With the weekend upon us again, many residents across Southampton will be reaching for that takeaway menu.

And for a lot, that will mean trying to decide which Chinese restaurant to order from.

If you're looking to try a new restaurant, or are new to the area, then we've compiled a list of the best Chinese restaurants in Southampton.

1. Imperial China

Location: 18 High Street, Lyndhurst, New Forest National Park, Hampshire SO43 7BD

Price range: £16-£79

Special diets: Vegetarian friendly, vegan options, gluten free

TripAdvisor rating: 4.5/5

Out in the New Forest, the location may deter you to a more local and convenient restaurant. However, if you’re willing to go the extra mile for the best Chinese around, Imperial China is your place.

Described as a “hidden gem” by one user, they went on to say: “The meal was superb. Staff were polite, friendly and helpful. Highly recommended.”

Another user appreciated the authenticity of the restaurant: “The food is SO good. It tasted natural and delicious — not over-sugared or chemical. There was a lot left over, and the lovely waitress offered to box it up for us — so we’ve had it a second night in a row. Highly recommended.”

The perfect place to sort dinner out for two nights for the price of one.

2. Fusion Noodle Bar

Location: 15 St. Mary Street, Southampton, SO14 1NP

Special diets: Vegetarian friendly, vegan options

TripAdvisor rating: 4.5/5

Rated the 55th best restaurant in Southampton, the Fusion Noodle Bar boasts a diverse menu with fantastic reviews.

One user stated this “will always be our No.1” restaurant, as they go with their parents for the excellent quality of food, welcoming staff and clean surroundings.

Another complimentary user took to TripAdvisor to proclaim: “Fusion Noodle Bar is by far the oriental food outlet in Southampton.”

“Highly recommended and you can also dine in which is a great experience.”

3. Shanghai Bay

Location: 17A Above Bar Street, Southampton, SO14 7DX

Price range: £10-30

Special diets: Vegetarian friendly, vegan options, gluten free options

TripAdvisor rating: 4.5/5

Situated on the high street, Shanghai Bay offers an irresistible value for money in a convenient area.

According to TripAdvisor, Shanghai Bay also seems to offer: “the best Dim Sum I have had in London Chinatown, Toronto Chinatown, the US or even Australia. Strongly recommend.”

More high praise came from another user, who said the 92nd ranked restaurant in Southampton was: “the best Chinese restaurant for miles”.

4. LA Orient Restaurant (Chinese)

Location: 138 West Street, Fareham PO16 0EL

Price range: £25-50

Special diets: Vegetarian friendly, Gluten free

TripAdvisor ratings: 4.5/5

Out in Fareham, the LA Orient restaurant sits high up the leaderboard of restaurants in the local area, ranked 19th out of the 85 restaurants.

One customer praised the “10/10 food and staff” while another was overjoyed with their meal, bringing a party of 14 to the restaurant, all leaving with happy faces.

A group photo of the guests shows off the comfortable, atmospheric environment the place has to offer, with magnificent hosts making it even more memorable.

5. Garden Restaurant

Location: 44 High Road, Swaythling, Southampton, SO16 2JF

Special diets: Vegetarian friendly

TripAdvisor rating: 4.5/5

The fifth spot goes to the Garden Restaurant in Swaythling, Southampton. A cosy restaurant with a vibrant outdoor setting, perfect for the summer months ahead.

Labelled as “great food and easy on the pocket” the Garden Restaurant offers a great cut price value for food, while ensuring you aren’t left hungry. The generous portions are a common talking point in the review section, with users left flabbergasted by the outstanding selections that the menu has to offer.

Another user stated: “The staff are so professional and friendly. Thank you so much!”