Shen Hua

We are originally from New York, so we have had our fair share of Chinese food. Shenhua is as good as anything we have had anywhere, and in many cases, better! Located on Cordage Avenue in Berkeley, the restaurant is large and spacious with an active bar (and a very pleasant hour where you can enjoy cheap cocktails and appetizers and have the opportunity to try their amazing pot stickers!) Service has always been prompt and friendly - we love Edward, the owner and his new manager, Jose, is very capable. But people have been coming here for years because the food is so memorable. Some of their specialties are the piping hot rice soup (we hosted a large family gathering at the restaurant last week and they said it was one of the best soups they have ever had!), the smoked tea tree duck, their version of Peking duck (the accompanying bread is light and soft, better than pancakes), the garlic chicken - delicious and my favorite, and the braised garlic brussels sprouts, a real treat. People come to Berkeley for many reasons...while you are here, visit Shenhua and enhance your stay. You will be back! ,