"Silky" Road

Nothing says Chinese food like fortune cookies — right? Actually no. With the rise of Chinese immigrants, there has been a huge influx in Chinese restaurants, with an emphasis or interest in authentic Chinese food.

Most Americans are familiar with Chinese food, and many have their favorite dishes. However, most do not know the differences between regional dishes or types of Chinese Food.

So how would a New Yorker know that they are getting authentic Chinese Food?

Authentic Chinese Food

1. Chinese People – A good sign that you’re getting authentic Chinese food is the number of Chinese people who are in the restaurant. If you see a good balance between Chinese people and foreigners, slightly leaning towards Chinese, it is a good indicator that you’re in the right place.

2. Mandarin or Cantonese – If you here the staff freely using Mandarin or Cantonese when announcing orders or greeting customers, this is also another great indicator that you’re getting an authentic dish. In addition, the menu is written in Chinese or half Chinese and half English.

3. Regional Food – All Chinese Food isn’t the same. Food from different provinces has different tastes. If you come into Silky Kitchen, you’re getting authentic Hunan style dishes that match the style of food served in Hunan. These dishes tend to be spicy or taste best when there is a considerable amount of spice added. Cantonese cuisine is often sweeter. Shandong province is best known for its different seafood.

4. No Americanized Chinese Food – If you step into an Americanized Chinese food restaurant, you’ll definitely find fortune cookies and egg rolls on the menu. Fortune cookies aren’t Chinese and Chinese people don’t eat egg rolls.  Also, keep an eye out for Egg Foo Young, which is another Americanized Chinese Food dish. By spotting fake Chinese food restaurants, you’ll ensure that you’re on the right path towards authentic Chinese food locations.