Finding a reliable Chinese takeout spot in a small town can feel like a high-stakes gamble. You’re hungry, you want something specific, and you really don’t want to end up with a soggy mess of lukewarm noodles. If you find yourself in Harrington, Delaware, looking for the China King Harrington menu, you’ve probably realized that local digital listings are a bit of a mess.
Honestly, it’s frustrating. One site shows prices from five years ago, while another mixes up the Harrington location with the one in Middletown or Wilmington.
I’ve spent a lot of time digging through what’s actually being served at the 1000 Midway Drive location. This isn't just about listing dishes; it's about knowing which items are worth your money and which ones are just filler.
The Essentials of the China King Harrington Menu
Located right near the Food Lion, China King is that classic, no-frills Chinese kitchen. You know the vibe—plexiglass at the counter, a few faded photos of food on the wall, and the constant hiss of a wok in the back.
Their menu is massive. It covers the standard American-Chinese hits, but they also have some oddities that cater to local tastes, like the Pizza Twist. Yeah, you read that right. In this part of Delaware, the line between "Chinese food" and "local snack bar" gets a little blurry.
Appetizers and Quick Bites
The starters here are pretty much the "greatest hits" of takeout. If you’re grabbing a quick lunch, the Egg Rolls (usually around $2.00) are the standard crispy, cabbage-filled affair.
- Shrimp Rolls: A slightly more premium crunch than the veggie version.
- Crabmeat Rangoon: These are the crowd-pleasers. Eight pieces for about $6.00. They’re heavy on the cream cheese, which, let’s be real, is what everyone actually wants.
- Boneless Spare Ribs: These are the red-tinged, sweet, and smoky strips that are basically candy for adults. A small order is usually enough to regret later, but you'll eat it all anyway.
- Dumplings: You can get them steamed or fried. If you’re driving home, get them fried so they don’t turn into a gummy ball in the container.
The Heavy Hitters: Poultry and Beef
When people search for the China King Harrington menu, they're usually looking for the combos. In Harrington, the "Combination Plates" are the smartest way to eat. They come with pork fried rice and an egg roll. It’s a lot of food for under $10 or $11.
General Tso's Chicken is the undisputed king here. It’s sweet, it’s spicy (but not "hurt you" spicy), and it’s consistently the most ordered item.
Then there’s the Beef with Broccoli. It’s the safe bet. The sauce is a dark, savory brown that coats the florets without making them mushy. For those who want something with more of a kick, the Hunan Beef or Szechuan Beef are the way to go. They use more peppers and a slightly more complex, vinegary heat.
The Weird and the Local: Pizza and Sandwiches
This is where China King in Harrington diverges from your typical city takeout. Because they share space in a town that loves its "Pizza King" style snacks, you’ll find Pizza Twists and Cheese Steak Twists on the menu.
It’s basically a calzone-adjacent dough pocket filled with meats and cheeses. Is it authentic Chinese cuisine? Absolutely not. Is it a local staple that people order along with their Lo Mein? You bet.
Why the Mixed Reviews?
If you look them up online, you’ll see some people raving about the "best food in town" while others are... less kind. Some customers have complained about the shrimp being bland or the broccoli being undercooked.
Here’s the thing: China King is a high-volume, small-staff operation. If you go during the Friday night rush, things might get a little inconsistent. But for a Tuesday night craving? It usually hits the spot.
What to Order if You’re Being "Healthy"
Most people don't go to China King to lose weight. However, their Diet Mains or "Health Food Section" is actually pretty solid. They offer steamed versions of:
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- Steamed Chicken with Broccoli: No oil, no salt, sauce on the side. It sounds boring, but their brown sauce on the side is actually quite flavorful.
- Steamed Shrimp with Mixed Vegetables: You get a decent amount of jumbo shrimp and a mix of carrots, snow peas, and water chestnuts.
Practical Tips for Your Order
Don't rely 100% on the prices you see on third-party delivery apps. They often mark things up by 15-20%. If you want the real deal, call them directly at their Midway Drive number.
- Timing: They usually open around 11:00 AM. Lunch specials run until about 3:00 PM and are the best value on the entire China King Harrington menu.
- The "Secret" Rice: If you aren't a fan of the dark, soy-heavy pork fried rice that comes with combos, you can usually ask for "white fried rice" (no soy) or just plain white rice to save a few calories.
- Portion Control: A "Large" or "Quart" of soup is actually enough for two people. Don't over-order the Wonton Soup unless you're planning on leftovers for breakfast.
Dealing with the Service
The staff is efficient. They aren't there to chat about your day; they're there to get the food out hot. Don't mistake brevity for rudeness. It's just the pace of the kitchen.
If you're visiting Harrington for the State Fair or the Casino and you need a break from "fair food," this is a solid, predictable alternative. It’s fast, it’s filling, and it’s exactly what you expect it to be.
Next Steps for Your Meal
Before you head out or pick up the phone, make sure you have the correct location. There are dozens of "China Kings" in the tri-state area. You want the one at 1000 Midway Dr, Harrington, DE 19952. Check your wallet for cash, as some smaller shops in the area still prefer it for small orders, though they do take cards. If you're ordering for a group, stick to the Happy Family or Triple Crown specialties—they offer a bit of everything and usually please the whole crowd.