Nottingham – Top Chinese Restaurants for Students

When you go out for a meal, you probably have a regular haunt – a safe bet where you know what you’re going to order before you even look at the menu. But part of the student way of life is trying new things and one of the tastiest cuisines out there is Chinese.

Far away from the takeaway versions, restaurants are a better reflection on the country’s daily dining habits. Even if you’re a fussy eater, there will be something that you can try. Here are Nottingham’s top Cantonese and Chinese offerings:

The Oriental Pearl – 42-44 Bridgford Rd

With a £10 two course lunch menu this is great value. With lots of diet options, including gluten-free, you can sample the best of the Orient in a classy setting near the city centre. They accommodate large groups too, so if you are part of a society that needs a setting for a social, look no further.

The Orchid – 6 Trent House

A family run restaurant, this one offers a more cosy setting, with an a-la-carte menu and an all-you-can-eat option for those with a hefty appetite. This is why you would go here; it’s priced at just under £16 per person and includes, soups, starters, all meat and seafood dishes, as well as rice, noodles and vegetarian meals.

May Sum – 92-98 Upper Parliament St

This buffet style restaurant is located inside the popular Corner House, where you’ll find Cineworld and the Casino alongside other bars and restaurants. It has over 70 main dishes for you to choose from. Go here if you like to lots of little tasters – expect to spend around £11 for the evening but £6 at lunch time, so get there early to make massive savings. Besides, you can easily eat enough to see you through the rest of the day!

Shanghai Shanghai – 15 Goose Gate

The king of Cantonese food, this restaurant offers traditional Hong Kong style food served in a modern setting. It also offers Szechuan cuisine, a spicy variant which is very popular in mainland China; and bubble tea, a unique beverage you have to try. Most menu options hover under a tenner and with lobster, crab and scallops options a part of that, you can’t complain.

Peachy Keens – 114 Upper Parliament St

OK, so technically this is a multi-continental restaurant which serves Thai and Indian as well, but it has to be included as it’s a firm student favourite. If you check your student discount books that were handed out back in Fresher’s Week, there are numerous vouchers for PKs. It’s a large diner-style restaurant, but is renowned for doing each country’s cuisine justice unlike other below par competitors. Most courses are about £6, with meal deals from £10 and you can even order takeaway if you prefer the comfort of your own home. It’s like it was made especially for students. Not that you’re lazy or anything…