New China Express

New China Express is a gem nestled in Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood, offering authentic Chinese cuisine with a strong emphasis on quality and convenience. As a Chinese restaurant specializing in meal delivery and seafood dishes, this cozy spot excels in blending traditional recipes with fast, reliable service that keeps locals coming back for more. Located at 2809 Thorndyke Ave W #2986, New China Express is perfect for anyone craving hearty, flavorful Chinese meals without the fuss of dining out.

The menu highlights an impressive variety of dishes, with hand-shaven noodles stealing the show. Their House Special Hand Shaven Noodle ($16.09) boasts a perfect balance of tender noodles and savory sauce, while options like Shrimp, Chicken, and Beef Hand Shaven Noodles all promise freshness you can taste in every bite. Vegetarians will appreciate the Veggie Hand Shaven Noodle with its bright, crisp vegetables and comforting broth.

Chicken entrees reveal the kitchen’s skill in layering flavors—think the sweet and spicy zing of the Sweet Chili Sauce Crispy Chicken, or the nutty crunch of the Cashew Chicken. The Honey Walnut Chicken, although served without walnuts, still delivers a luscious sweet glaze that perfectly coats tender chicken morsels. For those who like a little heat, the Kung Pao Chicken and Curry Chicken offer a bold kick, awakening the palate with every mouthful.

The beef dishes are equally enticing, with favorites like Pepper Steak and the spicy Szechuan Beef packing depth and smoky richness. Don’t miss the Sesame Beef with its subtly sweet sauce and toasted sesame seeds adding a pleasant crunch—it’s comfort food elevated with finesse.

What truly sets New China Express apart is their dedication to delivery quality. As Jennifer C. Wu notes, they still manage their own deliveries, ensuring meals arrive hot and fresh—no soggy leftovers here. Customers rave about the lightning-fast service and the care taken to preserve texture and flavor, with Jacob Roberts praising their vegetable crunch and Sophia Dopherone lauding the freshness of the hand-shaven green noodles.

Inside, the restaurant is modest, reflecting its mom-and-pop roots, with limited seating that nudges many to opt for takeout or delivery. Aaron Johnson points out the generous meat portions, especially in dishes like General’s Chicken, making it worth every penny despite modest portioning of rice. Christopher Smeriglio appreciates the quick pick-up and free delivery option, describing New China Express as “easy delicious American-Chinese food”—a spot where convenience and taste come together seamlessly.

If you're looking for a no-frills, authentic Chinese experience with robust flavors and thoughtfully prepared dishes, New China Express is an exceptional choice in Seattle’s dining landscape. Whether it’s a quick meal after a long day or a comforting feast shared with family, their menu offers something for everyone’s cravings, all delivered with care and a personal touch.