Chinese

Asian Star  The menu is not frighteningly authentic or disturbingly Americanized. Dishes are chef-driven, and Chef James seems most comfortable in the melting pot. 7588 S. Union Park Ave., Midvale, 801-566-8838. $$

Boba World  This mom and pop place is short on chic, but the food on the plate provides all the ambiance you need. Try the scallion pancakes, try the Shanghai Fat Noodles, heck, try the kung pao chicken. It’s all good. 512 W. 750 South, Woods Cross, 801-298-3626. $ – $$

Chef Gao  The little storefront serves Chinese food with big flavor and a lot more sizzle than restaurants twice its size. Eat in the little dining room or get it to go: All your favorites are on the lengthy menu, plus a number of lamb dishes and hotpots. 488 E. 100 South, SLC, 801-363-8833. $$

CY Noodle House Another Chinatown eatery, CY features an open kitchen and a choose-your-own menu that allows you to make up your own combination. No liquor license—indulge instead in a boba smoothie. 3370 State St., SLC, 801-488-2777. $$

Hong Kong Tea House & Restaurant  Authentic, pristine and slightly weird is what we look for in Chinese food. Tea House does honorable renditions of favorites, but it is a rewarding place to go explore. 565 W. 200 South, SLC, 801-531-7010. $$

J. Wong’s Asian Bistro  Drawing from their Thai and Chinese heritage, J. Wong’s menu allows you to choose either. Lunch—Chinese or Thai—isn’t a good deal. It’s a great deal. Don’t miss the ginger whole fish or the Gunpowder cocktail. Call ahead for authentic Peking duck. 163 W. 200 South, SLC, 801-350-0888. $$