China King Chinese Cuisine 100 Fourth Ave. St. Catharines Ontario

I've been in this place a number of times, mostly out of an urgent need to get something to eat, either to take home or to survive a long day. Each time I go, my estimation of the restaurant goes up a little more. Today we ordered the luncheon special, which at $6.75 is a very good value. It came with soup, rice and main dish, and was served quickly and efficiently on real dishes. (They do not serve water, one of my pet peeves, but they did give me a paper cup and I filled it in the washroom.) The quality of the food was good and the portions were quite adequate. Winter temperatures usually discourage me from eating at any place with take-out, because the cold drafts make for uncomfortable seating, but we were pleasantly warm and comfortable on a very adequate table and chairs. So in summary, this is a very good choice for a simple meal, offering good food and fair prices. I will return.

The food is good, prices reasonable and serving sizes more than enough for the two of us. Orange chicken was spicy and excellent. This eatery - restaurant is not the right word - is brightly lit with maybe half dozen plain tables and chairs. The framed pictures on the walls are full of colour and the nicely decorated. White Christmas tree by the front door is a great seasonal touch. Great place to stop while out doing errands and such for a good meal.

I'm hoping this is the place in the Plaza on Fourth Ave. The photo is of another place. If this is that place, I will never return. The man was very rude and impatient while I was trying to decide on what to order for take out. Another man came from the back/kitchen blowing smoke out of his mouth. Was he smoking back there? I was turned off and left. There was an odd smell in the place. Very disappointing because I was really craving Chinese food. I didn't order anything. I ended up going next door to Fresco's to get take out.

Upon entering the restaurant, you will find that it has a very basic decor. In fact, it is even more basic than you might expect, with simple chairs and tables. If you happen to glance into the back area, you might be a bit skeptical. However, the hot sour soup and curry chicken with white rice combo is truly delicious. The portion size and taste are both excellent, especially considering the price of less than $8. If you are in search of tasty Chinese food at a reasonable price, this is the place to go.

The place looks like a poorly done fast food joint. I found the portion of rice to be meagre.The chicken balls were small and look like they were out of the frozen food bag. I was charged a 10% tip without my knowledge. I was corraled into ordering certain things on the menu.