Even if you aren’t a football fan, we can all agree that America’s most iconic annual event is the Super Bowl. People across the globe tune in. Americans who care little for sports show up for Super Bowl parties. Millions eagerly await the new TV commercials — sometimes more than the final score — and enough guacamole is consumed to put a Mexican fiesta to shame.
Which brings me to today’s subject: appetizers. Snacks. Starters. Small plates. Whatever you call them, there is no better showcase for this style of dining than the Super Bowl.
While you won’t find avocados, buffalo sauce or French onion dip on the menu, Asian restaurants may be my favorite places to explore great appetizers. And Johnny Chan 2 is a perfect example.
It may seem a bit unconventional to connect Asian cuisine with football’s biggest day. But if there is one culinary tradition that truly understands the art of the first course, it is Asian cooking. These dishes are built for sharing, sampling and lingering over with friends — exactly what a good watch party requires.
Bo Bo Platter
In honor of America’s great non-holiday holiday, let’s take a look at Johnny Chan 2’s impressive lineup of starters.
One of my favorite orders at any Chinese restaurant is the variety platter. At Johnny Chan 2, it’s called the Bo Bo Platter. It includes chicken wings—a Super Bowl classic — vegetable egg rolls, beef teriyaki and other assorted bites. It’s an ideal way to begin because there is genuinely something for everyone. Kids (and plenty of adults, myself included) love grilling the teriyaki over the charming little blue-flame burner in the center of the platter. It’s interactive, fun and delicious.
The vegetable egg rolls here are among the best. They’re crisp, flavorful and, believe it or not, relatively light. I could easily make a meal of them, but part of the fun is enjoying the variety. The beef teriyaki is seasoned just right, allowing the natural flavor of the beef to shine while the marinade adds depth and subtle sweetness.
Pot Stickers
Another favorite — and a dish that has surged in popularity in recent years — is pot stickers. They may well be my single favorite appetizer in all of Asian cuisine. Johnny Chan 2 prepares them properly: steam-fried with a delicate crisp on the bottom and a tender, savory filling inside. The dipping sauce deserves special mention; I find myself using it on other items as well.
There are other intriguing options worth exploring. The Minced Chicken in Lettuce Cups is a lighter, fresh choice with wonderful texture. The Chicken Teriyaki has just the right amount of char. And the scallion pancakes are light, layered and satisfying. If you’ve never ventured beyond the basics, I encourage you to try one of these less-heralded selections. You may be pleasantly surprised by the range of flavors and textures.
Hot & Sour Soup
I can’t discuss Asian starters without mentioning the classic Hot & Sour Soup. Johnny Chan 2 serves a bold, spicy, full-flavored version that tempts me every time. Yes, soup may stray slightly from the finger-food theme, but this one is always worth ordering.
Super Bowl 2026 may already be behind us, but Johnny Chan 2 should remain on your radar long after the highlights are over. The next time you’re entertaining — whether at home or out — consider building the meal around an array of appetizers. When it comes to Asian starters done right, this restaurant delivers, because Johnny Chan 2 is a place where the last taste lingers long after it’s gone.
