You’re driving down Plymouth Avenue, maybe you’ve just finished a long shift or you’re tired of the same old fast food, and there it is. Top China DeLand FL. Honestly, it looks like every other strip-mall Chinese spot you’ve ever seen. But if you’re a local, you know that’s exactly where the magic happens.
It's tucked away at 109 E Plymouth Ave, and it’s basically a staple of DeLand’s dining scene. If you've lived here for more than a week, you've likely seen the white-and-red boxes sitting on someone’s kitchen counter. But for all its popularity, there are a few things people get totally wrong about how to order and what to expect from this local powerhouse.
The Mystery Behind the Counter
Most people think these places are just giant franchises. Kinda like a McChinese. That’s actually not the case here. Records from the Florida Division of Corporations show that the business at this address has been registered under names like New Top’s China LLC and was previously linked to individuals like Zhipin Lin. This isn’t some corporate behemoth; it’s a family-run operation.
The vibe inside is... well, it's utilitarian. Don't go in expecting a candle-lit dinner or a fancy waiter in a tuxedo. You’re going there for the food, which is usually ready in about ten or fifteen minutes. It’s that New York style takeout feel—fast, hot, and slightly chaotic during the Friday night rush.
Why the Beef and Broccoli is the Real Litmus Test
I’ve tried a lot of things on the menu, but you’ve gotta understand that the Beef and Broccoli is the true measure of a Chinese kitchen. At Top China, they don’t overcook the broccoli until it’s mush. It still has that snap.
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The sauce isn’t just a salt bomb either. It has those deep, savory umami notes that only come from a high-heat wok. If you’re a first-timer, start there. Or, if you’re feeling a bit more traditional, the Sweet and Sour Chicken is a massive hit with the kids—though, honestly, I’ve seen plenty of grown adults devour a large order by themselves.
Navigating the Menu Like a Pro
The menu is massive. Like, "how do they even fit all this in one kitchen" massive. They cover the big three: Szechuan, Hunan, and Cantonese cuisine. But let's be real—this is the Americanized version we all crave.
- Lunch Specials: These are the unsung heroes. Usually available until 3:00 or 4:00 PM, they come with pork fried rice and a choice of soup or an egg roll. It’s arguably the best bang for your buck in DeLand.
- The "Health Food" Section: Yeah, they actually have one. If you’re trying to keep it light, you can get steamed chicken and vegetables with the sauce on the side.
- The Hidden Gems: Don't sleep on the Ma Po Tofu. It's got that spicy kick that wakes up your palate without ruining your night.
What Most People Get Wrong About Delivery
One of the biggest gripes you’ll see in online reviews involves delivery times. Here’s the deal: Top China is popular. Like, really popular. If you order through a third-party app during a rainstorm on a Friday night, yeah, it might take a while.
Kinda funny how we expect instant gratification, right? Honestly, if you’re in a hurry, the pro move is pick-up. You get to see the kitchen in action—the fire, the clanging of the woks, the sheer speed of the staff. It’s impressive.
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Breaking Down the Schedule
If you're planning your week around a lo mein craving, take note of their hours. They aren't open 24/7.
- Monday - Tuesday: 10:30 AM to 10:00 PM
- Wednesday: CLOSED (This is the one that trips everyone up!)
- Thursday: 10:30 AM to 10:00 PM
- Friday - Saturday: 10:30 AM to 10:30 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Wait, why Wednesday? A lot of family-owned spots pick a midweek day to rest and do inventory. Don't be the person pulling on a locked door on a Wednesday afternoon.
The "Authenticity" Debate
Is it "authentic" Chinese food? That’s a tricky question. If you’re looking for the specific regional delicacies you’d find in a back alley in Chengdu, you’re in the wrong place. But if you’re looking for the authentic American-Chinese experience that has become its own culinary tradition? Top China DeLand FL hits the nail on the head.
It’s comfort food. It’s the food you eat when you’re celebrating a good grade, or when you’ve had a terrible day and just need a mountain of fried rice. There’s a specific kind of soul in a family-run takeout joint that you just don't get at a national chain like Panda Express.
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Survival Tips for Your Next Visit
If you want the best experience at Top China, there are a few "unspoken rules" you should follow.
- Be Specific with the Spice: If you like it hot, tell them. Their "spicy" is usually calibrated for a general audience. If you want your General Tso’s to actually bite back, ask for "extra spicy."
- Check the Bag: They’re fast, and sometimes things get missed. Check for your soy sauce, duck sauce, and those crispy noodles for the soup before you drive off.
- Cash or Card?: They take cards, but having a few bucks in cash for a tip is always a class act. These folks work incredibly hard in a hot kitchen.
Top China DeLand FL isn't trying to be a five-star Michelin restaurant. It’s trying to be your go-to spot for reliable, tasty, and affordable food. And for the people of DeLand, it’s been doing exactly that for years.
Next Steps for Your Order:
- Check the latest menu online as prices in the restaurant industry have been shifting lately.
- If you’re ordering for a group, try the Family Special or a few of the Chef’s Specialties like the "Happy Family" to get a bit of everything.
- Call ahead at (386) 734-9947 to skip the wait at the counter.