Chinatown Freihof

Chinatown Freihof is a cornerstone of authentic Chinese dining in the heart of Aarau, Aargau. As a family-run restaurant with roots going back to its founding in 1989, it has been serving the local community and visitors alike for decades, establishing a reputation built on quality ingredients, traditional recipes, and warm hospitality. The restaurant is part of a duo of beloved Chinese eateries in the city, alongside China House, and is managed by a dedicated team of up to 12 employees, many of whom have been part of the journey since the very beginning.

The moment you step inside Chinatown Freihof, you’re greeted by a welcoming atmosphere that suits everything from a quick business lunch to a relaxed family dinner. The interior blends classic Chinese design elements with comfortable Swiss sensibilities, creating a space where you can enjoy a meal at your own pace. With seating designed for both intimate tables and larger groups, the restaurant has become a go-to for celebrations, weekly rituals, and those evenings when you simply crave rich, flavorful Szechuan, Cantonese, and other regional specialties.

Authentic Menu & All You Can Eat Buffet

The heart of Chinatown Freihof is its diverse menu, which has been refined over more than three decades. Guests can choose from an extensive à la carte selection featuring everything from delicate dumplings to robust, spice-forward stir-fries. The kitchen is praised for using fresh ingredients, with dishes prepared to order to ensure every flavor note is vibrant and distinct. Whether you prefer poultry, beef, pork, or an array of vegetarian delights, the menu offers something to satisfy every craving, with notable highlights including wok-fried noodles, Szechuan beef, Mongolian-style dishes, and the ever-popular sweet-and-sour pork.

One of the most celebrated features is the daily lunchtime “All You Can Eat” buffet. This offering is available exclusively at the Freihof location from Tuesday through Saturday, 11:30 am to 1:30 pm, and on Sunday until 1:45 pm. It’s a feast that delivers outstanding value and variety. The buffet pricing is family-friendly and transparent: adults and children aged 11 years and older enjoy the spread for CHF 18.50 on weekdays and CHF 20.50 on Sundays. For children up to 10 years old, the cost is delightfully simple—CHF 1 per year of age, meaning an 8-year-old dines for just CHF 8. The buffet is a favorite for local workers, families, and anyone seeking a generous, high-quality Chinese meal without the wait.

What We Offer: Services & Amenities

Chinatown Freihof is designed to fit into your lifestyle, whether you prefer to dine in, grab a quick meal to go, or enjoy your favorites from the comfort of your own home. The restaurant offers three primary service models, each executed with the same commitment to quality. You can choose the full dine-in experience, where the service team ensures your visit is smooth and enjoyable. Alternatively, a take-away service allows you to pick up your meal and get on with your day, perfect for busy afternoons or quiet nights in. Finally, the delivery service brings the rich flavors of Chinatown Freihof straight to your doorstep in Aarau.

Dining Options & Reservation System

The Freihof location is built to handle the ebb and flow of daily demand. Walking in is often possible, but the restaurant’s online table reservation system is the smartest way to secure your spot, especially on weekends or for the Sunday buffet. The booking tool, accessible via the official website, lets you select your date, time, and the number of guests. There's even a space for special requests, making it a practical tool for planning birthdays, group outings, or business meetings. The team’s attention to detail was highlighted by a recent guest who noted that the lunch menu price was even reduced for their children—a small gesture that speaks to the family-focused mindset.

Why Customers Choose Chinatown Freihof

Diners return to Chinatown Freihof for more than just a meal; they come back for an experience rooted in consistency, flavor, and personal connection. The Google Maps rating of 4.4 stars, drawn from over 410 reviews, points to widespread satisfaction. Guests frequently mention the freshness of the dishes and the authentic, well-balanced seasoning. One reviewer called it “culinarily absolutely top,” praising the intense flavors that shine when sharing multiple plates. The deep ties of a family business matter here—the ownership and staff treat the restaurant as an extension of their own home, and that familiarity translates into service that feels both professional and genuinely personal.

Another key reason regulars keep returning is the dual-restaurant family concept. While China House, founded in 1998, serves as a quick-service sister location with weekday hours from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm (Thursdays until 8:00 pm, Saturdays until 6:00 pm), Chinatown Freihof remains the full-service anchor. This setup means the Freihof team benefits from over 35 years of combined operational excellence. The restaurant is closed on Mondays, giving the team a dedicated reset day and ensuring they return refreshed and ready to deliver the quality the name stands for. The result is a well-oiled rhythm that rarely misses a beat.

“Wir waren mit unseren Kinder dort und sind top begeistert. Das Essen war sehr fein und den Service top. Der Mittagsmenüpreis wurde auch reduziert für unsere Jungs.” — Jennifer Heer, Google Local Guide

Hours, Location & Directions in Aarau

Chinatown Freihof is conveniently located at Laurenzenvorstadt 59 in the vibrant city of Aarau, within the canton of Aargau, Switzerland. The address sits in a well-connected neighborhood that is easily reachable by public transport, private car, or a pleasant walk from Aarau’s central train station. The location code for navigation systems is 92VX+MF Aarau. Being situated on Laurenzenvorstadt places the restaurant in the scenic heart of the city, close to landmarks and business hubs, making it an ideal stop for both locals and tourists exploring the historic canton capital.

The operating hours are structured around the natural dining rhythms of the city: the restaurant is closed on Mondays for a full day of rest. From Tuesday through Sunday, the lunch service runs from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm, offering a focused window that is perfect for midday breaks. After a brief afternoon pause, dinner service resumes from 5:30 pm to 10:30 pm. Knowing this rhythm helps you plan perfectly: arrive early for the lunch buffet, or book an evening table to enjoy a relaxed, multi-course dinner under the warm glow of the restaurant’s signature lanterns. The restaurant is committed to staying accessible, with clear signage and a welcoming entrance that matches its reputation.

Questions Visitors Ask

To help you make the most of your visit to Chinatown Freihof, here are some of the questions that new guests and regulars often ask before walking through the doors.

Is there parking available near the restaurant?

Yes, guests can find parking options along Laurenzenvorstadt and nearby side streets. Additionally, several public parking garages in central Aarau are within a short walking distance, making arrival by car convenient even during busy lunch and dinner rushes.

Can I book the buffet for a specific seat or group?

Absolutely. While walk-ins for the buffet are welcome based on availability, it’s highly recommended to reserve a table through the website—especially for the popular Sunday buffet or groups of six or more. The system lets you specify the time and number of guests so the team can have your space ready.

Are there vegetarian or special dietary options?

Yes, the à la carte menu includes a range of vegetable-centric and tofu dishes that can be enjoyed by vegetarians. The buffet also features several meat-free items. For specific allergies or dietary restrictions, the service team and kitchen are known for being accommodating. Simply communicate your needs when ordering or in the reservation message field, and they’ll guide you accordingly.

Do you offer gift vouchers for the restaurant?

Gift vouchers are a popular way to share the Chinatown Freihof experience with friends, family, or colleagues. It’s best to contact the restaurant directly by phone at +41 62 824 73 30 or inquire in person during operating hours to learn about denominations and purchase options. A voucher makes a thoughtful present for food lovers in the Aargau region.