Rice Kitchen

Everyone seems to have “their restaurant” when it comes to Chinese cuisine. The one restaurant that they can trust to have a good plate every time. Since I have recently changed locations, I have been in dire need to find “my restaurant.”

A few days ago, I was taking a walk with my friend near Greek row. We were both hungry and started for a pizza place. Then a smell of garlic and ginger wafted through the air that made our mouths salivate, Chinese food located at 850 Pappas Dr. Unit D, Dekalb, IL 60115. We looked around and saw the bright read sign stating Rice Kitchen. I went up to the door and found out that they are open seven days a week mainly 11:00 am to 10:00 pm with free Wi-Fi. We headed inside and later found out their numbers are (815) 787-8899 and (815) 787-8891.

As we walked in, I looked around. There was a part of the restaurant that could be used for a party, for it could be sectioned off. There was also a buffet counter, but that was closed because I went at 8:30 in the evening. The rest of the dining area was very simple and relaxed. A few decorative Chinese paintings and some comfortable chairs made it seem all at ease.

The place where we took our orders had pictures of the different plates they had to offer. Each one looked delicious. Although the waitress did tell us that it had not been updated in a while so she handed us menus which had a huge selection. I went for the Special Lo Mein. It consisted of soft noodles, shrimp, pork, onions, carrots, and other vegetables with a sauce that complemented and brought out all the flavors onto the plate. The dish was mainly brown, but with the sparks of orange and green color, it made the plate pop! The tender noodles was counteracted by the crunchiness of the onions and the carrots added a sweetness to balance off the saltiness of the protein. The whole entrée seemed to have been marinated in the sauce to age the spices just enough to excite the mouth. My friend ordered pork fried rice and let me try some. It reminded me of home! My best friend's mother grew up in China and is known for her cooking in my home town, and this plate held a great competition with hers. No disappointment in sight at the Rice Kitchen.

The food came out with a wait of six minutes. The waitress was very kind and the presentation of the food was superb! We both ordered smalls and it was the right amount for us. The prices are very reasonable of between $4.75 to $6.25 for smalls and $6.95 to $9.95 for larges. They have a wide selection of food so I believe that anyone can find a meal there. They offer dine in, carry out, delivery, and party trays. They accept most credit cards and Huskie Bucks so college students are most definitely welcomed. An avid customer told me, “I come here at least once a week and I feel as though it's kitchen is mine.”

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Rice Kitchen

850 Pappas Dr. Unit D

Dekalb, IL 60115

Tel: (815)787-8899

and (815)787-8890