by Autherine B. Smith

Created on: August 16, 2009

Philadelphia has some of the best Chinese cuisine in the country. Three of the best Philadelphia Chinese restaurants are located within walking distance to one another. One is located in the brilliant, bustling Chinatown area, a stone's throw away from the Pennsylvania Convention Center. Another "hot spot" is in the Historic District, near the Betsy Ross House, the Liberty Bell, and the Constitution Center. The third is located on one of the most beautiful blocks in the world, on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, near the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul.

Imperial Inn

The Imperial Inn is located in the heart of Philadelphia's bustling and brilliant Chinatown area at 146 N. 10th Street, Philadelphia, PA. It is just a stone's throw away from the Pennsylvania Convention Center at 10th and Arch Streets in Philadelphia. The Imperial Inn is famous for its classic Cantonese, Mandarin, and Szechuan entrees. But you will fall in love with the "shrimp rolls". The "shrimp rolls" here are called "Phoenix rolls" and consist of a delectable mix of seafood. You will order some to take with you. The most exceptional item on the menu is the Dim Sum. Dim Sum lovers, far and wide, travel to the Imperial Inn for this indulgence.

Buddakan

Buddakan is definitely upscale. Make this your business appointment or date night "Chinese" meal, unless, of course your kids are also "foodies". This is a Philadelphia "hot spot", so a reservation is strongly recommended. The cuisine is Pan-Asian. The appetizers come in hearty portions and are scrumptious. Try the shrimp dumplings or the calamari salad. The Japanese Cod with wasabi mashed potatoes and the barbecue pork tenderloin with Chinese broccoli are legend.

The ambience created by the waterfall and Japanese river stones is unforgettable. Buddakan is located in Philadelphia's historic Olde City at 325 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Betsy Ross House is right down the street. The Constitution Center and the Liberty Bell are nearby.

Asia on the Parkway

Asia on the Parkway is located at 1700 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, right in the heart of the Philadelphia Museum District. If you choose to dine outdoors, a terrific option in spring, summer and fall, you can see the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, the Academy of Natural Sciences, the Franklin Institute, and the Rodin Museum. A final modest note about "the Parkway", it is simply one of the most beautiful miles in the world.

While you absorb the beauty of the Parkway, savor the Asian fusion cuisine of Asia on the Parkway. For a refreshing twist, try the jumbo shrimp with fresh tomato sauce. The restaurant is open 7 days a week and offers free parking after 5 pm. The drinks are good and all menu items are reasonably priced.

If you are in Philadelphia and have a "taste" for Chinese food, you can't do better than these three restaurants. The cache of historic Olde City, the convenience of the Pennsylvania Convention Center, and the extraordinary beauty of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway are added treats, to be enjoyed before or after your great meal.

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