"And I've got swinging doors, a jukebox and a bar stool And my new home has a flashing neon sign Stop by and see me any time you want to 'Cause I'm always here at home till closing time" (Merle Haggard) Shu Express just announced it was permanently closed. Shu had an interesting market niche. It concentrated its menu on authentic Szechuan fare that might not have been mainstream enough to support its rent in the Walmart Plaza and in the Farmington Valley's demographics. The space will reopen as a Wokcraft, the latest version of An Asian restaurant at this location. read more

Shu Express - Szechuan Near Me - Avon, Connecticut

Did you ever cook rice and forget to salt it before you cooked it? I went to Shu Express today, as I was craving some Sichuan cuisine, that had a little kick to it. So as I pulled into the Walmart-Big Y Plaza in Avon. I parked almost right in front of the little restaurant just to the left of Five Guys and the haircut place. After hearing how delicious lunch specials were, I decided to get one, and the owner/order taker informed me that because this is a holiday no lunch specials. I was ready to walk out. Then, after looking at the prices, I was double ready to walk out. But because of the trooper that I am, I ordered the Yangzhou fried rice. The order arrived, and it just didn't look right; but that's OK; I'm a trooper. The fried rice was missing corn and scallions, a staple to this Szechuan dish. As I dug in, it hit me immediately. There was no flavor. The rice had zip for flavor. The shrimp were not seasoned. The diced pork looked old, the beans sprouts looked OK, the peas looked fresh, and the mushrooms were warm, , but not cooked. This dish lacked flavor. It was almost like it tasted like water. I brought the dish back and asked if there was some type of sauce that could put on this dish, and the owner got pissed at me. Copped a real attitude. He gave me three little soy sauce packets and sent me on my way. How this restaurant earned 4 1/2 to 5 stars is beyond me. Yes, parking was great, yes, the place was spotless, but the food tasted like a dieters choice that you would order a Chinese restaurant like steamed broccoli with white rice. Flavorless and disappointing. Plus it wasn't cheap at $16 with a soda. Will I be back to this location to retry it? Nope With so many new locations popping up in Avon on Route 44, I'll spend my money elsewhere, trying new things. I'm just really disappointed in this place and the owner. Perhaps he should take a refresher course on customer service, and allow lunch specials on holidays. This place was not busy at all and I was there at lunchtime. I just don't see this place lasting. read more

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I've been coming here since they opened and absolutely love their Hunan chicken, kung pow and all of the dumplings! My very favorite has always been the lunch special, which includes a different kind of soup (sometimes fish and greens, sometimes egg and tomato) and the most amazing cucumber salad. I went today to get my normal lunch special and realized that not only had they increased the price on the combo by 30% but they also are now using lower quality ingredients and different recipes. The soup was broth with green onions floating in it- the cucumbers were made with cheap and low quality cucumbers with thick skin and hardly any garlic and the Hunan chicken was tough and floating in oil. I understand the price increase and would be happy to pay it for the same quality of food, but the lower quality of the food was not something I'm willing to look past. I did find out that they are now under new ownership and the new owner will be changing the name from Shu express to a new name- very soon. I don't think I'll be back- sad to lose this amazing Chinese restaurant! read more

I ordered take out from Shu "Express" because Shu closed early. The food was so bad, I threw everything out. Eggrolls - so greasy it leaked through the bag and had no sauces. 7 flavor wonton- they have a vegetarian option not sent the pork dumplings. The dumplings were thick and soggy, with very little sauce. Not the same dumplings Shu in west Hartford makes. Cumin beef- meat was tough and "end cuts" of fat and cartilage. Sesame chicken- I know... ordering this and eggrolls was a bad decision- but the chicken was made up of leftover parts and got tossed too. The sauce was congealed and looked/tasted disgusting. Last... the restaurant receipt is Yuen's kitchen, so not sure Shu uses them vs their own chefs. But don't waste your money and just order from Shu (west Hartford) only. read more

Takeout review: I read that this is not your normal Chinese takeout spot so I had to check it out. They serve authentic Chinese Szechuan cuisine and has locations in West Hartford and Fairfield. I ordered the hot appetizer, Chengdu Dumplings which are steamed pork dumplings with their special garlic sauce; this was sweet, spicy, and in hot chili oil. The flavors were delicious and I should've ordered two of these to make an entree. For my entree, I had the crispy chicken in spicy garlic sauce. Since this was a takeout order,they had the sauce in a separate container so the chicken won't be soggy. Before pouring the sauce over your chicken, make sure to shake it first. The sauce was okay and not that spicy. I probably wouldn't order this again. The next time, I want to try our the Dan Dan noodles, Seven Flavors Wonton, Spicy Cumin Beef, Chong Qing chicken, and many more. The prices were definitely higher than other Chinese spots. Overall, a good Szechuan spot for your non typical Chinese dishes. read more

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Prior to ordering I asked if the chicken was tempura style or sautéed. Didn't understand so I asked fries or? Was told fried. Dish came out and was mixed with vegetables which I didn't know nor ask for. But the chicken was not fried at all. Rather I assume sautéed? Not sure. But I left with out eating it. And left ten dollars. read more

