&colorscheAfter exhausting our usual Chinese dining options, my father and I received word of the small but nationally recognized Helen’s Gourmet. Located in North Fresno, this neighborhood restaurant offers a casual and very relaxed atmosphere.

Helen’s Gourmet has been in the top 100 finalists for healthiest Chinese cuisine in America. After hearing of this distinction, we decided to try the restaurant.

Entering the eatery, the first thing that caught my attention was the detailed work of the bright-red embroidery imprinted on the walls. Another eye-catching detail was the large fish tanks which held Chinese goldfish. The distinct Chinese decor demonstrated the authenticity of the restaurant.

Upon sitting down, I couldn’t help but feel in awe of this simple and family-oriented restaurant. There was plenty of seating available for families, and within 10 minutes after ordering, our food arrived from the kitchen.

I ordered tangerine chicken with chow mein. Along with this meal came egg flower soup and spring rolls. At first, I was amazed with the amount of food given to me, compared to the miniscule portions served at other restaurants.

My first bite of tenderly-cooked chicken was just right, with the perfect amount of sauce to balance the taste. The chicken had a brilliant and diverse blend of sweetness and sourness which perfected its flavor.

Though the spring rolls were over-cooked, they maintained an exceptional taste. I was pleased with the dipping sauce, but wished for more spiciness to enhance the flavor. As for the egg flower soup, a lack of salt contributed to its bland taste, which ultimately dissatisfied me.

My father ordered almond chicken, which consisted of baked almonds and a clear glaze, with mixed vegetables and a side of pan-fried noodles. My father enjoyed the noodles because they were very crispy. Also, in his opinion, the slivered almond and vegetables in the combinations were delightful because of the crunchiness they added to the taste.

Helen’s Gourmet also provides a wide selection of fowl, beef and pork, which are served with the soup of the day, chow mein and a choice of fried rice, steamed rice or brown rice.

I was disappointed not to find traditional Chinese dim sum offered at Helen’s. The set of small-portioned food, usually consisting of dumplings, would have added to the restaurant’s authenticity. My family always orders dim sum before we eat our main meal, so I would have liked to see it offered on the menu.

However, I was pleased with the service and the food quality. The waitress was very attentive to our needs throughout the meal. The food was delightful and presented a fresh, healthy and appetizing dinner, rather than seeming processed and greasy.

Helen’s Gourmet has outstanding prices for the quality of food and the quantity served. For a typical plate, the price is only $8.95, while a family four-course meal costs $11.95 per person.

At Helen’s Gourmet, my father and I enjoyed our experience and we plan to visit again with our whole family. Of all the Chinese restaurants in Fresno, I am truly impressed with Helen’s.

Helen’s Gourmet is located at 7444 N. Fresno St. For more information, contact the restaurant at 559.432.4241. A coupon for 10 percent off a meal of $30 or more is available on the restaurant’s website.

For more food reviews, read the Feb. 16 article, Samba barbecues lavish, hearty dishes.

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