Chong's - Newton

I've since moved away, but whenever I'm in Newton, visiting Chong's is always on my list. In July 2012, I enjoyed the same delicious food under the new management that I had cherished during Chong's tenure for over a decade. It's disheartening to think that Newton might someday be overtaken by chain restaurants, becoming just another pitstop along the highway. But as long as Chong's remains in town, I’ll have a compelling reason to take a break from the road.

Authentic cuisine awaits you at this hidden gem. It's the kind of restaurant you might overlook if you're not paying attention, so be on the lookout. It’s a small, unassuming place with a simple decor and basic seating, and the lighting isn’t particularly inviting. If you're looking for a romantic evening, this isn't the spot for you. However, the food is truly excellent. If your main objective is to enjoy great meals, you won’t be disappointed here.

My favorite is the Jop Chai, which consists of translucent rice noodles tossed with mixed vegetables and chicken. It's well-seasoned and not drowning in sauce. I also enjoy their potstickers, which are like large square dumplings filled with spiced meat and vegetables, then pan-fried. They have a fantastic taste and texture, and I always pair them with rice vinegar and hot sauce. Another favorite is their California Roll, which is hand-rolled when you order, made with cooked ingredients like rice, vegetables, egg, and sliced beef. It’s really delicious, especially with a bit of wasabi! My daughter, who is a true sushi aficionado, loves it when she visits. I also enjoy Chong's hamburgers. I don’t indulge in beef burgers often, but if I do, this is the place. The fries are excellent too! The last time my husband ordered the deluxe hamburger, which comes with a double patty and cheese, we opted for a plate of sautéed vegetables instead of fries. Apparently, no one had ever made that request before, and Chong playfully mentioned that since they just throw the vegetables together, they wouldn’t be the same if we asked for them again. However, we loved the combination of fresh and lightly fried veggies! I really appreciate restaurants where the owner is also the chef and is easily recognizable. Chong is almost always in the kitchen, keeping an eye on what you order and how you enjoy it. She recently celebrated her 25th anniversary, and it’s clear that the locals are happy about it!