna) take great pride in providing fresh, delicious flavor and a very friendly customer experience. I sat at the bar and was amazed at Suzanna's and her staff's personal touch given to each guest. I feel like a regular already. NOTE: the food is a solid 4/5, but the service is a 10/5, so I was compelled to give them 5 stars. ...Did I mention they have an excellent whiskey selection? Nicely done China Cafe team!
(5)Suzanne S.
I rarely go to this side of town - the food - shrimp with cilantro, rice and egg roll was different and delicious. Very nicely spiced. For the price a VERY GOOD deal. Service polite but dis interested. Portions large enough - two of us split a meal. The Wedding soup a little bit on the boring side.
(4)Christie M.
My first time here and I have to say it has a very very Asian decor. We ordered chicken wings, seafood Rangoon, spring rolls for appetizer and they were good. Crispy chicken! Yum! My sons loved the seafood Rangoon. We also ordered the pork belly with chive and seafood coconut curry. Clear winner was the pork belly with chive. Add 2 scoops of their hot pepper and it's yum! The curry was just ugh... I gagged on the over abundance of coconut flavor. Wish the curry was evenly pronounced as the coconut. I only swallowed one bite of that. But I cleaned up the chive dish. So good!! Service was good. I'll be back for this pork belly chive dish and the wings. Yum!!
(4)Jennifer S.
I came China Cafe based on all the good reviews, but I have to say...at least what we experienced was not worthy of 4-5 stars. The restaurant itself is very nice, and our waitress was great, but the food was less than stellar and totally did not give me my Chinese fix that I wanted. We started with steamed dumplings and edamame. The edamame were delish (hard to screw those up), but the steamed dumplings were pretty gross. The meat inside, not entirely sure if it was pork or chicken, was dry and tasteless. I'm used to super juicy, incredibly flavorful pork dumplings. For dinner I got green beans and shrimp which was actually very good. My husband got beef chow fun which was okay, the beef was kind of tasteless. But the piece de resistance (not in a good way) was the chicken lo mein we got for our son. The noodles were barely covered in sauce and the chicken was the most disgusting flavorless thing I've ever eaten. It was so bad, I've never had anything like it. Needless to say our quest for good Chinese in the area will continue, but we will not be back here!
(2)Bruce P.
Dad wanted Chinese for his birthday, this place was recommended by a friend. My dad and I ordered the Mongolian combination, it had beef, chicken and shrimp plus vegetable is a very tasty garlic sauce, it was delicious. My wife ordered the fire cracker shrimp, it was awesome. We also has a almond chicken at the table that was very good. We had the lettuce wraps as an appetizer and they were awesome, plenty to share. My wife also has the Maui salad which has a house dress in which is great, my dad had the crispy rice soup which he said was excellent, I had the hot & sour soup which was excellent also. Definitely would recommend, not the cheapest place but the food is well worth the money, we will be back.
(5)Teresa K.
Good food -- went for lunch. Will most likely go back again.
(4)Erin P.
Excellent Asian food with great ambiance. Very friendly staff too. So glad to find this place.
(5)Janine C.
Service excellent! Food! Excellent. I has Thai chicken and eggplant and chicken egg rolls. Hostess excellent! And this was Friday evening at 7.30. What else can I say? Really great place
(5)Melissa R.
The outside of this place is a little deceiving and makes your think it might be a two star restaurant. The food is excellent and the inside of the restaurant is very cool with a bar and nice dining area. I ordered the Kung Pao shrimp and it was delicious!
(4)Jason R.
Brought my family of six for dinner. We ordered egg drop soup, lettuce wraps, almond chicken & orange chicken. They are very serviced oriented, all of our food was absolutely delicious and the price was fair. We will definitely be back again. Might be a new favorite spot. The lettuce wraps were probably the best I've ever had!
(5)Varun K.
Menu has changed and the quality of food is not the same anymore. Used to come here a lot. Loved the food until last year. It's all gone. Not the same place anymore
(1)Charlie K.
Not your typical Chinese restaurant. They are family style with the big dish and shared white rice. The food was really good! I ordered the ginger beef and added mushrooms, carrots, and broccoli. I added the other veggies because otherwise it was just the flank steak and bamboo shoots with the ginger sauce. I was happily surprised by the ginger sauce! It wasn't overpoweringly gingery and paired well with the beef. Which was also delish! I didn't have any gritty or fatty meat, just nice and tender. Staff was very good about refilling waters and clearing empty plates. All in all it was a great dining experience I'll be back!
(4)Matthew K.
It's hard for me to rate this a 3 or a 4 star. The food is really good, and you get a good portion. On the other hand, it's expensive for American-ized Chinese food. Service is decent - we went with a total group of 4 and a 20-month old. We all liked our food, but they wanted to upcharge us just because we asked for some of the pineapple from my wife's entrée without sauce so we could give it to our daughter. Seems overly stingy when their meals average $13 for some rice and chicken with sauce. Water refills were quick, but they never offered more rice. If prices were a little lower, or service was a little better, I would easily rate it a 4, but instead I'm rating it a undeserved 4 with reservations.
(4)Breanne C.
I ate here because it came up on my sky miles dining rewards search and I am so glad it did! I got carry out, but I can't wait to go back and dine in. The atmosphere and decor of the restaurant was really nice, and the food was really good. I tried the orange chicken, Thai pasta salad, and the Singapore fried rice. They were all excellent. I saw dishes being brought out while waiting for my carry out and the presentation looked wonderful. I will be returning!
(4)Sophie L.
This was my go to place for Asian food when I lived in Michigan. Still miss the Kung Pao Shrimp. Susana is the sweetest. Miss this little gem.
(4)Steven P.
It wasn't bad, per se, but there was nothing besides proximity to home which would compel me to return. On the plus side, it is nice to have a full bar and the ambience seemed fairly nice. On the minus, the person who took our orders wasn't terribly pleasant or helpful and she didn't comply with our request to have our little girl served first while we waited. But, bottom line is the cuisine, right? In that respect, the menu lacked variety and the flavors lacked character. I had orange chicken and my wife had Kung Pao Tofu. Meh. Oh, and despite the full bar... the pour proportions were pretty chintzy.
(2)Tacarra L.
This is a hidden gem! The food is delicious and fresh and never tastes like it was doused in cooking oil or masked in sauce to hide the flavor. The restaurant is small and gets pretty busy at dinner but the service is always fast, although you never feel rushed.
(5)John A.
Excellent place for Chinese food. Menu also had a bit of Thai food choices. We got the lettuce wraps to start, which were excellent, followed with General tsao chicken and Pad Thai for our entrées, and we both really enjoyed them. The wait staff was excellent and very attentive. We'll definitely return.
(5)Binnan O.
Ordered: Spicy Thai Wings, Hot Sour Soup, Wonton Soup, General Tao's Chicken, Mushu Pork Ambiance: Very nice place with a upscale/bistro-y feel but the plethora of middle-aged to elderly white people instantly made me wary. The non-asian decorations and jazz playing over the speakers didn't help either. It was nice to see at least most of the servers were chinese (not korean). Service, in fact, was excellent with frequent refills on our waters and people checking in every now and then. Food: You'll get complimetary 'fried noodles (i.e. wonton wrappers) to start, they're served with sweet chili sauce and spicy mustard sauces. These were fine although shoveling sugary syrup so early on is a little odd. The fact that you have to ask for chopsticks and tea is not complimentary also make them lose authenticity points. We started with the spicy thai wings which were spectacular. Ours were bone-in because they ran out of boneless and they were served steaming hot. They were breaded with seasoned flour, perfectly fried, moist, juicy, and covered a very spicy sweet chili sauce. You get 6 meaty wings and a set of wet-wipes to clean up afterwards. I proceeded to have the hot sour soup which was appropriately tangy and had a beef broth base, pretty standard. The wonton soup my fiance had was off-putting because they put mushrooms in which totally overwhelmed everything. The two wontons were also bland. The main courses were probably the worst part of the meal. The General Tao consisted of strips of chicken tossed in flour and served with yet another sweet chili sauce. The chicken was fine enough but the dish was boring with the sugary sauce lacking any punch and the flour coating having no texture whatsoever. The Mushu pork was OK, albeit a little salty. It had a nice saute of sprouts, onions, vegetables, and strips of pork all served with a side of hoisin sauce and tortillas. An appalling thing to me was the rice which had a flavor reminiscent of instant rice and shoes. My suspicion is they buy already par-boiled rice instead of making it fresh because it tastes of preservatives. Overall this place is hit-or-miss. They use fresh ingredients and the technical cooking skill is good but some of the dishes need work. The spicy thai wings were great and the hot sour soup spot-on but mushrooms in wonton soup and plain,sugary, and boring main courses were a let-down. Maybe stop using so much store-bought sweet chili and hoisin sauce? Or make your rice fresh? For anyone looking for traditional/authentic chinese food I'd look elsewhere but if upscale americanized chinese food reminscent of PF Changs is up your alley, then you are in luck.
(3)Krystel T.
I went here for the 1st time on Fri. The inside was better than I expected. I got the General Taos Chx. Huge portion, lightly breaded so more chicken. It was delish. Service was attentive as well. I also had the Veggie Tofu soup. The freshest soup I ever had. Fresh tofu and fresh veggies. I would Def come again!
(4)Evie B.
Firecracker shrimp.... Plump, fresh and several pieces in a spicy sweet sauce/ light veggies ... Soooooooo good 5 pepper shrimp... Peppery sauce, many plump, fresh shrimp, lightly breaded in a peppery breading. Nice variety of minced veggies. So delicious!!! Zombie- eat before drinking or it will knock you down! Lol service is great. everyone is friendly. food is plentiful, served hot, fresh...flavorful. we plan to return soon and try something new!
(5)Natasha P.
My husband and I had been here a couple of years back, after which China Cafe had fallen off our radar until last November, when some friends brought us carry out from here. I remember both those meals as being excellent. So, when my Grandmom and her friend came to visit us, we took them there for dinner. We got there 25 minutes before the kitchen closed, so once we were seated and had ordered our drinks, we were requested to order. My Grandmom's friend does not eat meat, but eats seafood and eggs. So we ordered the Spicy Salted Calamari, which was wonderful. The calamari were huge, and perfectly coated and fried, and I love the salty and spicy fried garlic type thing that comes with it. For dinner we ordered the Palace Beef, the Thai Basil Shrimp and the Hunan Style Fried Rice, and the Shrimp with Tripe Greens. All their dishes were excellent. The Palace Beef was definitely my favorite, but I also, really liked the Thai basil Shrimp. Both the Shrimp dishes came in their own individual sauces, that were a perfect balance to the amount of shrimp and veges in them. The portions are pretty big but I think they are fairly priced. I also like the decor, but feel like the restaurant is a little too dark. I don't think this food is very authentic Chinese, however, I'm not a great connoisseur on Chinese food, so don't take my work for it. What it is, though, is tasty and fresh food.
(4)Asianzing S.
The best Chinese Food Ever! Mongolian Combination and Orange Beff are Delicious! Waitstaff is very polite. Very Clean.
