Business Information
RestaurantsMasterCard
performance
| MONDAY | : | CLOS | - | |
| TUESDAY | : | 11:00AM | - | 9:30PM |
| WEDNESDAY | : | 11:00AM | - | 9:30PM |
| THURSDAY | : | 11:00AM | - | 9:30PM |
| FRIDAY | : | 11:00AM | - | 10:30PM |
| SATURDAY | : | 11:00AM | - | 10:30PM |
| SUNDAY | : | 11:00AM | - | 9:30PM |
Message from the Business
It's hard to appease the masses, but China Cafe has done a superb job. Stop in for a pleasant dining experience with your family, a drink with your friends, or carry-out for a quiet night at home. The food is consistently tasty, fresh and top quality; and the service prompt and friendly. You can count on China Cafe for continuously raising the bar. Always a new emerging dish on the menu, a recommended wine to sip and a "Cheers" like atmosphere with plenty of regulars. Key ingredients to this magnificent "diamond in the rough" are co-owners, husband and wife, Kelly and Susana Chang. Come into China Cafe and experience Asian fusion at its best.
provided by
CitySearch
Top Sentiments among China Cafe Reviewers
Unique dishes
Great Orange chicken
Delicious ginger coconut sauces
VERY MENU BUT
Awesome Crab Rangoons
Delicious chicken chow fun
Exceptional Cuisine
Spicy pepper shrimp
Fresh Sea Bass
Best leaf lettuce salad
Customer Reviews (84 reviews)
Preston1
on Citysearch Sep 13, 2009Don't miss China Cafe for lunch, dinner or take out! Always a top notch experience! ALWAYS! (more)
Tortman01
on Citysearch Jan 13, 2009Great place to eat, hang out for a cocktail or pickup a carryout. The food was fantastic and the owner you can tell takes great pride in his food. I sat at the bar to eat. Very little smoke and the service was... (more)
sketch854
on Citysearch Dec 21, 2008It is perhaps the best Chinese food store in the entire area. The people are very amiable and the food is consistently good. I have the orange chicken almost once a week as my reward for making it through the week. I have... (more)
stonehindge
on Citysearch Nov 24, 2008I traveled from the East side of Detroit to experience exceptional Chinese Cuisine @ the China Cafe. The atmosphere and freshly prepared Chinese Cuisine was fantastic. I did not realize how the food could differ in... (more)
CrabRangoonFan
on Citysearch Nov 20, 2008The food is not the best I have ever had; though the crab rangoon can't compete w/ anyone else's!! (Golden House Chinese Restaurant in Howell, MI ROCKS!! ) The servers watch you like hawks (kind of makes you feel like... (more)
ElizabethandCal
on Citysearch Nov 11, 2008If you have never tried China Cafe, you owe it to yourself to do so! But be prepared, this restaurant completely redefines the 'Chinese restaurant' experience. From the comfortable, contemporary decor to the... (more)
Grackle75
on Citysearch Sep 21, 2008I have been going to China Cafe regularly since it opened. Kelly and Susanah are fantastic people - one or both is always up front to greet and talk with guests. The food and service is consistently excellent, and it is... (more)
KBlumenthal
on Citysearch Aug 04, 2008Always pop into China Cafe when I'm in the Twelve Oaks Area. I'm never dispointed! Very clean and incredibly freindly service. (more)
Jenmason74
on Citysearch Jul 17, 2008I absolutely love the food here!! They need to open more locations so I can go there more often. Kelly & Suzanna are so welcoming and friendly. They will prepare any dish that you like, even if it's not on the menu.... (more)
dontlikechinacafe
on Citysearch Jul 10, 2008I used work nearby for 2 years and HAD to go to this place a number of times. I can't understand all the hype about this place. I have tried almost every dish on the menu and can definitely say that it doesn't deserve it.... (more)
therightwinger
on Citysearch Jun 22, 2008Don't go out of your way. The rambling and subjective reviews are written by vainglorious locals who think Novi is the culinary center of the universe. In one sentence: if you think the Lions are going to win the Super... (more)
Scott625
on Citysearch Jun 21, 2008Can't say enough about China Cafe. The owners Kelly and Susana personally greet their guests and make everyone feel welcome. China Cafe is such a wonderful resprit from the national "cookie cutter" chains. Great... (more)
wigbomber
