Chang Hai Restaurant — Restaurant in Lexington

I used to go here 5 days a week 20 years ago when I worked nearby. Today I happened to be in the area so I stopped in to get my old usual for lunch spicy green beans and an egg roll. Used to pay about $6 for the lunch but now was charged $20.54. Wow! Inflation! When I walked up to the counter I said I used to come here 20 years ago and I didn't need to look at the menu. I'll have the spicy green beans and an egg roll. The order taker asked me something I think about sizes and I just for me, one. While I was waiting I looked at the menu taped to the front window. It showed the lunch as $12.75 or $12.95. When the order was ready I asked about the price difference I was told I had to say the work "combo" or something like that. I mean it was 12:33 PM. Lunchtime. I mean, I am older but I don't eat dinner that early. So she tells me next time I have to say the magic word. I told her there would not be a next time. At the very least she should have asked me if I wanted the "combo" or whatever it is. I feel very ripped off having given her $8 more than what I should have paid for lunch. I will never go back.

Remember to use the magic word if you go during lunchtime or you'll be charged an extra $8...

One of the best Chinese restaurants I’ve ordered from! The steamed white rice was perfectly cooked—chewy and fluffy. The General Tso’s chicken was delicious, and since they didn’t have Orange Chicken, they went the extra mile to make us a special side. The scallion pancake had a wonderfully crisp texture, reminiscent of a Haitian pâté Kode without the filling. The vegetable lo mein was fantastic—even as someone who doesn’t like mushrooms, I found myself enjoying them. The egg rolls, however, were a bit dry and the filling wasn’t my favorite. One downside is that they don’t accept American Express, only Visa and MasterCard, so keep that in mind. Overall, a solid spot, and I’d definitely eat there again!

Atmosphere is dry, old style could use...

Just ate at Changhai and it seriously impressed me.

The place has a chill, clean vibe with some nice traditional touches. Service was on point — friendly, fast, and helpful with recommendations.

We had the soup dumplings (amazing — thin skin, flavorful broth), Mapo Tofu (authentic Sichuan heat and numbing spice), and the hand-pulled noodles (fresh, chewy, and full of flavor). Even their General Tso’s Chicken was a standout — crispy, not overly sweet, and actually had depth.

Portions were solid, prices totally fair, and everything came out hot and fresh.

If you’re tired of greasy takeout and want real, flavorful Chinese food — Changhai is the move....