Chinese eatery a great late-night dining spot

I'm a night owl, and that often leaves me eating late.

Late-night food is not exactly known for its quality or nutritional value. But a friend suggested that we try Mandarin Palace Restaurant & Lounge in the Renton Highlands.

I have to admit that when I pulled into the parking lot, I had my doubts. It is tucked into a strip mall that I had driven by several times, but never thought it to be the type of place that would house a good restaurant. The décor was dated and looked like any other Chinese restaurant in the area, fish tank and all.

After we were seated, though, everything got better.

The woman at the front counter immediately sat us and poured tea. She handed us each two dinner menus and explained that one had more seafood options and one had more combination plates.

We decided to start with the egg rolls ($2.95), which were brought to us just a few minutes after they were ordered.

I decided to have the shrimp with lobster sauce ($9.75), and my friend selected the Szechuan-style beef with broccoli ($9.25).

The dishes arrived quickly, and portions were huge. My shrimp were cooked just right, and the sauce was creamy and flavorful.

My friend's dish had a good amount of well-cooked broccoli and tender strips of beef. We both ate as much as we could, but to-go boxes were a must.

A few weeks later, I returned to Mandarin Palace. This time I wanted something a little lighter.

I ordered the prawns chow mein ($8.95), and my friend had the Mongolian beef ($9.25). The mound of chow mein was substantially bigger than my head — so much for "light."

I'm happy to have found a place where I can get fresh, flavorful food, great service and lots of menu options even if I'm dining late.

Jordan Dawson: 253-234-8601 or jdawson@seattletimes.com