The Restaurant In Virginia That Was Named One Of The Best In The World
By Beth|Published December 22, 2016
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Beth
Author
A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Charlottesville. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. Other interests include hiking, songwriting, and spending time in the mountains.
Here in Virginia, we enjoy plenty of fine dining. From southern soul food to Mom & Pop stores and even 5-star restaurants, you could spend a lifetime enjoying all of the state’s dining establishments. And every now and then, there’s one with so much hype you have to wonder if it’s worth trying.
In the case of Peter Chang’s China Cafe in Glen Allen, it absolutely is. Here’s more on why this local spot has gained a world of attention.
Peter Chang’s may not look like much to the untrained eye. Located in a suburb a few miles from Richmond, it could be easily mistaken for a generic eatery.
Step inside, and you'll be transported to a brightly-colored dining room that's almost always packed. In fact, it’s not unusual for diners to travel hundreds of miles in hopes of catching the legend behind this restaurant, Peter Chang himself.
The highly-awarded chef began his career in Hubei, a province in China, where he worked for high end hotels. When he moved to America in 2005, Chang worked as chef to the Chinese Embassy. Before arriving in Richmond, Peter Chang was working in various parts of country, including Knoxville, Atlanta, and Charlottesville. He moves around frequently, thus creating something of a mystery behind his exact whereabouts.
The reason people are so eager to meet this man boils down to one thing: his Szechuan cooking. This region of China is known for its particular spice, often created with peppercorns. And Chang has expanded this traditional cooking method in a way that’s got people seriously hooked.
Be sure to arrive here with an appetite, as you’ll want to try just about as much as you can. Starting with appetizers, you'll choose from crispy pork belly, bamboo flounder fish, dry fried eggplant, noodle soup, and much more. Photographed above are the dry fried mushrooms and steamed pork dumplings.
Next, you might try a scallion bubble pancake. Entirely different from a breakfast pancake, these puffs are meant to be dipped in a savory curry sauce with fresh scallions.
Or, if you'd like to stick to something more familiar, the spring rolls are equally decadent. As you might have noted from the photographs, each menu item is served with incredible presentation.
Options for entrees are equally impressive. For anyone hoping to get a taste of the Szechuan spice, consider ordering the "Hot and Numbing." This chicken and shrimp combination hot pot will pack quite a punch.
As seen in the series above, other options include Kung Pao tofu, seafood soup, and the ever-popular crispy pork. What makes Chang's cooking so extraordinary is the wide spectrum from traditional to creative. With everything in between, there's something for everyone here.
Peter Chang’s China Cafe is located at 11408 W. Broad St., Glen Allen VA 23060. For reservations, call (804) 728-1820. Chang’s cooking can also be found at locations in Virginia Beach, Arlington, Williamsburg, and Charlottesville. Have you dined at any of these places? Be sure to share your experience with us!
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