Navigating Bloomington’s vibrant campus scene—between lectures, football games, and hunting down that perfect study nook—is as essential as always having an umbrella handy. But unless you brought a full homemade feast (kudos), you’ll need real sustenance. So head to one of these spots, all within a quick stroll from campus.
Golden China Restaurant
$ | (812) 335-9688 | WEBSITE
Our affection for Golden China Restaurant runs deep—and it’s the perfect place to swing by when “a quick takeout” turns into a craving for multiple meals. Not only does the Chinese spot dish out fantastic food with friendly service and great value vibes, it’s also a reliable choice for satisfying takeout. Grab an order and enjoy crispy, flavorful crab Rangoons, tender Hunan beef, fresh lunch specials, and tasty beef with broccoli for a hearty meal.
China Star Buffet
$ | (812) 876-5778 | WEBSITE
If your stomach is grumbling as loud as the couple down the hill who won’t stop talking about bird-related conspiracy theories, then walk over to China Star Buffet. This Chinese place hits all the sweet spots of a great buffet joint. Prices are reasonable. And it’s open late. This spot is also our old standard anytime we want a seafood bake that’s so big it could function as a doorstop.
Stir Fry 88
$ | (812) 339-6211 | WEBSITE
Stir Fry 88 is just a short drive from downtown, making this Chinese spot a prime candidate for a satisfying dinner outing. The menu has everything from lo mein and fried rice to an impressive assortment of chicken dishes. But you’re here for the combos, which are generous enough to significantly weigh down your takeout bag.
We like to leave fate in the hands of the kitchen staff and stick with one of the many pre-determined combinations, like Combo 2 with black pepper chicken, beef and broccoli, and fried rice, or Combo 3 stuffed generously with bourbon chicken, strawberry chicken, and lo mein.
Oasis Chinese Restaurant
$ | (812) 339-3999 | WEBSITE
When you’re craving something more substantial than leftover takeout containers and the sad remnants of last night’s dinner, you’re going to need a real solution. Fortunately, Oasis Chinese Restaurant—and their incredible General Tso’s chicken, which we could compose endless odes to—is right there waiting.
Grab some hot and sour soup and something with their perfectly crispy orange chicken, whether it’s the classic combo plate with fried rice or the beef and broccoli stir-fry, plus some straight-up irresistible sesame balls for dessert.
Judy’s Kitchen
$ | (812) 332-8888 | WEBSITE
The cozy, family-run Chinese spot is where to go for fantastic wok-tossed chicken dishes. We’re especially big fans of the spicy and flavorful Orange Chicken and the classic Sweet and Sour Chicken. They’re both delicious—and cost $12 each. You’d be hard-pressed to find a better deal in Bloomington.
Great Taste Buffet
$ | (812) 323-1108 | WEBSITE
If you need something hearty and affordable to bring your family for a casual meal, go to Great Taste Buffet. The cozy Chinese restaurant in a strip mall has a lunch buffet priced at $10 that will satisfy everyone well into the afternoon. Go with the Mongolian Pork and dumplings, which are fresh and delicious, for a savory and comforting flavor experience. They also have extremely nice and accommodating staff, especially towards children, if you’d rather enjoy it from a family-friendly booth.
Dragon Express LLC
$ | (812) 331-7030 | WEBSITE
You’re not coming to Dragon Express for white-tablecloth fine dining or fusion dishes with truffle oil. You come here for the straightforward, satisfying Chinese food that keeps us returning for reliable weeknight takeout. Dragon Express is also friendly, efficient, and where we also turn for non-noodle dishes, like the delicious sesame tofu and good beef lomein lunch special. Whatever you do, don’t skip the fortune cookie that comes with every order.
Asuka Steak House
$$ | (812) 333-8325 | WEBSITE
If you’re craving Japanese cuisine in Bloomington because your usual sushi spot is, well, closed, consider heading over to Asuka Steak House. The popular restaurant offers both Hibachi and dine-in options, with a wide selection of Chinese dishes, hand-rolled sushi, and traditional Japanese steak house cuisine. The service is top-notch, with attentive staff and a polite owner who ensures a great meal. The food is quick, hot, and flavorful, with generous portions that make it worth the trip.
The environment is nice and tidy, making it a great spot for those seeking a satisfying Japanese meal in the area.
