Imperial Palace

As you can see from the reviews, this is a one-man show. If you've eaten here a few times you get to know Bobby and his wonderful food. We eat here often, it is hands-down the best Chinese food in town. Eaten take-out from here nearly a dozen times, it has been excellent quality good every time.

My family has been going to Bobby's (I honestly never remember the actual name of the place- it's even in my phone as "Bobby's") for years.  My first job was at the Starbucks in the same strip as Imperial Palace, and during my lunch break I'd run over there and stuff my face with fried rice and dread going back to that evil Coffee Siren.  When my nice manager was working, we'd bring over free coffee for Bobby, and he'd be thrilled.

Once I quit the 'Bucks and went to college, I didn't see Bobby for years.  One day, probably 5 years later, I was craving Chinese, real Chinese, not PF Chang's crap- I live downtown but my boyfriend was willing to drive.  When we picked up the food, Bobby recognized me, name and everything, asked how I was, how my sister is, my family, etc.

And it isn't just me- he knows all his customers.  He's the only man in the place, and he's not young, but he's a natural people-person and an amazing cook.  He has conversations with every person who walks in (Bobby picked my boyfriend out for a vegetarian after he ordered a veggie plate- told him he'd make my boy some special tofu next time).

You're gonna wait for your food, but Bobby will tell you to sit, and you'll listen to Frank Sinatra and see Marilyn Monroe on the walls.  Then you'll get your food, and you'll eat it (there or home), and it'll be GOOD.  Big hunks of fresh chicken and veggies.  Nice hot, steamy rice.

I have leftovers at home.  I gotta get them now.

Small place and kind of a hole in the wall, but great food.  Be ready to wait a while since he's a one man show, but worth the wait.