I had been sitting on these reviews since fall but was waiting until the New Year to post them since a lot of people ring it in with Chinese food (including myself).

Restaurant Review #227: China Garden (Red Bank)

I think I have eaten more Chinese in October than any other month. So many late nights at the museum during Halloween season really limit food choices in this area. After a film screening I hosted at the museum in the fall, Justin and I went to The Globe in Red Bank for a few drinks and were then feeling hungry. But not for pub grub this time. We did a search in the area and found that this place is actually open until midnight. Well, bless their souls. Maybe it was the booze, but this was excellent Chinese takeout. My lo mein was flavorful and cooked to perfection. I had the house special and there were ample amounts of chicken, pork, and shrimp. Justin’s beef and broccoli was plentiful and done in a tasty sauce without too much salt. It did start to separate after a while which was not too pleasant to look at, but it isn’t too big of a deal. The egg rolls and crab rangoons we had stayed crispy after a 15 minute car ride. While this place is a little far to be my regular to-go option, I will definitely hit it up next time we have that late night craving. 3 out of 5 stars.

Restaurant Review #226: China Sea (Highlands)

Back to Chinese and another one involving the museum! We had limited time before the start of an event, and our friend Roy did some ordering. There was enough food for 10 people even though there were only five of us. Like last year, we got to see several Pu Pu Platters in action. A lot of times you can tell a Chinese takeout place by their fried foods rather than their meals. If the bag is nothing but a block of grease, there may not be much hope. Instead, we had a better than average offering. The eggs rolls and wontons were as good as I have had. The shrimp toast (which I had not eaten in forever) really hit the spot with some nostalgia. I enjoyed my chicken and broccoli as well. Only complaint was the soup which was overly salty. Would definitely order again. 3 out of 5 stars.