4.1
(
298
)
China Palace Restaurant specializes in authentic dim sum and classic Chinese cuisine with a focus on fresh ingredients and fast service. Guests can dine indoors or on the street-facing patio, enjoying a casual yet refined setting with attentive staff and a broad menu including vegetarian options.
What to Expect:
🥟 Signature dim sum offerings
🍜 Extensive classic Chinese dishes
☀️ Street-facing patio and casual dining room
Important Information:
Accepts reservations for dine-in
Outdoor seating available
Free parking lot and street parking
Perfect for lunch, dinner, solo dining, and groups seeking comforting Chinese flavors in Montecito.
Haley's Pick 🍽️
You probably know her as @milehighandhungry. Each week, Haley shares the one place she’s obsessed with right now. From hidden gems to hot new openings, if she picks it, it’s worth the hype.
Haley's Review of Riot BBQ
Riot BBQ on South Delaware feels like a backyard cookout run by a Top Chef, because it is. Chef Manny Barella and pitmaster Patrick Klaiber have teamed up to blend Monterrey flavors with Texas-style smoke, and the results are seriously craveable.
The brisket steals the show: tender, deeply smoky, and finished with Barella’s bold spice rub. Get it solo or wrapped in buttery Raquelita tortillas. The pulled pork brings heat with ancho, guajillo, and morita chiles, and the al pastor ribs are sticky, sweet, and slightly charred in all the right ways.
Even the sides are insanely good! Think crunchy pepita-macha slaw and banana pudding served in a jar that tastes just like childhood (but better). Every bite feels intentional.
It’s barbecue with heart, history, and just the right amount of heat. Riot BBQ isn’t just a meal, it’s a moment worth lining up for.
– Haley @milehighandhungry
📍 Local Insights
🥟 Must-Try Dim Sum: Regulars rave about the cream cheese wontons and homemade pork pot stickers as standouts.
🍵 Tea Pairings: Try the great tea selection to complement your meal for a full traditional experience.
☀️ Patio Seating Perk: The street-facing patio offers a relaxed, cozy vibe ideal for sunny Montecito days.
🚗 Parking Tips: Free parking lots flank the building, but street parking is also available and usually sufficient.
⏰ Hours
Monday: 11:30 AM–9:00 PM
Tuesday: 11:30 AM–9:00 PM
Wednesday: 11:30 AM–9:00 PM
Thursday: 11:30 AM–9:00 PM
Friday: 11:30 AM–9:00 PM
Saturday: 11:30 AM–9:00 PM
Sunday: 11:30 AM–9:00 PM
👉 Best For
Dim sum lovers, families, casual dining, groups, lunch and dinner
China Palace Restaurant
1070 Coast Village Rd
,
Montecito
,
CA
93108
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
China Palace Restaurant is praised for its authentic flavor, friendly staff, and consistently fresh and tasty dishes, especially the dim sum and classic offerings. While the atmosphere is casual and somewhat dated, the attentive service and value earn high marks. Some negative reviews highlight occasional slow order handling and inconsistent seasoning, but these are outnumbered by positive feedback on food quality and hospitality.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
From The preserve
Standout Dishes
Go For
The Selection
Accommodations
Course Stats
Angler’s Offerings
What You'll Find
Dim Sum, Cream Cheese Wontons, Soup (Egg Drop, Sizzling Rice Soup, Wor Wonton), Moo Shu Vegetable, Ma Po Tofu, Sesame Beef, Orange Chicken, Mongolian Beef, Jasmine Tea, Pot Stickers, Seafood Chow Fun, Fried Rice, Vegetarian Orange Chicken
📆 Best Times to Visit
Weekday lunch before 12 PM avoids the busiest periods; dinner hits peak around 6-7 PM, reserve ahead for groups or weekends.
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance, parking lot, seating, and restroom ensure ease of access for mobility-impaired guests.
Reservation Policy
Reservations accepted for dine-in; walk-ins welcome; no strict grace period noted
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✅ Cancellation Policy
None
