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China Lights Oriental Cuisine in Anchorage, Alaska, offers a diverse Pan-Asian buffet and a la carte menu. While many patrons appreciate the variety and quality of the food, some have expressed concerns about cleanliness and food quality. The restaurant provides a family-friendly environment with options for large groups and private events.

China Lights Oriental Cuisine in Anchorage Alaska Buffet Dining Experience 

Nestled at 9220 Old Seward Hwy in the Bayshore / Klatt neighborhood of Anchorage, China Lights Oriental Cuisine is a distinctive dining destination offering an expansive Pan-Asian buffet experience. This vibrant restaurant boasts over 60 delicious options ranging from Chinese classics to Thai, Japanese, and other oriental specialties, making it a hotspot for foodies and families alike. With seating for over 250 guests, the spacious and elegantly designed interior creates a welcoming atmosphere perfect for groups and special occasions.

Diverse buffet offerings and family-friendly atmosphere

China Lights Oriental Cuisine showcases a versatile buffet that includes freshly prepared sushi, an assortment of salads, flavorful soups, and tempting desserts. Signature dishes like sweet-and-sour chicken and Mongolian beef frequently receive praise for their taste and preparation. The restaurant’s commitment to variety ensures there is something for everyone, including seafood lovers who enjoy their crab offerings. Additionally, the venue is highly regarded for being a family-friendly space where kids are welcomed and entertained, making it a preferred choice for Sunday dinners and casual gatherings.

What to know before you go: pricing, service, and amenities

While many guests appreciate the attentive and friendly service, some reviews mention that the buffet pricing—around $30 per person for dinner—may feel steep compared to the food quality. The restaurant offers dine-in, takeout, and delivery options, with convenient free parking available. Payment is easy with acceptance of credit cards, debit cards, and NFC payments. Although the interior is spacious and suitable for large groups, some visitors have noted concerns about cleanliness, especially in the restrooms. The management is responsive to feedback and continually strives to improve freshness and quality.

 — Private spaces accommodate up to 20 for VIP and 120 guests for banquets, ideal for business meetings and social events.

 — Suitable for kids with a welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu options.

 — Free parking lots and streets nearby; accepts credit cards, debit cards, and NFC.

Frequently asked questions about China Lights Oriental Cuisine

What are the buffet hours at China Lights Oriental Cuisine?

 Lunch Buffet: Monday, Wednesday to Saturday 11am to 3:30pm; Dinner Buffet: Monday, Wednesday to Saturday 3:30pm to 9pm; Sunday All Day Buffet: 11am to 9pm. Closed on Tuesdays.

Does China Lights Oriental Cuisine offer catering services?

 Yes, they offer catering services for events such as birthdays, graduations, and other special occasions.

Is there a discount for seniors or active military members?

 Yes, they offer a 10% discount for seniors age 65+ and active military members.

Does China Lights Oriental Cuisine have private rooms for events?

 Yes, they have a stylish VIP room for up to 20 people and a banquet room accommodating up to 120 people, ideal for business meetings and social gatherings.

What types of cuisine does China Lights Oriental Cuisine offer?

 They offer a diverse selection of Pan-Asian dishes, including Chinese, Thai, Japanese, and other oriental cuisines.

The overall community sentiment toward China Lights Oriental Cuisine is mixed. Many patrons appreciate the expansive buffet variety, the fresh food offerings, and the welcoming, family-friendly environment. However, some guests express concerns about the pricing relative to food quality, occasional cleanliness issues, and inconsistencies in food freshness. Service is generally praised for its friendliness and attentiveness, with management showing willingness to address customer feedback. This blend of experiences paints a nuanced picture of a restaurant with great potential that continues working to refine its dining experience in Anchorage's competitive culinary scene.

North America

United States

Nestled in the heart of Anchorage, Alaska, China Lights Oriental Cuisine offers a vibrant escape into the world of Chinese culinary delights. With its inviting ambiance and a buffet that promises a feast for the senses, this restaurant is a must-visit for both locals and travelers alike. As you step inside, the aroma of sizzling dishes and the sight of beautifully arranged food beckon you to indulge in a culinary journey that celebrates the rich flavors of Chinese cuisine.

The buffet at China Lights is a treasure trove of flavors, featuring standout dishes like the **sweet-and-sour chicken**, which boasts a perfect balance of tangy and sweet, and the **Mongolian beef**, tender and rich with a savory sauce that leaves you craving more. Each dish is prepared with care, ensuring freshness and quality that reflects the restaurant's commitment to excellence. The salad bar offers a refreshing contrast, with crisp vegetables that complement the heartier fare.

A fun fact about China Lights is its dedication to providing a family-friendly atmosphere. The restaurant is known for its spacious layout, making it ideal for gatherings and celebrations. Additionally, the staff is attentive and friendly, ensuring that your dining experience is as enjoyable as possible. Whether you’re visiting for a casual lunch or a special occasion, the welcoming vibe makes every meal memorable.

