2-Item vs. 3-Item Combo at Mark's Kitchen: Which One Should You Get?

The combination plate is the most common way people order at Mark's Kitchen. The tricky part is picking the size.

Short answer: Get the 2-item combo if it's just lunch for one. Get the 3-item combo if you're hungry, want to try more of the menu, or plan to save half for later.

The rest of this page helps you decide, and shows you how to build a plate that actually tastes good together.

What Each Combo Comes With

Prices are from our menu page and can change. Confirm at the counter.

The $2 Question

At these listed prices, the third entree costs $2 more. That's the cheapest way to add a whole extra dish to your order.

Compare that with buying a single entree like broccoli beef, listed at $11.95. For a dollar more, the 3-item combo gives you three entrees plus both sides.

So the real question isn't the money. It's whether you'll eat it. A third entree you throw away isn't a deal.

Get the 2-Item Combo If...

• You're eating lunch and heading back to work.
• You already know your two favorite dishes.
• You're a light eater. Portions here are big, and two entrees plus two sides is a lot of food.
• You don't have a fridge handy for leftovers.

Get the 3-Item Combo If...

• You're really hungry, or it's your only big meal of the day.
• It's your first visit and you want to try more than two things.
• You want tomorrow's lunch covered. Here's how to reheat it so it still tastes good.
• Two people are splitting one plate.

A Real Example From the Counter

When the Fresno Bee visited in 2024, the reporter's plate was a combination of garlic chicken, shrimp, and beef over chow mein. That's a three-entree plate built around three different proteins.

It's a smart way to build a 3-item combo. One chicken, one seafood, one beef means you get variety in every bite.

Pairings That Work

A good combo mixes textures and flavors. Two sweet, crispy dishes on one plate get boring fast.

These are ideas, not house rules. Check what's available when you order. For heat levels, see our spice guide.

What Helen Will Ask You

According to the Fresno Bee, Helen runs through a few quick questions at the counter. Have your answers ready and your order goes faster.

1. Spicy or not? Say so up front. She may tease you if you go mild.
2. Beef or chicken? Know which proteins you want before you get to the front.
3. Fried rice or noodles? The menu says combos come with both. If you're asked, just say which you'd like, or ask for both.

New to ordering this way? Our takeout ordering tips walk you through it.

How to Order a Combo in 30 Seconds

Here's what a quick, clear order sounds like at the counter:

"Hi, a 3-item combo, please. Orange chicken, broccoli beef, and Kung Pao chicken. Not too spicy. For here."

That covers everything: the size, your three entrees, the heat level, and whether you're eating in. Ordering by phone? Add your name, and ask how long it will take.

Combo Mistakes to Avoid

• Picking three sweet, fried dishes. Orange chicken, sweet and sour, and General Tso's all on one plate get heavy fast.
• Going all chicken. You'll miss out on the beef and seafood dishes. Mix your proteins.
• Forgetting to say your spice level. Say it up front, so nobody has to guess.
• Asking for lots of swaps during the rush. Keep custom requests simple at noon and 6 PM. The line is long and the kitchen is small.
• Leaving it in a hot car. If you're saving half for later, get it into the fridge within two hours.

When Neither Combo Is the Right Pick

The Orange Chicken Combo is worth a look. For 55 cents more than the 2-item combo, you get the restaurant's best-known dish plus an egg roll.

Splitting a Combo Between Two People

A 3-item combo can stretch to feed two light eaters. To make it work, pick entrees you both like, and choose at least one that isn't spicy.

Grab an extra plate at home and divide it right away. That way, nobody ends up with all the chow mein and no chicken.

Combo Plate FAQ

What's the price difference between the 2-item and 3-item combo?

Our menu page lists the 2-item at $10.95 and the 3-item at $12.95, a $2 difference. Prices can change.

Do Mark's Kitchen combos come with rice and chow mein?

The menu says both combos come with fried rice and chow mein.

Can I pick any entree for my combo?

The menu says "any" entree. Chef specials like Triple Delight may cost extra or not be included, so ask before you order.

Is the 3-item combo enough for two people?

For two light eaters, it often is. For two hungry adults, get two combos or look at the Family Meal.

Which combo is more popular?

Our menu page marks the 3-item combo as a popular choice. It's the better deal if you'll actually eat the food.

Make the Call Before You Get to the Front

Decide your size, pick entrees that balance each other, and know your answers to Helen's questions. Then you're in and out with a plate that's worth the trip.