Chef Tan

Located in the heart of Newark, DE, Chef Tan offers an authentic and richly evocative Chinese dining experience that transports you straight to Sichuan and traditional home-cooked flavors. This restaurant specializes in genuine Chinese cuisine, boasting a menu filled with vibrant, aromatic dishes that promise a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

At Chef Tan, the spotlight falls brightly on their Home Cooking Dishes, where classics like the Twice Cooked Pork in Sichuan Style (J15) and Mapo Tofu (J17) bring an irresistibly spicy, numbing kick that gently commands your senses. The Preserved Pork with Leek (J11) offers a perfect balance of savory depth and fresh leek fragrance, while dishes like the Sauteed Pig’s Intestines with Hot Chili (J16) awaken your palate with bold, complex layers that true aficionados will adore.

The restaurant also shines in its selection of appetizers—each one a delicate harmony of texture and flavor. The Dandan Noodles (X1) deliver a fiery, nutty complexity, while the Steamed Stuffed Buns (X4) feature a comforting, tender bite bursting with savory goodness. For those who cherish the perfect crispy-chewy contrast, the Scallion Pancakes (X9) are a must-try—a golden, fragrant starter that lays the foundation for the meal.

Dessert reveals a softer, sweeter side of Chef Tan’s culinary artistry. Their Glutinous Rice Balls Soup (for two) brings warmth and subtle sweetness, closing your meal with a comforting and authentic touch that lingers long after your last bite.

The dining atmosphere here reflects the authenticity of the dishes—unpretentious, inviting, and warm. Whether you visit for a vibrant meal with friends or a quiet dinner craving bold flavors, the friendly and attentive service makes every visit feel like coming home. Patrons frequently praise the genuine approach in both food and hospitality; as one customer, Liana Cen, put it simply, "So delicious, I always go back to this resto. I will remember—thanks to the chef for making such great food."

Many diners have discovered a rare gem in Northern Delaware through Chef Tan’s menu—Dena Cornett expressed heartfelt satisfaction after sampling a variety of dishes like the spicy cumin lamb and General Tso chicken alongside delicate wontons in chili oil. The experience is a journey through Chinese culinary traditions that go far beyond the typical takeout fare found locally.

For those seeking truly authentic Chinese flavors with an emphasis on quality and depth, Chef Tan stands out as a culinary destination worth every dollar. While some find it a bit pricier, the premium ingredients and masterful execution justify the price. Patrick Geneva recommends the sour pickled spicy beef for spice lovers eager to venture into bolder territory.

Whether dining in or ordering takeout, the experience at Chef Tan is consistently rated exceptional. Ruth Barnet’s takeout experience confirmed that this is not your run-of-the-mill China town fare but a genuine taste of regional Chinese cuisine, including standouts like Beef Rice Noodles and Three Cup Chicken.

In essence, Chef Tan is more than just a restaurant—it is a gateway to authentic Chinese home cooking and Sichuan spice that delights and satisfies on every level. If you appreciate culinary craftsmanship and crave honest, adventurous flavors, Chef Tan in Newark is where your appetite’s journey must begin.