The best Chinese Restaurants in Bangalore

Cantan: This is the newest arrival on the scene. Cantan, from the Olive group and conceptualized by celebrity chef Manu Chandra, is in the CBD, on Lavelle Road. It’s spread across two levels, stylishly appointed with custom-made wallpaper, carefully chosen upholstery and tasseled lamps for Oriental elegance. Cocktails carry evocative names -- Princess of Jade Forest and Monk of the Yangtze Orchard – and are truly special. The food is a mix of edgy creations and familiar favourites. Think Edamame Dimsum and Wood Ear Mushroom Salad. For an exotic experience, try the Sea Snails in Black Bean Sauce. Wrap it up with Duck Fried Rice – utterly comforting.

Yauatcha: This award-winning international brand is at the swank 1 MG Mall on MG Road in the CBD. It’s sleek interiors are perfect for grazing through platters of dim sum, which are the speciality here. Dumplings come in many forms here –steamed, cheung fun, baked, grilled and pan-fried. Tuck into Vegetable Chive Dumpling and Pork Char Sui Bun. For a more substantial meal there are choices like the Steamed White Snapper Assam Sauce. To drink, choose from an elaborate tea menu or cocktails.

Mahjong Room: This is an old ITC brand that has been recreated at the WelcomHotel on Richmond Road. It’s a large, fairly unadorned dining room. On the menu are Chinese dishes that take you on a nostalgic trip. Indulge in Sweet Corn Soup with crab meat and Crisp Lotus Stem with Sesame. And what could be more retro than Sesame Prawn Toast! Do not miss out on the lovely boozy sundaes that make up the dessert menu here.

Shang Palace: Shang Palace at the Shangri-La Hotel has won fans with its authentic Chinese fare. It’s an nicely done up space, perfect for family meals and corporate dining. Start with hot or cold appetizers that run the gamut from Fried Silken Tofu to the signature Sichuan Chicken that packs a punch. Five Spice Eggs and the Marinated Pork Feet are some of the unusual dishes you’ll only find at Shang Palace. And you must make a feast of the Beijing Duck which is also great value for money.

Lantern: This is the swank inside-outside restaurant at the downtown Ritz Carlton. Oriental artefacts and contemporary décor make the setting here. Lantern has a list of signature dim sum, crafted to perfection. The Baked Vegetable and Mock Duck Puff and Almond Prawn Roll are some of the exciting new dishes on the menu. Cocktails with an Oriental touch complete the Lantern experience.

Szechwan Court: The understated Szechwan Court at The Oberoi looks out on the greenery and water features of this charming hotel. Dine here on the signature creations of Chef David Wang – from Chicken Wings with Dry Chillies to Stir-Fried Lobster in XO Sauce and a host of other, more familiar dishes. A fine wine list and the wonderful service The Oberoi is known for take a meal at Szechwan Court some notches higher.

Memories of China: This old Chinese favourite at Taj MG Road had a makeover some years ago and is now a plush place that whispers luxury. The menu is a mix of nicely crafted specials and some old favourites such as XO Chicken Claypot and Spicy Crispy Prawns. It’s a popular spot for corporate diners.

Mainland China: The brand that brought a fine dining experience to Chinese fare now has several outlets across the city – Church Street, Indiranagar, HRBR Layout, Whitefield, Jayanagar and Orion Mall. A value for money lunch gets the office crowd here. If you are ordering from the a la carte menu, choices range from Eight Treasure Soup to Chicken Taipei and Braised Lamb in Mahlak Sauce.

Bangalore Mandarin, Indiranagar: This place has been around several years and regulars enjoy its Indian-Chinese offerings. The interiors are from an earlier time and the menu has an old-fashioned quality to it as well. Try here the Drums of Chicken, Crab Coriander Soup and Chilli Pork.

China Pearl: This Koramangala restaurant has a loyal following, some of its regulars declaring this is the best place in town for Chinese food. The restaurant is almost always full and is a good spot for a working day lunch or a family dinner. On the menu you’ll find Shaolin Sticks, Manchow Soup, General Tao Chicken and Chowmein.