Cambridge Dining Guide
Best Chinese in Cambridge
From Sichuan to Cantonese, discover the best Chinese restaurants in Cambridge MA. Curated by locals who know the real deal.
6 restaurants curated
Cambridge's Chinese restaurants reflect the city's academic connections to China — many are run by immigrants with deep regional expertise. You'll find authentic Sichuan mapo tofu, hand-pulled noodles, Cantonese dim sum, and Hunan specialties that rival anything in Boston's Chinatown, often at more reasonable prices.
Insider TipAsk for the Chinese-language menu at sit-down restaurants — it often has dishes not on the English menu, particularly regional specialties.
East Cambridge
1Central Square
5Shanghai Fresh
Chinese · Central Square
Authentic Shanghai cuisine with hand-pulled noodles made to order. Soup dumplings (xiaolongbao) are signature dish. Modern casual setting.
Dumpling House
Chinese · Central Square
Taiwanese-style dumplings and noodles. Hand-wrapped dumplings made fresh daily, extensive noodle soup menu. No-frills, cash-only, lines out the door.
Darling
Chinese/Cocktail Bar · Central Square
Chinese-inspired cocktail bar in the former Mary Chung space. Dim sum-inspired small plates reimagined with playful, creative flair. Hong Kong Shrimp Toast, Filet O Fish Bao, Red Braised Pork Ribs. Opened July 2025.
Royal East
Chinese · Central Square
Family-run Chinese restaurant serving Cantonese and Szechuan classics since 1989. Generous portions, reliable quality, and neighborhood favorite. Full bar.
Dumpling House
Chinese · Central Square
The soup dumplings are the reason to come. Watch them make them through the kitchen window. Thin wrappers, hot broth inside - be careful, they will burn you. The scallion pancakes are also excellent. No frills, just great dumplings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cambridge's best Chinese restaurants are spread across several neighborhoods, with notable options near Harvard Square and in North Cambridge. Styles range from Sichuan to Cantonese to Hunan.