Food for Thought: China Buddha Inn

By Donna Ward

China Buddha Inn is located within Franklin Mills Mall at 1920 Franklin Mills Drive. I know what you’re thinking: “a mall restaurant.” But China Buddha was full of non-mall surprises. True, China Buddha is a better takeout place than eat-in restaurant, but if you are shopping at Franklin Mills and looking for something other than your typical mall food court, China Buddha provides efficient service with tasty food.

Since the restaurant is located within Franklin Mills Mall there is no trouble finding parking spaces despite the crowds. When you enter China Buddha, the décor is as warm and inviting as the hostess and servers. Keeping with the name of the restaurant, there are Buddha statutes in strategic places ornamenting the walls throughout the establishment. The tables are kept relatively clean, as is the silverware and flatware. I was served promptly and my meal arrived in a timely fashion while still warm.

Keep reading to find out what Donna ordered.My first order was of traditional Wonton Soup. The soup was served warm in a cup and had scallions to add flavor to the already lightly seasoned broth. Next I ordered an entrée from the Chef’s Specialties section called the Four Seasons. This was a tasty dish consisting of lobster meat, shrimp, roast pork and chicken blended with broccoli and mixed vegetables. The seafood was not as good as it could have been, but the chicken blended with broccoli was a very delightful surprise. Overall, the dish was satisfactory and served, as most dishes are, with a large helping of rice. You may choose to have either fried or white rice to go with your meal. The dish was of adequate size and the rice was warm.

The prices are very reasonable for the amount of food that is provided. China Buddha is open for lunch, as well as dinner, and offers a special lunch menu with lowered prices. Takeout is also available during the hours of operation of China Buddha. Having ordered takeout, previous to my visit at China Buddha, I can say that the food is just as tasty for take home meals as it is when you dine in at the restaurant.

I highly recommend the orange flavored beef dish for meat eaters. It encompasses the correct amount of zest and the orange-flavored sauce is delectable. For vegetarians, the string beans with brown sauce dish is a must try. The sauce is not overly thick or thin and coats the string beans, adding flavor with a zing.

My time at China Buddha was enjoyable and I would venture a return. For very reasonable prices, good quantities of food and a tasty takeout menu, China Buddha is the perfect mall restaurant that offers service with a smile.