It amazes me that there are some restaurants that not only have survived decades and generations of ownership but have also retained that look, feel and taste of that same old restaurant over those same number of years. China Garden is very much this type of place. Somewhere around 60 years old, this chinese sit-down restaurant still looks like it could be part of the set on a 1950's film. It's got a very old-school front signage that points the place out clearly on the street. It sits back a ways down the main avenue where there are now quite a few restaurants popping up. But like I said, it has still survived all of the new downtown redevelopment. Why? Well try the food!
They offer pretty much the standard fare of western chinese restaurants. The menu has got a nice selection of soups, fried rolls, fried meats, noodle dishes, etc. I prefer the won ton soup. It has a very nice and delicate broth (but flavorful) along with a melt in your mouth noodle. The fried goodies are great, my faves are the eggrolls (not too bready and full of flavor). Pineapple chicken is also usually tasty but sometimes lacks flavor.
Service isn't real snappy as they typically operate with one hostess who doubles as waitstaff but she does the job nicely and with a smile. I have come to know that food this good deserves patience. The interior is very much a throwback to the 50's so don't be shocked when you realize this might be the oldest place open in St. Jean. But it's clean and charming. It also gets a nice view of the river.
Parking has been greatly improved since the redevelopment. There is now a full free lot next to the restaurant and a couple of small free lots just down the road a block or two. Sidewalks in St. Jean have all be refurbished so a stroll to and from dinner along the river is a real treat.
I usually hit this place around lunchtime and it's never got more than 4-5 different tables filled. It may likely get busy at night. I love the food so much that I've even crossed the border and back just for take out! So worth the trip.