(5)Jen T.
Everything was good and exactly what we were looking for. Excited to find our new favorite Chinese restaurant.
(5)Misty J.
Surprisingly super nice on the inside (ladies - check out the light fixtures in the bathroom!) The service is kind of slow but friendly. If you only have a 30 minute lunch I'd recommend ordering take out over the phone. Fantastic lunch specials! I order a different entree every time and every time my lunch is delicious. I will say the wonton soup is superior to the egg drop. Their egg drop doesn't have much flavor.
(5)Katie M.
During our recent Detroit staycation, I decided to choose a restaurant that we had never been to before, closer to home, in the attempt to find a hidden gem. I think I struck gold with China Café! How unassuming this place is. I've been in that plaza a million times to visit the kids consignment shop (recently closed) and I've also tried the Japanese restaurant. I'm not a huge fan of Chinese food, but I was willing to take one for the team as my husband really wanted Chinese that night. I figured I could find something I liked. As it turned out, I found everything I liked! (With exception of the spicy edamame - wayyyy too salty). Wow! They had 3 specials (2 with seafood - not shellfish!) that sounded excellent- almost like something PF Changs would have on the menu. I went with the thai curry green beans and tofu which was out of this world. One of the best tasting, well blended curry sauce dishes I have ever had. The beans were fresh, crispy and the tofu was plentiful. Husband went with the orange chicken, which was also good, not heavily breaded, I thought it could have used just a little more spice, but he was pleased. The service was also outstanding. The owner came over to talk with us at least twice and my water glass was never more than half-empty. The décor was beautiful and classy. I was expecting it to be "just another Chinese restaurant" but I was oh-so-wrong. Thanks to China Café, I am now a fan of Chinese food again.
(5)Gary A.
I forgotten how good this place can be. I met a client for lunch last week, and it was excellent. Its located in an older strip mall that has had a fair amount of turn over, as Novi Road was widen to five lanes last year. Not flashy, you can easily drive right past this place. Sue will meet you at the door, inside or outside seating. A good sized menu, traditional Chinese fare, but surprisingly more Thai dish selections. I went with one of the lunch specials, Orange Chicken, which comes with soup of the day, egg roll and fried rice. The Orange Chicken was excellent, thinly sliced chicken strips, lightly bread in a spicy/sweet orange sauce. Very nice. Lunch has 15-18 specials, chicken, beef, pork, and tufo options, as well as chef specials. I was surprised by the amount of take-out traffic that came thru the door. China Cafe is worth driving past the restaurant row places, right up against I-96.
(5)Kristine L.
We came in with a very large part of 10+ and were seated within 10 minutes of our reservation. Service was very quick - always very good in terms of refilling our waters and taking drink orders. Small dining area but never felt cramped, and most importantly clean bathrooms (I can't stand eating at place with a dirty bathroom ...) I ordered the palace beef and also the szechuan eggplant with pork - the palace beef had a little more breading that I would have preferred but had a great kick to it. The eggplant was phenomenal (and I don't even like eggplant) due to the sauce that it came it - I think I ended up eating up all the sauce before the eggplant! Price was reflective of the environment - not too high but not your neighborhood Chinese take out.
(4)Ernie M.
China Café improves every time we go there, I always order General Tsao shrimp off the menu at a medium spice level. This time I got their egg drop soup too and it was excellent. My wife had the chicken and pea pods and loved it. Others in our party were very happy with the chicken fried rice. We all asked for brown rice which I think is tastier and healthier than the sticky rice. I like this place as well as PFChang's and it costs about 75% of PFs Service is always great and the fortune cookies always are accurate.
(4)Lynn H.
China Cafe has been in business since I remember. Its unassuming exterior, on the end of a strip mall, belies its charming interior and excellent menu. On our last visit, I ordered the Panang Curry shrimp, which was tasty, if not quite spicy enough for my liking. Hubby ordered Chicken fried rice (his usual) and declared it to be good. Another dining companion ordered General Tsao's chicken, which was among the best I've ever tasted.
(3)E L.
The ambiance was wonderful. Very romantic jazzy set up which was not expected. The Fire Cracker chicken was okay. Very very sweet so if I order it again I will request the sauce on the side. I honestly think this place is excellent for cocktails with friends or a romantic date.
(4)X P.
I've been going to this restaurant for many years and it pains me to write this review. The food here used to be quite good, even if it is not authentic Chinese. It was clean and the staff were always pleasant. However the last 3 times we ordered from here the food ranged from bad to absolutely inedible. I recently got a seafood/pasta dish; the scallops were bad. How do I know? When I opened the carryout container, it reeked like ammonia. That means the cook knew it was bad because it stunk like that when it was in the wok being cooked. Anyone who has ever tried to cook a spoiled piece of seafood knows what I'm talking about. The management of this place couldn't be nicer and that is why we've given them several chances to see if it was a fluke. I suspect it is so hard to be profitable nowadays that restaurateurs have to cut every possible corner to make a buck, including cooking/selling spoiled food. It gives me no pleasure to write this review and hope your experience is better than mine.
(2)Amber F.
Delicious food, great service, and nice atmosphere! The Egg-drop soup is the best I've ever eaten!! New favorite Chinese place!
(5)Chad S.
Best Chinese food in Michigan. Its that good! Everything I've had has been unbelievable. The soup, egg rolls, rice, chicken dishes, beef dishes, shrimp, I've tried several different things and they are all 5 stars.
(5)Jenny Z.
I can't believe how well rated this place is. It's not even Chinese food! The place is filled with fried americanized options that no Chinese would ever consider remotely close to authentic Chinese food. The food is greasy, with lots of breaded options or oily stir fried options, or meats and fish cooked in completely americanized methods and lots of sugary sauces for flavor. For the record, sweet and sour sauce is not Chinese, neither is sweet and sour chicken. In China, we eat chicken off the bones, and fish is cooked with the head and bones attached for tenderness. Ever notice meat gets dry when the bones are removed? The most tender and moist meat is usually found attached to the bone. The only time bones are removed is when it's used in a stir fry, and meat is never breaded and deep fried, then coated with a sauce. I find it sad how little people actually know about Chinese cuisine as there's so much breaded chicken varieties with sweet sauces dumped over it, none of which you'd actually find in China. There should be well prepared stir fry options (NOT fried rice, which is what Chinese people make when they have a lot of miscellaneous leftovers and some plain rice to clean up the fridge). Stir fry comes in particular pairings, not a dumping of random veggies in a wok, with all shapes cut to be roughly the same so it cooks evenly. If you want good Chinese, go to Best China in Canton, their spicy chicken (off the authentic menu) is very good, and so is their kung pao beef. I don't even know what this place is... the closest comparison is to a PF Changs. It's really a disgrace to a cuisine that's been cultivated over thousands of years.
(2)MJ B.
This is only about the bar and overall quality of drinks and atmosphere. Came back and it was excellent. People are interesting here. Lots of locals and artsy professional types coming in groups for dinner - sitting at the bar is great- nice vibe and bartendress is skilled and friendly. Go for drinks but save us a spot lol.
(5)Wally S.
After dropping some kids off at the Emagine Novi the wife and I needed a place to eat. We hadn't had Chinese food for awhile so we searched our trusty Yelp phone app to find the nearest Chinese restaurant. We ended up at China Café and we were glad we did. Although located in a strip mall, China Café is anything but a strip mall restaurant. I would tend to categorize China Café as upscale. Although the sign warned of remodeling, I had to ask the owner what they were changing; it's really one of the nice restaurants I've been in. We ordered fried dumplings for an appetizer. These weren't the usual pan fried version which they did offer, but deep fried. This left a nice crispy coating on each of the dumplings to top off the excellent soft and warm texture that could be found within. Next up my wife ordered General Tso's Chicken and I ordered the Mongolian Combination dish. Both were served with white rice. Contrary to sticky coated chicken nuggets that generally pass for General Tso's chicken, this dish consisted if thin slices of chicken breast, lightly breaded and coated with a sweet and spicy orange sauce. The Mongolian Combination was a very nice combination of beef, chicken, and shrimp with onion cooked in a sweet sauce. Both of the dishes tended to have a complex flavor. The sweetness hit first and then after a few minutes you could feel a burn in the back of your throat from the pepper. I can't really say how authentic any of the food was, but I would take flavors this good over authentic on any given day. Combine this good food with excellent service, a full bar, and owners that were extremely friendly and grateful for our business and you have a real winning combination which will keep us coming back to China Cafe.
(5)Walter K.
Great carryout order today. Loved how the person on phone repeated the order when I called, then repeated it again on pickup. Excellent food all around - Thai chicken with eggplant, chicken fired rice, chicken lo mein, Mongolian beef, triple green vegetables. Will be back for sure. Dine in looked great too.
(5)Krystal R.
Walked in and seated immediately on a Saturday night- even though it was pretty much full. I had a good feeling right away, everyone looked happy and a busy place is usually a good sign. Service was very prompt, polite, and you just feel like they actually care about their business. (Yay) Decor- nice, not cheesy, just comfy and clean feeling. Everyone working was nice. Nice bar. Food came out fast. I took the reccomendation on the basil shrimp and was sold. So good! Fresh tasting and so flavorful. We will most definitely be back!
(4)Greg W.
Love this place. They make homemade soy sauce which I think tastes awesome, much better than the standard packets or kikomann.
(5)Megan K.
Thaaaannnk you, Yelpers for directing my friend and I here. Freaking awesome. The service was friendly, our water was always full, finished plates taken away promptly...From the time walking in and everyone greeting us with a smile to the time leaving and everyone saying good bye, we will definitely return. One Yelper said the Crab Rangoons were the best and so my friend Amy had to try them. Love at first bite! My egg drop had a different twist, had a few more ingredients than the typical egg drop. Delicious. Amazing food, HIGHLY recommend. Loved the jazz in the background, nice touch.
(5)Lynus P.
Let's keep this real. Just because you are located in Novi, doesn't mean you can charge $17 for an entree that is ala carte. My daughter had a hankering for Chinese food and so we decided on China Cafe. Nice atmosphere and very friendly staff and owners. That's the only good part of this review. I ordered the seafood curry $17.00 and when it arrived, the portion was smaller than most lunch size portions. Don't get me wrong, I am fine with a smaller portion if the quality is spot on. Needless to say, it appeared that they took one small scallop and cut it in to thirds and then in two..... This combined with the brine like shrimp and dime size calamari and two pieces of broccoli (that was from a frozen package of vegetables), left me completely unsatisfied. I could tell the seafood came from some combo seafood pack that the owner purchased from a warehouse and the main goal was to carefully weigh out the portion seafood that was included, rather than create a plate that would "wow" their guests. The only "wow" in my meal, was the fact that no soup, salad or egg role was included, coupled by the lack of creativity and sub-par ingredients in the dish. I like to support Novi based establishments but not when they are only interested in turning a profit and not putting out an acceptable meal for the price. No ROI with this experience and I won't be going back.
(1)Nick B.
