If we are what we eat, then Stockton locals are most certainly an eclectic bunch. In addition to the natural bounty afforded by California’s San Joaquin Valley, Stockton includes a diversity of ethnic cuisine you’d be hard-pressed to find elsewhere in the region. Just after the city was incorporated in 1850, a large population of immigrant gold-seekers moved to Stockton. These early settlers came from various parts of Asia, Africa, Australia, Europe, the Pacific Islands, Mexico, and Canada. And today, foods from around the world can be enjoyed thanks to Stockton’s diverse food scene. Whenever you’re hungry and whatever you’re hungry for, this ethnic-food roadmap will take you (and your taste buds) around the world for some of the best cuisines right here in Stockton. Sampling the world’s finest cuisine is easy in Stockton, where a diverse cultural history is made up of the finest ingredients. Whether you’re downtown near the water or shopping the Miracle Mile, a little bite of Stockton is just around the corner.
Important side note: For the largest grouping of diverse ethnic cuisine in Stockton, make your way to Stockton Flavor Fest—going down May 19-21, 2023 at the Weber Point Events Center. For more info, click here!
With that said, here’s a sampling of Stockton's diverse ethnic eats...
If you feel like traveling to the Far East, Chinese food in Stockton is a great place to start. With so many restaurants to choose from, you’re sure to find something that suits your palate and your budget.
Located South of Lincoln Center, tucked behind a service station, the outside of Yen Du Restaurant is unassuming; step inside and the smells wafting from the kitchen woks tell an entirely different story. For more than 20 years, this popular establishment has served classic Sichuan, Peking and Hunan cuisine with ingredients sourced locally whenever possible. Grab your chopsticks and dig into classics like beef with broccoli and sweet-and-sour pork; or venture from the ordinary and explore something new, like Sichuan tea-smoked duck! Great prices make this a tasty spot to enjoy with family or a large party.
Looking for Chinese food with some sizzle? Dave Wong’s Restaurant on March Lane is your date-night destination and a long-time Stockton favorite. The interior is a posh, contemporary lounge complemented by a heavy wood bar and mood lighting. Menu offerings include great vegetarian options as well as traditional proteins kung pao chicken and shiitake beef.