I'm convinced that there isn't a place to get good chinese food in Austin (not authentic, mind you, but the kind most of us grew up on). Formosa (RIP), in the Tarrytown Shopping Center, was far and away the best in town. They had to close (because they served meat and couldn't renew their lease ), changed their name to "Wild Ginger" (why I don't know), and moved to Spicewood and Mesa. Soon after, they went out of business. Their Szechuan chicken dish was absolutely the best. Most of their other stuff was excellent as well. I've eaten Chinatown (both locations), Suzie's (most of the locations), Snow Pea, First China, and many others...but none do it for me. Anyone else have the same issue? Are there any really good places in Austin, or are we doomed until someone opens one up?
I'll get torched for this... but, sadly enough, the most consistent "American" Chinese food in Austin is probably PF Chang's. That's more of a comment on Austin Chinese food than a kudo for PF Chang's.
I feel your pain about Formosa...it was the best. Wild Ginger was actually an existing restaurant, owned by the Formosa owner's cousin(or some family member)...they joint ventured, but the food never was great and I think the extended family involvement caused it's demise. A long time favorite of mine was Wok 'n Roll on Burnet Road. I probably ate there on the average of once a week for at least 10 or 12 years, through three different owners. It was good and cheap. Alas, it is now gone...to be replaced by a new Torchy's Tacos. I will say...my personal favorite right now is Lotus Hunan, in the West Woods Shopping Center @ Bee Caves Road and Walsh Tarlton. It reminds me a lot of Formosa.
Yes, PF Changs just doesn't do it for me...never has. The fact that you have to mention it just goes to show how crappy the chinese food is in Austin. It's a shame. I'm glad to see that someone (Litnin Horn) remembers Formasa and it's greatness. I agree about Wild Ginger, good but not as good. I wrote the Statesman and Chronicle food people years ago to try to find out if the Formosa/Wild Ginger family had opened another restaurant or if they cooked anywhere, but never got a response. My wife tried Lotus Hunan last week and seemed to like it. If it reminds you of Formosa, I'll have to do the same.
Two places I forgot to mention... T & S Seafood Le Soliel(Vietnamese) Both are very good, in my opinion. T & S is known for it's dim sum, which I've never had...also for it's late hours...'til 1:00 am every night but Tuesday, I believe. I always get the combo clay pot at Le Soleil, but they have a very wide ranging menu. Whenever I go there, I promise myself I'm going to try something new...maybe next time.
Din HO got the traditional favorites. Don't go for the buffet, but Mandarin House has some authentic stuff.