Peking Garden in Lawrence is a go-to spot for Chinese cuisine, offering a mix of classic dishes and local favorites. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a regular, knowing what to order and how to navigate the menu can make your experience better. This guide covers everything from must-try dishes to dietary accommodations and common pitfalls.
What to Order at Peking Garden Lawrence
The menu at Peking Garden features a wide range of options, from appetizers like spring rolls and crab rangoon to main courses like General Tso’s chicken and lo mein. For a balanced meal, consider starting with hot and sour soup or wonton soup. For the main course, the sesame chicken is a crowd-pleaser, and the beef with broccoli is a lighter choice. If you're dining with a group, family-style ordering works best—pick one dish per person and share. Don't forget to ask about lunch specials, which are often more affordable and come with fried rice or soup.
Dietary Options: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, and Allergies
Peking Garden offers some vegetarian dishes, such as vegetable lo mein, tofu with mixed vegetables, and eggplant with garlic sauce. However, many sauces contain soy sauce, which has gluten. If you need gluten-free options, ask for dishes without soy sauce or request tamari (if available). For vegans, stick to vegetable-based dishes and avoid anything with egg or dairy. Always inform the staff about allergies—they can modify dishes to exclude peanuts or shellfish. Cross-contamination is possible, so if you have severe allergies, call ahead to discuss your needs.
Ordering Tips: Lunch vs. Dinner, Takeout vs. Dine-In
Lunch specials are served until 3 PM and include an entree, fried rice, and an egg roll for a lower price. Dinner portions are larger and come with soup or salad. For takeout, order directly from the restaurant to avoid third-party delivery fees. When picking up, check your order before leaving to ensure everything is correct. If dining in, ask about the chef’s specials—they’re not always on the menu. Avoid peak hours (6-8 PM) for faster service.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One mistake is assuming all dishes are spicy—many can be made mild. Another is not specifying your protein preference; for example, you can substitute chicken for beef in most dishes. Also, don't skip the appetizers; the potstickers and egg rolls are worth trying. Avoid ordering too much—portions are generous, and leftovers are common. Finally, don't forget to ask for extra sauce or condiments if you like your food saucier.
How to Get the Best Value
To save money, stick to lunch specials or combo meals. The family dinner for two or four is a good deal if you're sharing. Also, check for coupons in local mailers or online. If you're a regular, consider joining any loyalty program they might offer. Paying with cash sometimes avoids credit card fees. And always ask about the day’s specials—they might have a dish not on the regular menu.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for Peking Garden Lawrence?
They are typically open 11 AM to 9:30 PM Sunday through Thursday, and until 10:30 PM on Friday and Saturday. Always call to confirm, as hours may change on holidays.
Does Peking Garden offer delivery?
Yes, they offer delivery through their own drivers and sometimes through third-party services. Delivery area may be limited, so ask when ordering.
Is there a gluten-free menu?
They don't have a separate gluten-free menu, but they can modify dishes. Ask for steamed rice instead of fried rice and request no soy sauce.
Can I make a reservation?
Peking Garden usually accepts reservations for parties of 6 or more. For smaller groups, it's first-come, first-served.
Conclusion
Peking Garden Lawrence offers a satisfying Chinese dining experience with a variety of options for different tastes and dietary needs. By following these tips—choosing the right dishes, ordering wisely, and avoiding common mistakes—you can enjoy a great meal every time. Whether you're dining in or taking out, being informed will help you get the most out of your visit.