Believe it's under a new owner Few years ago it was excellent Now food off the scale hot (and I like it hot) and the lamb was most gristle No longer one my list of places to eat Unfortunately read more

Their food is very fresh and tasty. Have had the garlic chicken many times and got the sesame chicken last time. Both dishes were phenomenal Our go to place for Chinese takeout. read more

We walked in, then walked right out. The cigarette smoke permeated the whole place. Even though the employees appear to smoke outside the front door, the whole place smelled like an ashtray. read more

There is standard Chinese food. This is not that. This is authentic Szechuan just like their original restaurant in west hartford but without having to go to Wesr hartford. It's just a takeout place too. But so so good. I had the hot and sour soup to start. Legit and got a good peppery kick. Thick but not gummy this was one of my favorites I've had in a while. The dumplings were next. Loved these. Fresh and real good. And then the cumin beef. Woo does this have the spicy! But man I loved this dish. Reminded me of my too rare visits to Shu. This is the place you've been waiting for. Go and get it. read more

Shu Express - Outdoor - Szechuan Near Me - Avon, Connecticut

First time ordering from here and they didn't disappoint. I didn't know the luncheon included soup. The price was reasonable and the food was super tasty. Service was quick and easy, my order was ready in 10 minutes, There was only one customer inside, the area was clean and quiet. I will be ordering from there in the near future. read more

Sooo disappointed. WHAT HAPPENED???? We loved coming here for the homemade dumplings. They WERE the best in town. Picked them up tonight and what a disgrace. No longer homemade and a doughy mess. No flavor. Threw them out. Won't be back. So sad. read more

Honestly, don't know what's going on here.... all our food was bland. The fried rice was basically greasy white rice with a few veggies from a frozen mix tossed in. read more

I had a deal with Uber eats so I decided to order here. I've had their sister restaurant Chengdu in West Hartford as well as Song restaurant. I definitely would pick Chengdu over both but this express restaurant gives me the little things I like at a slightly cheaper price. Very slight. Would recommend. read more

Ordered 3 lunch special's Kung Pao chicken. Me and my coworkers couldn't finish it. Super salty and really weird sauce. Really disappointed

This is definitely my favorite take out place in Avon. I've been a fan of the main Shu restaurant for years and this has a limited menu but the same flavors. It's a small store space designed for take out. They're quick with phone orders and have always been ready at time promised for pick up. I've tried a number of things on their menu now and have still been impressed every time. Recently was able to try their lunch menu which was a good portion and very satisfying. read more

Authentic Chinese food. This is, simply put, the best Chinese food in all of CT. Genuine flavor, utmost care, outstanding flavor - this is not your typical Chinese food. This is an experience. This is the only Chinese food I ever want to eat- period. Amazing restaraunt- I enjoy every bite. I would go through the flavors + try to explain, but ; sorry, I don't have the words to do Shu's food justice. If youve never had real Chinese food - The Chinese foods you think you know, they're not these. You will be delighted by a new world of cuisine to explore! Only one pointer, this coming from a pepperhead who eats Ghost, Scorpion & Reaper peppers: respect the Sichuan Pepper. Try it Medium your first few times, then work your way up. This isn't a hot peppers capsaicin heat, it's a different type of heat - closer to mustard/wasabi heat. Enjoy - you will have your favorite Chinese restaurant after you try Shu! read more

Shu Express - Kung Pao Chicken, Fried rice - Szechuan Near Me - Avon, Connecticut

Just tried this for the first time and the food was great, very tasty. Wish I knew about it earlier 5/5

Crispy garlic chicken, chengdu dumplings, and DAN DAN noodles ($7) enough for 2 or dinner and lunch- so damn good. I could eat this every day! So much umami, light and crispy pork candy makes a nice balance with the extra spicy chili's too. You have to try this place! Live a little, people of Avon! read more

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Must've the Chengdu dumplings. dumplings served in a spicy garlic Sauce!! They are great as an appetizer but better when getting two orders as an entree. read more

Went for lunch and tried to order the Lunch Special but since it was a holiday - Columbus Day - they said no lunch specials. OK. Then ordered 2 Kung Pao Chicken entrees and an order of fried dumplings. All were very good. Place was clean and efficient. Will return for the lunch specials! read more

Best Chinese food in Farmington valley. Don't let the location or decor fool you. This place is legit. Not your ordinary "Americanized" Chinese menu (even though they have some options I'd that's what you want). We had the Napa Beef and shredded beef with green chili pepper. Both were AMAZING. We like spicy food so be careful with these. I will be a regular now. Fantastic!!!! read more

Try authentic! Get the 7 flavor won tons.... Oh I wish they served and entree size! Their food is spicy which I love - if you don't, just say so! They are very accommodating read more

grand opening, yeah! Weekend Special! Housemade authentic Chinese peking duck. Served with pancakes, cucumbers, scallions, and special sauce. Limited time supply only www.Shuexpress.com read more

