Portland’s popular dim sum and noodle joint, Empire, is a secret vegan gem. About one-third of the menu is vegetarian or vegan, including steamy vegetable ramen, Szechuan cold cucumbers in a garlic-chili vinaigrette, and Chinese eggplant in a tangy garlic sauce. Go early or make reservations as tables fill quickly (the bar is a first come, first serve spot, and full menu service is available).

When I found it at Lili & Loo's in New York City, I was ecstatic ( read more about that here.) And when I discovered Empire in Portland has celiac protocols on their menu, including gluten-free dishes like steamed dumplings and fried rice, I just about cried. Empire is a Chinese restaurant currently only open for takeout but take celiac disease seriously. There is even a "celiac" option when you order online and they give you gluten-free soy sauce packets.

Once the site of Portland’s first deluxe Chinese Restaurant, The Empire (1916-1953), Empire Chinese Kitchen now proudly boasts 12 oh-so-flavorful vegan items on their menu. Featuring a traditional and modern Chinese soul food menu, Empire sources their ingredients locally. Options include large — and small — plates for sharing, but you will have a difficult time wanting to split anything you order.

Empire is not only a popular restaurant serving delicious Asian cuisine but also a vibrant live music venue in Portland. The upstairs music room hosts a variety of performances, ranging from rock and punk to electronic and hip-hop. Empire's eclectic lineup ensures there is something for everyone, and the energetic atmosphere makes it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors.

We love that Empire’s menu also includes plenty of vegetarian, vegan and even gluten-free options. Whether you’re going for fluffy 5-spice braised pork belly buns, ‘double happiness noodles’, the infamous garlic green beans, or really anything on the menu – you’ll end up with simple, well made Chinese food, sure to warm you right up on a winter’s night.

While we miss the $5 burger, beer, and bourbon special at the former Empire Dine and Dance, we love gorging on dumplings at Empire Chinese Kitchen before heading upstairs to see a show. Local and national acts pass through this small club, and of course it's home to the long-running Clash of the Titans series. 575 Congress St, Portland, ME 04101

Located on the site of Portland's first deluxe Chinese restaurant, the dog-friendly Empire Chinese Kitchen has two outdoor tables for you and your pup. The menu is full of locally sourced Chinese soul food with a modern take. Previous diners recommend starting off with the Empire Eggroll, which is stuffed with pastrami and cabbage.

Empire Chinese Kitchen is without a doubt one of our favorite places to grab a meal in the Portland area. In fact, Empire may be one of our favorite Chinese restaurants in the United States. Empire is a trendy spot with sleek modern decor that is conveniently located right in the heart of downtown Portland.

Before Empire, it was tough to find a good dumpling, but I’m still a fan. Dim sum could possibly be one of my favorite food groups, especially when it’s filled with pork, or lobster, or even shrimp. On a cold day, the braised beef ramen satisfies all cravings for something hot and tasty.

Already elevating the joint above the typical Asian cuisine, the ingredients are incredibly fresh and seasonally locally sourced for optimal flavor. Not just stir-fry and veggie dishes are gluten-free. Customers can indulge in steamy dumplings with spinach, pork, or lobster!

The clear standout is Empire Chinese Kitchen in the Arts District. They offer entrees, but you might have an even better experience ordering an array of small plates like the Chinese eggplant, garlic green beans, and fried dumplings. Vegan items are clearly marked.

Empire Chinese Kitchen is Portland’s go-to spot for Chinese food. They have excellent GF options and they take your safety very seriously. Popular menu items are GF dumplings (try the lobster ones!), fried rice, and their famous string beans.

We were our way to Empire for lunch - but unfortunately, they were closed for a few days following the holidays. We crossed the street and headed into Otto, a pizza company!. There’s one in Boston, and I had heard great things.

Portlanders had almost become resigned to a lack of good Chinese food — then along came Empire. Start with the duck buns, garlic green beans, and pastrami egg rolls, and then work your way through the specials of the day.

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (468 reviews)- Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (4.0/5), Atmosphere (4.0/5)- Price: $$ - $$$- Address: 575 Congress St, Portland, ME 04101-3308- Read more on Tripadvisor

PORTLAND (WGME) - - Empire on Congress St. has some work to do after a customer files a complaint, claiming they got food poisoning after ordering the "Peking Duck".

One of my buddies from Portland suggested Empire Chinese Kitchen for my most recent trip. And, I can’t thank him enough. This spot blew me away.