Chen Golden Palace - El Cajon

Amazing food! Generous portions! The To-go containers were literally overflowing! Super sweet people, bring cash!

As a patron of Chen's Golden Palace for over 25 years, I can confidently say it's a culinary treasure trove nestled in the heart of El Cajon. This spot holds a special place in my heart, harking back to evenings in high school when my mom and I savored their delightful dishes.Walking in, I'm greeted by Ann, the heart and soul of this establishment. Her genuine interest in my family, remembering my mom after all these years, adds a personal touch to every visit.Now, let's talk about the food—each dish feels like a culinary embrace steeped in tradition. The lemon chicken bursts with tangy flavors, while the sweet and sour chicken or pork hits that perfect balance of sweet and tangy. And the orange chicken? Crispy and satisfying every single time.The salt and pepper wings? They're an absolute must-try, offering a tantalizing crunch and a kick of flavor. When it comes to soups, their hot sweet and sour soup and egg flower soup are like a warm hug on a chilly day.The pork dumplings and veggie and chicken egg rolls are little parcels of joy, packed with flavors that never disappoint. And the fried rice? Let's just say it's the stuff dreams are made of—a fragrant, flavorful delight that never fails to impress.What sets Chen's Golden Palace apart is their commitment to freshness—everything is made to order, ensuring that every bite is as delightful as the last. The ambiance might be unassuming, but the dedication to authentic, quality cuisine shines through.Operating on a cash-only basis adds to its charm—a nod to simpler times where the focus is purely on the incredible flavors and the connections made over shared meals.Every visit feels like coming home to flavors that have become a part of my life's story. Chen's Golden Palace isn't just a restaurant; it's a place where cherished memories and exceptional cuisine converge, making each visit an experience worth savoring.

The food is great and the lady that runs it is the absolute sweetest!

The only thing I love and crave here is their Spicy Shrimp Noodles. It's my go-to anytime I make the drive to El Cajon. This really is a hole in the wall place, so make sure you bring cash. To save time, I always call ahead and place my order. The lady is so sweet there too, you will see.

Hubby son went for lunch yesterday, 02.03.2024. They walked in and said a horrible odor hit them full in the face. They went ahead and took a seat in the back, anyway, and the odor seemed to dissipat only to return shortly afterwards when the food was served. They paid and left w/o asking for a box for leftovers. They now suspect this place has backed-up sewer problems. Won’t ever go back. Sorry, we love Chinese food and we were hoping. The Chen’s in Carlsbad is better and Golden Harbor off Avocado in La Mesa is excellent. ?