475 Lazelle Rd.
Westerville, Ohio 43081
614.885.8836
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As it has been around virtually forever in the north Columbus suburbs, Ming Flower Chinese Restaurant has drawn a very eclectic following, including the many employees from the nearby Chase Bank office and the growing population around Westerville and Polaris. The variety of food here is what brings people out too; there’s a mix in of Hong Kong-style dishes and a smattering of noodles from other pan-Asian cuisines. But the end result is the same, it built a following that has kept people coming back. Repeatedly.
The menu has a huge variety of good things to try. What I recommend:
- Hong Kong Steak: Cut into morsels and served with a thick sauce atop stir fried vegetables and scallions. A main course for a group, for sure. Chewy and well done but still great.
- Lobster: While it could be accentuated with plenty of things, this lobster is instead served pretty true to form so it’s simpler and more true to form. Go for rice or veggies as simpler.
- Fried Rice: The basic rice comes with a few different kinds of meat if you like, but this one is a pretty to-the-point dish and filling for it.
- Grouper: Served grilled inside giant cuts of bok choy, the fish has all the particulars without needing too much fanciness added in terms of sauces or seasonings. Again an example where the lighter touch lets good flavors take over.
- Peking Duck: This duck is always best when the fatty meat and crispy skin has a simple medium, like a dumpling or a lettuce wrap, to moderate it. Not do be outdone in this case, it’s just fine on its own.
- Singapore Noodles: These noodles have that nice curry and veggies that make the noodles a different set of flavors from your typical options.
- Pepper Steak: Always a popular lunch option, this one with plenty of cracked pepper and green onions. The meat’s not world changing but it’ll do.
The restaurant has an expansive dining room that adds a lot to the social feeling, indeed this place is petty commonly frequented by groups of people and families, especially on weekdays when it’s easier to grab a table. The price points on the restaurant remain really good, especially with those big family-sized portions.
Mainstays earn their place in people’s minds, and this one has been a staple in this area for a long time for a good reason. There’s a real attraction to it. It’s just worthwhile to try.
Recommendations
- Consider the spot ideal for big families to dine, because the large portions and prices are hard to beat for this kind of quality.
- Go adventurous! Dishes like Hong Kong steak or Peking duck aren’t available in every Chinese restaurant, but this would be a good first experience for one of them.
- Lunch specials offer a chance to get a sampling of more food without too much fuss.
Another Food Critic 