Excellent, high quality food and ingredients. We have only ordered carry out, and while the food is slightly expensive, it's worth it. The Orange Beef is fresh with a hint of spice. It can be ordered mild for the delicate palate. The Almond Chicken is very good with a nice crispy breading. Our favorite dish is the Thai Style Chicken and Eggplant. A coconut and peanut sauce with small Japanese eggplant.
(5)Jonathan M.
Just tried this place last weekend, and it was really good. The food reminds me a lot of P.F. Changs, and the service was pretty awesome. The manager/owner of the place was super friendly and helpful, too. It's not fair to compare Chinese food anywhere in Michigan to LA or NY, so if you are looking for that caliber, you might want to book a flight. That being said, this place holds its own for food quality, service, and ambiance. There is really only one other Chinese food place in the surrounding area that I think about going to...
(4)Nicholas A.
This is probably the best chinese food I have had in this area. The vegetables are extremely fresh and the chicken is very tender. I usually order the sesame chicken, chicken fried rice and a egg role. This definitely doesn't disappoint.
(4)Tom T.
Great Chinese food and thankfully, it's not a chain!!!! I had the basil chicken extra spicy and it was fantastic. Try it if you are looking for a quaint restaurant that is priced fairly with good quality food
(4)Devon D.
Not a fan of Chinese food, but this was very good. Food is very fresh and cooked to order. Very reasonable prices.
(5)Amanda K.
I eat here all the time. It is my favorite Chinese restaurant in Novi. I always order lettuce wraps, won ton soup, hot tea and sweet & sour chicken. AMAZING. China Cafe never disappoints. I love the ambience here too. It's the cutest little place with nice outdoor seating. Mmm - I think I might eat there tonight.
(5)Brian K.
Comparing this restaurant to others in the area, I would have to say that is the best. The food is nothing spectacular, but quality wise in service was very good. I ordered an eggroll with fried rice and Mongolian Beef. The beef was tender and the sauce was sweet and spicy atop cruchy white noodles.
(4)Laura M.
Ordered Vegetable Lo Mein and Vegetable Trio with Garlic Sauce as carry out. This is my first visit to this restaurant, came here based on good reviews! The Vegetable Lo Mein was very good, but skimpy portion. The Veg trio was suppose to have broccoli, asparagus and pea pods, but it came with no pea pods, and they substituted green beans. If they had told me, I would have chosen something else, but they did not. disappointing! The sauce on the trio was a bit thick and just so so. I will try them again, but order different entrees.
(3)Steven R.
We go there when we want high quality Chinese food. The food is always very tasty and the ingredients are fresh. I had the Shrimp with Triple Greens and my wife had Mongolian Combination. Both dishes were very good with just the right amount of spice. Pricing is reasonable given the quality of the food.
(5)Terry B.
Really nice decor. Great food and fantastic service. Add craft beers and I would never leave.
(5)Adam B.
I grew up near this place and visited several times per month. The food was always great, but the best part is that you really feel like you're welcomed here. Even now, when I haven't lived in the area for 5 years (I've been living thousands of miles away) whenever I come home for a random weekend, or for Christmas, I stop in. The manager always remembers who I am, asks about my family (still remembering details about us) and she has a great smile on her face. Wonderful service!
(5)C. D.
Best Chinese restaurant in town, as far as I'm concerned. The prices are a tad on the steep side, hence the 4 stars... But great selection, fresh taste and kicking flavors!
(4)Darrell K.
I have been here a few times since the first time I found it in the Metro Times as winning "Best Chinese Restaurant." The place is a nice, quaint atmosphere. It is a bit romantic, dimly lit with Jazz playing in the background. Nice place to go for a nice dinner or lunch.
(5)Sarah C.
My boyfriend and I love Chinese food but had only had ok Chinese food that is until we ate here. We ordered fire cracker chicken, orange chicken as well as an order of chicken fried rice, and egg rolls all of which was amazing! We were more than satisfied with our order and will be going back again.
(5)S F.
I'm not understanding the ratings of this place. I've experienced way better fresher tasting Chinese food at take-out places. Basically worse tasting food for twice the price of Chinese takeout! We had the following: Dumplings - even though the skins seemed homemade, it was on the thicker side. The meat filling didn't have good flavor. Mongolian beef - overly sweet and the texture of the meat was somewhat unrecognizable. I know that marinating or using the velveting technique to keep the meat tender alters the meat a bit, but not THAT much. Szechuan seafood - included lots of my pet-peeve ingredient in Asian dishes, bamboo shoots, which to me, if the bamboo shoots are not "right" they have a taste of urine or the smell of an old decaying man's breath. Scallops were bland, and the shrimp were small and few. Singapore noodles - this was the only redeemable dish we ate, but still not up to par with other good Chinese places. If you're looking solely for ambiance and a clean/classy place and aren't concerned about food quality and taste, then this is the place to come...if you're looking for good food at affordable prices, look elsewhere.
(2)Jin Y.
I ordered orange chicken for take out, there was not much of food in there. I saw lots of orange slices around though...lol i've ate orange chicken some where else and never seen coming out like that. With money i paid here, i get more food at the mall than here. Food was not that great either
(2)Lisa M.
Allright, it takes a lot for my husband to love a chinese restaurant and he actually asks to go here. Our friends turned us on to this restaurant and we really only go with them. As the restaurant is in Novi and we live downriver and our friends in Dearborn it says a lot that we will drive all the way here for their food. I love that even if the food you want isn't on their menu they will try and create it for you. Their spring roll was great and the sizzling rice soup always makes me happy. The owners are visible and SOOOO friendly and nice. The service is amazing and your drinks rarely go empty. The ambiance is great and the prices reasonable. I can't wait to go back!!
(5)Geo T.
Previous visit (4 years ago) was less then stellar. It was a late lunch stop, tables still needed bussing, seating staff was slow to respond. Notable service improvement this last week. Plating presentation has more flare but sauces still need work.
(3)Rita R.
Without a doubt this is the best Asian restaurant in the area. From the outside it is a store front type. When you enter you see that this is different. Although the ambiance is nice the big surprise is the food. Have tried several different meals and have enjoyed every one. The chef is creative and willing to prepare special requests. I highly recommend that you try this little spot. I am sure you will not be disappointed. This is not your grandma's Chinese restaurant.
(5)Lee D.
Food is great, but service is spotty. Don't believe Yelp's information that the China Cafe takes reservations. Reservations are only for parties of six or more.
(3)Derek W.
Great food, service and design. Def a must to eat at, best Asian restaurant in the area
(5)Carissa S.
I have never had a bad experience at China Cafe and I have been going there for almost 10 years. The staff knows much of their customers and you realize quickly that the reason is because the food is amazing and unique that they continue to return. The crab rangoon is better than any other that I have ever tasted. The bar is stocked well and the lighting is just right. There is even a TV in the bar area to catch up on the game. Incredible food, incredible atmosphere and wonderful staff. *One thing I did not like 3 years ago was that they did not have a diaper changing station in the bathroom. Not sure if this is still the case though.
(4)Russell A.
Looks like a dive from the outside but its not. Very nice place, very high quality ingrediants. I get the Firecracker Chicken. Its great! Everything is good, clean and Great Service. Really great deals for Lunch. Dinner is more than your average Chinese place but it is well worth it. Best Chinese Food I have ever had, and by far the CLEANEST and Nicest I have ever been too!
(5)Greta D.
Best place ever! Great food, great service, very friendly staff. Hendrix gin in the bar. Try the orange chicken with broccoli added. Really fun to sit at the bar, watch the game and enjoy dinner. Outside is pretty nice as well.
(5)Aaron A.
This place is amazing; friendly/nice staff, romantic atmosphere, food is amazing (ask if they have steaks or baby lobster tails; pricey but phenomenal.) The owners Kelly and Suzanne are incredibly friendly; talk and get to know them. So much better than P.F. Changs.
(5)Anna T.
Food court buffet quality food masquerading in a sit down restaurant. Service is very friendly and attentive but there is nothing worth sitting down for here.
(1)Sarah R.
I went there once for carry out after cruising the web for some better than good chinese. I was sold! I then got a group of us to go there on Christmas Day last year and everyone in our party of 8 was blown away. The service is top notch. The atmosphere is better than some restaurants pretending to be upscale. Truly my favorite place to go for Chinese. The lettuce wraps are right there with PF Chang's (which is really the only thing I get there). I have never had a bad meal, and it's great going with a group so you can try everyone else's dinner! Couldn't be happier, and we will be there again on Christmas Day!
(5)Matthew P.
I would have never known about this place had not my boss taken a couple of us out for lunch one day. Easily, one of the best Chinese restaurants in Michigan in the most random of spots. Sitting on the corner of a mini mall, I wasn't expecting much as we pulled up. Surprisingly, the place had a really great atmosphere complete with an impressively fully stocked bar. The food was beyond what I expected, much more impressive than the majority of Chinese food spots. There's not a question if I'll be returning soon!
(4)Walter P D.
China Cafe is an Excellent Choice in the Northville/Novi Area. Incredible Food. Attentive Service. Inviting Atmosphere. Walter enjoys the Seafood Rangoon with a Diet Coke & Lime. Walter usually shares the Maui Salad with Jules (one plate because they are pretty good friends). Walter has so many dishes that he loves at China Cafe...... Excellent Vegetarian Selections: *Tofu and Green Beans in Thia Curry Sauce *Kung Pao Tofu *Pi Pod Tofu (Funky Tofu Balls) Walter gets Vegetarian when he dines solo as he eats the entire dish himself. Walter's Select Specialties: * Firecracker Shrimp (Walter ate this about 17 weeks in a row) *Firecracker Chicken *Five Pepper Chicken *Sesame Chicken Special Menu Delights: *Lobster Pad Thai *Walleye in Ponzu Sauce *Sea Bass in Ponzu Sauce *Flounder in Coconut Curry Sauce *Salmon Past couple of years, Walter has alternated mostly between Fish and Firecracker Shrimp. Walter does not eat much beef, so he did not list any Beef dishes. Friend Phil eats at China Cafe every Friday and gets a nice Steak.
(5)Connie B.
I had to be coerced into going to China Cafe in December 2010, as I don't really care for Chinese food. I was really pleasantly surprised at how unique and inviting it was, both food-wise and ambience. The owner came out and introduced herself, and made this first-timer feel like a regular. She is extremely knowledgeable and helpful with meal suggestions. Her husband is the exec chef, and looks at me as a professional challenge, as he now knows I don't typically eat that food. They have made a total convert out of me - they have some the of best filet I've sampled, and I've hit ALL the steakhouses in SE Michigan! The short ribs are the best I've had anywhere, and I also love the chicken fried rice and polynysian chicken. Between the attentive service, outstanding food and fun, friendly regulars - it's now a place I try to visit once a week. It feels like home.
(5)Scott H.
Almost a year later, this is in my humble opinion the best Chinese fusion in the metro Detroit area. It's a bit of a hike for some to go out to Novi. However, once you eat you can go sell your soul at 12 Oaks.
(5)Scott F.
