Welcome to Crocodile Palace
Crocodile Palace, located at 124 Cochlin St in Traverse City, MI, is a vibrant takeout-only destination specializing in unique Sichuan cuisine. The open-kitchen concept allows diners to witness the artistry behind flavorful dishes like crispy pork, juicy pork dumplings, and spicy cold noodles. Reviewers rave about the boldness and freshness of the meals, with generous portions ensuring satisfaction. While the interior has been beautifully remodeled, the small space caters to intimate groups and bustling takeout orders. Each visit promises a culinary adventure, making it a must-try for enthusiasts of Asian flavors and spices. Don't forget to request the exceptional chili oil!
Crocodile Palace: Reviews & Ratings
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.
Reminded me of small dumpling joints in China and Taiwan! The staff were friendly and changed our dish to be vegetarian friendly. The music was very cool and the smells were great. The kitchen is open plan so you can watch them make dumplings and cook which was awesome! It is quite small so could only fit groups of 2-3. We ordered the cold noodles and they were spicy and delicious. The honey tea was also great. A cool unique spot!
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.
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.
Unbelievable!!! So so so good. I’m a flight attendant and have been all over China! This is by far the best I’ve tasted!!! So fresh and take cafe of. I sat in the restaurant watching the chefs cooking! I will come back every time!
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.
This is very authentic Chinese food and I love it. The food I ordered was SICHUAN MOUTH WATERING CHICKEN and BOILED PORK WONTONS
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!
Location
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124 Cochlin St, Traverse City, MI 49686, United States Hotline: +1 231-421-3555
Welcome to Crocodile Palace, a hidden gem located at 124 Cochlin St, Traverse City, MI. This charming takeout spot redefines what it means to savor authentic Sichuan cuisine. With an open-kitchen concept, guests are treated to a culinary spectacle where flavors come to life.
From the moment you step up to the counter, you’re immersed in an atmosphere filled with the vibrant scents of roasting spices and simmering sauces. Whether you’re indulging in the crispy pork, renowned for its perfectly executed crunch, or diving into the pork dumplings that are nothing short of sumptuous, every bite is a celebration of bold, fresh ingredients. As customer Britney Kreiner noted, the generous portions can easily satiate two hungry adults, making it a fantastic option for takeout.
The menu showcases a variety of flavors that pay homage to Asian and Middle Eastern influences. Highlighted dishes such as the mapo tofu and thrice-cooked bacon rice cakes reflect a commitment to quality and creativity often seen in the small dumpling joints of China and Taiwan, a sentiment echoed by customer testimonials. Each dish is crafted with attention to detail, packing a punch in flavor and presenting a delightful challenge for spice lovers, as mentioned by Rachel Lownds.
Additionally, the ambiance inside the newly remodeled space is inviting yet casual, with friendly staff that cater to dietary preferences without hesitation. The music creates a backdrop of cultural dynamism that complements the culinary experience splendidly. For those who find seating limited, a picnic table nearby at the Civic Center offers a perfect locale to enjoy your meal in the fresh air.
Moreover, the feedback from seasoned travelers like Laura Lambert, who claims its offerings are some of the best she’s tasted globally, gives credence to the restaurant's commitment to excellence. The thoughtful preparation evident in every dish, combined with a recommendation to request additional chili oil—a condiment so good it’s labeled as “almost drinkable”—defines Crocodile Palace as a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
Next time you’re in the mood for a culinary adventure, head to Crocodile Palace. With an array of tantalizing options waiting to be discovered, you’ll be looking forward to your next visit before you even finish your meal!