The Full Howard China Menu and Why This DC Staple Is a Mumbo Sauce Legend

Howard China, located at 2827 Georgia Ave NW, Washington, DC, stands as a quintessential pillar of the District's takeout culture. For over two decades, this establishment has served a unique fusion of Chinese-American classics and Washingtonian comfort food. If you are searching for the Howard China menu, you are likely looking for more than just food; you are looking for a taste of a local institution known for its generous portions, affordable prices, and its legendary version of DC's iconic Mumbo sauce.

Quick Facts for Your Visit

• Address: 2827 Georgia Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001
• Phone: (202) 332-9461
• Payment Policy: Strictly Cash-Only (An ATM is available on-site).
• Primary Service: Takeout and Delivery. There is no indoor seating.
• Must-Order Item: Chicken wings and fries with Mumbo sauce.

The Cultural Significance of Mumbo Sauce at Howard China

Before diving into the extensive menu, it is essential to understand why people flock to Howard China specifically for their "wings and fries." In Washington, DC, Mumbo sauce is more than a condiment; it is a cultural marker. Usually a bright orange or red, this sauce sits somewhere between a sweet-and-sour sauce and a tangy barbecue sauce, often with a hint of spice.

At Howard China, the Mumbo sauce is the star. It is thick, clings perfectly to the crispy skin of their deep-fried chicken wings, and transforms a standard side of crinkle-cut fries into a local delicacy. Frequent diners often suggest ordering the sauce "on the side" if you prefer to control the crunch-to-sauce ratio, though the traditional "flooded" style is how most locals enjoy it.

Detailed Howard China Menu: American Classics

One of the defining features of DC's neighborhood Chinese spots is the "Submarine Fleet" and sandwich section. Howard China excels in offering heavy, satisfying American comfort food alongside traditional stir-fries.

The Submarine Fleet

These subs are served on long rolls and are typically loaded with lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise, onions, and pickles at no extra cost. Hot peppers are available upon request.

Hot and Cold Sandwiches

For those seeking a smaller bite than a full sub, the sandwich menu offers classic American griddle items.

• Jumbo Cheeseburger: $3.85
• Jumbo Chicken Sandwich: $4.25
• Jumbo Bacon Cheeseburger: $4.95
• Jumbo Turkey Burger: $4.95
• Jumbo Fish Sandwich: $5.00
• Tuna Salad Sandwich: $5.85
• Cheese Sub (American or Provolone): $4.00

Signature Chicken Wings and Seafood Dinners

The "Chicken Wings" section of the menu is where most orders begin. These are whole wings, deep-fried until the skin is translucent and crackling.

Chicken Wing Counts

Prices for wings have fluctuated due to market costs, but Howard China remains one of the most competitive in the Georgia Avenue corridor.

• 3 Pieces: $4.75
• 4 Pieces: $5.95
• 5 Pieces: $7.30
• 6 Pieces: $8.75
• 10 Pieces: $14.15

Seafood & Chicken Dinners

These platters are designed for high-protein cravings and are often served with fries or fried rice.

• Fried Jumbo Shrimp: $8.95
• Fried Filet Fish: $8.95
• Fried Crab Cake: $8.95
• Fried Seafood Platter: $10.50
• Shrimp in a Basket: $8.50
• Chicken Tenders (5 pcs): $6.00
• Chicken Nuggets (10 pcs): $4.50

Howard China Combination Platters

For the best value, the Combination Platters are a staple for Howard University students and local workers. These meals are served with a side of pork or vegetable fried rice and an egg roll.

• Chicken or Shrimp Chow Mein: $8.75
• Sweet & Sour Chicken: $8.75
• Shrimp Egg Foo Young: $8.75
• Pepper Steak with Onion: $8.75
• General Tso's Chicken: $8.75
• Hunan Chicken or Beef: $8.75
• Chicken or Beef with Broccoli: $8.75
• Kung Pao Chicken: $8.75
• Lo Mein (Chicken, Beef, or Shrimp): $8.75

Traditional Chinese Entrees

Beyond the fryers, Howard China offers a massive selection of stir-fried dishes categorized by protein. These are generally available in pint or quart sizes, though the "Combination" style remains the most popular.

Beef Dishes

The beef at Howard China is sliced thin and seared in a high-heat wok, providing that essential "wok hei" (breath of the wok) flavor.

• Beef with Mixed Vegetables: $7.25
• Hot Curry Beef: $7.25
• Beef with Black Bean Sauce: $7.25
• Beef with Broccoli: $7.25
• Beef with Garlic Sauce: $7.25
• Kung Po Beef: $7.25
• Beef with Spring Onions: $7.65

Pork Dishes

Roast pork is used in many of these dishes, offering a smoky, savory depth.

• Roast Pork with Broccoli: $6.95
• Roast Pork with Mixed Vegetables: $6.95
• Roast Pork Szechuan Style: $6.95
• Roast Pork with Garlic Sauce: $6.95

Chicken Dishes

• Chicken with Broccoli: $6.95
• Moo Goo Gai Pan: $6.95
• Chicken with Cashew Nuts: $6.95
• Orange Chicken: $7.55
• Sesame Chicken: $7.55
• Chicken with Snow Peas: $7.55

Seafood Dishes

• Shrimp with Lobster Sauce: $7.85
• Shrimp with Garlic Sauce: $7.25
• Triple Delight (Shrimp, Beef, Chicken): $7.85
• Kung Pao Shrimp: $7.25

Noodles and Rice: The Foundation

No Chinese takeout order is complete without the starch. Howard China provides several variations, including the thinner rice vermicelli known as Mei Fun.