China Lights is known for its extensive buffet featuring a variety of Chinese dishes, including popular favorites like sweet-and-sour chicken and Mongolian beef.

Visiting China Lights offers a unique opportunity to enjoy a diverse range of Chinese cuisine in a family-friendly environment, making it perfect for gatherings.

China Lights offers free parking options, making it convenient for guests to visit without worrying about parking fees.

Whether you're a local or just passing through Anchorage, make sure to stop by China Lights Oriental Cuisine for a delightful dining experience. With its extensive buffet, friendly service, and inviting atmosphere, it promises to be a highlight of your culinary adventures in Alaska. Don't miss out on the chance to savor the flavors of China right here in Anchorage.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURicnFHdVFnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJYUXAq36ZyFYRRp1nIWTeAHc/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURicnFHdVFnEAE

Clearly, I cannot trust the ratings in Alaska for food, as this was one of the highest rated Chinese places in all of Anchorage.
It was also really, really, REALLY expensive.
Granted, we went in for lunch on a Sunday and did not realize that the buffet was $30 per person.
Not only is it not worth $30, but it is likely not worth the normal $20 lunch price.
I actually frequent quite a few Chinese buffets all over the country and the only reason this got two stars was because of the people.
The servers are friendly, they are pleasant, and they tend to your needs very well. We did not wait for Place to be cleared, and our water glasses were constantly topped off.
The best parts of the buffet were the sweet-and-sour chicken, the Mongolian beef, and the salad bar.
For being Alaska, the salmon was a wet, soupy mess. You can tell salmon is tremendously overcooked when it is white. That’s what this was
They “crab” on the buffet, but it was sand crab, and it was put through the deep fryer. The shells exploded in the crackers, the meat was almost bone dry, and it was pretty much inedible.
There were, surprisingly, some fresh vegetables on the buffet.
The food was not “bad.” It just was what I would consider “below average.”
Also, the restrooms were filthy. Bordering on disgusting.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNaOGNhVXF3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJYUXAq36ZyFYRRp1nIWTeAHc/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNaOGNhVXF3RRAB

The food and staff are good, the cleanliness is good i have never used there bathroom Though parking is good. The food has gotten better tasting through out the year . The variety through out the dinner is good always bringing in fresh food. Pretty pricey but its Alaska! not the best tasting food but definitely decent , and some tasty dishes ! We are seafood lovers and love the crabs here. I like bringing my young kids a good atmosphere for family and one of the only options for buffet in town. Because anchorage has no buffet beside golden corral. I love the options for
Kids here we come here for Sunday dinner.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmZ0lLdEJ3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJYUXAq36ZyFYRRp1nIWTeAHc/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmZ0lLdEJ3EAE

Do not trust google ratings on this place. Second time I have tried this place and the simplest way to describe their food is trash. I have been to quite a few Chinese restaurants in anchorage and this is by far the worst. It would be one thing if it was cheap and if you don’t enjoy it toss it. On top of the poor food is their service. I called around 1130am and they told me the open at noon. That’s fine I understand that. Called shortly afternoon and they took my order and told me it would be 45-1hr. That also makes sense but I asked “why the long wait you just opened, should have called sooner to beat the rush”. She replied I was the first order but the cooks are on lunch break. I’m all for lunch and coffee breaks but who the F goes to lunch break when you open at noon. Place seems to be run by a bunch of clowns. Idk what else to say but shop elsewhere. Safeway Chinese deli is far superior to this place.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQdHBheUV3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJYUXAq36ZyFYRRp1nIWTeAHc/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQdHBheUV3EAE

I remember my last experience was better. But the food I had today wasn't good. I couldn't eat it. I ate below $30 worth. The sushi was hard, not fresh even though it just came out. I only ate 3 pieces, and I usually eat 10. Dessert was super dry and not much of a selection. Something changed with the rice and chow mein too. It didn't taste good as it used to. Manager was willing to hear my criticism. She said they will work on it. They have new people working.
I won't be back for awhile. I hope they can improve on freshness.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURmOVBXblVREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJYUXAq36ZyFYRRp1nIWTeAHc/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURmOVBXblVREAE

I drove from Fairbanks and was excited to try this place since there are no buffets in Fairbanks, plus this was highly rated and had pictures advertising seafood on the buffet. Before visiting the location, I saw that the restaurant posted pictures of crab legs, crawfish, and Dungeness crab, all of which I assumed would be served since the dinner buffet price was almost $30 a person. There wasn’t any of that. Most of the seafood present were small low-quality shrimp, octopus bits, steamed clams, salmon, and another baked fish that wasn’t labeled. The food was subpar. Some dishes were salty and most were cold, and the buffet ran out of food quickly. The sushi was decent but none of the rolls were labeled so I had no idea what I was grabbing until I ate it. Service was decent. The waitress was kind and attentive but was chatting with the table behind us about her whole life story, which was a distracting.

