The Chinese word “yuan” translates to “garden” in English. It’s a fitting name for the elevated Pan-Chinese restaurant in Jersey City. “We chose this name because it reflects our inspiration from childhood memories of a small, neighborhood garden—a gathering place for play and relaxation,” says Shiyang Li, owner.
Yuan boasts a sophisticated yet approachable dining experience. The restaurant can seat 70 guests indoors, and also features an outdoor patio to seat another 16 diners. The space blends traditional Chinese elements with modern design, using walnut wood and decorative pieces sourced from ancient Chinese structures. Shiyang intends to create a “nostalgic yet welcoming atmosphere for our guests. With lush seasonal plants adorning the space, we bring the sentiment of ‘Let’s meet in the little garden’ to life.”
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Elevated Pan-Chinese Cuisine
The restaurant offers a fresh take on traditional Sichuan and modern Chinese dishes, focusing on premium ingredients and preparation. Signature dishes include chicken in numbing chili oil. Yuan uses free-range chicken with no hormonal feed used. Another popular option is the chef’s specialty whole fish in foil, made with either live sea bass or barramundi, steamed.
Other menu items blend traditional and modern Chinese cooking. This includes slow-cooked pork hock in yu xiang sauce, beef stew with tomato, and boiled fish with tofu pudding. “We focus on delivering the essence of Chinese cuisine with a heightened experience,” says Shiyang. “Our commitment to quality, attention to detail, and creating a refined atmosphere ensures that every visit feels special.”
Yuan also introduces unique and less common dishes. These range from stir-fried beef tendon with peppers to stir-fried diced beef with black truffle. The restaurant uses specially sourced, high-quality pork from Spain, fresh eel prepared daily, and Korean Icheon rice. The latter is known for its fragrant aroma and distinct texture.
About The Restaurant
Beyond Yuan, the ownership team also owns Peppercorn Station in New York City, which earned Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition. They already have plans for expansion, potentially opening a Manhattan location. The team also plans to introduce holiday specials, a Lunar New Year set menu, and a new pumpkin dessert.
Visit Yuan at 537 Washington Blvd in Jersey City. (Click here to see them on Google Maps.) To learn more:
| Visit Their Website | Follow on Instagram | Call 201-908-2647 |
Yuan FAQs
Yes, they accept reservations online.
Yes, they have gluten-free options.
Yuan offers vegetarian dishes, yes.
They do offer takeout, yes.
Yes, they offer delivery via Uber Eats.
No, but you can BYO wine or beer.
They do not have a kids’ menu, no.
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All Photos: © Yuan