Red
$ | (812) 650-3807 | WEBSITE
Operating for years in Bloomington, Red is where to go for some of the area’s best Chinese food. Each dish is packed with authentic flavors and generous portions, with plenty of garlic and spices that come through in every bite.
Whenever we head to this family-owned spot for quick dinners, hearty lunches, or evenings when we want something comforting, we inevitably end up with the pork with garlic sauce—a classic mix of savory pork and pungent garlic—and then make sure to add an extra order of the cashew chicken on the side before heading out.
Lucky Express Lian
$ | (812) 333-5262 | WEBSITE
Lucky Express Lian is tucked away in a strip mall with limited parking, so swing by if you’re craving authentic Chinese home cooking after a busy day in B-town and want to eat your body weight in sweet & sour pork chops. Sit at one of their simple tables and watch the regulars come and go while you dig into some mapo tofu and a massive portion of noodles, or try the vegetarian options that make this spot accessible for everyone.
Sunny Palace
$ | (812) 333-5533 | WEBSITE
Clean, welcoming, and always reliable, this Chinese restaurant in Bloomington does classic American-Chinese cuisine right. The crab Rangoon appetizer is served crispy and handmade, chili fillet fish is amped up with just the right spice level, and the cumin beef is perfect, tender strips with aromatic seasoning. Delicious main courses like shrimp and vegetables and Hunan chicken can be customized to suit any taste.
Excellent service and a comfortable booth seating arrangement—a meal at Sunny Palace always adds up to a satisfying experience.
Dragon
$ | (812) 332-6610 | WEBSITE
Dragon is one of the best and most convenient spots in Bloomington, and you’ll see why once you pull into their easy parking lot. The I-69 location reminds us of a reliable neighborhood gem, with quick service and tasty dishes—and once you’re here, you’ll want to take your time enjoying your General Ts Chicken combo. They have a great menu of things like Beef and Mushrooms, plus a popular takeout option that keeps customers coming back weekly.
Longfei Chinese Restaurant
$ | (812) 219-0688 | WEBSITE
Longfei Chinese Restaurant is a straightforward Chinese spot we head straight to for savory 3 cup chicken, tender braised pork with brown sauce, and spicy crispy chicken that crackles with flavor. Ordering the pork buns is also essential—the steamed parcels bursting with juicy filling are our top pick in Bloomington.
Finding a seat for the family is typically no hassle, which is why we end up here with the kids regularly, steadily working through the extensive selection of traditional Chinese and Chinese American dishes.
Peach Garden
$ | (812) 332-3437 | WEBSITE
Maybe you spent the entire afternoon craving something bold and spicy, and now you’re looking for a place to eat where you can satisfy your need for authentic Chinese flavors. Peach Garden is here for you. It’s a Chinese restaurant with a bunch of popular dishes, like Szechuan chicken and Mongolian beef, plus a selection of comforting soups like their homemade hot and sour soup. The service is quick and efficient, with food delivered promptly to your table.
Vegetarian options are available, making it accessible for various diets. Conveniently located near Kroger Seminary with ample free parking, it’s an easy choice for a satisfying meal.
Lotus Garden（荷苑） (荷院)
$ | (812) 369-4555 | WEBSITE
Stepping into Lotus Garden always feels like a warm hug from your favorite aunt. It’s a dependable, welcoming spot that has everything you need for a satisfying meal—from hot, fresh Chicken and Broccoli to crispy, juicy chicken wings and tender Braised Pork. For something with a kick, try the Chicken with Garlic Sauce, spicy and savory on a bed of steaming rice. If you’re craving comfort, their large portions and reasonable prices make it easy to indulge.
The staff’s happy, eager service adds to the kind atmosphere, turning a simple dinner into a delightful experience.
China Wok
$ | (812) 824-8848 | WEBSITE
China Wok is a place we always want to stop by whenever we’re in the area. Their straightforward menu focuses on classic Chinese-American favorites. You’ll find black peppered chicken that’s a must-try, beef and broccoli with tender slices of meat, and beef fried rice that’s packed with flavor. They’re all best enjoyed fresh from the kitchen when everything is piping hot. The fast service and friendly staff make it easy to grab a satisfying meal, especially with their reasonable lunch specials.
Located in a convenient business area with plenty of parking, it’s a reliable spot for a quick and delicious bite.