Wan Fu Asian Cuisine & Bar in Des Peres, Missouri: A 30+ Year Legacy of Flavor, Family, and Community Recognition
DES PERES, MO (StLouisRestaurantReview) In a world of fast-changing food trends and fleeting restaurant fads, Wan Fu Asian Cuisine & Bar at 12033 Manchester Rd, Des Peres, Missouri, has stood the test of time. For over 30 years, this beloved family-owned restaurant has been a pillar of quality, consistency, and authenticity in the St. Louis region. Known for its exceptional Chinese and Asian-inspired dishes, warm hospitality, and inviting atmosphere, Wan Fu has earned its place among the Top 10 Chinese restaurants on TripAdvisor in the area.
The online ratings and reviews are as follows as of May 5, 2025, at 4:45 pm:
- Google – 4.4 Stars with 400 online customer ratings and reviews
- Facebook – 5 Stars with one online customer rating and review
- Yelp – 3.9 Stars with 167 online customer ratings and reviews
- TripAdvisor – 4.1 Bubbles with 58 online customer ratings and reviews
- STL.Directory – 5 Stars with one online customer rating and review
- DoorDash – 4.5 Stars with 100+ online customer ratings and reviews
- GrubHub – 4.5 Stars with 78 online customer ratings and reviews
- Uber Eats – 4.4 Stars with 87 online customer ratings and reviews
Average Rating – 4.475 – Above Average
In July 2023, the restaurant embraced a new chapter as the founding family’s third generation took over operations. While honoring the long-standing traditions that built Wan Fu’s reputation, the new owners also embrace modern conveniences and customer preferences, including delivery through DoorDash, Grubhub, and Uber Eats.
This review explores the remarkable story of Wan Fu Asian Cuisine & Bar, its enduring popularity, and the authentic dining experience that continues to delight new guests and longtime regulars alike.
Three Generations, One Family, One Tradition
The legacy of Wan Fu Asian Cuisine & Bar is deeply rooted in family. Since opening its doors over three decades ago, the restaurant has never changed ownership outside the family. Over the years, it has passed from generation to generation, each carefully preserving the restaurant’s identity while adding their touches to keep it vibrant and relevant.
The third-generation owners, who officially took over in July 2023, proudly carry the torch. Raised around the restaurant, they understand the business, the relationships, and expectations that come with it. Their passion for hospitality and dedication to the restaurant’s legacy are evident in every plate, every greeting, and every satisfied customer.
A Welcoming Atmosphere That Feels Like Home
Wan Fu Asian Cuisine & Bar offers more than just good food — an experience. Located in the family-friendly community of Des Peres, the restaurant’s interior is a comfortable blend of traditional Asian décor and casual elegance. Whether you’re planning a date night, a family gathering, or a quick lunch, the setting is clean, cozy, and relaxed.
Guests consistently comment on the restaurant’s cleanliness, peaceful ambiance, and attention to detail. The dining space is thoughtfully arranged to accommodate small and large groups, making it suitable for everything from business lunches to birthday dinners.
Culinary Excellence Across a Diverse Menu
The real heart of Wan Fu Asian Cuisine & Bar lies in its kitchen. The menu showcases various authentic Chinese dishes and Asian cuisine staples, crafted from fresh ingredients and prepared consistently and carefully. Each dish reflects generations of culinary tradition and a commitment to quality, making Wan Fu a local favorite.
Fan Favorites Include:
- Hot and Sour Soup – A flavorful balance of spice and tang, often regarded by locals as one of the best versions in the region.
- Crab Rangoon – Perfectly crisp and filled with a rich, creamy filling, these appetizers are a must with any order.
- Wan Fu Chicken – Crispy chicken smothered in a sweet and spicy sauce, steamed broccoli with mixed vegetables.
- Orange Chicken – A customer favorite, this dish offers bold citrus flavor and a satisfying crunch.
- Wan Fu Garlic Beef – Premium sliced IBP beef with cabbage and green onions sautéed with our special garlic sauce.
- Shrimp Lo Mein – A generous portion of soft noodles, succulent shrimp, and stir-fried vegetables with deep, balanced flavor.
Vegetarians can enjoy equally satisfying options such as Tofu with Mixed Vegetables, Vegetable Fried Rice, or Steamed Vegetable Dumplings.
Every meal is made to order, ensuring freshness and customization. The portion sizes are generous, and many customers leave with delicious leftovers to enjoy later.
Friendly Service Rooted in Family Values
One of the most consistently praised aspects of Wan Fu Asian Cuisine & Bar is its friendly, personalized service. Guests are greeted warmly and treated like family. Many longtime patrons say the staff remembers their names and orders—a rare touch in today’s fast-paced dining world.
The entire team is committed to delivering a superior dining experience from the front of house to the kitchen. Orders are taken promptly, special requests are cared for, and customer satisfaction is prioritized. This level of attentiveness keeps diners coming back year after year.
Delivery and Takeout Made Easy
While Wan Fu remains committed to its traditional dining experience, it also understands the importance of convenience. Customers can now enjoy their favorite dishes at home through popular delivery platforms, including DoorDash, Grubhub, and Uber Eats. Wan Fu can reach a wider audience without compromising quality or customer service.
Orders are carefully packaged to preserve presentation and temperature. Whether you’re ordering lunch at the office or dinner for the family, the consistency in flavor and freshness remains the same.
Additionally, takeout service is streamlined and reliable, making it easy for customers to call ahead and pick up a freshly prepared meal on the go.
TripAdvisor’s Top-Rated for a Reason
According to TripAdvisor, Wan Fu Asian Cuisine & Bar is consistently recognized as one of the Top 10 Chinese restaurants in the St. Louis region. This ranking reflects glowing reviews from both first-time guests and loyal regulars, who praise the restaurant for its delicious food, friendly service, generous portions, and overall value.
Reviewers frequently note how rare it is to find a restaurant that maintains such a high consistency across the board, from appetizers to entrees, dine-in to delivery. It’s no wonder Wan Fu has earned a loyal following over the past 30 years.
Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future
The newest owners have done an admirable job balancing tradition with thoughtful innovation. They’ve introduced small improvements that enhance the overall experience without changing what customers love, such as improved delivery packaging, better menu presentation, and streamlined customer service.
These efforts ensure Wan Fu Asian Cuisine & Bar stays competitive in a rapidly evolving market while staying true to the qualities that made it great to begin with.
Final Thoughts: A Timeless Treasure in Des Peres
Wan Fu Asian Cuisine & Bar in Des Peres, Missouri, is more than just a restaurant — a family legacy, a local institution, and a beacon of quality and tradition. With over 30 years of continuous success, guided by three generations of dedicated family members, Wan Fu offers a warmth and flavor you won’t find in a chain restaurant.
Whether dining in, ordering takeout, or enjoying delivery through DoorDash, Grubhub, or Uber Eats, you’ll experience what makes Wan Fu truly special: authenticity, consistency, and care in every detail.
For locals and visitors alike, Wan Fu Asian Cuisine & Bar remains a must-visit destination for high-quality Chinese and Asian cuisine in the St. Louis region.