Chinese Cooking Myths Debunked: Facts vs. Fiction at Ernest Chinese
Here at Ernest Chinese, we’re more than just another Chinese food restaurant in Chattanooga. Located in the heart of the Southside, we bring together the best of American Chinese classics and authentic Sichuan specialties. Since our opening in 2023, we’ve often been asked about common misconceptions surrounding Chinese cuisine. We want to debunk some of these persistent myths and help you discover what makes Chinese food, particularly here at Ernest Chinese, so special.
Myth #1: "All Chinese Food Is Super Spicy"
Not every dish has to light your taste buds on fire. Chinese food is incredibly diverse, offering everything from mild and savory to bold and spicy. At Ernest Chinese, we make sure there’s something on the menu for everyone:
For milder flavors: Dishes like Chicken & Broccoli or Egg Fried Rice offer comforting, balanced tastes with no heat.
For spice seekers: Authentic Sichuan dishes like Dan Dan Noodles bring that signature numbing "málà" spice you’d expect from spicy Sichuan cuisine.
Whether you like it mild or fiery, our menu has the variety to match your mood.
Myth #2: "American Chinese Food Isn’t ‘Real’ Chinese Food"
This myth overlooks how much history and culture go into American Chinese food. Chinese immigrants adapted their recipes by blending their culinary traditions with local flavors to create something new and unique.
At Ernest Chinese Chattanooga, we celebrate both sides of Chinese cuisine:
American Chinese favorites: Dishes like General Ern’s Chicken bring the nostalgic flavors you grew up loving.
Authentic Sichuan specialties: Try our Mapo Tofu, made with fermented black beans and Sichuan spices for a bold, traditional taste.
Both styles are rooted in culinary tradition, and we’re proud to bring them together under one roof.
Myth #3: "MSG Is Bad For You"
MSG (monosodium glutamate) has been misunderstood for years. However, this controversy stems from misinformation rather than scientific evidence. MSG is simply a form of glutamic acid, an amino acid naturally present in many foods we eat daily, from tomatoes to parmesan cheese.
At Ernest Chinese, we focus on flavor the traditional way:
Natural umami: Ingredients like mushroom soy, Sichuan spices, and fermented black beans bring deep, savory flavors to our dishes.
No shortcuts: We rely on authentic techniques and ingredients to make every bite memorable.
It’s time to move past the MSG myth and enjoy great food without worry.
Myth #4: "Chinese Food Is Unhealthy"
This one’s just plain wrong. This misconception often comes from associating all Chinese food with deep-fried takeout dishes. Chinese cuisine emphasizes balance, fresh ingredients, and a variety of cooking techniques—not everything is fried!
At Ernest Chinese Chattanooga, we keep things fresh:
Vegetable-forward options: Dishes like our Veggie Stir Fry and Sichuan Eggplant showcase crisp, flavorful veggies.
Healthy cooking methods: From wok-searing to steaming, we go beyond frying to offer lighter options.
Looking for vegetarian or gluten-free dishes? We’ve got plenty to choose from, and our team is happy to help you find something that works for your diet.
Myth #5: "All Chinese Restaurants Serve the Same Menu"
Not all Chinese restaurants in Chattanooga are the same. While many Chinese restaurants share some popular dishes, each one has its own specialties and unique interpretations. At Ernest Chinese, we've created a unique dining experience that sets us apart from other Asian restaurants in Chattanooga.
Sichuan specialties: Explore unique dishes like Gong Bao Chicken or Salt + Pepper Shrimp for something different.
Creative cocktails: Our tiki drinks, like the Sichuan Mule or Big Ern’s Painkiller, add a fun twist to your meal.
Lunch combos: Our customizable lunch combos, starting at $18, are a great way to explore different flavors without breaking the bank.
We’re not just another Southside Chinese restaurant—we’re here to shake up your expectations.
Myth #6: "Chinese Food Is All About Take-Out"
While takeout is a great option that we are proud to offer, dining in at Ernest Chinese Chattanooga is a whole experience in itself:
Stylish setting: Whether it’s a date night, family dinner, or lunch with friends, our space is warm, inviting, and perfect for any occasion.
Full-service dining: Relax and let us take care of you while you enjoy your meal.
Craft cocktails: Our full bar specializes in creative drinks that pair perfectly with the food.
At Ernest Chinese, we believe that eating out should be more than just a meal, it should be a moment to savor.
Experience Ernest Chinese for Yourself
The best way to challenge these myths? Come taste for yourself. Whether you’re craving comforting American Chinese food or bold Sichuan flavors, we’ve got something you’ll love.
Find us at 55 Johnson Street in the Southside, open daily from 11:30am to 10pm. Call (423) 602-5980 to order takeout, or check us out on Uber Eats for delivery. Better yet, stop by and enjoy the food, drinks, and atmosphere that make us one of the top Asian restaurants in Chattanooga.
At Ernest Chinese, we’re here to show you how delicious and diverse Chinese cuisine can be. See you soon!
