Old (?) Chinese restaurant - East Wash.? (Madison, Sun Prairie: university, restaurants, garden)

[MoseyCat]

Obviously new to these forums, so don't shoot me if I'm getting this wrong.

There used to be a Chinese restaurant - on East Washington, I believe... with a curved/arched entrance. Is it still there? They had great food. I'm not in the area right now, so I can't do a drive-by.

While I'm here... what would be the best Chinese restaurant (in your opinion) in the Madison area? Doesn't matter whether it's a buffet or simply menu... I just NEED great Chinese food! Thanks!

[Megan1967]

There isn't great Chinese food to be found in the city, but Imperial Garden on the corner of University Ave and Allen Bld in Middleton is pretty good. The one you are thinking of, Imperial Garden on E. Wash, used to be run by the same people, but there was a falling out in the family and now they are separate. The one on East Wash isn't nearly as good.

[MoseyCat]

Thanks for the reply. Um, I'm not sure that's the place I was thinking of... did they remodel? heh The place I remember had a arched brick/stone entrance, almost circular - around the front door. It was great food at that time.
I appreciate the info. That's too bad that there isn't GREAT Chinese food. I guess I'll have to go to Middleton. :-)

[r_k]

If I recall correctly, Imperial Palace (not Garden) used to be on E.Wash about 25 years ago. Then at some point they moved to N. Sherman Ave (behind Oscar Meyer). They may have since moved (or opened a second branch) on McKee Road (aka County PD) near the intersection with Muir Field Rd. I can't remember if they had an entrance arch or not, but used to be a decent chinese option. Unfortunately haven't been there in ages so can't comment on how it is currently.

[Megan1967]

The restaurant on East Washington:
Madison chinese food, Sun Prairie chinese restaurant, DeForest chinese menu, Imperial Garden East, Dane County, WI, Monona best chinese food

The restaurant on Allen Bld:
Imperial Garden Chinese Restaurant

I forgot about Imperial Palace (on Sherman). I haven't eaten there for over ten years, but I remember the place was kind of dirty.

[MoseyCat]

This is all helpful info... thanks!

I don't do dirty anymore. heh I used to love Chinese buffets, but when you see dirt/dust, dented/crooked blinds, food stuck to wherever - no thanks. I don't understand why restaurant owners can't clean, (or why they don't get in trouble for such), but - no thanks.

[luke_simmo]

There is a Lao/Thai place on Willy street which is great.

[Ragnar]

I personally enjoy Fugu downtown. There are a TON of items on the menu including a variety of specialty meats like kidney, intenstine, blood sausuage, pork head, etc. It's not the cheapest option but that may be why it's better than most. I was there one Saturday night and it was packed out with Asian people (good sign). My Chinese coworkers all love it.

[BadgerGrl]

I know the place you're talking about. It was more upscale, as far as Chinese restaurants go. It was there about 10 years ago, if that helps at all. Might still be there, I haven't noticed.