No, it’s not a paper plate, although it almost shares its name with one. ChineX is a new restaurant at 1580 South Melrose Drive, Vista. Founded by an optimistic China-born American named John, it is tasty, reasonable, and will (usually) deliver if your order is $25 or more. (He can’t if he’s really busy).
John had two Chinese restaurants in the Midwest, sold them, and like the prospectors of years ago, staked his claim. With his wife, he spruced up the storefront eatery in shades of oriental color and designed an open kitchen where customers can be reassured that all is clean and careful. We watched one of the three kitchen staff prepare a special meal with skill and efficiency.
It’s the kind of place where you order at a counter and your food is brought to you. We took an especially picky friend who wanted fresh vegetables and they obliged her with a chow mein, not on the menu, with plenty of lovely veggies. John and Letty were easier; they split the special, which was an orange chicken, rice, miso soup and salad with a free egg roll and crab Rangoon. The tab with iced tea was $10 for two, which was within our budget. The dishes are classic Chinese: Kung Pao Chicken, Szechwan Chicken, Sesame Chicken, OrangeBeef, Black Pepper Beef, BBQ Short Ribs, Szechwan Pork, and a Po Tofu — all for $7. An extra buck is charged for Sweet and Sour Shrimp, Walnut Shrimp, Garlic Shrimp, etc. Noodles and Rice Bowls are $6. Sodas and Iced Tea are $1.50, and the tea is brewed.
The ambiance? Plain Jane, but clean and bright.
The people? Nice as they could be. John stumbles a bit with English but if questions are preserved, they are answered. With our picky friend, we were really glad we had eaten there and will go back. We will also remember that in a pinch with unexpected company we can have a delicious delivered meal (if they’re not too busy.) Good to know.
ChineX is open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 3 to 9 p.m. Their menu says: “Print our coupon: http://www.merchantcircle.com/business/ChinexGrill760-597-9900/promotion”. Call (760) 597-9900 for more information.
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