Your mealtime plans depend on this restaurant’s specific schedule, so let’s break down when they are actually serving. Knowing the China Express Opening Breakfast Lunch And Holiday Hours before you head out can save you from a wasted trip and a rumbling stomach. This guide covers the typical daily routine, weekend changes, and what happens on major holidays.
Most locations follow a similar pattern, but you should always confirm with your local store. The hours can shift based on mall rules or the owner’s preference. Here is the standard breakdown you can expect.
China Express Opening Breakfast Lunch And Holiday Hours
First, let’s clear up the breakfast question. Many people ask if they can get eggs or pancakes here. The answer is usually no. China Express focuses on lunch and dinner items like fried rice and orange chicken.
Breakfast Service Times
You will rarely find a breakfast menu at these counters. The kitchen staff typically arrives mid-morning to prep ingredients. If you arrive before 10:30 AM, you might see them setting up woks and cutting vegetables, but the food is not ready yet.
- Doors open for waiting: 10:30 AM
- First food served: 11:00 AM sharp
- No breakfast items are sold
Lunch Service And Daily Closures
The lunch rush is the busiest period. You should aim to come between 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM for the freshest batches. The line moves fast, but it can stretch out the door during peak hours.
- Check the time before you leave work.
- Order combo meals to skip the line faster.
- Ask for extra sauce at the counter, not the drive-thru.
Most locations close for a short break between 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM. This is not a full closure. They use this time to clean the grill and restock the steam table. You might find the lights dimmed, but the door is often still open.
Dinner And Evening Closing Time
Dinner service starts again around 4:30 PM. The evening menu is the same as lunch. You can get noodles, rice, and sides until closing. The typical closing time is 9:00 PM on weekdays.
- Monday to Thursday: Close at 9:00 PM
- Friday: Close at 9:30 PM
- Saturday: Close at 9:00 PM
If you arrive at 8:45 PM, they will still serve you. However, the staff might start cleaning the fryers. Do not expect them to cook a fresh batch of shrimp at 8:50 PM. They will serve what is left on the line.
Weekend Hours Are Different
Saturday hours are usually the same as weekday hours. Sunday is where things change. Many locations open later on Sunday, around 11:30 AM instead of 11:00 AM. Some even close earlier, at 8:00 PM.
You should call ahead on Sunday. The owner might have shortened hours for family time. This is very common in family-run spots.
Holiday Schedule And Closures
Holidays are tricky. China Express does not follow a national holiday schedule. They are open on some federal holidays and closed on others. The biggest rule is that they close for major Chinese holidays like Lunar New Year.
- Closed: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day
- Open (reduced hours): Memorial Day, Labor Day, July 4th
- Open (normal hours): Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day
For Christmas Eve, they often close at 6:00 PM. For New Year’s Eve, they might stay open until 8:00 PM. You cannot assume they follow the mall hours. The owner decides based on foot traffic.
How To Confirm Your Local Store Hours
Do not rely on Google Maps alone. The listing is often outdated. The best way to confirm is to call the number directly. If no one answers, they are likely closed for the holiday.
- Look up the phone number on the official receipt.
- Call between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM to ask about that day.
- Check the door for a handwritten sign.
Many locations post a paper schedule near the register. This is more accurate than any website. Take a photo of it when you visit so you have a record.
What To Do If You Miss The Hours
If you arrive and find the gates down, do not panic. You have other options. Most strip malls have a backup Chinese spot within a few blocks. However, the quality will not match China Express.
You can also check if they offer frozen take-home packs. Some locations sell pre-cooked family meals for the fridge. These are great for late-night cravings. Ask the cashier about this option during your next visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does China Express Serve Breakfast At Any Location?
No. The chain does not have a breakfast menu. The earliest you can order is 11:00 AM.
What Time Does China Express Close On Sundays?
Most locations close at 8:00 PM on Sunday. Some close at 7:00 PM if business is slow.
Are They Open On Easter Sunday?
Usually yes, but with reduced hours. Expect a 11:30 AM opening and a 7:00 PM closing.
Can I Order Lunch Items During Dinner Hours?
Yes. The menu is the same all day. You can order lunch combos at 6:00 PM.
Do They Close For A Break Between Lunch And Dinner?
Yes, many locations close from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM for cleaning.
Always keep a backup plan. The hours can change without notice. If you are driving far, call first. This saves you time and frustration. The schedule above is a solid guideline, but the local store is the final authority.