At long last Portland has a REALLY good Chinese food restaurant on par with the big cities! Head out of the Old Port towards the West End on historic Danforth Street, and you’ll find Zen Bistro. Maine has certainly not been known for this style of food, but Zen is bringing it to us. Solid meals all around. They provide that light, fresh, Gluten Free no MSG taste that we look for in Asian Cuisine. Zen boasts that they specialize in gluten free, vegan and healthier Chinese cooking. It should also be mentioned they are the proud winners of Portland’s Best Chinese Restaurant of 2014. We had takeout this week, so for Zen to have such a good review is impressive.
You may look at the menu and think, “Eh, your standard Chinese food”, but you’ll be pleasantly surprised at Zen’s take on the traditional dishes. The freshness alone will leave you satisfied. They strike a nice balance by sticking with traditional Chinese fare, while playing to American expectations. Their lunch specials are pretty standard as far as the offerings, but have been Zenified for tastiness. You can’t beat the price point for the level of quality.
The staff at Zen are wonderful and eager to please. I can say this even though we got take out, because I have eaten there before. They have a great drink selection and the service is prompt. They also deliver, which can be hard to find in Portland for Chinese food.
Here is what some of the staff at Page One had to say:
“In terms of Portland-area Americanized Chinese fare, this is probably the best you’ll do. It’s reliable, fresh-tasting, and has some stuff you won’t get other places.”
“Zen is always good. You can always tell that they make it fresh.”
“I have always had a good experience with Zen since they first opened. Good food and generous portions.”
All of the Page One diners gave a “hell to the yes” that they would eat there again… enough said.
– Pat Robinson
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- It arrives!
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- Appetizers.
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- Someone’s excited!
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- Sesame Chicken.
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- Becky being healthy again.
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- Looks delicious.
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- Digging in!
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- Dessert!
Fast Facts:
General Tso’s Bean Curd
Honorable Mention: Chicken & Broccoli
100% of Page One employees would enthusiastically return to Zen Chinese Bistro
Words Used By Our Team to Describe the Experience:
Sticky
Satisfying
Tasty
Delicious!
Flavorful
Fried
Restaurant Details:
Website:www.ZenChineseBistro.com
Address: 45 Danforth Street, Portland, ME
Phone: 207.775.6888
Hours: Monday – Thursday 11:30am-9pm
Friday – Saturday 11:30am-10:30pm
Sunday 11:30am-9pm
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