rev:text
| - I have a saying:
Q: How do you ruin a perfectly good buffet?
A: Put the word "Chinese" in front of it.
I've lived by that mantra for many years, and it is definitely the rule and not the exception. But the reason I keep wandering into these places is because I harbor this burning ember of hope that someday, somewhere, I'll find a Chinese buffet that won't make me wish I had some of my ex-wife's cooking again.
Along comes China Buffet. It's conveniently located just about a mile from my own bathroom, so I figure I'm pretty safe giving it a try. I am immediately drawn to the Mongolian BBQ, as it is one of my very favorite things in the world, and no one else in my minor-league hamlet of Surprise, Arizona has one. I load up and hand it over to the grillardin, who expertly transforms it from a giant uncooked mess into a delectable, thoroughly cooked and seasoned mess. While I'm waiting for the makeover, I check out the not-very-old-looking sushi bar and the usual Chinese-buffet selections: Beef and Broccoli, Sesame Chicken, Kung Pao Chicken, Sweet & Sour Chicken, Mongolian Beef, Fried Rice, etc. Naturally, not knowing whether I'd return, I must try one of each. It is an exercise I know will enrage my lower intestines, but my curiosity overwhelms me and I dig in.
To my surprise, I find most everything I try a solid "above average." Granted, given that the average is pretty freaking low, that's not saying much, but two things must be considered: (1) I gave the place 4 stars, and (2) I have returned a few times since this initial expedition. For better or for worse, China City Super Buffet is now my go-to place for quick and easy Americanized Chinese food. It also has a decent drink special - buy one beer or glass of wine, get the 2nd for $1. That's hard to beat.
Bottom line: China City gets the job done at a reasonable price. It ain't P.F. Changs, but you know that going in. I'm hoping it sticks around for a few years, so I don't have to go out and search for another Chinese place.
|