Finding a strip-mall Chinese spot that doesn't just taste like "salt and cornstarch" is harder than it looks. You've probably driven past a hundred of them. But if you're hanging around the Publix shopping center on Merrill Road in Jacksonville, you've likely seen the sign for Jimmy Fu's. It's tucked away at 9100 Merrill Rd, Suite 14, and honestly, the exterior doesn't scream "culinary revolution."
It shouldn't. It’s a neighborhood joint.
But here is the thing: people get the Jimmy Fu's Asian Restaurant menu all wrong because they treat it like a standard "Number 42 with Fried Rice" assembly line. If you just walk in and order the first thing you see, you might miss the reason why this place has survived in Jacksonville for years while other franchises crumble. It’s not just about the food; it’s about the fact that they actually use real spice when they say "spicy" and the portions are basically enough to feed a small family for two days.
The Staples: More Than Just General Tso
Most people head straight for the General Tso's. It’s the safe bet. At Jimmy Fu's, the General Tso's chicken is actually crispy, which is a low bar that many places still manage to trip over. But if you want to eat like a regular, you look at the Lemon Grass Chicken.
It’s a bit of a curveball.
Most "Asian Restaurant" menus in Florida stick strictly to the Cantonese-American greatest hits. Jimmy Fu’s ventures slightly into Thai territory, and the Lemon Grass Chicken is frequently cited by locals as the standout. It’s bright, fragrant, and doesn't leave that heavy, oily film on the roof of your mouth.
Then there's the Pork Mee Fun. This isn't the thick, doughy lo mein most people gravitate toward. We’re talking thin rice noodles stir-fried with pork, cabbage, and broccoli. It’s light. It’s savory. It’s the kind of thing you order when you want to feel like you ate a vegetable but still want the comfort of a massive pile of carbs.
Breaking Down the Lunch Specials
Value is where this place wins.
Seriously.
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For under $10—though prices fluctuate with the economy, obviously—the lunch special is a beast. You get your main, you get the pork fried rice, and you get a drink. Most people rave about the Orange Chicken during these hours. One thing to watch out for: the service can be... let’s call it "efficiently brusque." If you call and get hung up on once or twice, don't take it personally. It’s part of the charm of a high-volume takeout spot.
- Wonton Soup: It’s simple, but they don't skimp on the broth flavor.
- Egg Drop Soup: Thick, yellow, and exactly what you want when you have a cold.
- Crab Rangoon: These are the "hits the spot" kind, though some diners wish the dipping sauce had more of a kick.
- Pork Fried Rice: Surprisingly, even the side rice gets high marks here for not being dry or flavorless.
Why the Jimmy Fu's Asian Restaurant Menu Still Matters
In an era of $18 "artisan" bowls, a place that gives you a literal pound of food for ten bucks is a rare breed. The Jimmy Fu's Asian Restaurant menu stays relevant because it fills a specific gap in the Jacksonville food scene: the "I'm tired, I'm hungry, and I want something that tastes like my childhood" gap.
Is it authentic Sichuan cuisine that will make your tongue numb with peppercorns? No.
Is it trying to be? Also no.
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It’s a blend. You’ll find Sweet and Sour Shrimp sitting right next to Yellow Curry. That’s the "Asian Restaurant" part of the name—it’s a catch-all for the hits of the East, adapted for a North Florida palate. Locals will tell you to hit them up during off-peak hours. If you go right at 5:30 PM on a Friday, the wait for takeout can get a bit unpredictable.
The Reality Check
Look, we have to be honest. Not every experience is a five-star gala. Some folks have complained that the rice can occasionally feel like it was prepped a bit too far in advance, or that the service feels rushed. It's a strip-mall eatery. If you’re looking for white tablecloths and a sommelier, you’re in the wrong zip code.
But if you’re looking for Beef with Broccoli where the broccoli is actually crunchy and the beef isn't "mysterious," this is the spot. The menu is massive. It’s almost intimidating. You’ve got Egg Foo Young, Moo Shu, and even some Japanese-inspired appetizers like Miso soup.
What to Order if You’re New
- Lemon Grass Chicken: For when you want flavor over sugar.
- General Tso Chicken: Specify you want it spicy if you actually like heat.
- Shrimp Pad Thai: A solid alternative if you're tired of soy-based sauces.
- Any "Mee Fun" dish: The rice noodles are consistently better than the lo mein.
Actionable Tips for Your Next Visit
If you're planning to tackle the Jimmy Fu's Asian Restaurant menu this week, do yourself a favor and call ahead (904-744-9988). Don't just walk in and wait, especially if you're in a hurry.
Check the "Chef's Recommendations" section of the physical menu when you arrive. Often, there are items like Tangerine Chicken or "Neptune's Platter" (a mix of seafood and vegetables) that offer a slightly more elevated experience than the standard combo platters. Also, if you’re a fan of spice, don't be afraid to ask them to "make it authentic spicy." They usually hold back for the general public, but they can bring the heat if prompted.
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Go for the lunch specials between 11:00 AM and 3:30 PM to get the most bang for your buck. It's the most efficient way to test the waters without committing to a full-price dinner entree. Stick to the rice noodles if you want something less heavy, and always, always check your bag for napkins and soy sauce before you drive away.