on Citysearch Jun 13, 2008Please ignore the supercilious jerkoffs who've given China Cafe a 1 out of 5 here. It's ridiculous to call this restaurant "lower than the average" typical neighborhood spot, or whatever the Einstein who made that... (more)
backatchadave
on Citysearch May 12, 2008I know why this restaurant is popular!!! The people at the table next to me were so drunk they could have been eating dog food. I'm not kidding. They kept ordering round after round. Drunks will scarf down anything just... (more)
cumberbun2you
on Citysearch May 10, 2008Did not care for the food or ambiance. Do not understand all the hype. It is on the low end (very low end) of typical suburban Chinese fare. There is a bar scene but that is not why we drove 15 miles. We will not return to The... (more)
novivince
on Citysearch May 03, 2008We have no affiliation with any other local resturant. Don't own one. Don't work in one. We work hard and don't like to be conned when we spend money eating out. From the looks of the other people who have written reviews... (more)
glockautomaticpistol
on Citysearch Apr 20, 2008Just went there tonight and I was impressed! I was skeptical due to some of the bad reviews on here but was persuaded to go check it out and was pleasantly surprised! Orange chicken was great as was the fried rice soup and... (more)
KatFuller
on Citysearch Apr 10, 2008I'm looking for a Chinese restaurant where I can eat: I have an MSG allergy. Not this one! I asked for steamed tofu in Genreal Tso's sauce and steamed vegetables in rice with some kind of tasty sauce with no MSG and no... (more)
NorthvilleNoshes
on Citysearch Feb 02, 2008Are you kidding me? People HONESTLY think that this is a one-star restaurant? I call shenanigans- these negative reviews are likely from owners of competing restaurants trying to bring down the best Chinese... (more)
deelane67
on Citysearch Jan 06, 2008After reading the reviews, we tried the China Cafe. Sorry to say we have to agree with the ones that say many of the 5 star reviews for The China Cafe must be a hoax. 100% FICTION. The China Cafe is a local watering hole that... (more)
crosseyc
on Citysearch Jan 06, 2008We called ahead for reservations since we were a large party (6 adults and 4 kids). The staff were friendly, energetic, helpful and made us feel quite at home. The Sea Bass was very fresh and delicious. I ordered mine a... (more)
fuzzy12
on Citysearch Dec 28, 2007The food tasted old. Service was poor. The vibe was just terrible. It's like half a resturant and half a 19th hole kind of place. (more)
novi_norm
on Citysearch Dec 26, 2007Calling China Cafe 'medicore' would be a compliment. We were tricked by the padded reviews. The food is tasteless. China Cafe must bribe their "favorite" customers with free food or free drinks to write glowing... (more)
gastro42
on Citysearch Nov 29, 2007Don't do it...You will be disapointent if you eat here. food is bad and atmosphere is noisy................. (more)
wolverinepower
on Citysearch Nov 14, 2007Always in the mood to try a new Chinese restaurant in the area -- I gave China Cafe a shot. I took two friends for dinner. None of us drink beer, wine or mixed drinks. The waitress ignored us after we ordered water. I'll... (more)
hamiltks
on Citysearch Nov 02, 2007I never post in these sites...but the review before mine prompted me to do it this time. The China Cafe is so highly rated by other members here BECAUSE of the service the owners and staff provide. I know not everybody... (more)
sandtrap77
on Citysearch Sep 25, 2007Citysearch never failed us until the china cafe. After our very mediocre meal, I took another look at the reviews on this page. I wondered how so many customers could revel in such unimaginative food. Over 75% of... (more)
bob_and_nancy
on Citysearch Aug 05, 2007We ate at China Cafe and we will never return. The generic sauces could have been poured from a bottle. The flavors were non-existant. We ventured into the China Cafe based on word of mouth. That is the problem. This is... (more)
james54
on Citysearch Aug 01, 2007I have frequented China Cafe for several years now, for three reasons: their service, the food and its value. To me, a great chef is defined by his sauces. This is what separates Kelly Chang's food from the other... (more)
fairway123
