I’m probably among only a few people around here who cares, but 2012 marks the 100th anniversary of the revolution that overthrew China’s Qing Dynasty and Pu-Yi, a 6-year-old boy serving as its last emperor.
Pu-Yi probably wasn’t old enough to fully appreciate all the perks that came with being an emperor. Oh well, none of us will probably be a Chinese emperor in this lifetime, but at least we can dine like one at Foon Ying restaurant.
Located on the city’s Eastside near Lawrence, Foon Ying has earned a loyal customer base built on referrals and repeat business.
Although the restaurant has a tight but charmingly cozy area for guests to dine, most patrons gather in an area near the counter to wait for take out orders. You will find this sight regardless of the time of day or weather.
So, what keeps satisfied patrons coming back to Foon Ying? Well for starters, the generous portions provide a major incentive to return. Probably nothing underscores this more than the egg rolls, which are larger than those served by many Chinese joints and come filled with plenty of vegetables and pork or shrimp.
No matter which meal from the menu you choose, expect to enjoy plenty of it now and still have a satisfying amount to return to later.
Foon Ying provides solid, reliable versions of Chinese favorites such as wonton soup, Lo Mein, Kung Po Chicken, Hunan Beef and my favorite, General Tso’s Chicken.
However, the restaurant also has its own signature dishes, such as its orange flavored beef and chicken, The Triple Crown (shrimp, chicken and beef sautéed with vegetables) and the massive Foon Ying Special, which includes chunks of shrimp, chicken, pork and vegetables with pan fried noodles.
The staff, although not usually talkative, is very helpful and efficient.
Foon Ying’s prices are more than fair, and they serve many of their best items at a discounted price as lunch specials from noon to 3 p.m.
One of the perks you might expect any emperor to have is instant satisfaction from some of the best food around. You will find that and more at Foon Ying.