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Shu and their sister store Song always produce fantastic and authentic food. I highly recommend the Dan Dan mein. This is authentic Chinese cuisine and it's always cooked just perfect. read more

Delicious authentic Sichuan food. I got take out and it was absolutely delicious, some of the best Chinese takeout I've had. Would highly recommend the Dan Dan Noodles and the veggie dumplings! read more

We are so glad this opened in Avon! Been searching for good Chinese in the Simsbury/Avon area for the last 10 years and finally found it. The twice cooked pork fried rice is out of this world and everything else we've tried is fantastic! read more

Shu Express - Twice cooked pork fried rice - Szechuan Near Me - Avon, Connecticut

Because this is their express location, this little storefront doesn't look like much (as compared to the full dining experience, with beautiful decor included, of the larger Shu Restaurant in West Hartford), but the food is excellent. It's not cheap, but you get what you pay for. You won't find run-of-the-mill or the more common Chinese dishes, as they specialize in Szechuan cuisine; that's what you find on their menu, and it's delicious. The dan dan noodles, Chengdu wontons, Chong Qing chicken (note, this is a $14 chicken dish, for example), and sautéed string beans (a $13 dish) were made in traditional ways, as seen in other excellent Szechuan eateries I've been to in the San Gabriel Valley of Los Angeles (which is like L.A.'s second, more modern "Chinatown"). This is now my go-to restaurant for Szechuan food. read more

The owner is super friendly and hardworking! Always had the best food with fair pricing! You can dine in and enjoy a peaceful lunch or early dinner! read more

Authentic and delicious Really enjoyed rice and dumplings eastern chicken had too much lemon grass read more

Authentic sichuan food made with really fresh ingredients and tons of flavor. I get takeout here 2-3 times per week and I've never been disappointed. Dishes that I keep coming back to: Sautéed chicken with leeks Ma pao tofu 7 flavor wonton read more

The food is ok but not exciting, it doesn't have a full Chinese food menu that you'd expect and the portion is much too small for a Chinese take-out joint. read more

This restaurant is awesome. The food is basically what you'd find in China. Really enjoyed the scallion pancake with beef, the spicy cumin lamb, and the twice cooked pork. Careful - as the spice levels are consistent with what you'd find in Sichuan or Hunan. But man is this place delicious. read more

Amazing. Definitely in the running for the best Chinese in CT. Try the Fish Filet in Hot and Spicy Bowl if you love spicy food. It's a sichuan classic and Shu does a great job with the dish. read more

Really delicious- different style cooked to order Chinese/Sichuan lunch. Not greasy, extremely flavorful and nice menu. I had the lunch portion chicken with leeks, it came with white rice and pickled cucumbers and soup. Restaurant is super clean and staff helpful. read more

Shu Express - Chicken with leeks. - Szechuan Near Me - Avon, Connecticut

After a friend Rec'd Shu, I called in a quick week night order. I tried Dan Dan noodles and they were great. The sauce was pkg separately which was the best way. Also got Szechuan green beans and they were a bit lacking. They were cooked properly to create the classic wrinkled style but they did not have much flavor except salty soy sauce. Certainly nothing Szechuan about them. I could try again and ask for spicy. Maybe they dialed it way back for their Avon crowd? read more

Food was not good. It was not worth returning. Poor taste and presentation. I was surprised how light my takeout bag felt when I picked it up. Dinner for two and yet it felt very much like dinner for one. Portion amounts were small but based upon poor taste In The end that wasn't a bad thing read more

This has been the best asian cuisine we have found since our move to Connecticut. Super clean place, very helpful cashier, and the food was good and spicy and so fresh! We will definitely be back! Highly recommend! read more

This is in the location of the former Chinese restaurant next to Five Guys on 44 in Avon. Today, I tried it for the first time for takeout. I have enjoyed Chinese food for years and one of my main ways to measure a place is the quality of their Hot & Sour soup. This restaurant's version is hands down the best I've ever eaten. One spoonful and your mouth is filled with rich and complex flavors, clearly fresh ingredients, including the rarely seen inclusion of dark, luscious tree mushrooms. I also ordered the Eastern Chicken dish, with pieces of chicken stir fried with baby bok choi. Another winner. I could tell from their online menu that their cuisine is prepared in a more authentically Chinese way than is common to Chinese/Cantonese restaurants which for years have tailored their offerings to Americanized versions of traditional Chinese dishes, and the flavors confirmed that. One consequence of that, however, is that you won't find things like spring rolls or Moo Goo Gai Pan. But if the quality and flavor of their offerings is indicated by what I enjoyed today, I've found my favorite Chinese restaurant in the area. read more

I have never had to throw a Chinese meal down the disposer before. But last week for the first time I had to. The order of twice cooked pork was over priced at $16 and consisted of pork that was as thin as bacon and just as fatty. There were peppers and pepper seeds in it and that was about it. Absolutely disgusting. I would avoid this place at all costs. read more