House Fortune is a popular name for Chinese-American restaurants across the United States. While these establishments are often independently owned, the House Fortune menu usually follows a traditional structure that offers a wide variety of Cantonese and Szechuan-inspired dishes. This guide provides a comprehensive look at what you can expect when ordering from a House Fortune menu, from classic appetizers to signature chef specials.
Understanding the layout of a typical House Fortune menu helps you navigate the extensive choices more efficiently. Whether you are looking for a quick lunch or a large family dinner, these restaurants are known for providing generous portions and consistent flavors. The following sections break down the most common items you will encounter.
The Foundation of the House Fortune Menu
Most House Fortune menus are divided into clear categories based on the primary protein or the style of cooking. This organization makes it easy for diners to find exactly what they are craving without feeling overwhelmed by the dozens of options available.
Typically, you will find sections for poultry, beef, seafood, pork, and vegetables. Each of these sections often features the same cooking styles, such as Kung Pao, Hunan, or Szechuan, adapted for that specific protein. This consistency allows you to choose your favorite flavor profile and pair it with the meat or vegetable of your choice.
Popular Appetizers and Starters
The appetizer section is designed to stimulate the palate before the main course. At House Fortune, these items are often available in individual servings or as larger plates for sharing.
- Egg Rolls and Spring Rolls: Traditional egg rolls are usually filled with pork and shredded cabbage, while spring rolls offer a lighter, vegetarian-friendly alternative with a thinner, crispier wrapper.
- Crab Rangoon: These are fried wonton wrappers filled with a mixture of cream cheese and imitation crab meat. They are a staple of Chinese-American cuisine and are usually served with sweet and sour sauce.
- Potstickers (Pan-Fried Dumplings): These dough-wrapped pockets are filled with ground meat and vegetables, then seared on one side to create a contrast between the soft dough and the crispy bottom.
- Barbecue Spare Ribs: Often marinated in a sweet and savory red glaze, these ribs are a favorite for those who enjoy hearty, smoky flavors.
Classic Soups
Soup is an essential part of the House Fortune experience, often served as a complimentary starter for dine-in lunch specials. The three most common options are Wonton Soup, Egg Drop Soup, and Hot and Sour Soup.
Wonton soup features delicate pork-filled dumplings in a clear chicken broth. Egg drop soup is known for its silky texture and mild flavor, while hot and sour soup provides a spicy and tangy kick, usually containing tofu, bamboo shoots, and mushrooms.
Main Entrees: Poultry and Beef
The poultry and beef sections are often the busiest parts of the House Fortune menu. These dishes are typically served with a side of white rice, though many customers choose to upgrade to fried rice for a small additional fee.
General Tso’s Chicken is perhaps the most famous item on the menu. It consists of breaded, deep-fried chicken chunks tossed in a sweet and slightly spicy sauce, often garnished with steamed broccoli. Similar to this is Orange Chicken, which uses a citrus-based glaze for a brighter, sweeter profile.
In the beef section, Beef with Broccoli remains a top seller. It features tender slices of flank steak stir-fried with fresh broccoli florets in a savory brown sauce. For those who prefer a bit of heat, Mongolian Beef offers a smoky flavor with plenty of green onions and a hint of spice.
Seafood and Vegetarian Specialties
House Fortune menus cater to a wide range of dietary preferences. The seafood section typically includes shrimp, scallops, and sometimes lobster or imitation crab. Shrimp with Lobster Sauce is a classic choice, featuring a savory white gravy with peas, carrots, and bits of egg.
Vegetarians will find plenty of options as well. Most menus feature a variety of tofu dishes, such as Ma Po Tofu (which can be made without meat upon request) or Family Style Tofu, which involves fried tofu steaks stir-fried with mixed vegetables. Buddha’s Delight is another popular choice, consisting of a medley of steamed or stir-fried vegetables in a light sauce.
Understanding Chef’s Specials
The “Chef’s Specials” or “House Specials” section is where you will find the most unique and elaborate dishes. These items are often proprietary to the specific House Fortune location and represent the chef’s highest level of skill.
- Happy Family: This dish typically includes a mix of chicken, beef, shrimp, pork, and scallops stir-fried with assorted vegetables in a rich brown sauce. It is designed to offer a little bit of everything.
- Dragon and Phoenix: This visually appealing dish often features two separate preparations on one plate—usually a spicy chicken dish (the dragon) and a mild shrimp dish (the phoenix).
- Seafood Delight: A concentrated selection of the best seafood available, usually tossed in a light, clear wine sauce to let the natural flavors of the shrimp and scallops shine.
Lunch Specials and Combination Platters
For those looking for the best value, the lunch specials and combination platters are the most important part of the House Fortune menu. Lunch specials are typically available from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM and include a smaller portion of an entree, a choice of rice, and sometimes a soup or an egg roll.
Combination platters are usually available all day. These are larger meals that come with a side of pork fried rice and an egg roll. They are an excellent option for individuals who want a complete meal without having to order multiple separate dishes.
Customizing Your Order
One of the benefits of ordering from House Fortune is the ability to customize your meal. Because most dishes are prepared to order in a wok, you can often request specific changes to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Spice Levels: Many dishes are marked with a small chili icon, indicating they are spicy. You can usually ask the kitchen to adjust the heat to “mild,” “medium,” or “extra spicy.” If you are sensitive to heat, you can also ask for the spicy sauce to be served on the side.
Dietary Adjustments: If you are watching your sodium or fat intake, many House Fortune locations offer a “Diet Menu” or “Health Food” section. These items are typically steamed without oil, salt, or cornstarch and are served with the sauce on the side. You can also request that your food be prepared without MSG if that is a concern.
How to Find Your Local House Fortune Menu
Since “House Fortune” is a common name, it is important to ensure you are looking at the menu for the correct location. Menus and prices can vary significantly between a House Fortune in California and one in New Jersey.
To find the most accurate menu, search for the restaurant name along with your city or zip code on major search engines. Most locations list their menus on their official website or on popular delivery platforms like DoorDash, Uber Eats, or Grubhub. Checking recent photos on Google Maps or Yelp is also a great way to see the most current physical menu and prices.
Conclusion
The House Fortune menu offers a reliable and diverse selection of Chinese-American favorites that cater to almost every taste. By understanding the common categories, signature dishes, and customization options, you can ensure a satisfying dining experience every time you order. Whether you are grabbing a quick lunch special or treating the family to a feast of Chef’s Specials, House Fortune provides a convenient and delicious solution for your cravings.
If you found this guide helpful, consider exploring our other articles on local dining tips and food guides at SearchAndHelp.com to make your next meal choice even easier.