We stopped by on Christmas Day 2012 to find this wonderful gem of a restaurant tucked in at the end of a strip mall. I do have to say that I drew an opinion about this place because of the word 'Cafe' thinking that this would be one of those restaurants that was going to be setup cafeteria style with cheap chairs and tables, but boy was I wrong. This restaurant turned out to be the most elegant Chinese restaurant that I have ever been to. It is Beautifully decorated, tables with white table cloths, cloth napkins all set in a quaint dinning setting. The staff was great, and the owner, well she is definitely the reason they are so successful. Her husband cooks and puts together daily specials. They have a full bar. English proficiency is prime. The food is also great, full of flavor, none of those cheap vegetables, nicely presented, perfect portions for a great price. All of the staff was very attentive, efficient and kind. I highly recommend stopping by and checking this place out. If you like Chinese food, you will not be disappointed.
(5)Allison F.
For the few people above that were posting negative comments, I am surprised you are Novi residents. This place is meant for dinner! It can be pricey, but that's because it's not cheap take-out like most Chinese places. This is a finer dining experience. If you go in there more than once and you are a friendly person, they will start to know you by name. The chef, Kelly, is an innovative guy. He changes up the menu quite often, but he will make what you request if he has it in house. If you are expecting a relatively cheap meal though, you're in the wrong place. I feel like everyone that was complaining may have expected a Panda Express experience. Sorry, but this food doesn't come from a warming tray, hence the pricing, which is completely FAIR for the quality. Make it your Friday night dining spot! Get to know the staff. You'll understand why they greater majority of people commenting on this place love it.
(5)Nick H.
I came to China Cafe with a friend about a month ago - she was adamant this was going to be a great place. Pulling into the parking lot of a strip mall made me question her assessment. I figured it would be another Chinese place bastardized with the cheap American style buffet line "Chinese" food. I'm happy to say I was completely wrong. The service was outstanding as was the cleanliness of the restaurant. To be honest, it's some of the best Chinese I've had in a long while. The cucumber martini I had was delicious as well. I was initially leery of the prices, but again, that was more from me thinking that China Cafe is in a strip mall. The food is well worth the price. Next time I'm in the area, I will definitely go back and recommend it to anyone in Novi.
(4)Dan B.
Very nice setting. Excellent flavors and presentation. Efficient and friendly service. Better than anything in Ann Arbor!
(4)The F.
I used to go here often for lunch, for lack of a better chinese restaurant in the Novi area. The food is ok, nothing extraordinary. Pricing is moderate too. The one thing that irks me is their service. The hostess (wife of the owner) seems to have a "Twinkie" complex. Unless you are white or asian, you don't get a good table and the food takes longer than usual. It's funny how the service is so much better whenever we take one of our american friends with us! So unless you fit the profile, try at your own risk... Btw, I have only gone there for lunch, so can't really comment on their dinner service.
(1)Kris C.
I pretty much agree with anything that was posted positive in regard to China Cafe. The place is pretty fantastic.
(5)Janet N.
I have been going to China Cafe for about three years now. I was searching the internet to find a Good Chinese restaurant when I came upon the China Cafe. Not only is the food excellent the decor and atmosphere are equally beautiful. It has a very clean, contemporary feel to it and the staff and owners go above and beyond to make sure you are being taken care of. I personally love the Hunan Shrimp and my husband tries a different dish everytime we go there. We are never disappointed. Ask about the Dessert as it is not on the menu (we still don't know why). But we get it everytime and it is wonderful. A++++
(5)F T.
The best Asian food I've ever had in Michigan. Service was great. Prices are right, and there are plenty of veg options!
(5)Luke R.
Ran by the CC yesterday on the way to the Novi Library... One big issue... Novi Rd is virtually impassable between 10mile & Grand River due to major de-construction. Its insane. Took over 20mins to wait to pass thru to get to other side of the construction zone heading south on Novi Rd. It has been years since I purposely visited, that I could not recall exactly why I had not been back. Well I found out why... the service is shitty. Plain and shitty. It was not even busy there. Maybe 5 other patrons in all. I sat down for what I had hoped was a quick lunch. I looked over the menu and waited....and waited... and waited. it was a good 8 to 10mins before the waitress even bothered to come to my table. Only thing I could think of was maybe she thought I had already eaten. Finally she came by and asked if I was ok. I said no - I came in for a quick lunch and have been here 10 mins and have watched you walk by at least 15 times without acknowledging my existence. I assume that hit a nerve and ruffled her feathers. She turned around and left. I was about to get up when some younger guy came over and asked if I was ready to order. I said actually I am ready to leave and am ready to never come back. He clearly seemed to have NO idea what I meant. So I said if you can put in an order for some Sweet n Sour chicken for me to Go and can get it for me in the next 5mins then I will be less apt to walk out and never come back. He looked at his watch and went into the back. I got up from the table and went to the front register and tapped my cell phone. I checked my watch and neither the 1st lady nor the 2nd guy were anywhere in the dining area. Ok 5mins was up and I had been there for over 33mins. about 3mins longer than I had intended. I shook my head in disgust and left. At the time my wife called me and asked how my lunch was. I said I didn't get any. I told her what went down and she was as amazed as I was. I got in my car and pulled out and went across the street to the Benito's Pizza where I have NEVER had bad service. I was not in the mood for Pizza but hell I was hungry. I never did get to the Library.
(1)Jackie R.
My friends and I would come here during high school and into college. It's been around for years and holds so many memories for me so it's fitting that it's also my 100th review here on Yelp! :) The place is small and quiant with nice service. It has good food and it has a full bar with a separate dining area. It's located inside a strip mall but can be seen from the main road so parking isn't a problem and neither is finding it. I enjoy coming here and enjoy the consistency. :)
(5)jessica M.
The atmosphere is your typical busy and loud chinese restaurant. But that is part of the charm. I was skeptical about their famous Hunan Shrimp but after having them I thought they were good. I prefer them without the soy sauce. As far as the other dishes are concerned, definitely very good. I would definitely visit again.
(4)Michael M.
Rather disappointing. Years ago, my wife, a Detroit native, would sing the praises of Great Wall, a Chinese restaurant from her childhood. When she took me there it proved to be a woeful disappointment. China Cafe was only a few steps ahead of that. The dishes we had were, at best, uninspired. Orange duck was so heavily breaded that I couldn't tell it was duck ... it might as well have been chicken. The hot & sour soup was neither. All in all, it wasn't a disaster, but it wasn't worth going out of the way for it either. Perhaps I'm just spoiled coming from Philadelphia with its vibrant and highly competitive Asian food scene. Perhaps this place is just kind of lame.
(2)Matthew J.
I've eaten here quite frequently. Why do I keep coming back? Their food is the absolute best Chinese in Michigan. Last dinner was a carry out order - almond chicken and pepper steak. Both were outstanding. The best Chinese food I've had in a long time! The restaurant is small and usually very busy. It's always very clean with white table cloths and attentive service. Prices are somewhat high - but, worth every penny because of the quality! An absolutely exceptional treat for your taste buds! Yum! Order in - or carry out. Highly recommended !!!
(5)Big M.
One of my all time favorites. Great food and a great staff.
(4)Matthew K.
4 of us had lunch there today. Great food and great service. It was a beautiful day so we sat outside on the patio. Very nice.
(5)Kristyn D.
Food was very good. Eveything we had was fresh. Server was very helpful with ideas. Would highly recommend.
(5)Brian F.
This is probably one of the most unsung Chinese restaurants in the area. Food is top notch and incredibly consistent. The staff are extremely friendly and really make you feel as though you have known them for years. My favorite Chinese restaurant.
(4)Suzanne S.
I rarely go to this side of town - the food - shrimp with cilantro, rice and egg roll was different and delicious. Very nicely spiced. For the price a VERY GOOD deal. Service polite but dis interested. Portions large enough - two of us split a meal. The Wedding soup a little bit on the boring side.
(4)Christie M.
My first time here and I have to say it has a very very Asian decor. We ordered chicken wings, seafood Rangoon, spring rolls for appetizer and they were good. Crispy chicken! Yum! My sons loved the seafood Rangoon. We also ordered the pork belly with chive and seafood coconut curry. Clear winner was the pork belly with chive. Add 2 scoops of their hot pepper and it's yum! The curry was just ugh... I gagged on the over abundance of coconut flavor. Wish the curry was evenly pronounced as the coconut. I only swallowed one bite of that. But I cleaned up the chive dish. So good!! Service was good. I'll be back for this pork belly chive dish and the wings. Yum!!
(4)Maya C.
Recently ate at China Cafe with my husband. We enjoyed some wine and cocktails, which were brought out quickly and presented nicely. The decor and atmosphere was tasteful and pleasant. The service was prompt and friendly. The owner, also, personally came and greeted the patrons. All of those elements made for a comfortable and welcoming experience. We ordered the potstickers and vegetable spring rolls. The potstickers were homemade! The dinner was delicious! We had the general tsao chicken and a couple other dishes. They had fresh vegetables, quality meats and tasty sauces. We had a great dinner and I would definitely return.
(5)Vlad K.
Pretty descent food, my date and I split the general toa's chicken, angle hair seafood pasta and a side of chicken fried rice. The general toa's chicken was our favorite. The scallops and shrimp were great but the calamari was like chewing on a rubber band. Like I said food was decent, for the price.
(3)Ana P.
MY parents have been telling me about this place for years so my wife and i finally got a chance to go. This will for sure be our new local Chinese Go-to. Hands down the best chinese food in the Novi area. Very clean restaurant and a very attentive and friendly staff. It's not super cheap but so worth the few extra bucks. Great flavors and good portion sizes. I got the chicken lo mein and my wife got the thai egg plant chicken and we had enough to share and bring home. Annoyed that i have been going to the not so great or clean buffet down the street when this place has existed in my midst! Great cocktail selection! Bottom line: Perfect for a date night..great food at a moderate price.
(5)John A.
Excellent place for Chinese food. Menu also had a bit of Thai food choices. We got the lettuce wraps to start, which were excellent, followed with General tsao chicken and Pad Thai for our entrées, and we both really enjoyed them. The wait staff was excellent and very attentive. We'll definitely return.
(5)Ernie M.
China Café improves every time we go there, I always order General Tsao shrimp off the menu at a medium spice level. This time I got their egg drop soup too and it was excellent. My wife had the chicken and pea pods and loved it. Others in our party were very happy with the chicken fried rice. We all asked for brown rice which I think is tastier and healthier than the sticky rice. I like this place as well as PFChang's and it costs about 75% of PFs Service is always great and the fortune cookies always are accurate.
(4)Varun K.
Menu has changed and the quality of food is not the same anymore. Used to come here a lot. Loved the food until last year. It's all gone. Not the same place anymore
(1)Janine C.
Service excellent! Food! Excellent. I has Thai chicken and eggplant and chicken egg rolls. Hostess excellent! And this was Friday evening at 7.30. What else can I say? Really great place
(5)Melissa R.
The outside of this place is a little deceiving and makes your think it might be a two star restaurant. The food is excellent and the inside of the restaurant is very cool with a bar and nice dining area. I ordered the Kung Pao shrimp and it was delicious!