on Citysearch Jun 16, 2007My wife is Chinese. We lived in China. We went to the China Cafe in Novi based on positve reviews @citysearch. What a terrible letdown. The food is not Chinese. I could go into detail about each item -- but what's the... (more)
bowlersaid
on Citysearch May 06, 2007I love chinese food, and have lived all over this country. One of my favorite dishes is the aforementioned Mongolian Beef. I have looked all over my general area (Dearborn, Westland) with little sucess on finding... (more)
uselessmail
on Citysearch Feb 25, 2007After reading numerous reviews here on CitySearch we decided to give it a try on a whim one day. We were in the area and stopped by for some takeout. This place was HOPPING, it was a Friday evening around 5:30pm. The... (more)
marley1964
on Citysearch Feb 06, 2007I went there today after reading all the great feedback from this site.I found the place just so-so.Nothing to rave about-the food was just medicore.Service was not the best I had to hunt someone down just to get some... (more)
tortman
on Citysearch Jan 14, 2007Fantastic service and a great place to have few cocktails and a bite of food with the many regulars that frequent the bar every night. Ps. They also serve a fantastic shot (more)
catherinek1
on Citysearch Jan 13, 2007I found China Cafe to be the best tasting Chinese food I've found in the states. The wait-staff was more than friendly from entry to exit, always attentive but not bothersome. The food was plentiful (I've never left... (more)
dk005
on Citysearch Jan 12, 2007To me there is no other Chinese resturant to go to. The food is the best I've tasted, ever. Don't get me wrong, I still like to grille a juicy steak on my own, but you really have to eat this food to be able to describe it. The... (more)
umalum
on Citysearch Dec 21, 2006With all due respect, WAY too much hype on this one. Food was good but not great. Overpriced given the quality and portions. Wait staff was less than attentive, bordering on rude. Perhaps others see something we... (more)
rtk1977
on Citysearch Dec 15, 2006Although you wouldn't suspect it from the exterior, this is a really great Chinese restaurant. This was my first time eating there and I was glad to discover that they can back up the hype. The restaurant was busy... (more)
missstarstatus
on Citysearch Dec 12, 2006I found China Cafe on Citysearch and realize it's rated high for a reason -- EVERYTHING is good here and the staff is super friendly. If you live far, the drive is worth the experience. The owners are right at the... (more)
Contributor
on Citysearch Nov 26, 2006<b>In Short</b><br>A fish tank and full bar welcome patrons before they enter the main dining room, which features a warm and comfortable blend of traditional Chinese decor with a modern flair. Regulars insist... (more)
kee22
on Citysearch Nov 14, 2006We ate here tonight...and it was definately worth the trip. We ate a late dinner, so the place seemed more like a bar with some tables...but it was a cute place. The waitress recommended the dinner for 4 for us..and it... (more)
mgrat
on Citysearch Oct 23, 2006I went purely off of the reviews on city search even down to what people ordered and they were all right! (more)
lkepes
on Citysearch Aug 16, 2006This is the best Chiniese in the metro area!!! Not only is the food consistantly good, the service is excellent and the owners are so welcoming! I wouldn't go anywhere else! (more)
airman12288
on Citysearch Jul 24, 2006I didn't even like Chinese food until I went to the China Cafe. Now it is "My" place to go. Suzanne and Kelly, the owners, and their staff make sure you are right at home. Everything on the menu is great but don't be afraid... (more)
zoey55
on Citysearch Jun 07, 2006Try the sesame chicken, it's amazing. It is a little on the expensive side but worth the money. They are also closed on Monday. (more)
edintsch
on Citysearch Apr 05, 2006We are so very pleased with the meal we just had. The service was wonderful, the food was wonderful. There is nothing bad about this restaurant. I was so surprised at the prices, very reasonable.... (more)
corrbs
on Citysearch Mar 19, 2006We've been looking for that "goto" Chinese restaurant - and we've finally found it on Citysearch. Good value, great service, and (get this) better than PF Changs. The dinner for two special: soup, egg rolls... (more)
