Szechwan Restaurant

79 Orinda Way, Orinda, CA 94563, United States
+1 925-254-2020
$$$ Chinese restaurant
(168 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

Szechwan Restaurant in Orinda serves up a straightforward, no-frills Chinese dining experience with a focus on traditional Szechwan flavors and a broad menu that reflects regional variety. Located on Orinda Way, it fits comfortably into this suburban neighborhood as a reliable spot for lunch or dinner, attracting both local families and weekday visitors seeking well-prepared Chinese classics without fuss.

The interior is clean and functional, geared more toward casual dining than elaborate ambiance. The atmosphere tends to be lively during lunch hours, supported by efficient service that suits those on a work break, but it also accommodates relaxed family meals in the evenings. The space can feel practical rather than cozy, making it a solid choice when good food is the priority.

The menu at Szechwan Restaurant is extensive and leans heavily on spicy, savory dishes that showcase typical Szechwan chili and garlic notes. Locals appreciate the variety for both meat and vegetarian options, with standouts such as Kung Pao Beef, Szechwan Shrimp, and Black Bean Shrimp lunch specials regularly mentioned for their bold flavors and balanced heat. Homemade pot stickers and soups like the Wor Wonton or Hot & Sour offer familiar comfort that pairs well as starters.

For those who favor plant-based or lighter options, dishes like Broccoli Tofu with Oyster Sauce or Hot Bean Curd (Ma Po Tofu) provide satisfying alternatives without overwhelming richness. Portions tend to be generous and well-suited for sharing, which fits the group dining style common here.

For timing, lunchtime is a favorite among locals looking for a quick, flavorful meal with reasonable prices, supported by ready specials that offer good value. Dinners see more families and groups settling in for a relaxed meal, with the service attentively handling larger orders and requests.

In sum, Szechwan Restaurant is best for those who want authentic Szechwan and broader Chinese dishes served with straightforward hospitality in a neighborhood setting. It’s a practical pick for anyone who values a spiced-up meal, solid portion sizes, and friendly, no-nonsense service without the pretense of a fine-dining atmosphere.

Highlights
Has fast service
Has great tea selection
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
What they serve
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves healthy options
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Serves vegetarian dishes
Serves wine
Best for
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Serves dessert
Has seating
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking

Openings Hours

Checking

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

11:00 AM - 3:00 PM

,

4:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Wednesday

11:00 AM - 3:00 PM

,

4:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Thursday

11:00 AM - 3:00 PM

,

4:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Friday

11:00 AM - 3:00 PM

,

4:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Saturday

11:00 AM - 3:00 PM

,

4:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Sunday

4:00 AM - 9:00 PM

168 Reviews
Erik H

07 Jan 2026

I had the Kung Pao Fish Fillet dinner special last night, a very delicious dish I hadn't noticed on their menu until last month! We stopped by for lunch on Saturday. Great variety of dishes on the Lunch Menu and nice portions of their delicious food! We have found a new favorite appetizer, the Lettuce Cups! The Basil Fish Fillet is amazing! Large pieces of Snapper Fillets, delicious veggies that come together with the sauce! I ask to have the Chow Fun noodles added, wow! If you like veggies, ask them if they have any special veggie plates today? The food is very tasty and it's served hot. Fast and friendly service, reasonable prices.

Roy Aguilera

31 Dec 2025

The ownership changed over but the food remains excellent. Always a friendly and clean place for a family meal. We start out with the pot stickers and sizzling soup. The Singapore noodle with shrimp, pork and steak in curry sauce is a must try.

Nestor Gerales

22 Dec 2025

From the home made pot stickers to the orange slices at the end of our meal, everything was amazing. The honey walnut prawns had the right amount of mayonnaise and it was not overly sweet. Perfect balance. We also order the BBQ Pork Chow fun with steamee broccoli, salt and pepper prawns, and tomato prawns. They were all so delicious. The food was not oily at all. This is my go to place when I'm in the area.

J CC

19 Dec 2025

Wow, great little Chinese place in Orinda. Came by during lunch. The have a great lunch special menu. Great low prices. And decent location. I got a Mongolian chicken which was great! I was surprised. Good quality and taste. I definitely recommend. I visit many Chinese restaurants during my lunch’s as a field tech and this one is recommended!

Dan Dimitriu

24 Nov 2025

I went for lunch, the service was super fast, great atmosphere, the food very good and tasty!

david perez

12 Nov 2025

My girlfriend showed me this Gem of a restaurant years ago. Her family has eaten here since old ownership. Well I'm happy that not much has changed food wise. They are still making delicious food and offering amazing service. I love this place and everyone is so friendly.

David Kielsmeier

09 Oct 2025

Probably the best Kung Pao chicken I’ve ever had. I’m not sure I’ve ever left a restaurant reviewing Google, but wanted to share because I thought it was so good.

Houman Meshkin

25 Sep 2025

We’ve been to Szechuan restaurant several times, both dine in and take out. The food is always great and the staff is very friendly. Last night’s meal was particularly good. We ordered a couple of new dishes which were yesterday‘s specials. One had eggplant and chicken and the other was some fish dish. We had it as take out for a dozen guests at home. All of our guests were complimenting the food and asking where we got it from. Thank you Szechwan Restaurant.

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