Salt Lake City, UT – In a city known little world chinese restaurant salt lake city utah views and growing culinary scene, finding authentic, no-frills Chinese food can sometimes feel like a challenge. Nestled on State Street, Little World Chinese Restaurant has established itself as a controversial yet beloved institution.
With a 4.5-star rating from over 1,500 reviews on platforms like Uber Eats , this “hole in the wall” spot generates passionate opinions. Some call it the best Chinese food in Utah, while others warn about the dated decor . One thing is certain: if you are looking for massive portions and flavors that lean closer to Guangzhou than a typical food court, Little World demands your attention .
The Vibe: A “Diamond in the Rough”
Do not come here expecting white tablecloths or mood lighting. Located at 1356 S State St, South Salt Lake, the restaurant is frequently described as a “dive” . The exterior is unassuming, and the interior shows its age.
However, for the adventurous eater, this is part of the charm. Reviews consistently note that the staff is “friendly” and “personable” . The high traffic of takeout orders and delivery drivers (DoorDash, GrubHub, Uber Eats) is a testament to the fact that locals prioritize the food over the aesthetics .
The Menu: Beyond General Tso’s
While you can get American staples like Sweet & Sour Chicken or Egg Rolls, the magic of Little World lies in its authenticity. Reviewers emphasize that the menu is massive—boasting over 300 items—and features dishes you don’t see everywhere .
The Cantonese Connection
Multiple diners have noted that the chefs and owners hail from the Guangdong province, specializing in Cantonese cuisine . This means you can get authentic Roast Duck, Soy Chicken, and BBQ Pork (Cha Siu) served over rice with bok choy.
Must-Try Dishes According to Locals:
-
Pot Stickers (6 for $5.60): Frequently called the “best in town,” these handmade dumplings are stuffed with pork and Napa cabbage .
-
Singapore Noodles: A surprisingly good curry-spiced vermicelli dish packed with shrimp and pork .
-
Honeymoon Fried Rice: A house specialty mentioned by frequent diners .
-
Hot & Sour Soup: Rich, spicy, and made with Chinese black vinegar and cloud ear mushrooms .
The Verdict on Service & Hours
Little World is a haven for night owls. While some older listings show limited hours, current delivery data confirms they are open daily from 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM (Midnight) . It is one of the few spots to get late-night noodles in Salt Lake City .
Service is functional. They focus on “speed and accuracy” for takeout. If you are dining in, patience is key, as the kitchen prioritizes the phone and delivery apps .
Conclusion
Little World Chinese Restaurant is not for everyone. If you value ambiance, modern decor, or a pristine dining room, you might be put off. However, if you are on a quest for authentic Cantonese flavors, massive portions, and a menu deep enough to explore for years, this is a bucket-list spot.
It represents the best kind of immigrant restaurant: stubbornly authentic, operating on its own terms, and serving a loyal community that knows exactly where to go when cravings hit. Just order the pot stickers and trust the process.
Essential Information & Stats
To help you plan your visit, here is a breakdown of what to expect at Little World.
Restaurant At a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Cuisine | Chinese (Cantonese / Szechuan influences) |
| Price Range | (Inexpensive)−Entrees7-$12 |
| Location | 1356 S State St, Salt Lake City, UT 84115 |
| Avg. Rating | 4.0 – 4.5 stars (Thousands of reviews) |
| Best For | Late-night eats, takeout, authentic Cantonese BBQ |
Hours of Operation
Note: Always call ahead, but these are the standard confirmed times
| Day | Open Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM (Midnight) |
| Tuesday | 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Wednesday | 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Thursday | 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Friday | 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Saturday | 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Sunday | 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
Must-Try Menu Items & Prices
| Category | Item | Approx. Price |
|---|---|---|
| Appetizer | Pot Stickers (6) | $5.60 |
| Authentic Dish | BBQ Roast Duck (Half) | Market Price / ~$12 |
| Noodle | Singapore Noodles | 10−12 |
| Chef Special | Walnut Shrimp | 12−14 |
| Soup | Hot & Sour Soup (Large) | 1.25−3.00 |
FAQs
Q: Is Little World Chinese Restaurant actually authentic?
A: Yes, surprisingly so. Unlike many “Americanized” spots in Utah, Little World serves specific Cantonese dishes like Steamed Tofu with mashed shrimp, Cha Siu (BBQ pork), and Roast Duck. About 60-70% of the menu is dedicated to authentic dishes .
Q: Do they deliver?
A: Yes. While they have their own takeout system, they are integrated with DoorDash and Uber Eats. You can order delivery directly through those apps .
Q: Is it safe/my car safe? The area looks sketchy.
A: The restaurant is located on State Street, which some reviewers describe as “run down” or sketchy at night . However, most diners report that it is safe, and the parking lot is usually busy with other diners picking up food. Just practice standard city awareness.
Q: What is the “Two Barbecue on Rice” dish?
A: It is a classic Cantonese “Siu Mei” dish. You choose two meats (usually Roast Duck, Soy Chicken, or BBQ Pork/Cha Siu) served over white rice with a side of blanched bok choy (Chinese broccoli) .
Q: I am a vegetarian. Are there options?
A: Yes. Uber Eats tags the restaurant as offering “Vegetarian” and “Vegan” friendly options . Look for Tofu dishes (Ma Po Tofu or Steamed Tofu) and vegetable chow mein. Note: Always specify “no egg” or “no oyster sauce” if you are strict.
Q: Why are the reviews so mixed?
A: Because expectations vary. Some customers come for clean, bright Panda Express style restaurants and are shocked by the dated decor. Others come specifically for the authentic, gritty experience and love it. The quality of the food is generally rated very high, but the ambiance is rated low .