idiotsavant
on Citysearch Feb 12, 2006i've been here a few times and i have to say that this place is the best place to get great chinese food, and its hard to find it here in detroit. The food is savory and light, as opposed to most chinese restaurants. But the... (more)
hf9988
on Citysearch Feb 11, 2006Warm and friendly service, with great Asian hospitality. The food is dilicious and the price is fair. Most Chinese restaurants do not have bars, it's amazing that China Cafe has one with good service .... (more)
jaelimx1
on Citysearch Feb 09, 2006the food was fantastiic the aptmosphere was great had a get time you should definitly try this place (more)
paulsherbeck
on Citysearch Jan 12, 2006Great Food & Conversation. The Real China Cafe Experience is to come early, have a Diet Pepsi with Lime at the bar, relax, strike up a conversation with other patrons and/or the owners. Excellent Starters !!! Son John... (more)
mary1020
on Citysearch Jan 07, 2006This restaurant is the closest thing to "Cheers" in your neighborhood, without Cliff and Norm. My husband and I discovered this place when they opened, soon after we moved to Novi. We highly recommend this... (more)
haoivy
on Citysearch Nov 08, 2005I have been to a lot of chinese restaurant .This one is by far the best ,the most friendly restaurant i have ever been to.My boyfriend and i had lettce wrap for appetizer,their lettce wrap is the best lettce wrap i ever... (more)
watty
on Citysearch Sep 02, 2005When you see it on the strip mall it isn't something you'd think would be a restaurant you might want to come back to, but once you enter you can tell from the atmosphere that you will be back again and again. After moving... (more)
tcarey1968
on Citysearch May 28, 2005The best chinese food in town!!! I've been to almost all in town and China Cafe still out does them all. Great owners, people, atmosphere, FOOD and prices. I'm a lifer.... (more)
hless
on Citysearch May 27, 2005I travel to Detroit often and make a point to visit the China Cafe each time. Meals are unique, fresh and consistently great. The hosts are wonderful and make you feel comfortable even when dining alone. Don't miss the... (more)
lancertool
on Citysearch May 27, 2005If you like Chinese food this is the place. From the lettuce wraps to the stir fried rice noodles evrything is top notch!! Great atmosphere and the service is great. If you are in the Novi area China Cafe is a must.... (more)
lancerman
on Citysearch May 27, 2005Chine Cafe does a great job acros the board. Kelly and Susanna make you feel at home and the service is great. I reccomend ordering off the board for the house specials. I had the Beef and Ausparugus last week and it was... (more)
billybobby1
on Citysearch May 26, 2005I live in Wisconsin, however I travel to Detroit often. I always make it a priority to visit China Cafe when in town not only for the fantastic food but for the overall ambiance and friendly atmosphere. There is no doubt... (more)
rwwinters
on Citysearch May 26, 2005You can rely on the consistently high quality service and value at the China Cafe. I highly recommend this restaurant for a food and service experience that can't be beat. The staff is friendly, the food is... (more)
drewdagosta
on Citysearch May 26, 2005There is nothing I can write to explain how good the food is at China Cafe. The only thing I can say is you have to experience it for yourself!!! (more)
loubell
on Citysearch May 26, 2005There's typical "Chinese" food and then there is China Cafe, where even the traditional dishes are second to none. For the adventurous, Asian fushion is way to go with familiar items reaching the palate in ways... (more)
dmh1968
on Citysearch May 24, 2005I have eaten at many Chinese restaurants and never have I received such professional, friendly service. The food is incredible and the prices are more than reasonable. I also believe that the atmosphere is... (more)
bumblebee21
on Citysearch May 23, 2005I have to say that China Cafe is the Best chinese food in Michigan, from the friendly service to the awesome food, you will not find a better place. My favorite is the General Saui Chicken and the Orange Chicken. Our kids... (more)
wshadwell
