Mandarin King: Chinese food- FINALLY!

I swear, every city seems to have that ONE hidden gem. You know, the little restaurant that has been there for you’re whole life, and once you discover it, you are hooked. Well I found the hidden gem in Laguna Beach. Yes, it is Mandarin King!!
This place is family-owned and run, and has been for the past 33 years. How have I never been!? Right now, I am currently on the hunt for GOOD Chinese food, which is what brought me here last night. Sure, it’s not exactly close to my home, but this is how desperate I was to find Chinese food that tastes like more than oil.
I was blown away at the food and service here. Everyone was so friendly, and the food came out super fast!

What I LOVED? :

HONEY WALNUT SHRIMP. – BEST I HAVE EVER HAD. No joke. The shrimp was SO fresh, and perfectly coated in the most amazing honey-sauce. ever. I need a large glass of that sauce. omg.
CREAM CHEESE WONTONS. – I am SO picky about these. There is only one restaurant that I actually like them from, but these were far superior and life-changing. I could have stuffed myself with six plate-fulls honestly. Perfectly fried, perfectly creamy inside.

House Special Beef – I am not a beef-person, especially when it comes to Asian food. It seems that it is always WAY too chewy, but not here. Perfectly cooked and not too chewy at all. FINALLY.

Kung Pao Vegetables with Crispy Tofu – I do NOT like tofu, but the crispy tofu was pretty good, especially mixed in with the veggies and amazing kung pao sauce.

Everything was so light, and didn’t make me feel like I was literally eating oil. This is such a refreshing change for Chinese food. I will be back here anytime I am near. I wish it was closer. I think I have finally found GOOD Chinese food in this stupid state. Thank you, Mandarin King!!