Chow Bar

"Visited here after seeing it on the map - the staff are very casual but nice, and I like the laid back atmosphere. I got the willow beef, which was nice and spicy, as well as the pot stickers. I also appreciated the distinction of the American Chinese food from the traditional Chinese food - most places I've been to either don't do that or just don't offer things beyond the American variants."

"I was in Bloomington for a 5 day conference and I came to this restaurant 6 times (I arrived on a Sunday afternoon). I think the name might sound unappetizing and the atmosphere and prices might make one suspicious of the quality of the food. But let me tell you, if you know what to order and also like spicy food, the food is some of the best I've had. And I've had food in Beijing, Chongqing, Xining, and some town in Gansu in China which covers a somewhat diverse range of Chinese cuisines. The two that I loved the most are pictured below (rice not pictured). 1. 水煮三样 ("Water Cooked" beef shank, tongue, tripe) Don't mind the English translation which doesn't do this justice. The shank and tongue was extremely tender and flavorful. The tripe had the perfect springiness when you bite. And after you've had the main components, there is some stewed cabbage beneath to round things off. If you enjoy spicy food, I think you should try this. 2. 干煸肥肠 (Stir-Fried Fatty Intestines) The outside is crispy, the inside more chewy and it just packs a great blend of spicy flavors. The vegetables pair well. Not everyone is used to some of these less commonly consumed parts of the animal but if you're feeling adventurous, give it a try. And both cost less than $18 after tax (in the summer of 2023). If this were served in NY, they could charge $25 at least and I would still happily pay. The atmosphere is certainly not that of fine-dining but personally, that's fine with me. It was quiet and peaceful and I read some Far Side comics by Gary Larson during one of the dinners."

"The food was even better than expected. And they have boba tea."

"Best Chinese place for lunch that is near campus by the Stemple gates. The lunch buffet is the best deal in town and their authentic Chinese menu is very extensive. The weekend lunch buffet is absolutely epic and you can’t even get your buffet to go, in the form of a styrofoam box- absolutely amazing."

"This restaurant has a huge menu full of delicious meals and milk tea. The beef lo mein, udon, and sesame balls are some of my favorite dishes. I have eaten here many times and never been disappointed. The prices are reasonable as well."