Found this gem originally in 2017 it’s now 2025 this restaurant has gotten me through middle school to now college. Huge props to the owners for keeping up the consistent good food and hospitality.
Overview
Located at 11256 Patterson Ave, Richmond, VA, West Lake Chinese Restaurant has long been a staple for those craving authentic Chinese cuisine in a welcoming and casual environment. With its extensive menu offering a variety of dishes, it’s no surprise that this restaurant has earned a loyal following in the area. Whether you're a local or a visitor, stepping into this cozy diner feels like stepping into a true representation of Chinese culinary tradition.
The moment you walk into West Lake Chinese Restaurant, you are greeted by an inviting atmosphere-one that balances the bustling energy of a restaurant with the comforting warmth of a family-run business. The interior design is simple yet effective, allowing the food to truly be the star of the show. It’s clear that this is a place where food takes center stage.
West Lake Chinese Restaurant doesn’t just cater to those looking for quick bites; it’s a spot where people can enjoy a meal in a relaxed setting. Many of the dishes are perfect for sharing, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends. One of the restaurant’s signature dishes is their crispy duck, which consistently receives rave reviews. The skin is perfectly crisp, the meat tender and flavorful, and it’s served with traditional hoisin sauce and pancakes for wrapping-creating a delightful blend of textures and flavors.
If you're looking for something a bit lighter, the restaurant also excels in its vegetable-based dishes. For example, their stir-fried bok choy, cooked just right with a subtle garlic flavor, offers a fresh yet rich taste that balances out the more indulgent meals. The variety on the menu is impressive, with options that range from sizzling hot pots to perfectly cooked seafood and noodle dishes. West Lake also offers a number of vegetarian options, ensuring that there is something for everyone.
A particular standout is their dumplings, which are handmade daily. These bite-sized pieces of goodness are stuffed with a choice of pork, beef, or vegetables, and then steamed to perfection. They're served with a tangy soy-based dipping sauce that adds just the right amount of zing to each bite. It’s a small detail like this that highlights the care and attention the kitchen puts into every dish.
The service at West Lake Chinese Restaurant is another aspect that enhances the dining experience. The waitstaff is attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable about the menu, offering recommendations when needed. They’re quick to refill drinks and always make sure that the meals are served hot and fresh. Whether you’re a regular visitor or a first-timer, you’ll feel like part of the West Lake family.
Another key element that sets this restaurant apart is its commitment to quality ingredients. From the crispness of the vegetables to the richness of the meats, everything is prepared using fresh, high-quality produce. You can tell that each dish is carefully crafted, with a perfect balance of spices and seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Customer reviews on various platforms reflect the consistent quality of the food at West Lake Chinese Restaurant. Many patrons appreciate the consistency, noting that their meals are always satisfying and that the restaurant maintains its high standards over time. One reviewer mentioned that the flavors of the dishes are “authentic and comforting,” which is exactly what you want when you’re seeking a genuine Chinese dining experience. For those looking for a place that offers both great food and a cozy atmosphere, West Lake is a top contender in Richmond.
There’s also a takeaway option for those on the go or anyone who wants to enjoy a meal from the comfort of their home. The restaurant’s online ordering system is easy to navigate, and you can expect the same high-quality food delivered right to your door. The takeaway menu mirrors the in-house menu, giving you the full West Lake experience no matter where you are.
Whether you're craving a comforting bowl of soup, a hearty stir-fry, or a flavorful seafood dish, West Lake Chinese Restaurant offers a wide selection to please any palate. It’s a place where food, family, and tradition come together, offering an authentic Chinese dining experience in the heart of Richmond.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Delivery ✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-inPopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible car park ✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
✓ Comfort food ✓ Quick bite ✓ Vegetarian optionsDining options
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Catering ✓ SeatingAmenities
✓ ToiletAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ QuietCrowd
✓ GroupsPlanning
✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ Good for kids ✓ High chairsParking
✓ Free of charge street parking ✓ Free parking lot ✓ ParkingPhotos
Location
Reviews
This place is fantastic! You can’t beat the prices, especially the lunch special. The young man who is at the front is always super friendly either in person or on the phone. The food is the best food in the area. And this isn’t just a random review! This is like my 100th order . And I swear these guys are 100/100 with not forgetting a single thing. Whenever I’m in the mood for Chinese it’s no question with my family or friends. We’re getting West Lake.
Last night, my wife and I ordered the beef and mushroom, sweet and sour chicken, crab wonton and chicken wings. I’ve been meaning to leave a review for a while because this place is our go-to Chinese restaurant near our home. The food was amazing and refreshing. They cooked the mushroom to perfection and the sauce was amazing as well. The sweet and sour was crispy and the sauce wasn’t too sweet or sour lol. I highly recommend this place to anyone on the West End.
Glad I tried for myself after reading some of the negative reviews. I’m new to this part of RIC, and have ordered twice so far. Food is the best in this area where there are just a few to choose from. I enjoyed the crispy wings, and, the pork fried rice is the best, as the rice is cooked firm and not mushy.. House special lo mein had good flavor but just needs a bit more sauce and meat. I’m a NJ girl here in VA, and this spot comes close to up North, city food. The menu has many options when you order directly from their website. Nice owner who is friendly enough, in my opinion. I hope they stay consistent with quality.
We always order the chicken wings with shrimp fried rice!!! It’s delicious! The wings have a perfect crunch & the seasoning is so flavorful! Shrimp is always tender! Yummy
We had the shrimp lo-mien for lunch (me and my good friend) today, we both loved it. Great food and service also very clean. Will go beck again to try some other dishes. Apichart