Overall, I was disappointed by the lack of advertised seafood and felt like I was deceived. I know that food in Alaska is expensive, but I did not think the dinner buffet was worth $30 a person. The variety was nice but nothing in particular was worth the visit for me.

China Lights Oriental Cuisine: Family-Friendly Buffet in Anchorage

Established in 2007, China Lights Oriental Cuisine in Anchorage, Alaska, has been serving a diverse range of Pan-Asian dishes, including Chinese, Thai, Japanese, and other oriental cuisines. The restaurant is known for its expansive buffet and a la carte menu, offering over 60 different options.

China lights oriental cuisine history overview in anchorage alaska.

Founded in 1996, China Lights Oriental Cuisine began its journey in the scenic town of Eagle River, Alaska. From humble beginnings, this restaurant quickly earned a reputation for offering an expansive buffet featuring a diverse array of Asian dishes, appealing to a wide range of palates. Its success in Eagle River set the stage for significant growth.

In 2007, recognizing the demand for authentic Asian cuisine in Alaska’s largest city, China Lights expanded its presence by opening a new location in Anchorage. This move marked a major milestone, allowing the restaurant to reach a broader audience and establish itself as a popular dining destination within Anchorage’s vibrant food scene.

distinctive features and dining experience

China Lights Oriental Cuisine is best known for its spacious buffet setup, which offers a wide variety of freshly prepared dishes ranging from classic sweet-and-sour chicken and Mongolian beef to seafood selections that aim to reflect Alaska’s coastal bounty. The restaurant also caters to families and groups, creating an inviting atmosphere that accommodates diners of all ages.

 - Started in Eagle River, marking the beginning of its culinary journey in Alaska.

 - Opened a new location in Anchorage, solidifying its presence in Alaska’s largest food market.

An extensive selection of Pan-Asian dishes, including Chinese, Thai, Japanese, and other oriental cuisines, featuring over 60 buffet options, sushi, salad, soup, and appetizer bars.

Egg Roll

Fried Spring Roll (8 pieces)

Fried Won Ton (8 pieces)

Foil Wrapped Chicken (6 pieces)

Fried or Steamed Dumplings (8 pieces)

Cheese Won Ton (6 pieces)

Bar-B-Q Pork

Chicken Wings

Fried Chicken Wings

Bar-B-Q Spare Ribs

Yaki Gyoza (Pan Fried Shrimp) (8 pieces)

Yakitori (Japanese)

Fried Prawns (4 pieces)

Combination Platter (2 each)

Won Ton Soup

Egg Flower Soup

Vegetable Soup

Hot & Sour Soup

Sizzling Rice Soup

San Shan Soup

Egg Foo Young (Chicken, Beef, Pork or Vegetable)

Shrimp Egg Foo Young

House Special Egg Foo Young

Sweet & Sour Pork

Hot Bean Curd (Ma Po’s Tofu)

Hot Spiced Pork with Garlic Sauce

Twice Cooked Pork

Hot Pepper Pork

Mo Shu Pork

Mongolian Beef

Pepper Steak

Ginger Beef

Beef with Broccoli

Snow Peas with Beef

Hunan Beef – HOT

Mandarin Beef

Szechuan Beef – HOT

Mo Shu Beef

Sizzling Beef (Beef and Scallops)

Beef Teriyaki (10 oz New York Strip)

Mushroom Beef

Sweet & Sour Chicken

Garlic Chicken

Curry Chicken

Chicken with Broccoli

Almond Chicken

Cashew Chicken

Breaded Almond Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken

Szechuan Chicken

Chicken Teriyaki

Chicken with Vegetables

Orange Chicken

Lemon Chicken

Phoenix & Dragon (Chicken Breast & Shrimp)

Crisp Duckling (Half)

Snow Peas Chicken Breast

Moo Goo Gaipan

Sesame Chicken

General Tsao’s Chicken

Sweet & Sour Shrimp

Fried Shrimp

Curry Shrimp

Snow Peas with Shrimp

Sizzling Rice Shrimp

Shrimp with Lobster Sauce

Princess Shrimp

Mo Shu Shrimp

Szechuan Shrimp

Kung Pao Shrimp

Sauteed Scallops

Shrimp with Vegetables

Happy Family

Seafood Plate

China Light’s King Crab

Sweet & Sour Fish (Halibut)

Hot Braised Fish (Halibut)

Broccoli with Oyster Sauce

Black Mushrooms with Bamboo Shoots

Snow Peas with Water Chestnuts

House Special Vegetable Deluxe

Chicken Chow Mein

Pork Chow Mein

Beef Chow Mein

China Lights Oriental Cuisine Menu

Experience a culinary journey at China Lights Oriental Cuisine in Anchorage, AK, offering delicious authentic dishes in a cozy setting.

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