on Citysearch May 23, 2005This is hands down the best chinese restaurant around. The food is absolutely wonderful, very delicious and always freshly prepared. I live in West Bloomfield and work in Southfield but still make it there every... (more)
ansara17
on Citysearch May 20, 2005I have eaten at many Chinese Restaurants and China Cafe is the number 1 chinese restaurant in the state of Michigan. The five pepper beef is phenomenal, crab rangoon is excellent. If your looking for a beautiful... (more)
thmac
on Citysearch May 20, 2005Kelly and Susana have a Jewel in Novi. I love everthing from the Mongolian Beef to the Garlic Chives with Pork. I entertain customers there several times a week and never before have I gotten such consistant raves from... (more)
pantusoa
on Citysearch May 16, 2005The China Cafe has provided one of the nicest dining experiences I've ever had. The staff was extremely polite and the food was second to none. To date, I have sampled five or six different dishes: five pepper beef,... (more)
jsmedo
on Citysearch Apr 26, 2005The food has kept me coming back years. The service is that of a five star restaurant. What i love about China Cafe is that you can come for an after work drink and snack or bring the whole family for dinner. Come in once and... (more)
ssandusky
on Citysearch Apr 25, 2005Phenominal food, service, and atmosphere! Five stars! The best Chinese restaurant I have been to yet! Will keep coming back and we definitely spread the word! Bonus: Full bar and great prices to boot!... (more)
mh44
on Citysearch Apr 15, 2005My wife and I stopped by this restaurant and we both loved it. Excellent chinese food at a good price. Don't miss the crab rangoon!! (more)
putes
on Citysearch Apr 06, 2005A COUPLE OF FRIENDS AND ME WENT TO THE CHINA CAFE FOR DINNER FOR MY BIRTHDAY AND THE EXPERIENCE WAS AMAZING. THE ATTENTION TO DETAIL AND SERVICE IS TOP NOTCH. THE FOOD WAS INCREDIBLE. ASK FOR THE CHINESE CANOLI FOR... (more)
giobatta
on Citysearch Feb 03, 2005I love this place. A strip mall location sometimes can indicate a sub-par dedication to quality but that does not apply in the case of China Cafe. Great food at very reasonable prices and excellent service. One of my... (more)
mark kalina
on Citysearch Jan 05, 2005Delicious food that is not your run of the mill "quart to go" Chinese. Creatively prepared dishes that delight the taste buds with each visit. This is the only place that you can pick from the endless choices... (more)
roxy062600
on Citysearch Jun 22, 2004Once you visit China Cafe you won't go any place else for Chinese! The owners will greet you at the door and give you the best service in town. The food is fantastic and they are always offering new and exciting specials!... (more)
monteriggioni
on Citysearch Apr 21, 2003Forget the rest. This is the best. An honestly run owner operated restaurant. Forget all those phony contemporary asian places and also the so called "fusion" ones. The food here is tops. Don't look at the menu and... (more)
JustTryingToHaveFunFolks
on Citysearch Jan 22, 2003In my opinion this place is tops for Asian. Forget about those so called "fusion" places too. This husband and wife owned and operated place is my favorite. Fantastic food, excellent service, great people. What else... (more)
facciabrutto
on Citysearch Jan 09, 2003In my opinion, this is without a dought the best asian restaurant around. The food is most excellent, the service is simply great, the owners are the best. This place blows away every other asian restaurant I have... (more)
lg610
on Citysearch Dec 02, 2002Very well prepared food in a great atmosphere with very good service. A well run owner operated restaurant. (more)
cinghiale
on Citysearch Nov 27, 2002One of my favorite places to eat. A well run operation with exciting food at fair prices and great service. Highly recommended. (more)
adoglvr
on Citysearch Nov 10, 2002Great food, great service. Hidden treasure in a strip mall. (more)
battista
on Citysearch Nov 06, 2002The food here is really fantastic. The owners oversee the restaurant on a daily basis, which really shows. (more)
jfrancisg
on Citysearch Sep 20, 2002Don't let the strip mall setting fool you. This place is a gem. Great food at very moderate prices. Excellent service. (more)
jemack
on Citysearch Sep 17, 2002I love this place. Great food, excellent service, very reasonable prices. (more)