Sachem Eats: China Wok

China Wok is a Chinese take-out restaurant specializing in comfortably priced Szechuan, Hunan and Chinese dishes for both lunch and dinner. The speedy service, extensive menu and delicious specialties make China Wok an excellent choice for anyone with a craving for Chinese food. But patrons looking for a comfortable location to sit down with others and enjoy a meal should look elsewhere, as the dining area is not intended for large parties.

Décor: As China Wok is centered on take-out, the decor is understandably lacking. The location is small and anyone wishing to sit down and eat will have to choose between only two tables and a smattering of chairs. The waiting area is a bit cramped and is often filled with bulk-size boxes of drinks waiting to be stocked.  An enormous glowing picture of a Chinese temple adorns the wall, providing an interesting, albeit strange, source of enjoyment for the eyes. Sit down patrons are served on a plastic tray with a Styrofoam plate heaping with white rice along with a plastic container holding their ordered meal.

Drinks: Thirsty diners have a decent variety of drinks to choose from; a selection of sodas, including cans, bottles and 2-liter options, in addition to iced teas, water and energy drinks are served from a chilled fridge.

Appetizers: Spring rolls ($1.25), Crab meat cheese fried wontons ($4.25), scallion pancakes ($3.65), Pu Pu platters ($10.55) and Chinese donuts ($4.10) are but a sampling of the many appetizer options offered to patrons of China Wok. An extensive soup menu including egg drop, subgum, Yat Gaw Mein and seafood soup are served hot and fresh, and most are priced at less than $2 a pint.

Entrees: China Wok's menu is massive, even for the type of restaurant that is known for an extensive selection. Chinese staples such as Lo Mein, Chow Fun, Chop Suey and Egg Foo Young are all present, in addition to a large variety of chicken, beef, pork and seafood options. 28 different Chef's Specialities, including fantastic dishes such as Hunan Duck ($11.65) served with broccoli, pepper, mushroom, celery and white rice in Hunan sauce, and 31 different Combination Platters, including General Tso's Chicken ($7.75) served with roast pork fried rice and an egg roll, means diners are bound to find plenty of classic dishes along with new tastes for their palates.

China Wok also features additional vegetarian and dieter menus which include dishes such as Crispy Bean Curd in Sesame Sauce ($7.20) and Steamed Shrimps & Chicken w. Mixed Vegetables ($10.65).  The front of China Wok's menu also proudly declares that patrons on special diets should let China Wok know their preferences and the "chef will cook to suit." Lunch specials run from Monday to Sunday, 11:00 am to 3:00 pm, are pleasantly priced (no dish is over $6) and are served with your choice of rice and soup or can of soda. In addition, purchasing 5 lunch specials nets you a free lunch.

Desserts: Chinese donuts, pineapple chunks and almond cookies are all that can be classified as "desserts" on China Wok's menu, although the Chinese donuts are quite fluffy and delicious.

Service: Service at China Wok is fast and friendly. Orders are taken quickly and staff is apt to remind you of special offers and different menu options. Expect food to be ready within 10 minutes of ordering.

Signature Dish: Asparagus Delights ($10.95) off the Chef's Specialties menu is just one of many dishes served at China Wok that could be considered signature. Featuring a heaping serving of lean chicken, savory beef, tender shrimp and scallops mixed with fresh sauteed asparagus, carrots, water chestnuts, bamboo shoots and celery in a special brown sauce, you're sure to be satisfied with this filling and healthy dish.

Address: 157 Long Island Avenue, Holtsville