Since the restaurant’s grand opening in 2011, Forbidden City manager Jason Pan says business keeps getting better and better. And now he has a certificate to prove it. This year, Forbidden City was voted “Best of the Best Chinese.”
If you haven’t yet tried the Asian-American all-you- can-eat buffet, there is no excuse. Forbidden City is impossible to miss alongside Gunbarrel Road. The impressively ornate building is designed to resemble the ancient Chinese imperial palace known – not coincidentally – as the Forbidden City in Beijing. The interior boasts marble columns, koi ponds, and bar after bar of all-you-can-eat cuisine.
The restaurant’s stature is impressive, but not the sole reason it was voted Best of the Best. Forbidden City is commonly noted for its cleanliness and variety. I, however, commonly note Forbidden City’s wonderful dumpling and bun selection, which often features unique and authentic options.
For instance, in the past I have sampled an egg custard bun, which resembles a large mozzarella ball but is filled with a sweet, warm custard that has a slight eggy flavor. The steamed sweet red bean bun is another one of my favorites. The outside is light and doughy, the inside filled with subtly sweet jelly-like red bean mash. I’ve also gotten to try the spongy sweet coconut dumpling and the moist pork dumpling.
Admittedly, it is difficult to make a meal of Forbidden City’s buns and dumplings alone (although I have). So I often supplement with selections from the fresh all-you-can-eat sushi, a helping of buttery seafood stew made with shrimp, crab and a medley of mixed vegetables, or some traditional Korean kimchi.
I am partial to authentic Asian flavor. However, luckily for picky eaters, this is not Imperial China. Forbidden City also serves a variety of classic American fare like mac and cheese, french fries, pizza and more.
With dozens of different foods, a clean dining area and majestic atmosphere, it is no wonder the Scenic City is taking notice.
“I want to thank the customers for the support. It really means something,” Jason said.
FORBIDDEN CITY
ADDRESS: 2273 Gunbarrel Road
HOURS: Sunday-Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Friday from 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
PHONE: 305-1087