(4)Jason R.
Brought my family of six for dinner. We ordered egg drop soup, lettuce wraps, almond chicken & orange chicken. They are very serviced oriented, all of our food was absolutely delicious and the price was fair. We will definitely be back again. Might be a new favorite spot. The lettuce wraps were probably the best I've ever had!
(5)Misty J.
Surprisingly super nice on the inside (ladies - check out the light fixtures in the bathroom!) The service is kind of slow but friendly. If you only have a 30 minute lunch I'd recommend ordering take out over the phone. Fantastic lunch specials! I order a different entree every time and every time my lunch is delicious. I will say the wonton soup is superior to the egg drop. Their egg drop doesn't have much flavor.
(5)Natasha P.
My husband and I had been here a couple of years back, after which China Cafe had fallen off our radar until last November, when some friends brought us carry out from here. I remember both those meals as being excellent. So, when my Grandmom and her friend came to visit us, we took them there for dinner. We got there 25 minutes before the kitchen closed, so once we were seated and had ordered our drinks, we were requested to order. My Grandmom's friend does not eat meat, but eats seafood and eggs. So we ordered the Spicy Salted Calamari, which was wonderful. The calamari were huge, and perfectly coated and fried, and I love the salty and spicy fried garlic type thing that comes with it. For dinner we ordered the Palace Beef, the Thai Basil Shrimp and the Hunan Style Fried Rice, and the Shrimp with Tripe Greens. All their dishes were excellent. The Palace Beef was definitely my favorite, but I also, really liked the Thai basil Shrimp. Both the Shrimp dishes came in their own individual sauces, that were a perfect balance to the amount of shrimp and veges in them. The portions are pretty big but I think they are fairly priced. I also like the decor, but feel like the restaurant is a little too dark. I don't think this food is very authentic Chinese, however, I'm not a great connoisseur on Chinese food, so don't take my work for it. What it is, though, is tasty and fresh food.
(4)Asianzing S.
The best Chinese Food Ever! Mongolian Combination and Orange Beff are Delicious! Waitstaff is very polite. Very Clean.
(5)Jen T.
Everything was good and exactly what we were looking for. Excited to find our new favorite Chinese restaurant.
(5)Lynn H.
China Cafe has been in business since I remember. Its unassuming exterior, on the end of a strip mall, belies its charming interior and excellent menu. On our last visit, I ordered the Panang Curry shrimp, which was tasty, if not quite spicy enough for my liking. Hubby ordered Chicken fried rice (his usual) and declared it to be good. Another dining companion ordered General Tsao's chicken, which was among the best I've ever tasted.
(3)E L.
The ambiance was wonderful. Very romantic jazzy set up which was not expected. The Fire Cracker chicken was okay. Very very sweet so if I order it again I will request the sauce on the side. I honestly think this place is excellent for cocktails with friends or a romantic date.
(4)Tacarra L.
This is a hidden gem! The food is delicious and fresh and never tastes like it was doused in cooking oil or masked in sauce to hide the flavor. The restaurant is small and gets pretty busy at dinner but the service is always fast, although you never feel rushed.
(5)Brian K.
Comparing this restaurant to others in the area, I would have to say that is the best. The food is nothing spectacular, but quality wise in service was very good. I ordered an eggroll with fried rice and Mongolian Beef. The beef was tender and the sauce was sweet and spicy atop cruchy white noodles.
(4)Laura M.
Ordered Vegetable Lo Mein and Vegetable Trio with Garlic Sauce as carry out. This is my first visit to this restaurant, came here based on good reviews! The Vegetable Lo Mein was very good, but skimpy portion. The Veg trio was suppose to have broccoli, asparagus and pea pods, but it came with no pea pods, and they substituted green beans. If they had told me, I would have chosen something else, but they did not. disappointing! The sauce on the trio was a bit thick and just so so. I will try them again, but order different entrees.
(3)X P.
I've been going to this restaurant for many years and it pains me to write this review. The food here used to be quite good, even if it is not authentic Chinese. It was clean and the staff were always pleasant. However the last 3 times we ordered from here the food ranged from bad to absolutely inedible. I recently got a seafood/pasta dish; the scallops were bad. How do I know? When I opened the carryout container, it reeked like ammonia. That means the cook knew it was bad because it stunk like that when it was in the wok being cooked. Anyone who has ever tried to cook a spoiled piece of seafood knows what I'm talking about. The management of this place couldn't be nicer and that is why we've given them several chances to see if it was a fluke. I suspect it is so hard to be profitable nowadays that restaurateurs have to cut every possible corner to make a buck, including cooking/selling spoiled food. It gives me no pleasure to write this review and hope your experience is better than mine.
(2)Amber F.
Delicious food, great service, and nice atmosphere! The Egg-drop soup is the best I've ever eaten!! New favorite Chinese place!
(5)Chad S.
Best Chinese food in Michigan. Its that good! Everything I've had has been unbelievable. The soup, egg rolls, rice, chicken dishes, beef dishes, shrimp, I've tried several different things and they are all 5 stars.
(5)Jenny Z.
I can't believe how well rated this place is. It's not even Chinese food! The place is filled with fried americanized options that no Chinese would ever consider remotely close to authentic Chinese food. The food is greasy, with lots of breaded options or oily stir fried options, or meats and fish cooked in completely americanized methods and lots of sugary sauces for flavor. For the record, sweet and sour sauce is not Chinese, neither is sweet and sour chicken. In China, we eat chicken off the bones, and fish is cooked with the head and bones attached for tenderness. Ever notice meat gets dry when the bones are removed? The most tender and moist meat is usually found attached to the bone. The only time bones are removed is when it's used in a stir fry, and meat is never breaded and deep fried, then coated with a sauce. I find it sad how little people actually know about Chinese cuisine as there's so much breaded chicken varieties with sweet sauces dumped over it, none of which you'd actually find in China. There should be well prepared stir fry options (NOT fried rice, which is what Chinese people make when they have a lot of miscellaneous leftovers and some plain rice to clean up the fridge). Stir fry comes in particular pairings, not a dumping of random veggies in a wok, with all shapes cut to be roughly the same so it cooks evenly. If you want good Chinese, go to Best China in Canton, their spicy chicken (off the authentic menu) is very good, and so is their kung pao beef. I don't even know what this place is... the closest comparison is to a PF Changs. It's really a disgrace to a cuisine that's been cultivated over thousands of years.
(2)MJ B.
This is only about the bar and overall quality of drinks and atmosphere. Came back and it was excellent. People are interesting here. Lots of locals and artsy professional types coming in groups for dinner - sitting at the bar is great- nice vibe and bartendress is skilled and friendly. Go for drinks but save us a spot lol.
(5)Wally S.
After dropping some kids off at the Emagine Novi the wife and I needed a place to eat. We hadn't had Chinese food for awhile so we searched our trusty Yelp phone app to find the nearest Chinese restaurant. We ended up at China Café and we were glad we did. Although located in a strip mall, China Café is anything but a strip mall restaurant. I would tend to categorize China Café as upscale. Although the sign warned of remodeling, I had to ask the owner what they were changing; it's really one of the nice restaurants I've been in. We ordered fried dumplings for an appetizer. These weren't the usual pan fried version which they did offer, but deep fried. This left a nice crispy coating on each of the dumplings to top off the excellent soft and warm texture that could be found within. Next up my wife ordered General Tso's Chicken and I ordered the Mongolian Combination dish. Both were served with white rice. Contrary to sticky coated chicken nuggets that generally pass for General Tso's chicken, this dish consisted if thin slices of chicken breast, lightly breaded and coated with a sweet and spicy orange sauce. The Mongolian Combination was a very nice combination of beef, chicken, and shrimp with onion cooked in a sweet sauce. Both of the dishes tended to have a complex flavor. The sweetness hit first and then after a few minutes you could feel a burn in the back of your throat from the pepper. I can't really say how authentic any of the food was, but I would take flavors this good over authentic on any given day. Combine this good food with excellent service, a full bar, and owners that were extremely friendly and grateful for our business and you have a real winning combination which will keep us coming back to China Cafe.
(5)Walter K.
Great carryout order today. Loved how the person on phone repeated the order when I called, then repeated it again on pickup. Excellent food all around - Thai chicken with eggplant, chicken fired rice, chicken lo mein, Mongolian beef, triple green vegetables. Will be back for sure. Dine in looked great too.
(5)Krystal R.
Walked in and seated immediately on a Saturday night- even though it was pretty much full. I had a good feeling right away, everyone looked happy and a busy place is usually a good sign. Service was very prompt, polite, and you just feel like they actually care about their business. (Yay) Decor- nice, not cheesy, just comfy and clean feeling. Everyone working was nice. Nice bar. Food came out fast. I took the reccomendation on the basil shrimp and was sold. So good! Fresh tasting and so flavorful. We will most definitely be back!
(4)Greg W.
Love this place. They make homemade soy sauce which I think tastes awesome, much better than the standard packets or kikomann.
(5)Megan K.
Thaaaannnk you, Yelpers for directing my friend and I here. Freaking awesome. The service was friendly, our water was always full, finished plates taken away promptly...From the time walking in and everyone greeting us with a smile to the time leaving and everyone saying good bye, we will definitely return. One Yelper said the Crab Rangoons were the best and so my friend Amy had to try them. Love at first bite! My egg drop had a different twist, had a few more ingredients than the typical egg drop. Delicious. Amazing food, HIGHLY recommend. Loved the jazz in the background, nice touch.
(5)Lynus P.
Let's keep this real. Just because you are located in Novi, doesn't mean you can charge $17 for an entree that is ala carte. My daughter had a hankering for Chinese food and so we decided on China Cafe. Nice atmosphere and very friendly staff and owners. That's the only good part of this review. I ordered the seafood curry $17.00 and when it arrived, the portion was smaller than most lunch size portions. Don't get me wrong, I am fine with a smaller portion if the quality is spot on. Needless to say, it appeared that they took one small scallop and cut it in to thirds and then in two..... This combined with the brine like shrimp and dime size calamari and two pieces of broccoli (that was from a frozen package of vegetables), left me completely unsatisfied. I could tell the seafood came from some combo seafood pack that the owner purchased from a warehouse and the main goal was to carefully weigh out the portion seafood that was included, rather than create a plate that would "wow" their guests. The only "wow" in my meal, was the fact that no soup, salad or egg role was included, coupled by the lack of creativity and sub-par ingredients in the dish. I like to support Novi based establishments but not when they are only interested in turning a profit and not putting out an acceptable meal for the price. No ROI with this experience and I won't be going back.
(1)Nick B.
Excellent, high quality food and ingredients. We have only ordered carry out, and while the food is slightly expensive, it's worth it. The Orange Beef is fresh with a hint of spice. It can be ordered mild for the delicate palate. The Almond Chicken is very good with a nice crispy breading. Our favorite dish is the Thai Style Chicken and Eggplant. A coconut and peanut sauce with small Japanese eggplant.
(5)Jonathan M.
