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Ming’s Bistro

Written By Scott Joseph On August 20, 2019

Mings interior

Some new friends, new to town, invited us to join them for Chinese food, but, naturally, asked me to select the restaurant. Based on its location, and the fact that it had been years since I reviewed it, favorably, I chose Ming’s Bistro in the Mills 50 district.

Why, right there on the front window was a banner with a quote and my name. As we passed it on our way inside, I thought my new friends must think I really know what I’m talking about.

By the end of the dinner they were probably thinking I don’t know a thing. The meal was largely a disappointment.

South Steel SJO March AD copy

It started out promisingly enough, at least in terms of food – the surroundings are pretty unattractive these days.

Mings buns

Mings shumai

Both the Steamed Roast Pork Buns and the Shumai dumplings were nicely done, well seasoned and satisfying.

Mings beef

But the same could not be said for any of the entrees that followed. The Beef Brisket Casserole was bland and had too much gristle.

Mings ribs

Short Ribs were tough.

mings chicken

And Stir Fried Chicken with Cashews needed more seasoning. At least it had plenty of cashews.

No one on the staff made us feel particularly welcomed. Odd given that we were one of the few tables during prime dining hours on a Saturday evening.

I first reviewed Ming’s Bistro when it opened, in 2006, in a newly constructed building just east of Mills Avenue. I mentioned at the time that decor wasn’t an emphasis, but I did note a large fish tank at the far end of the dining room and a hot box with meats and poultry hanging on hooks. The hot box is gone. There is a fish tank but its water is too murky to see through.

Mings sign

Maybe it’s time to renovate a bit and focus again on serving the good Chinese food it started out with. As part of the remodel, it might be time to take that banner out of the front window.

Ming’s Bistro is at 1212 Woodward St., Orlando. It is open for lunch and dinner daily. The phone number is 407-898-9672.

We hope you find our reviews and news articles useful and entertaining. It has always been our goal to assist you in making informed decisions when spending your dining dollars. If we’ve helped you in any way, please consider making a contribution to help us continue our journalism. Thank you.

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