Yan Wang
A Sichuan restaurant in Traverse City, run by 2 local people, with a very short menu, but tastes really authentic!!!
What a surprise!!!
Crocodile Palace, check it out!
You won’t be disappointed if you enjoy spicy food
… moreNicole S
We ordered takeout and were blown away by how delicious everything was. We tried the wontons, chicken wings, pork belly, Dan Dan noodles, rice, and a side of chili oil—and I’d recommend every single item. The chicken wings remained crispy even after bringing them home and were not that spicy (at least for us). I just wish we lived closer, so we could order more regularly. Absolute chef’s kiss!
… moreBritney Kreiner
I was craving Asian or Middle Eastern food and decided to give Crocodile Palace a try. BEST DECISION EVER!
We ordered the crispy pork, grilled & chilled romaine, and pork dumplings. Everything was perfect; delicious, fresh, bold, and with generous portions. This protein, vegetable, and appetizer fed two adults and we could barely finish it all. The pork could not have been more perfectly done, the dumplings were sumptuous and wonderful, and the grilled & chilled romaine was astonishingly delicious (we actually fought over who would get the last bite!). It was all on the spicy side, but then again we did dump chili oil on every bite; it was fantastic!
There is no seating in the restaurant and the outside tables were already taken so we grabbed some beverages from the convenience store next door and drove around the corner to the Civic Center & ate at a picnic table. It was a wonderful evening and I can’t wait to go back and try more dishes. Also the remodeled interior makes it look totally new & modern inside, a big improvement from before.
Here are two tips that we’ll remember for next time though: the crispy pork didn’t come with rice, so be sure to order some on the side. Also, ask for an extra cup of their chili oil condiment because it’s almost good enough to drink.
… moreY Hairston
The food is amazing!! I ordered the mapo tofu as is my habit when it’s on the menu. For those that don’t know this is supposed to be a spicy flavorful dish. They delivered both extremely well. The way the Sichuan peppercorns tingle your tongue is not something you normally get to experience. Truly an authentic experience!! I will only be in Traverse City for a couple days, but I will be eating here again before I go home.
… moreKendall Rose
We finally had the opportunity to bring our out-of-town family to Crocodile Palace this holiday week after telling them about it for 2 years. It absolutely left an impression on them and became one of our favorite holiday memories. The staff (Sunday, Dec 28) were incredibly kind and patient with our order for nine people, and our questions. There was truly something for everyone – my husband and I who love the Dan Dan Noodles and Ginger Noodles, my sister-in-law who is from Sichuan province and rarely gets to try new inventive places featuring flavors she loves, my brother who prefers to be sweating out of every orifice when he eats Sichuan, three picky kids who enjoyed the heck out of their noodles, and two reluctant 70 year olds who were fans by the end of the meal. We have never tried the brussels sprouts and especially loved, loved them. The ambiance is so great when you pair this meal with drinks from The Little Fleet bar. Crocodile Palace is the one place as a local I would say you’d be remiss to skip out on when visiting the area and is such a fun experience for the Traverse City food scene.
… moreMateo Gebon
Crocodile Palace is a great place for takeout Sichuan cuisine. I tried the pork wontons and the mapo tofu, and both were packed with flavor. The wontons had lots of herbs and spices to amp them up, and the mapo tofu was rich and somewhat spicy. Admittedly, I’ve had spicier versions of mapo tofu before, but this one was still very tasty. I didn’t have to wait too long, and things seem like they’re made nice and fresh. The staff was professional and I was happy with everything. I’d definitely eat here again next time I’m in Traverse City.
… moreFriedChicken
It is authentic yes, is the portion small, also yes. Good try on Sichuan cooking, but Sichuan food is more than just spicy. It is not buffalo wings. They are missing the “Ma” flavor in their chili oil. Need more Sichuan peppercorn and less chili flakes to have a good balance.
If you cannot handle heat that well, try the cold noodle dish, it is easier to enjoy when your mouth is burning. Also the spice doesn’t burn your mouth forever, it has delay start and it will go away without any drink. I like that they use good ingredients and effort. Everything is good, chicken is tender and smooth. If only it is less spicy and more ma, then it will be perfect. Also for Chinese food and it doesn’t come with white rice, that was disappointing. Room for improvement.
… moreRachel Lownds
Great spot — takeout only located in a small building. Clean and updated. Open-kitchen concept.
Food was great! Pay attention to the spiciness rating, not to be ignored. It’s great having an option in TC with such unique flavors.
The thrice cooked bacon + rice cakes were a surprising favorite between the both of is.
… moreSpencer Abbott
All the food is amazing. Boiled Pork Wontons rocked. Red Braised Beef Noodles Soup (broth is served on the side) was my favorite. Beef was tender, juicy and delicious. Also, in the pics is Bear Claw Tofu – very good and the Dan Dan Noodles – the sauce underneath the noodles is great. Had the Numbing Wings in a previous order, they have a kick and amazing flavor. Takeout only, but was very quick after I ordered in person. There are places to sit while you wait and the place is super cool. You can watch the Chefs make your food.
… moresylvia santoso
Get takeout from this place. If you like garlic, the fried rice is spot on. It’s garlicky, and the dried shrimp and chicken skin add a crispy texture. The chicken wings are superb; if you like spicy food, you should try them. They remind me of the taste of Sichuan BBQ rub.
… more