• Vegetable Fried Rice: $5.30
• Chicken or Roast Pork Fried Rice: $6.50 (est.)
• Yang Chow Fried Rice: $7.50 (est.)
• Singapore Mei Fun: $9.50 (A spicy, curry-flavored noodle dish with shrimp, pork, and chicken).
• Vegetable Mei Fun: $7.58
• Chicken or Roast Pork Mei Fun: $8.50

Appetizers and Soups

The appetizers here are often described as "comfort bites." The Philly Cheese Egg Roll is a modern favorite that bridges the gap between the Chinese and American sides of the menu.

Appetizers

• Spring Roll (2): $2.00
• Shrimp Egg Roll (1): $1.75
• Steak Cheese Egg Roll (1): $2.35
• Crab Rangoon (6): $4.50
• Fried Wonton: $3.25
• Mozzarella Cheese Sticks (5): $3.95
• Onion Rings: $2.50
• Dumplings (Steamed or Fried): $5.75

Soups

• Wonton Soup: $2.95
• Egg Drop Soup: $2.95
• Hot & Sour Soup: $3.35
• Chicken Noodle Soup: $2.95
• House Special Soup: $7.25

Lunch Specials

For those looking for a midday bargain, Howard China offers Lunch Specials (typically until 3:00 PM or 4:00 PM). These portions are slightly smaller than dinner platters but offer incredible value.

• Vegetable or Broccoli with Oyster Sauce: $6.00
• Hunan Chicken: $6.35
• Chicken with Broccoli: $6.35
• Chicken Lo Mein: $6.35
• Shrimp or Beef with Broccoli: $6.60

The Experience: What to Expect When Ordering

Visiting Howard China is a quintessential DC experience. The restaurant is small and utilitarian. When you walk in, you are greeted by a large menu board and a service counter often protected by thick plexiglass. This is not a "fine dining" atmosphere; it is a high-efficiency takeout hub.

Ordering Tips

1. Call Ahead: Even though it is fast food, Howard China gets incredibly busy, especially during late-night hours or when Howard University is in session. Call (202) 332-9461 to place your order 15–20 minutes before arrival.
2. Bring Cash: Many first-timers are caught off guard by the cash-only policy. While there is an ATM inside, it may have a surcharge. It is better to come prepared.
3. The Mumbo Sauce Choice: When they ask if you want Mumbo sauce, the answer is almost always "yes." If you are taking the food home and live more than 10 minutes away, ask for the sauce on the side so your fries stay crispy.
4. Parking: Street parking on Georgia Avenue is notoriously difficult. Be prepared to circle the block or find a spot on a nearby side street.

Why Locals Love Howard China

In a city that is rapidly gentrifying and changing, Howard China represents a piece of "Old DC." It is reliable. The flavor of the General Tso's or the Steak and Cheese has remained consistent for years. For students at Howard University, it is a rite of passage. For neighborhood residents, it is the place that is open when everything else is closed, providing hot, flavorful food at a price point that respects the working-class roots of the area.

The "Mumbo Sauce Legend" status isn't just marketing; it's a reflection of thousands of late-night meals shared on dorm room floors or at kitchen tables across the Northwest quadrant.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does Howard China deliver?

Yes, Howard China offers delivery services. You can call them directly or check popular local delivery apps, though ordering directly usually ensures the most accurate pricing.

What are Howard China's hours of operation?

While hours can change, they are typically:

• Tuesday - Thursday: 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM
• Friday - Saturday: 11:00 AM - 12:00 AM (Midnight)
• Sunday: 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM
• Monday: Closed

Is Howard China vegan-friendly?

Like most traditional Chinese takeout spots, they offer several vegetable-based dishes like Sauteed Mixed Vegetables, Broccoli with Garlic Sauce, and Bean Curd (Tofu) dishes. However, be aware that many sauces may contain animal-based broths or oyster sauce, so it is best to specify your dietary needs when ordering.

What is "Yat Gat Mein"?

Howard China occasionally features Yat Gat Mein, a soul-food/Chinese fusion noodle soup popular in the DC and Baltimore areas. It typically consists of thick wheat noodles, a hard-boiled egg, and a savory broth with protein.

Can I pay with a credit card?

No. Howard China is a cash-only establishment. They do not accept credit or debit cards at the counter.

Summary

The Howard China menu is a comprehensive map of DC's unique culinary landscape. Whether you are there for the crispiness of the chicken wings, the tangy sweetness of the Mumbo sauce, or a heavy Steak and Cheese sub, you are participating in a local tradition. Its location on Georgia Avenue makes it a convenient stop for anyone in the Northwest area, provided they remember to bring cash and an appetite for generous portions. By combining the speed of a classic takeout joint with the flavors of the District, Howard China remains a "hidden gem" that is well worth the visit.