Sebring might not be the first place you’d think of for Chinese food, but when that craving hits after a day at Highlands Hammock or circling the track, these spots deliver. Forget the strip-mall stereotypes—these seven restaurants prove that even in a small Florida town, you can find dumplings worth driving for and General Tso’s that actually tastes like something.
Yum’s Chinese Food
$ | (863) 386-9119 | WEBSITE
This is the Highlands County location of one of our favorite spots for Chinese food. While the menu is significantly more limited than the main Yum’s Chinese Food in Sebring, you can still choose between four different popular dishes and a variety of wontons. Get a cream cheese wonton on its own or paired with your entrée, and try to resist the urge to order extra to take home—the generous portions make it a challenge.
Cang Tong Japanese Steakhouse
$ | (863) 386-1924 | WEBSITE
Cang Tong Japanese Steakhouse really leans into its Japanese, Chinese, and Japanese-Chinese fusion themes. The extensive menu—filled with “fresh sushi” and “delicious Chinese dishes”—reads like it came from a culinary guidebook because each item, like the “Three Rolls” and “Chinese BBQ ribs,” includes a brief nod to its origins. And even though they’re essentially solid, well-executed staples, it doesn’t matter.
You’ll have a lot of options—though most people are only here for the fantastic teppanyaki show and maybe a Jasmine Milk Tea with tapioca pearls or a frozen cheesecake to share.
Yums Chinese Food
$ | (863) 452-0228 | WEBSITE
We always appreciate a good Chinese meal, bonus points if it involves something authentic and hand-tossed. That’s only part of the reason why we’re happy to visit Yums Chinese Food, a local Chinese restaurant, whenever we find ourselves in Sebring. While the available dishes might be basic—like shrimp lo mein or sesame chicken—nothing tastes artificial, and the food is fulfilling and flavorful. There aren’t many comfortable seats inside, but you can call in your order and enjoy it at home.
China Wok
$ | (863) 452-6826 | WEBSITE
There aren’t a ton of options to eat real, enjoyable Chinese food in the quiet stretches of Sebring. And while China Wok is technically in a strip mall, the fantastic fried dumplings, hefty chicken and broccoli in garlic sauce, and warm bourbon chicken combos make up for how you’re missing a chance to dine somewhere more scenic.
Settle in at one of the clean, simple tables in the bright, well-maintained dining area with a large portion of cashew chicken and some fresh vegetable dishes, and be thankful to be out of the hassle of cooking at home.
China Max
$ | (863) 385-0032 | WEBSITE
There are fewer delivery headaches to contend with at China Max, a local Chinese spot in Sebring, than at some of the other places on this guide. And apart from the usual takeout suspects, like sweet and sour chicken that could use more sauce and soups that sometimes arrive without crunches, there are also authentic dishes made by actual Chinese cooks. Or, get one of their solid entrees praised for quality. They’re made fresh, and go well with a cozy night in.
China One
$ | (863) 314-8889 | WEBSITE
China One runs a very reliable takeout counter in the Winn-Dixie shopping mall, complete with an open kitchen view which you can watch while you wait. They currently serve a variety of solid Chinese classics including boneless spare ribs, sesame chicken, crab rangoon, and some surprisingly good hot and sour soup at tables in their separate, well-kept booth area—which is usually busy around lunch and dinner once people start craving traditional cooking.
Call ahead so you don’t have to resort to mediocre Chinese food from the crowded chain restaurants nearby.
Hibachi Buffet
$ | (863) 658-0977 | WEBSITE
This popular buffet is the go-to spot for families and groups looking for a reliable feast in Sebring. Be prepared to navigate a crowded dining room and wait in line at the hibachi station—or arrive early on Sundays for the limited frog legs—if you want the full experience. But the food is plentiful, and you can pass the time watching the decorative water fountain and koi pond while sampling fresh melon and fruit from the dessert bar.
When you’re three plates deep and debating whether to go back for more steak or salmon, the consistently decent buffet fare—like the always hot and fresh options, or the must-try Sunday specialties—will leave you satisfied. The friendly, attentive staff bring fortune cookies with the bill, making the affordable meal feel complete, and the clean, organized atmosphere with multiple TVs keeps things lively.
For around $15 per person, it’s a solid choice for a filling dinner, and the carry-out box by weight lets you take your favorites home.