The Shocking Truth About First Chinese BBQ: 7 Must-Try Dishes And The Recent Health Controversies

For over four decades, First Chinese BBQ has stood as a cornerstone of authentic Cantonese cuisine in the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area, a culinary institution that helped introduce genuine Hong Kong street food flavors to Texas. Established in 1982 in Richardson, Texas, the restaurant built a reputation on perfectly roasted meats, from succulent Peking-style duck to glistening, honey-glazed Char Siu. As of December 15, 2025, the chain continues to operate across multiple locations in Texas, including its original Richardson spot, as well as outposts in Arlington, Haltom City, and Austin, drawing crowds with its no-frills, high-flavor approach. However, in a surprising turn of events for such a beloved name, recent public health inspection reports have cast a shadow over some of its locations, revealing shocking violations that have left long-time patrons questioning the future of this Texas favorite.

This deep dive explores the legacy of First Chinese BBQ, detailing the classic, must-try dishes that cemented its status, while also providing a crucial, up-to-the-minute look at the serious health inspection controversies that have recently made headlines across Tarrant County. For loyal customers and curious foodies alike, understanding both the culinary heritage and the current operational challenges is essential to appreciating the full, complex story of this iconic Texas eatery.

The Legacy of First Chinese BBQ: A History of Cantonese Excellence in Texas

The story of First Chinese BBQ is one of pioneering authenticity. When it first opened its doors in Richardson, Texas, in 1982, it was one of the first establishments to bring true, unadulterated Cantonese-style barbecue to the local dining scene. This was a significant shift from the more Americanized Chinese food that dominated the landscape at the time. The restaurant’s focus was, and remains, on the art of traditional Chinese roasting, a technique that requires immense skill and precision.

• The Chilling True Story 5 Key Facts About Richard Evonitz The Serial Killer Who Kidnapped Kara Robinson Chamberlain Xpjje

A Timeline of Culinary Milestones and Locations

• 1982: First Chinese BBQ is established in Richardson, Texas, quickly becoming a local favorite for authentic Chinese cuisine in the Dallas area.
• Cuisine Focus: The restaurant specializes in Cantonese dishes, with a particular emphasis on the style of barbecue reminiscent of old Hong Kong street food.
• Expansion: The brand successfully expands its footprint across Texas, opening popular locations in key areas like Arlington, Haltom City (Tarrant County), and Austin, TX.
• Reputation: Known for its generous portions, reasonable prices, and a no-frills, authentic dining experience that prioritizes flavor and tradition.

7 Essential Dishes That Define First Chinese BBQ's Menu

The menu at First Chinese BBQ is a testament to the power of simplicity and masterful technique. While they offer a wide array of American-Sino dishes, the true stars are the Cantonese barbecue and noodle soups. These are the seven dishes that have earned the restaurant its legendary status and continue to draw customers from across the DFW and Austin regions.

1. The Legendary Roasted Duck: This is arguably the restaurant's signature dish. The duck is roasted until the skin is perfectly crispy and golden-brown, yielding a succulent, tender, and intensely flavorful meat beneath. It is a must-try Cantonese specialty.
2. Char Siu (BBQ Pork): Glistening with a honey-sweet glaze and sporting the characteristic reddish-pink edges from the marinade, the Char Siu is a perfect balance of sweet and savory. It’s often cited in reviews as one of the best in DFW.
3. Fresh Shrimp Wonton Noodle Soup: A staple of Hong Kong comfort food, this dish features delicate, fresh shrimp wontons swimming in a clear, savory broth with perfectly cooked egg noodles. It is available as both a soup and a dry noodle dish.
4. Roast Duck Noodle Soup: Combining two of the restaurant's best offerings, this soup features generous slices of their famous roast duck served over noodles, allowing the broth to soak up the rich, smoky duck flavor.
5. Crispy Pork Belly (Siu Yuk): Though not always listed as a top-tier item, the crispy pork belly, with its layers of tender meat, fat, and a crackling skin crust, is a favorite among those who appreciate the full spectrum of Cantonese roasting.
6. Salt and Pepper Pork Chop: A popular fried dish known for its addictive combination of spicy, salty, and aromatic seasonings, often including garlic, chili, and scallions.
7. BBQ Combination Plates: For the indecisive diner, the combination plates allow you to sample two or three of the roasted meats—such as Char Siu, Roast Duck, and Soy Sauce Chicken—all on one plate, typically served over rice with a side of vegetables.

The Controversy: Recent Health Inspection Failures and Public Concern

Despite its long-standing culinary acclaim, First Chinese BBQ has recently faced significant public scrutiny due to alarming reports from local health departments. These incidents primarily involve the restaurant's Tarrant County locations and present a stark contrast to its reputation as a Richardson culinary gem. This fresh, critical information is vital for any current or future patron.

Shocking Violations in Tarrant County

In recent inspection cycles, at least two locations have been flagged for major health violations, leading to closures and poor scores:

• 7 Shocking Things Jessica Capshaw Revealed About Growing Up With Steven Spielberg As Her Stepfather 892ho

The Arlington Location (2214 S. Collins St.)

The Arlington branch has faced the most severe public issues. According to recent reports, the restaurant failed a health inspection, receiving a score of 70. This score is considered a failing grade in many jurisdictions and points to multiple critical violations. Furthermore, records indicate that this location has been closed at least three times in a short period due to its inability to meet health and safety standards.

The Haltom City Location (5310 East Belknap St.)

The Haltom City location also made headlines for a particularly egregious violation. During an inspection, officials noted critical violations, including the discovery of ducks—a key ingredient for their signature dish—thawing in a "MOP SINK." This type of cross-contamination risk and improper food handling is a serious public health concern, directly impacting the quality and safety of the food served.

The Impact on Topical Authority and Customer Trust

For a restaurant whose entire reputation is built on the quality and authenticity of its roasted meats, these health violations are particularly damaging. The improper handling of the raw product, especially the whole ducks, undermines the trust established over decades. The controversy raises serious questions for customers:

• The Surprise Vegas Wedding And Shared Grief 5 Shocking Details Of John Schneider And Dee Dee Sorvinos Whirlwind Romance Ohirf

• Food Safety: Can patrons be confident in the hygiene standards across all locations, even the beloved Richardson original?
• Operational Consistency: Do the failures in Tarrant County reflect a broader issue of inconsistent operational management across the entire chain?
• Future of the Brand: Will the negative press and repeated closures affect the long-term viability of the First Chinese BBQ name?

Navigating the Experience: What to Know Before You Go

For decades, First Chinese BBQ has offered an authentic taste of Hong Kong street food, a true departure from standard Texan fare. The restaurant’s commitment to classic Cantonese BBQ techniques—producing perfectly roasted duck and Char Siu—is undeniable. The reputation of the Richardson location, in particular, remains strong among DFW food lovers.

However, the recent, well-documented health inspection failures in Arlington and Haltom City serve as a crucial, up-to-date warning. Patrons who choose to visit any of the First Chinese BBQ locations should be aware of the operational challenges that have recently been exposed. While the flavor profile of the Fresh Shrimp Wonton Noodle Soup and the Roast Duck remains a powerful draw, the importance of food safety cannot be overstated. Diners are encouraged to check local health department scores for the specific location they plan to visit before indulging in the iconic DFW Cantonese cuisine.