Hunan Chinese Restaurant

While on a road trip last week, my wife and i stayed at the Best Western just along the road from this Chinese. We decided to give it a shot, based on the sole previous review, we got it to take out. Good choice!

The woman who served us (probably the owner) didn't speak fluent english. She was pleasant and friendly non the less.

The food was expensive!! For two meals and one soup it was $34! For take out! No way was the food worth half of that. They also only accept cash! It is 2013 right? I know we were in East Palatka but it's still Florida, USA! Only cash, really?

The food was fine. If it was cheaper i might have enjoyed it more expect i had high expectations because of the price.

Like the previous review i'd advice you to NOT sit in! I took some photo's to back up my advice.

Bottom Line: This quaint and affordable Chinese restaurant has quickly become a favorite stopping point on the way from Gainesville to St. Augustine.  

The food is absolutely delicious and quite fresh, with a wide variety, from traditional fare like whole fish and garlic spinach to popular dishes like lo-mein noodles, orange chicken and chinese-style fried chicken.  If you're looking for something not on the menu, like their amazing candied bananas (fried and dipped in molasses) try asking for it too, and if they have it in stock they are happy to oblige.  The dumplings have quickly become a favorite - basically everything I grew up loving to eat I can find here, and lots more!

The service is friendly - chances are you'll be greeted and served by one of the owners of the restaurant, and while her English is a little choppy, it in no way detracts from the service.

The one criticism would be the ambiance - a little bland and often very quiet.  Don't be surprised to be the only ones there.  It's interesting to see the number of people who order take-out from this place, which both attests to how much people like the food, but perhaps less-so the dine-in experience.  The place is on the small-side as well, with about 12 or so tables.  On the plus side, during the day the place is brightly lit and in spite of the few tables, it doesn't feel cramped.  Additionally, it's quite clean inside, a huge plus.  Check out the picture of the interior posted above.

All in all if you like Chinese food, this is the place to stop by in Palatka.  Coming from Gainesville to the beach or the outlet malls, I love stopping by here for lunch or dinner.  It may be a little hard to find - located in the shopping plaza next to the Hitchcock's grocery, but it's definitely worth it.