Best Bite - Mulan's

Welcome to Best Bite, the tantalizing blog for foodies in the River Valley! Our weekly posts are curated by Jason Lowe and Hope Adair, two passionate food enthusiasts with a keen eye for the best bites in the region. Along with a cast of expert contributors, we bring you the ultimate guide to the most delicious and satisfying eats the River Valley area has to offer. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or just getting started on your culinary journey, our blog is your go-to source for everything from hidden gems to the most popular restaurants in town. We're always on the hunt for the most unique and delicious dishes, and we're not afraid to get our hands dirty in the name of food exploration.

At Best Bite, we believe that food is more than just fuel – it's an experience that should be savored and enjoyed. Not just in taste alone, but also in your soul. It’s about that feeling you get when the aroma first hits your nostrils. It’s the experience of sitting down at your table, watching the server deliver delicious looking plates to the people around you, and knowing that your tummy is about to be full. It’s primal. Our body chemistry changes because of how we sense good food. Some day I promise to go full-on “Alton Brown” on why good food does what it does to us. We’ll dive into why we savor flavors, why bacon tastes so damn good, and how applying a bit of chemistry can greatly improve your mashed potatoes…..I DIGRESS.

As a life-long foodie, I've had the pleasure of dining at many Chinese buffets. As we all know, sometimes it can be hard to find a true gem of a buffet, whether due to staffing, food quality, or even restaurant management. But when the stars align and the foodie gods smile down upon us, we’re gifted with a place like Mulan’s. Nestled in the heart of the city since 2001, this restaurant boasts an impressive array of dishes that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. What sets Mulan's apart is their commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients in all their recipes. It's no wonder why this spot has become my go-to for Chinese cuisine in this area.

One of my favorite dishes at Mulan's is their beef and broccoli. The beef is tender and perfectly cooked, while the broccoli retains its crispness. The secret to their recipe lies in the savory sauce that coats the dish. It's a balance of soy sauce, oyster sauce, garlic, and ginger, giving the dish a depth of flavor that is unparalleled. Every bite is a delight to the senses, and I can never get enough of it. I’ve written before about the “home” feeling I get when eating certain foods. This is one dish that definitely reminds me somehow of Mom’s dinner table. It just feels good to eat it.

Another standout dish at Mulan's is their butter shrimp. These plump, succulent crustaceans are cooked to perfection and coated in a rich, buttery sauce that's both indulgent and addictive. The sauce is a blend of garlic, butter, and spices that perfectly complements the sweetness of the shrimp. I could easily make an entire meal out of these buttery gems alone! When Hope and I get takeout from Mulan’s, most of my “first layer” is butter shrimp mixed with lo mein noodles. It’s seriously one of my favorite comfort foods. You’ve had a long day? Go to Mulan’s, you get the butter shrimp lo mein, and BAM, instantly better.

No visit to Mulan's is complete without trying their chicken on a stick. They take this popular street food snack to a whole new level. The chicken thighs are marinated in a fragrant blend of spices and then grilled to perfection. The result is a juicy and flavorful skewer that's perfect for sharing with friends. But honestly, I’m not sharing my chicky sticks with you. Those are MY chicky sticks. You can get your own. It’s a buffet, after all. :-)

What makes Mulan's even more special is their fantastic staff. The servers are incredibly friendly and attentive, ensuring that every customer has an exceptional dining experience. They're always happy to offer recommendations and provide excellent service with a smile. It's this personal touch that makes Mulan's stand out from other restaurants in the area. And don’t forget to get ice cream for dessert! They have several flavors to choose from, and your server will be tickled pink to serve you. Paired with those little squares of coffee-flavored cake, and maybe a slice of mango jell-o? TOPS.

If you're a foodie looking for authentic Chinese cuisine in the River Valley area, Mulan's is a must-visit. With dishes like beef and broccoli, butter shrimp, and chicken on a stick, it's no wonder why this restaurant has become my second home. The use of high-quality ingredients and skilled cooking techniques make every dish an unforgettable experience. Combine that with the exceptional service from the friendly staff, and you're in for a great night.

#ProTip: The high-volume times are the best times to visit any buffet. If you can hit Mulan’s right before the churches dismiss on Sunday (and then go take a nap), my friend, now you’re living your Best Bite. Get it? Supposed to be a riff on “living your best life”. I tried.

Thanks for reading Best Bite. Now go enjoy some of the amazing food our region has to offer, and tell us who we should feature next!