Ming Yen - Novato, California

Annie W.

We absolutely love going to Ming Yen! Since moving here 4 years ago, it has become our celebration restaurant, and the only Chinese food we’ll eat in town.

Our latest visit, a couple of days ago, was especially excellent. We learned about some wonderful changes and we’re very happy for the restaurant, and for our future dining tbh. It was all over the top delicious! The beef was so tender and flavorful, and the green bean dish was unexpectedly amazing. All exceeded our already high expectations! Which adds to the fantastic customer service. We always feel so welcome and at home when we dine here.

Congrats and blessings for an awesome 2025!!

Xin Z. (.

My family and I dined at this restaurant two nights ago and had a wonderful experience. We ordered broccoli beef, salt and pepper chicken wings, eggplant and string beans. They all were very delicious.
We actually arrived quite late around 8 and didn’t realize they normally close at 9. When the owner learned it was our first visit, they recommended their pot stickers and even offered them on the house. And they were fantastic with a generous portion. They also didn’t charge us for the rice. As it was getting closer to 9, the owner’s family sat down at another table for their own dinner, and before we left, they gave us a whole box of hot and sour soup to take home for free again! Definitely recommend this place, food is great, service is excellent!

Dennis Q.

Went in for the lunch special, which unfortunately you can't order additional sides or add any add ons. Settled for the Mongolian beef with fried rice. The beef was the star of the dish, while the rice left me desiring more. Hot and sour soup was loaded with pepper or salt and made it difficult to eat. Had about half as set it aside. Overall, ok if you're craving chinese for lunch. Would probably try the spot down the street next time for comparison.

angie S.

Worst customer service. Lady with short black hair has such an attitude (rude as can be). The food is good but not worth the trouble. No air conditioning.

Malcolm S.

Don't let the outside appearance fool you. Ming Yen is an excellent place to eat. We ate there on Christmas day and it was very crowded but we still go our food in a reasonable time. They have a lot of choices and everything we ordered was delicious. You don't have to go to San Francisco to get authentic Chinese food.

Jonathan F.

Stopped by Ming Yen on Grant Ave the other day; rather spontaneously, just as they were opening for dinner. Had some pot sticker dumplings and some spring rolls. Delicious! Fresh, crispy, full of flavor. Oh so yummy! The pot stickers were done just right. Was offered a free bowl of hot & sour soup while waiting. Was so delicious and gratifying. I will have to go back and try the orange chicken. Or perhaps will try the Peking Duck. Service was excellent!
Located on Grant Ave, on the corner at Seventh St. Plenty of parking.
Street parking is available. Yet know that it’s a very busy section of Grant Ave. Also, the 49 Novato Transit bus stops close by.

Diana E.

Love this restaurant. I get takeout here when I visit my parents the food is always great especially the chicken and salt-fish fried rice.

Michael R.

We found it! My partner and I have been on the hunt for our go-to Chinese restaurant in Novato. Based on some of the positive reviews, we tried Ming Yen last night. I am so glad we did. On Grant at the corner of 7th. Plenty of free, safe parking in back with easy access. Water and hot tea as we were seated. Full, updated menu. We opted for the Szechuan Dinner for Two. I have a thing for Hot & Sour soup; theirs hit the spot. Pot stickers were fresh, tasty, and generous. My partner loved that they are handmade in-house. The beef was oh so tender with just the right amount of spice. The chicken was lightly breaded in a tangy sauce. Option of pork fried rice or vegetable chow mien. I chose the rice; it was a great compliment to the rest of this delicious meal. Throughout it all, our waiter, Will, was very attentive and helpful. He is also the son of the owners, Frank & Peggy. His parents are retiring soon, and Will is taking over the operation of this gem. So, when you go, ask for Will. He will take good care of you.