
China House was one of the first few places I ate when I moved to California from Illinois about 10 years ago. I still recall the meal, and thinking about how much better it was than the sad Chinese food in the Chicago suburbs.
As a result, I always end up at China House or Rice Express. Having eaten at just about every other Chinese place in town, and wouldn't think of going to Jennie's Palace, Golden Lake, Hop Sing's, or that sad place over by the movie theater. (Is it still even there?)
In any event, I'd prefer to support any of the local Chinese resturaunts over the new "chain" ones that are sneaking into town like Panda Express or Pick up stix.
You are correct. It's all a matter of perspective and taste.
Coming from the Bay Area, I grew up on authentic Chinese, Mexican and other ethnic foods.
I haven't found any good Chinese food here in Folsom, but have had some good stuff in Sac. On the other hand, I went to a Chinese joint in Slidell, Louisiana, and the menu had about 10 items on it, featuring things like, Chop Suey, Egg Foo Young, a Chow Mein dish.
Makes China House seem like Hong Kong