Just tried this place last weekend, and it was really good. The food reminds me a lot of P.F. Changs, and the service was pretty awesome. The manager/owner of the place was super friendly and helpful, too. It's not fair to compare Chinese food anywhere in Michigan to LA or NY, so if you are looking for that caliber, you might want to book a flight. That being said, this place holds its own for food quality, service, and ambiance. There is really only one other Chinese food place in the surrounding area that I think about going to...
(4)Nicholas A.
This is probably the best chinese food I have had in this area. The vegetables are extremely fresh and the chicken is very tender. I usually order the sesame chicken, chicken fried rice and a egg role. This definitely doesn't disappoint.
(4)Tom T.
Great Chinese food and thankfully, it's not a chain!!!! I had the basil chicken extra spicy and it was fantastic. Try it if you are looking for a quaint restaurant that is priced fairly with good quality food
(4)Devon D.
Not a fan of Chinese food, but this was very good. Food is very fresh and cooked to order. Very reasonable prices.
(5)Amanda K.
I eat here all the time. It is my favorite Chinese restaurant in Novi. I always order lettuce wraps, won ton soup, hot tea and sweet & sour chicken. AMAZING. China Cafe never disappoints. I love the ambience here too. It's the cutest little place with nice outdoor seating. Mmm - I think I might eat there tonight.
(5)Steven R.
We go there when we want high quality Chinese food. The food is always very tasty and the ingredients are fresh. I had the Shrimp with Triple Greens and my wife had Mongolian Combination. Both dishes were very good with just the right amount of spice. Pricing is reasonable given the quality of the food.
(5)Terry B.
Really nice decor. Great food and fantastic service. Add craft beers and I would never leave.
(5)Adam B.
I grew up near this place and visited several times per month. The food was always great, but the best part is that you really feel like you're welcomed here. Even now, when I haven't lived in the area for 5 years (I've been living thousands of miles away) whenever I come home for a random weekend, or for Christmas, I stop in. The manager always remembers who I am, asks about my family (still remembering details about us) and she has a great smile on her face. Wonderful service!
(5)C. D.
Best Chinese restaurant in town, as far as I'm concerned. The prices are a tad on the steep side, hence the 4 stars... But great selection, fresh taste and kicking flavors!
(4)Darrell K.
I have been here a few times since the first time I found it in the Metro Times as winning "Best Chinese Restaurant." The place is a nice, quaint atmosphere. It is a bit romantic, dimly lit with Jazz playing in the background. Nice place to go for a nice dinner or lunch.
(5)Sarah C.
My boyfriend and I love Chinese food but had only had ok Chinese food that is until we ate here. We ordered fire cracker chicken, orange chicken as well as an order of chicken fried rice, and egg rolls all of which was amazing! We were more than satisfied with our order and will be going back again.
(5)S F.
I'm not understanding the ratings of this place. I've experienced way better fresher tasting Chinese food at take-out places. Basically worse tasting food for twice the price of Chinese takeout! We had the following: Dumplings - even though the skins seemed homemade, it was on the thicker side. The meat filling didn't have good flavor. Mongolian beef - overly sweet and the texture of the meat was somewhat unrecognizable. I know that marinating or using the velveting technique to keep the meat tender alters the meat a bit, but not THAT much. Szechuan seafood - included lots of my pet-peeve ingredient in Asian dishes, bamboo shoots, which to me, if the bamboo shoots are not "right" they have a taste of urine or the smell of an old decaying man's breath. Scallops were bland, and the shrimp were small and few. Singapore noodles - this was the only redeemable dish we ate, but still not up to par with other good Chinese places. If you're looking solely for ambiance and a clean/classy place and aren't concerned about food quality and taste, then this is the place to come...if you're looking for good food at affordable prices, look elsewhere.
(2)Jin Y.
I ordered orange chicken for take out, there was not much of food in there. I saw lots of orange slices around though...lol i've ate orange chicken some where else and never seen coming out like that. With money i paid here, i get more food at the mall than here. Food was not that great either
(2)Lisa M.
Allright, it takes a lot for my husband to love a chinese restaurant and he actually asks to go here. Our friends turned us on to this restaurant and we really only go with them. As the restaurant is in Novi and we live downriver and our friends in Dearborn it says a lot that we will drive all the way here for their food. I love that even if the food you want isn't on their menu they will try and create it for you. Their spring roll was great and the sizzling rice soup always makes me happy. The owners are visible and SOOOO friendly and nice. The service is amazing and your drinks rarely go empty. The ambiance is great and the prices reasonable. I can't wait to go back!!
(5)Geo T.
Previous visit (4 years ago) was less then stellar. It was a late lunch stop, tables still needed bussing, seating staff was slow to respond. Notable service improvement this last week. Plating presentation has more flare but sauces still need work.
(3)Rita R.
Without a doubt this is the best Asian restaurant in the area. From the outside it is a store front type. When you enter you see that this is different. Although the ambiance is nice the big surprise is the food. Have tried several different meals and have enjoyed every one. The chef is creative and willing to prepare special requests. I highly recommend that you try this little spot. I am sure you will not be disappointed. This is not your grandma's Chinese restaurant.
(5)Lee D.
Food is great, but service is spotty. Don't believe Yelp's information that the China Cafe takes reservations. Reservations are only for parties of six or more.
(3)Derek W.
Great food, service and design. Def a must to eat at, best Asian restaurant in the area
(5)Carissa S.
I have never had a bad experience at China Cafe and I have been going there for almost 10 years. The staff knows much of their customers and you realize quickly that the reason is because the food is amazing and unique that they continue to return. The crab rangoon is better than any other that I have ever tasted. The bar is stocked well and the lighting is just right. There is even a TV in the bar area to catch up on the game. Incredible food, incredible atmosphere and wonderful staff. *One thing I did not like 3 years ago was that they did not have a diaper changing station in the bathroom. Not sure if this is still the case though.
(4)Russell A.
Looks like a dive from the outside but its not. Very nice place, very high quality ingrediants. I get the Firecracker Chicken. Its great! Everything is good, clean and Great Service. Really great deals for Lunch. Dinner is more than your average Chinese place but it is well worth it. Best Chinese Food I have ever had, and by far the CLEANEST and Nicest I have ever been too!
(5)Greta D.
Best place ever! Great food, great service, very friendly staff. Hendrix gin in the bar. Try the orange chicken with broccoli added. Really fun to sit at the bar, watch the game and enjoy dinner. Outside is pretty nice as well.
(5)Aaron A.
This place is amazing; friendly/nice staff, romantic atmosphere, food is amazing (ask if they have steaks or baby lobster tails; pricey but phenomenal.) The owners Kelly and Suzanne are incredibly friendly; talk and get to know them. So much better than P.F. Changs.
(5)Anna T.
Food court buffet quality food masquerading in a sit down restaurant. Service is very friendly and attentive but there is nothing worth sitting down for here.
(1)Sarah R.
I went there once for carry out after cruising the web for some better than good chinese. I was sold! I then got a group of us to go there on Christmas Day last year and everyone in our party of 8 was blown away. The service is top notch. The atmosphere is better than some restaurants pretending to be upscale. Truly my favorite place to go for Chinese. The lettuce wraps are right there with PF Chang's (which is really the only thing I get there). I have never had a bad meal, and it's great going with a group so you can try everyone else's dinner! Couldn't be happier, and we will be there again on Christmas Day!
(5)Matthew P.
I would have never known about this place had not my boss taken a couple of us out for lunch one day. Easily, one of the best Chinese restaurants in Michigan in the most random of spots. Sitting on the corner of a mini mall, I wasn't expecting much as we pulled up. Surprisingly, the place had a really great atmosphere complete with an impressively fully stocked bar. The food was beyond what I expected, much more impressive than the majority of Chinese food spots. There's not a question if I'll be returning soon!
(4)Walter P D.
China Cafe is an Excellent Choice in the Northville/Novi Area. Incredible Food. Attentive Service. Inviting Atmosphere. Walter enjoys the Seafood Rangoon with a Diet Coke & Lime. Walter usually shares the Maui Salad with Jules (one plate because they are pretty good friends). Walter has so many dishes that he loves at China Cafe...... Excellent Vegetarian Selections: *Tofu and Green Beans in Thia Curry Sauce *Kung Pao Tofu *Pi Pod Tofu (Funky Tofu Balls) Walter gets Vegetarian when he dines solo as he eats the entire dish himself. Walter's Select Specialties: * Firecracker Shrimp (Walter ate this about 17 weeks in a row) *Firecracker Chicken *Five Pepper Chicken *Sesame Chicken Special Menu Delights: *Lobster Pad Thai *Walleye in Ponzu Sauce *Sea Bass in Ponzu Sauce *Flounder in Coconut Curry Sauce *Salmon Past couple of years, Walter has alternated mostly between Fish and Firecracker Shrimp. Walter does not eat much beef, so he did not list any Beef dishes. Friend Phil eats at China Cafe every Friday and gets a nice Steak.
(5)F T.
The best Asian food I've ever had in Michigan. Service was great. Prices are right, and there are plenty of veg options!
(5)Connie B.
I had to be coerced into going to China Cafe in December 2010, as I don't really care for Chinese food. I was really pleasantly surprised at how unique and inviting it was, both food-wise and ambience. The owner came out and introduced herself, and made this first-timer feel like a regular. She is extremely knowledgeable and helpful with meal suggestions. Her husband is the exec chef, and looks at me as a professional challenge, as he now knows I don't typically eat that food. They have made a total convert out of me - they have some the of best filet I've sampled, and I've hit ALL the steakhouses in SE Michigan! The short ribs are the best I've had anywhere, and I also love the chicken fried rice and polynysian chicken. Between the attentive service, outstanding food and fun, friendly regulars - it's now a place I try to visit once a week. It feels like home.
(5)Scott H.
Almost a year later, this is in my humble opinion the best Chinese fusion in the metro Detroit area. It's a bit of a hike for some to go out to Novi. However, once you eat you can go sell your soul at 12 Oaks.
(5)Scott F.
We stopped by on Christmas Day 2012 to find this wonderful gem of a restaurant tucked in at the end of a strip mall. I do have to say that I drew an opinion about this place because of the word 'Cafe' thinking that this would be one of those restaurants that was going to be setup cafeteria style with cheap chairs and tables, but boy was I wrong. This restaurant turned out to be the most elegant Chinese restaurant that I have ever been to. It is Beautifully decorated, tables with white table cloths, cloth napkins all set in a quaint dinning setting. The staff was great, and the owner, well she is definitely the reason they are so successful. Her husband cooks and puts together daily specials. They have a full bar. English proficiency is prime. The food is also great, full of flavor, none of those cheap vegetables, nicely presented, perfect portions for a great price. All of the staff was very attentive, efficient and kind. I highly recommend stopping by and checking this place out. If you like Chinese food, you will not be disappointed.
(5)Allison F.
