ZipPicks Awards
Best Chinese in Lincoln Square
Master Critic Review
Peking Mandarin
7.7
A casual Albany Park spot with a Korean-Chinese leaning menu where the comfort comes from saucy, familiar classics done with hearty portions. It’s best when you order one staple like Mongolian beef and add dumplings or an appetizer rather than stacking multiple mains.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mongolian beef, Pot stickers, Egg rolls
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.1
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Korean-Chinese comfort staples alongside classic Chinese favorites.
Who should go: Comfort-food diners and families
When to visit: Dinner when you want a sit-down meal
What to order: Mongolian beef, pot stickers, egg rolls
Insider tip: Pick one signature main and add dumplings—don’t over-order entrées.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking on surrounding blocks; generally manageable on weeknights, tighter during weekend dinner hours.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable—jeans, sweaters, and everyday wear fit right in.
Noise level: Moderate—lively enough to feel busy, but conversation at the table is easy.
Weekend wait: 15–30 minutes during peak hours without a reservation
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or very short waits
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—some vegetable stir-fries and rice/noodle dishes, but the menu is meat-forward.
Vegan options: Very limited—possible with customization, but not designed for vegan dining.
Gluten-free options: Limited—some rice-based dishes may work, but sauces often contain soy; best to confirm with staff.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual, low-pressure first date than an intimate one—the vibe is comfortable and relaxed rather than romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are common, especially on weeknights; weekends may require a short wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families are common, portions are generous, and familiar dishes make it approachable for kids.
Best For
Better for: Hearty Korean-Chinese–leaning comfort dishes and family-style portions in a relaxed sit-down setting.
Skip if: You’re looking for upscale Chinese dining, a modern atmosphere, or strong vegetarian/vegan options.