Joy's Mongolian Grill

"Favorite Chinese!! This is the Chinese hole-in-the-wall that you need to know about. It’s small and a little outdated, but clean and their food is sooooo good. Start with crab Rangoon. These are not like I’ve had anywhere in Des Moines, Ames, or Chicago. The outside shell is crispy and light. The inside is not thick and chunky, but light and sweet. My favorite by far. They have many dumpling options. I’ve had chicken dumplings and vegetable dumplings. Both super yummy. I would ask for the vinegar with the vegetable dumpling — a great sauce paired with the vegetable dumplings. I prefer my dumplings pan-fried, so I ate a few at the restaurant then took the rest home and pan fried them to my liking… wowza! The fried rice! The star of the show, it had a fantastic assortment of different vegetables not just peas, corn, and carrots. They added bean sprouts, broccoli, and mushrooms. The fried rice had that great “fire” taste you can’t recreate at home. Don’t wait … go today! If you are in Ames or central Iowa, it’s worth the trip!! Oh they have hot pot as well… I need to check it out sometime."

"Used to be a frequent visitor here. They remodeled a bit so better seating than before. If you are looking for upscale, fancy, Panda Express American-ized Chinese food, this is not that. Order the dumplings for later and pan fry them at home, delicious when fried."

"This has become one of my go to spots for dumplings in town. The portions are good at a fair price. They also have tasty noodle dishes and I have never been disappointed with their food. It is not the most upscale place and I like it that way. I highly recommend for lunch or dinner whether you are dining in or to go."

"This place was absolutely delicious. A little hole in the wall place, but the food was so good. It took a little bit to get the food but it was so worth the wait! I will absolutely be going back!"

"This place is great. Really big portions for the price. Ordered broccoli chicken combo w/ 2 spring rolls. Keep in mind that it’s a small operation (seemed like there was only one person in front) so wait times may be higher, but it’s totally worth it. Recommend to any Iowa State student or anyone visiting the area."