Cherry Garden in Washington, Illinois, is a beloved Chinese-American restaurant known for its generous portions, friendly service, and extensive menu. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a regular looking to try something new, understanding the menu can help you make the best choices. This guide breaks down the Cherry Garden menu, highlights popular dishes, shares ordering tips, and answers common questions.
Cherry Garden Menu Overview: What to Expect
The menu at Cherry Garden offers a wide variety of Chinese-American classics, including appetizers, soups, fried rice, lo mein, chop suey, egg foo young, and combo plates. They also feature chef's specials and family dinners. Most dishes are available in small or large portions, and prices are reasonable—typically between $5 and $15. The menu is divided into sections, making it easy to navigate whether you're dining in, taking out, or ordering delivery.
Top 5 Must-Try Dishes at Cherry Garden
Based on customer reviews and popularity, these dishes are worth ordering:
- General Tso's Chicken – Crispy chicken tossed in a sweet and slightly spicy sauce. A crowd favorite.
- Shrimp with Lobster Sauce – Juicy shrimp in a savory egg-based sauce with peas and water chestnuts.
- Beef with Broccoli – Tender beef and fresh broccoli in a garlicky brown sauce.
- Egg Foo Young – A fluffy omelet filled with vegetables and meat, served with gravy.
- Fried Rice (House Special) – Loaded with shrimp, chicken, pork, and vegetables.
If you have dietary preferences, ask about low-sodium or no-MSG options—the staff is accommodating.
How to Order: Tips for a Smooth Experience
Ordering from Cherry Garden is straightforward, but these tips can save you time:
- Call ahead for pickup – Especially during dinner rush (5–7 PM), calling 15 minutes in advance ensures your food is ready.
- Check the lunch specials – Available Monday–Friday until 3 PM, these offer smaller portions at lower prices.
- Specify spice level – If you like heat, ask for “extra spicy”; if not, request mild.
- Combine combos – Combo plates come with fried rice and an egg roll; you can upgrade to lo mein for a small fee.
- Ask about family dinners – For groups of 3 or more, family dinners provide a variety of dishes at a set price.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Ordering
New customers often make these errors:
- Overordering – Portions are large; one entree can easily feed two people if you order an appetizer.
- Skipping the appetizers – The crab rangoon and egg rolls are freshly made and worth trying.
- Not customizing – Don’t hesitate to ask for extra veggies, no onions, or extra sauce.
- Forgetting cash – Cherry Garden is cash-only (ATM on site), so come prepared.
Real Customer Reviews: What People Are Saying
Regulars praise Cherry Garden for consistent quality and quick service. Many highlight the friendly staff who remember regular orders. Some note that the restaurant is small with limited seating, so takeout is popular. A few mention that the sesame chicken can be overly sweet—ask for sauce on the side if you prefer less sugar. Overall, the restaurant has a 4.5-star rating on Google and is a local staple.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the hours of Cherry Garden in Washington, IL?
A: They are open Monday–Saturday 11 AM–9 PM, closed Sunday.
Q: Does Cherry Garden offer delivery?
A: Yes, through DoorDash and Grubhub, or you can call for delivery within a limited radius.
Q: Are there vegetarian options?
A: Yes, vegetable lo mein, broccoli with garlic sauce, and vegetable fried rice are good choices.
Q: Can I pay with a credit card?
A: No, it's cash only, but there's an ATM inside.
Final Tips for Enjoying Cherry Garden
To get the most out of your Cherry Garden experience, visit during off-peak hours (2–4 PM) for quicker service. If you're trying something new, start with a small portion. Don't forget to grab a few fortune cookies on your way out. Whether you're craving classic comfort food or want to explore chef specials, Cherry Garden delivers satisfying meals every time.