Peking Pavilion, Manalapan, NJ: Restaurant Review
Prestigious "Best Restaurant" Recognition
Awarded to establishments earning 3 stars or higher for culinary excellence, service, and overall dining experience.
Snapshot
Fare: Gourmet Chinese fusion with French accents
Price: Expensive
Food quality: Excellent, consistent execution
Service: Professional, attentive, and well trained
Decor: Contemporary with glass, tile, and stone
Overall rating: 3 stars
Note: Four-star scale from 1/2 star (Poor) to 4 stars (Best in Class)
Noise level: Moderate to high
Dress: Casual
Recommended Dishes: Pavilion’s Three Delicacies, Chung King Beef, and Grand Marnier Prawns.
Best for: Guests who enjoy refined Chinese cuisine in a modern setting
Not for: Diners seeking a low key, traditional BYOB experience
Liquor: Full service bar with a lively scene
Peking Pavilion sets a high bar for Chinese fusion dining in Monmouth County. Run by the Ku family, the restaurant focuses on fresh ingredients, polished technique, and a French-influenced style. Prices sit on the higher side for the category, yet the quality and care in each dish justify the spending.
The main dining room is sleek and stylish, with hard surfaces that amplify sound during rush hours. For a calmer meal, ask for a table on the upstairs balcony. The balcony is simpler in design, yet usually quieter and more relaxed.
The menu leans into Chinese fusion, while keeping only a few classic dishes. Portions are generous, and the beef selections stand out for flavor and tenderness. The bar is a comfortable spot if you need to wait, with a solid cocktail list and quick service.
Staff members know the menu well and guide you toward good pairings and portion sizes. The restaurant is popular, so waits are common during peak times. Families are welcome, and children are accommodated.
Reservations and Policies
Peking Pavilion is popular, so expect a wait during busy nights. They accept reservations only for parties of six or more, so plan ahead if you’re coming with a crowd. The restaurant is open every day, including holidays like Thanksgiving. Families are welcome and children are accommodated.
Tips for a Better Visit
- Request the balcony if you prefer a quieter table.
- Arrive early or enjoy the bar while you wait.
- Share plates to sample more of the fusion menu.
Final Take
Peking Pavilion delivers polished Chinese fusion with upscale flair. It is a smart pick for date nights, celebrations, and anyone who values bold flavors and refined technique.
Key Takeaways
- One of the strongest Chinese fusion options in Monmouth County.
- Modern dining room, lively noise level, quieter balcony upstairs
- Standout beef dishes and generous portions
- Full bar, no BYOB
- Reservations only for six or more
FAQs
Q: Do they take reservations?
A: Yes, for parties of six or more. Smaller groups are seated on a first come basis.
Q: How noisy is it?
A: The main dining room can get loud during peak times. The upstairs balcony is typically quieter.
Q: Are families welcome?
A: Yes. The restaurant accommodates children.
Update: September 2025
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