If you've lived in Boone for more than a week, you’ve probably driven past that familiar storefront on Blowing Rock Road. It’s a staple. You know the one. For some, it’s the reliable Friday night takeout spot; for others, it’s the place where you can actually get full without draining your bank account. But honestly, navigating the New China restaurant Boone menu isn't always as straightforward as just picking a number and hoping for the best.
Prices have shifted. The buffet landscape isn't what it was three years ago. If you aren't careful, you might end up with a plate of lukewarm broccoli when you were really craving that specific, crispy General Tso’s kick. Let's get into what’s actually worth your money right now.
The Buffet vs. Takeout Dilemma
Most people think the buffet is the only way to go at New China. It’s convenient. You see the food; you grab the food. But here is the thing: the kitchen often puts more "love" (and heat) into the made-to-order items. If you're there at 2:00 PM on a Tuesday, the buffet might look a little sad. That’s just the reality of high-altitude dining in a college town.
If you’re ordering off the New China restaurant Boone menu for pickup, you’re looking at a different experience. The portions are massive. We are talking "leftovers for two days" massive.
The Heavy Hitters You Should Know
- General Tso’s Chicken: This is the benchmark. At New China, it’s usually around $14.45 for a large order. It’s got that cornstarch crunch that holds up even after a 10-minute drive back to campus or your apartment.
- Crab Rangoon: You get eight of these for about $4.95. They are heavy on the cream cheese, which is exactly what most people want, even if the "crab" is more of a suggestion than a primary ingredient.
- House Special Lo Mein: This is the move if you can’t decide on a protein. It’s got shrimp, chicken, and roast pork tangled up in those soft, soy-slicked noodles. It’s currently hovering around the $8.45 mark for a pint, but get the quart. Trust me.
Why the "Special Diet" Section Actually Matters
It’s easy to ignore the back page of a Chinese takeout menu. You’re here for the fried stuff, right? Well, sort of. The New China restaurant Boone menu has a surprisingly decent "Special Diet Menu" that is basically just steamed everything.
Look, Boone is a fit town. Between the hikers and the App State athletes, people actually order the Steamed Chicken with Broccoli ($8.50). The sauce comes on the side. This is a game-changer because you can control the salt and sugar levels. If you’ve ever felt that "MSG fog" after a heavy meal, this is your workaround. It’s fresh, it’s fast, and it doesn’t make you want to nap for six hours immediately after eating.
The Price Reality Check in 2026
Let's talk about the money. Everything is more expensive than it used to be. A few years ago, you could get out of there for under ten bucks. Now, with inflation and the cost of logistics in the High Country, a standard combination platter—the kind that comes with pork fried rice and an egg roll—is going to run you closer to $11 or $12.
The Pu Pu Platter is the most expensive "single" item at around $17.75. It’s meant for two people, featuring beef sticks, wings, and ribs. Is it gourmet? No. Is it the ultimate social food for a dorm room hang? Absolutely.
Common Misconceptions About the Menu
People often complain that the fried rice is "bland." I hear it all the time. But you have to remember that takeout fried rice is designed to be a base. It’s meant to soak up the garlic sauce from your Szechuan Beef or the gravy from the Egg Foo Young ($14.00 for a large).
If you eat the rice solo, yeah, it might feel a bit uninspired. But mix it with that House Special Soup ($9.00), and you’ve got a completely different meal. Also, the "spicy" levels here are... subjective. If you really want heat, you have to ask for it. The default "spicy" is calibrated for a general audience, which usually means "mildly tingly" at best.
Actionable Tips for Your Next Visit
To get the best experience out of New China, don't just walk in blindly.
- Timing is Everything: If you want the buffet, go between 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM. That is when the turnover is highest, and the food is freshest.
- Order the "C" Numbers: The Combination Platters (labeled C1 through C18) are objectively the best value. You get an entree, rice, and a side (soup or egg roll) for one price.
- Check Your Bag: It’s a busy spot. Before you drive off into the Boone fog, make sure your duck sauce and soy sauce are in there.
- Cash vs. Card: They take cards, but there’s sometimes a minimum for delivery or certain specials. Keeping a ten-dollar bill on you isn't a bad idea in this part of town.
New China isn't trying to be a five-star Michelin experience. It’s a cornerstone of the Boone food scene because it’s consistent and plentiful. Whether you're a student looking for a cheap lunch or a local family picking up dinner on a rainy Tuesday, knowing the nuances of the menu makes all the difference. Check the "Chef's Specialties" for the Bourbon Chicken if you want something sweet—it’s a sleeper hit that most people overlook for the more famous General Tso's.