I need help finding some great Chinese food! Can you help?

As I’ve said a thousand times before, being back home has been one of the greatest blessings of my life. Especially now as I battle cancer to be able to do it near family and close friends is invaluable. Enough about the serious topics, I need your help. I can’t believe that in a metro area as strong in cuisine as Philadelphia, the suburban area I live in seems to have no options for top notch Chinese food. I’m not saying that it doesn’t exist, but that I just haven’t found it yet. I’m baffled because when you think of the Philly area food is always one of the top things people brag on. We’ve tried a selection of local spots to us and have come up empty. Too saucy, no flavor, bland offerings and even mediocre sushi. I’ll set the parameters and maybe you will have some ideas.

When you think of Chinese food there should be certain rules;

- close to home so that you can do takeout or delivery and get the food back home or brought to you quickly. I think 5 miles is a pretty good rule of thumb for the approximate distance traveled

- strong basic items that would be found on any Chinese food menu; soups, dumplings, entrees

- a good ambiance if you want to enjoy the meal at the restaurant

- chain Chinese isn’t an option for this discussion

We are in the West Chester borough area so I’m sure in the city of Philadelphia there are thousands of options. I’ve tried a few near Chinatown and they were outstanding. Unfortunately traveling an hour back and forth in traffic isn’t an option. We want a pizza and there are some of the best options we have ever had. The restaurant scene is fantastic and there are great places to have a steak or seafood. Sometimes, you just want that cardboard box. You want the option of sitting at your own table or theirs. You want to be able to make a decision on short notice and know you won’t be disappointed.

What are some of your favorite options if you’re in the Chester County area. Since we travel around with the show any recommendations of your favorite spots are welcome. It’s been surprising because all of the dining options in our area are plentiful and pretty exceptional. The service, atmosphere and cuisine are top notch. I’m sure that as usual with me I just am missing some gems right under my nose.

During my off weeks of treatment I feel like my appetite is back. I’m looking to find that hidden gem. We also have a family tradition of eating Chinese Food after Christmas Eve mass. We are hoping this will be a holiday where we are celebrating my recovery so any of your favorites are welcome. Every area has its great spots and I’m sure that this unicorn exists, can you please help me find it?

You can converse at John.Kincade@bbgi.com

Let's take a look at the best greasy spoon restaurants in the Philadelphia area. They've got that homestyle comfort and good (fried) eats.

Greasy spoons are typically affordable eateries, think diners, with comforts foods that are typically fried. They've got everything you need on the menu. They're a great place to stop when you need a hearty meal. It's as American as a restaurant can get.

Loads of greasy spoons serve as the perfect place to visit after a night out with too much to drink. They tend to specialize in breakfast foods, ranging from pancakes to omelets. But don't fret, you can always get a burger and fries at a greasy spoon, too. It's a nostalgic thing, really.

You see a lot of these places in popular media, especially shows like Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. They're basically an American pastime in and of themselves. Because who hasn't made a stop at a restaurant like this? Greasy spoons are quintessential and iconic. They fulfill every hungry person's needs.

There are so many of these greasy spoons in the Philadelphia area. It's not a surprise considering how important they are to American culture!

This place actually WAS featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. Honey's Sit-N-Eat offers traditional American fare with a strong lean toward breakfast. Their biscuits are to-die-for and their challah French toast is a decadent spin on a classic.

You want that 50's doo-wop diner experience? You have to go here. Nifty Fifty's serves up classic diner food and transports you back to the good-ol' days. Those iconic cups with sweet milkshakes inside will make you want to hit the sock-hop after your meal. That is, if you're not too full from your loaded fries.

Amy's Omelette House has locations in Burlington City, Cherry Hill, and Long Branch, NJ. They serve up a whopping number of omelets. They take their name SERIOUSLY. The entire first page of their menu is covered in omelet options, including seafood, spicy, and super cheesy omelets.

Cleavers has their grill open serving up some amazing takes on the classic cheesesteak. Usually when you think greasy spoon, you think diner, but this is anything but. They serve a MAKE YOUR OWN cheesesteak, which is just any Philadelphian's dream, honestly.

The Silver Diner in Cherry Hill, NJ is yet another place that will take you back in time. They have all-day breakfast and every dang sandwich you could want. Sit at the counter, order a milkshake, and feel like a teen in the 60s.

Starview Diner is an old-school diner. Their menu is about as long as a novel. You seriously will find something on their for even the pickiest of picky eaters. Their bakery is also churning out delicious pastries and cakes every day.

This is yet another restaurant with a long, but classic, menu. Havertown Grille serves up the most amazing breakfast sandwiches that will curb your bleary-eyed hunger in the mornings. Don't count their lunch selection out, though. They also make really amazing burgers.

This is some of the best breakfast in the city. Sam's Morning Glory Diner knows how to make some dang breakfast. They've been serving homemade breakfast, brunch and lunch since 1997. The vibes in there are stellar. The outdoor seating section is superb. And their specials never disappoint.

Pete's Clown House is LEGIT. It's a hands-down must-visit in Philadelphia. They serve some of the best breakfasts in the area. It's a cool little place that may go unnoticed if you're not looking for it. But you should look for it because they have some bangin' food.