For the few people above that were posting negative comments, I am surprised you are Novi residents. This place is meant for dinner! It can be pricey, but that's because it's not cheap take-out like most Chinese places. This is a finer dining experience. If you go in there more than once and you are a friendly person, they will start to know you by name. The chef, Kelly, is an innovative guy. He changes up the menu quite often, but he will make what you request if he has it in house. If you are expecting a relatively cheap meal though, you're in the wrong place. I feel like everyone that was complaining may have expected a Panda Express experience. Sorry, but this food doesn't come from a warming tray, hence the pricing, which is completely FAIR for the quality. Make it your Friday night dining spot! Get to know the staff. You'll understand why they greater majority of people commenting on this place love it.
(5)Nick H.
I came to China Cafe with a friend about a month ago - she was adamant this was going to be a great place. Pulling into the parking lot of a strip mall made me question her assessment. I figured it would be another Chinese place bastardized with the cheap American style buffet line "Chinese" food. I'm happy to say I was completely wrong. The service was outstanding as was the cleanliness of the restaurant. To be honest, it's some of the best Chinese I've had in a long while. The cucumber martini I had was delicious as well. I was initially leery of the prices, but again, that was more from me thinking that China Cafe is in a strip mall. The food is well worth the price. Next time I'm in the area, I will definitely go back and recommend it to anyone in Novi.
(4)Dan B.
Very nice setting. Excellent flavors and presentation. Efficient and friendly service. Better than anything in Ann Arbor!
(4)The F.
I used to go here often for lunch, for lack of a better chinese restaurant in the Novi area. The food is ok, nothing extraordinary. Pricing is moderate too. The one thing that irks me is their service. The hostess (wife of the owner) seems to have a "Twinkie" complex. Unless you are white or asian, you don't get a good table and the food takes longer than usual. It's funny how the service is so much better whenever we take one of our american friends with us! So unless you fit the profile, try at your own risk... Btw, I have only gone there for lunch, so can't really comment on their dinner service.
(1)Kris C.
I pretty much agree with anything that was posted positive in regard to China Cafe. The place is pretty fantastic.
(5)Michael M.
Rather disappointing. Years ago, my wife, a Detroit native, would sing the praises of Great Wall, a Chinese restaurant from her childhood. When she took me there it proved to be a woeful disappointment. China Cafe was only a few steps ahead of that. The dishes we had were, at best, uninspired. Orange duck was so heavily breaded that I couldn't tell it was duck ... it might as well have been chicken. The hot & sour soup was neither. All in all, it wasn't a disaster, but it wasn't worth going out of the way for it either. Perhaps I'm just spoiled coming from Philadelphia with its vibrant and highly competitive Asian food scene. Perhaps this place is just kind of lame.
(2)Luke R.
Ran by the CC yesterday on the way to the Novi Library... One big issue... Novi Rd is virtually impassable between 10mile & Grand River due to major de-construction. Its insane. Took over 20mins to wait to pass thru to get to other side of the construction zone heading south on Novi Rd. It has been years since I purposely visited, that I could not recall exactly why I had not been back. Well I found out why... the service is shitty. Plain and shitty. It was not even busy there. Maybe 5 other patrons in all. I sat down for what I had hoped was a quick lunch. I looked over the menu and waited....and waited... and waited. it was a good 8 to 10mins before the waitress even bothered to come to my table. Only thing I could think of was maybe she thought I had already eaten. Finally she came by and asked if I was ok. I said no - I came in for a quick lunch and have been here 10 mins and have watched you walk by at least 15 times without acknowledging my existence. I assume that hit a nerve and ruffled her feathers. She turned around and left. I was about to get up when some younger guy came over and asked if I was ready to order. I said actually I am ready to leave and am ready to never come back. He clearly seemed to have NO idea what I meant. So I said if you can put in an order for some Sweet n Sour chicken for me to Go and can get it for me in the next 5mins then I will be less apt to walk out and never come back. He looked at his watch and went into the back. I got up from the table and went to the front register and tapped my cell phone. I checked my watch and neither the 1st lady nor the 2nd guy were anywhere in the dining area. Ok 5mins was up and I had been there for over 33mins. about 3mins longer than I had intended. I shook my head in disgust and left. At the time my wife called me and asked how my lunch was. I said I didn't get any. I told her what went down and she was as amazed as I was. I got in my car and pulled out and went across the street to the Benito's Pizza where I have NEVER had bad service. I was not in the mood for Pizza but hell I was hungry. I never did get to the Library.
(1)Jackie R.
My friends and I would come here during high school and into college. It's been around for years and holds so many memories for me so it's fitting that it's also my 100th review here on Yelp! :) The place is small and quiant with nice service. It has good food and it has a full bar with a separate dining area. It's located inside a strip mall but can be seen from the main road so parking isn't a problem and neither is finding it. I enjoy coming here and enjoy the consistency. :)
(5)jessica M.
The atmosphere is your typical busy and loud chinese restaurant. But that is part of the charm. I was skeptical about their famous Hunan Shrimp but after having them I thought they were good. I prefer them without the soy sauce. As far as the other dishes are concerned, definitely very good. I would definitely visit again.
(4)Janet N.
I have been going to China Cafe for about three years now. I was searching the internet to find a Good Chinese restaurant when I came upon the China Cafe. Not only is the food excellent the decor and atmosphere are equally beautiful. It has a very clean, contemporary feel to it and the staff and owners go above and beyond to make sure you are being taken care of. I personally love the Hunan Shrimp and my husband tries a different dish everytime we go there. We are never disappointed. Ask about the Dessert as it is not on the menu (we still don't know why). But we get it everytime and it is wonderful. A++++
(5)Matthew J.
I've eaten here quite frequently. Why do I keep coming back? Their food is the absolute best Chinese in Michigan. Last dinner was a carry out order - almond chicken and pepper steak. Both were outstanding. The best Chinese food I've had in a long time! The restaurant is small and usually very busy. It's always very clean with white table cloths and attentive service. Prices are somewhat high - but, worth every penny because of the quality! An absolutely exceptional treat for your taste buds! Yum! Order in - or carry out. Highly recommended !!!
(5)Big M.
One of my all time favorites. Great food and a great staff.
(4)Matthew K.
4 of us had lunch there today. Great food and great service. It was a beautiful day so we sat outside on the patio. Very nice.
(5)Kristyn D.
Food was very good. Eveything we had was fresh. Server was very helpful with ideas. Would highly recommend.
(5)Brian F.
This is probably one of the most unsung Chinese restaurants in the area. Food is top notch and incredibly consistent. The staff are extremely friendly and really make you feel as though you have known them for years. My favorite Chinese restaurant.
(4)Katie M.
During our recent Detroit staycation, I decided to choose a restaurant that we had never been to before, closer to home, in the attempt to find a hidden gem. I think I struck gold with China Café! How unassuming this place is. I've been in that plaza a million times to visit the kids consignment shop (recently closed) and I've also tried the Japanese restaurant. I'm not a huge fan of Chinese food, but I was willing to take one for the team as my husband really wanted Chinese that night. I figured I could find something I liked. As it turned out, I found everything I liked! (With exception of the spicy edamame - wayyyy too salty). Wow! They had 3 specials (2 with seafood - not shellfish!) that sounded excellent- almost like something PF Changs would have on the menu. I went with the thai curry green beans and tofu which was out of this world. One of the best tasting, well blended curry sauce dishes I have ever had. The beans were fresh, crispy and the tofu was plentiful. Husband went with the orange chicken, which was also good, not heavily breaded, I thought it could have used just a little more spice, but he was pleased. The service was also outstanding. The owner came over to talk with us at least twice and my water glass was never more than half-empty. The décor was beautiful and classy. I was expecting it to be "just another Chinese restaurant" but I was oh-so-wrong. Thanks to China Café, I am now a fan of Chinese food again.
(5)Gary A.
I forgotten how good this place can be. I met a client for lunch last week, and it was excellent. Its located in an older strip mall that has had a fair amount of turn over, as Novi Road was widen to five lanes last year. Not flashy, you can easily drive right past this place. Sue will meet you at the door, inside or outside seating. A good sized menu, traditional Chinese fare, but surprisingly more Thai dish selections. I went with one of the lunch specials, Orange Chicken, which comes with soup of the day, egg roll and fried rice. The Orange Chicken was excellent, thinly sliced chicken strips, lightly bread in a spicy/sweet orange sauce. Very nice. Lunch has 15-18 specials, chicken, beef, pork, and tufo options, as well as chef specials. I was surprised by the amount of take-out traffic that came thru the door. China Cafe is worth driving past the restaurant row places, right up against I-96.
(5)Kristine L.
We came in with a very large part of 10+ and were seated within 10 minutes of our reservation. Service was very quick - always very good in terms of refilling our waters and taking drink orders. Small dining area but never felt cramped, and most importantly clean bathrooms (I can't stand eating at place with a dirty bathroom ...) I ordered the palace beef and also the szechuan eggplant with pork - the palace beef had a little more breading that I would have preferred but had a great kick to it. The eggplant was phenomenal (and I don't even like eggplant) due to the sauce that it came it - I think I ended up eating up all the sauce before the eggplant! Price was reflective of the environment - not too high but not your neighborhood Chinese take out.
(4)Lynn B.
Very good quality. Most entrees $ 10-15 and up. Almost all Ala-carte menu, so soup is extra. No rolls served with dinner, only won-ton crisps. The lettuce-wraps were very good. (For a slightly-better price, try P.F. Chang's "fixed" price menu. It comes with lettuce-wraps, soup and a small dessert.) Otherwise, this is a good local alternative to B.F. Chang's and the food might even be a little better. Very busy when we were there. Does not appear to offer carry-out, but not sure. I assume that lunch is a little cheaper.
(5)Charlie K.
Not your typical Chinese restaurant. They are family style with the big dish and shared white rice. The food was really good! I ordered the ginger beef and added mushrooms, carrots, and broccoli. I added the other veggies because otherwise it was just the flank steak and bamboo shoots with the ginger sauce. I was happily surprised by the ginger sauce! It wasn't overpoweringly gingery and paired well with the beef. Which was also delish! I didn't have any gritty or fatty meat, just nice and tender. Staff was very good about refilling waters and clearing empty plates. All in all it was a great dining experience I'll be back!
(4)Matthew K.
It's hard for me to rate this a 3 or a 4 star. The food is really good, and you get a good portion. On the other hand, it's expensive for American-ized Chinese food. Service is decent - we went with a total group of 4 and a 20-month old. We all liked our food, but they wanted to upcharge us just because we asked for some of the pineapple from my wife's entrée without sauce so we could give it to our daughter. Seems overly stingy when their meals average $13 for some rice and chicken with sauce. Water refills were quick, but they never offered more rice. If prices were a little lower, or service was a little better, I would easily rate it a 4, but instead I'm rating it a undeserved 4 with reservations.
(4)Breanne C.
I ate here because it came up on my sky miles dining rewards search and I am so glad it did! I got carry out, but I can't wait to go back and dine in. The atmosphere and decor of the restaurant was really nice, and the food was really good. I tried the orange chicken, Thai pasta salad, and the Singapore fried rice. They were all excellent. I saw dishes being brought out while waiting for my carry out and the presentation looked wonderful. I will be returning!
(4)Sophie L.
This was my go to place for Asian food when I lived in Michigan. Still miss the Kung Pao Shrimp. Susana is the sweetest. Miss this little gem.
(4)Steven P.
It wasn't bad, per se, but there was nothing besides proximity to home which would compel me to return. On the plus side, it is nice to have a full bar and the ambience seemed fairly nice. On the minus, the person who took our orders wasn't terribly pleasant or helpful and she didn't comply with our request to have our little girl served first while we waited. But, bottom line is the cuisine, right? In that respect, the menu lacked variety and the flavors lacked character. I had orange chicken and my wife had Kung Pao Tofu. Meh. Oh, and despite the full bar... the pour proportions were pretty chintzy.
(2)Binnan O.
Ordered: Spicy Thai Wings, Hot Sour Soup, Wonton Soup, General Tao's Chicken, Mushu Pork Ambiance: Very nice place with a upscale/bistro-y feel but the plethora of middle-aged to elderly white people instantly made me wary. The non-asian decorations and jazz playing over the speakers didn't help either. It was nice to see at least most of the servers were chinese (not korean). Service, in fact, was excellent with frequent refills on our waters and people checking in every now and then. Food: You'll get complimetary 'fried noodles (i.e. wonton wrappers) to start, they're served with sweet chili sauce and spicy mustard sauces. These were fine although shoveling sugary syrup so early on is a little odd. The fact that you have to ask for chopsticks and tea is not complimentary also make them lose authenticity points. We started with the spicy thai wings which were spectacular. Ours were bone-in because they ran out of boneless and they were served steaming hot. They were breaded with seasoned flour, perfectly fried, moist, juicy, and covered a very spicy sweet chili sauce. You get 6 meaty wings and a set of wet-wipes to clean up afterwards. I proceeded to have the hot sour soup which was appropriately tangy and had a beef broth base, pretty standard. The wonton soup my fiance had was off-putting because they put mushrooms in which totally overwhelmed everything. The two wontons were also bland. The main courses were probably the worst part of the meal. The General Tao consisted of strips of chicken tossed in flour and served with yet another sweet chili sauce. The chicken was fine enough but the dish was boring with the sugary sauce lacking any punch and the flour coating having no texture whatsoever. The Mushu pork was OK, albeit a little salty. It had a nice saute of sprouts, onions, vegetables, and strips of pork all served with a side of hoisin sauce and tortillas. An appalling thing to me was the rice which had a flavor reminiscent of instant rice and shoes. My suspicion is they buy already par-boiled rice instead of making it fresh because it tastes of preservatives. Overall this place is hit-or-miss. They use fresh ingredients and the technical cooking skill is good but some of the dishes need work. The spicy thai wings were great and the hot sour soup spot-on but mushrooms in wonton soup and plain,sugary, and boring main courses were a let-down. Maybe stop using so much store-bought sweet chili and hoisin sauce? Or make your rice fresh? For anyone looking for traditional/authentic chinese food I'd look elsewhere but if upscale americanized chinese food reminscent of PF Changs is up your alley, then you are in luck.
(3)Krystel T.
I went here for the 1st time on Fri. The inside was better than I expected. I got the General Taos Chx. Huge portion, lightly breaded so more chicken. It was delish. Service was attentive as well. I also had the Veggie Tofu soup. The freshest soup I ever had. Fresh tofu and fresh veggies. I would Def come again!
(4)Evie B.
Firecracker shrimp.... Plump, fresh and several pieces in a spicy sweet sauce/ light veggies ... Soooooooo good 5 pepper shrimp... Peppery sauce, many plump, fresh shrimp, lightly breaded in a peppery breading. Nice variety of minced veggies. So delicious!!! Zombie- eat before drinking or it will knock you down! Lol service is great. everyone is friendly. food is plentiful, served hot, fresh...flavorful. we plan to return soon and try something new!
(5)Jack B.
China Cafe is one of my favorite places to eat in Novi. Owner Suzanna is talkative and gregarious, but in the best way possible. The interior is sleek and dark, with Chinese motifs inside. You're started with complimentary fried wontons, which come with a selection of two sauces. Drinks, etc etc, but then the food comes! The sauces on all the dishes are so rich and flavorful, it's probably my favorite part of the entire meal. Try the Mongolian combination or Kung Pao. China Cafe is also offering some small plates which are equally delicious and unique, and are sort of a American-Chinese fusion. Sweet Potato & Potato Garlic Fries are really good. All in all, I really enjoy coming here! I'd definitely recommend it.
(5)Jennifer E.
Last night I took my husband (and our 3 year old) out for a Father's Day meal to a restaurant of his choice and he chose China Cafe. We pulled up and my first thought was, "THIS is where you want to go...are you sure?" It is in a corner spot in a dingy looking plaza. However it DID have outdoor seating and it was pretty full! We walked in and were welcomed and seated quickly. Our waitress took quite a bit of time getting to us. And with a toddler in tow, not great. But we were given free fried wontons which held her over for a bit, which was a nice touch. The waitress did not read back our order and got it wrong. We were charged for the larger dish of potstickers when we clearly ordered the small. They brought my husband the wrong dish as well. Two saving graces if you will: they made my daughter her own side of steamed veggies that she loved and my asparagus beef was A-Mazing! Oh--and the Japanese White Ale was pretty terrific too. (Drink list had more up-to-date options than other Chinese restaurants I've been to). PROS: dishes were pretty good overall! (Asparagus beef FANtastic; I would pas on potstickers altogether now though having eaten them). Drink list. CONS: service could have been much better and waitresses should read back orders to make sure they have it correct. No one likes to be charged for something they didn't order.
(3)Debapriya S.
Nice place to hangout. Bring a crowd..
(4)Nathasja T.
After driving by China Cafe on average once a day, we finally decided to stop in while craving Chinese food. The restaurant being on the corner of a dull strip mall location did not really prepare us for the awesome interior and vibe inside the restaurant. The restaurant looks like a beautiful rendition of a PF Chang's type dining room, contemporary and chic-ish - especially when compared to the usual strip mall Chinese restaurant. Aside from it's appealing interior design, the staff all the way from the hostesses to the waiters and bus staff are incredibly attentive and professional. Nothing but great service here! From the beginning it's clear that many (if not all) items are homemade. The mustard is slightly spicier and grittier than normal, and if you ask they will bring out their homemade soy sauce. Their soups are fresh and tasty. My husband wanted to try the chicken chop suey. When have you ever had a chop suey where you can distinguish individual ingredients in the sauce? Wine, garlic, white pepper. Very yummy indeed. I opted for the green bean and tofu curry which was absolutely delicious. The curry is slightly sweet, slightly spicy, slightly tangy and overall great. If you're in the mood for Chinese, don't pass up this restaurant. Its homemade dishes with fresh ingredients are a great alternative to the many divey restaurants offering neon colored deep fried items. China Cafe will be on our rotation of restaurants, and while the weather is nice I'm looking forward to dine out on their patio next.
(4)Jes P.
Beautiful interior, prompt service, wide selection of dishes but we must have gone on a night that the main chef was out...? Our Thai 'salad' came out with some green leaves and sesame seeds on it (all of which were only on the top and not distributed throughout the salad) but that was it. Nothing about what I could see or taste was Thai about the salad and after a couple of bites, my taste buds and stomach were not interested so I decided to take it home so I could add something to it. The firecracker chicken was better than the Thai salad but didn't capture my palate either. I wish there were more veggies in both of the dishes I ordered (especially since one was a 'salad'). Our waitress was helpful, knowledgeable about the dishes and our glasses of H2O were filled often (a BIG plus in my book). For the price range, I had higher hopes of a better meal.
(3)Jasmine N.
This may be the BEST Chinese food I have ever had and I've had a lot. Everything is so fresh and the service is great!
(5)Ann W.
One of my good friends always provides the best recommendations. Looking for a dermatologist? Ask her. Seeking the best pizza in the area? Ask her. So when I was in the mood for good Chinese food oh so many years ago, I asked her and she delivered. China Café is located in a nondescript shopping mall off Novi Road. The parking lot leaves a lot to be desired but the restaurant itself was contemporarily decorated and well maintained. Terracotta figurines guard the entrance to the restaurant. I generally come here for take-out and judging from the continuous stream of guests, so do many others. This crisp Saturday afternoon, a dine-in experience was called for. Complementary fried won ton strips, lightly seasoned, served with sweet and sour sauce were a welcomed start to the meal. For lunch, the noodle bowls seemed to be popular but I went with the Orange Beef - one of my favorite dishes from this restaurant. The sizable entrée included a scoop of fried rice and an egg roll. A cup of hot and sour soup with chunks of tofu accompanied the meal. The large portion of beef was lightly coated in flour, fried and covered in a flavorful sauce. Fresh orange slices fanned the dish. It was delicious - and there was enough for leftovers. The hostess and server were cheerful and friendly. Next time, I plan to try one of the noodle bowls.
(3)Drew D.
It's the best in town from the top to the bottom of the menu!!! Been coming here for over 15 years and it never disappoints.
(5)Chris B.
The chef and his wife (Suazanna) take great pride in providing fresh, delicious flavor and a very friendly customer experience. I sat at the bar and was amazed at Suzanna's and her staff's personal touch given to each guest. I feel like a regular already. NOTE: the food is a solid 4/5, but the service is a 10/5, so I was compelled to give them 5 stars. ...Did I mention they have an excellent whiskey selection? Nicely done China Cafe team!
(5)Jennifer S.
I came China Cafe based on all the good reviews, but I have to say...at least what we experienced was not worthy of 4-5 stars. The restaurant itself is very nice, and our waitress was great, but the food was less than stellar and totally did not give me my Chinese fix that I wanted. We started with steamed dumplings and edamame. The edamame were delish (hard to screw those up), but the steamed dumplings were pretty gross. The meat inside, not entirely sure if it was pork or chicken, was dry and tasteless. I'm used to super juicy, incredibly flavorful pork dumplings. For dinner I got green beans and shrimp which was actually very good. My husband got beef chow fun which was okay, the beef was kind of tasteless. But the piece de resistance (not in a good way) was the chicken lo mein we got for our son. The noodles were barely covered in sauce and the chicken was the most disgusting flavorless thing I've ever eaten. It was so bad, I've never had anything like it. Needless to say our quest for good Chinese in the area will continue, but we will not be back here!
(2)Bruce P.
Dad wanted Chinese for his birthday, this place was recommended by a friend. My dad and I ordered the Mongolian combination, it had beef, chicken and shrimp plus vegetable is a very tasty garlic sauce, it was delicious. My wife ordered the fire cracker shrimp, it was awesome. We also has a almond chicken at the table that was very good. We had the lettuce wraps as an appetizer and they were awesome, plenty to share. My wife also has the Maui salad which has a house dress in which is great, my dad had the crispy rice soup which he said was excellent, I had the hot & sour soup which was excellent also. Definitely would recommend, not the cheapest place but the food is well worth the money, we will be back.
(5)Teresa K.
Good food -- went for lunch. Will most likely go back again.
(4)Erin P.
Excellent Asian food with great ambiance. Very friendly staff too. So glad to find this place.
(5)