Unearth The Voyage
Hungry for the spots locals whisper about and line up for every weekend. This list rounds up Chinese and Asian restaurants across Los Angeles that deliver unforgettable bowls, sizzling plates, and craveworthy dim sum. You will find neighborhood legends, buzzy newcomers, and a couple of destinations worth the drive. Come ready to eat, compare notes, and plan a delicious route through the city.
1. Din Tai Fung – Glendale, CA
Locals make pilgrimages for the meticulous xiao long bao, each dumpling thin skinned and brimming with rich soup. The Glendale location runs like a well oiled machine, with glass walls showcasing cooks pleating dumplings in rhythmic precision. You will want a plan: order multiple baskets, scallion noodles, and the pork chop fried rice to share.
Service is quick, friendly, and tuned for crowds, so the queue moves faster than expected. The space feels polished yet approachable, buzzing with families and date night energy. Budget time to stroll the Americana after, because that warm dumpling glow lasts.
2. Yang Chow Restaurant – Los Angeles, CA
Yang Chow is famous for slippery shrimp, a glossy, lightly crispy marvel that balances sweet and tangy. The menu reads like a greatest hits compilation, from sizzling black pepper beef to comforting wonton soup. You will get generous portions that make sharing feel natural and affordable.
The old school Chinatown vibe adds charm, with quick service and tables turning briskly. It is perfect for a pre Dodger game bite or a casual group dinner. Order extra slippery shrimp, because the plate disappears faster than you think.
3. Foo-Chow Restaurant – Los Angeles, CA
Foo Chow delivers comfortable Cantonese standards with nostalgic flair. Think salt and pepper squid, beef chow fun, and whole steamed fish that arrives tender and fragrant. You will appreciate the dependable flavors and the neighborhood hospitality.
Inside, round tables and lazy Susans encourage big group spreads. The location is convenient for downtown outings and casual nights when only comfort food will do. Bring cash friendly expectations and a hunger for classics that taste like they should.
4. Golden Tree Restaurant – Los Angeles, CA
Golden Tree shines for family style meals that feel celebratory without being fussy. Honey walnut shrimp lands crisp and creamy, while sautéed pea shoots bring a fresh, garlicky counterpoint. You will find the staff quick with tea refills and happy to guide first timers.
The menu leans familiar, but execution is tight and consistent. It is an easy pick for birthdays, visiting relatives, or a comforting Sunday lunch. Leave room for a simple fruit dessert to finish light and bright.
5. Jade Wok – Los Angeles, CA
Jade Wok nails stir fries with smoky wok hei that keeps regulars coming back. The string beans are blistered and savory, and the house chow mein carries satisfying chew. You will be tempted to add an extra order of orange chicken for that sticky crunch.
It is quick, simple, and affordable, the kind of spot you rely on midweek. Portions are ideal for sharing or next day leftovers. Expect friendly smiles, hot food, and zero pretense.
6. Bamboo Inn – Los Angeles, CA
Bamboo Inn feels like a time capsule in the best way. The BBQ pork fried rice is smoky and loaded, while egg rolls crackle with a satisfying bite. You will get straightforward flavors that hit nostalgic notes without trying too hard.
Service is casual and quick, perfect for takeout on a busy night. The retro charm makes dining in fun, especially with a friend and a pot of tea. Grab extra hot mustard and let the comfort food do its work.
7. Oak Tree Inn – South Pasadena, CA
Oak Tree Inn is a beloved neighborhood staple where big plates land fast and hot. Mapo tofu hums with gentle heat, and orange chicken brings crispy sweetness that kids adore. You will find soups hearty, especially the house special wonton.
The dining room invites lingering, but takeout stays crisp if you are heading home. Prices are fair and portions generous, making it ideal for weeknight family dinners. Leave happy with leftovers for tomorrow.
8. Pine and Crane DTLA – Los Angeles, CA
Pine and Crane DTLA brings clean, bright Taiwanese flavors to a sleek downtown space. The three cup chicken is aromatic and sticky, while the dan dan and sesame noodles are cool, nutty crowd pleasers. You will want a side of pickled vegetables to cut through the richness.
Expect fast casual ordering with polished presentation. The vibe suits solo lunches, laptop afternoons, or a pre show bite. Grab a milk tea and let the chili oil tingle linger.
9. Good Alley – Rosemead, CA
Good Alley specializes in Taiwanese comfort and street snacks that travel well. Gua bao with braised pork belly melts softly, while crispy chicken bites deliver peppery crunch. You will also find refreshing fruit teas and classic milk tea to round out the feast.
The shop feels casual and welcoming, great for quick bites between errands. Portions are snackable, so mix and match to try more flavors. Perfect for takeout picnics or late night cravings.
10. Joy – Los Angeles, CA
Joy captures Taiwanese home cooking with fresh California produce. The minced pork over rice is deeply savory, and the scallion pancake flakes without greasiness. You will appreciate the bright pickles and clean broths that balance every bite.
The space is lively and relaxed, with counter service that keeps things moving. It is easy to build a shareable spread and still feel light. Do not skip the sesame peanut noodles if you love a gentle, nutty kick.
11. Paul’s Kitchen – Los Angeles, CA
Paul’s Kitchen is a Chinatown classic where Chinese American staples still shine. Chop suey and sweet and sour pork bring that comforting balance of savory and tangy. You will find portions huge and prices kind, ideal for big groups on a budget.
The room carries decades of memories, and service is direct and efficient. It is a reminder that simple dishes can be deeply satisfying. Come hungry, leave with a full bag of leftovers.
12. Majordomo – Los Angeles, CA
Majordomo plays at the edge of Korean, Chinese, and Californian flavors with playful confidence. Bing with toppings sets the tone, while the smoked short rib is a showstopper for the table. You will taste precise technique layered with bold, craveable sauces.
Reservations help, but the bar can be a great last minute move. The energy is celebratory, perfect for special nights when you want to be wowed. Save room for a soft serve finale with unexpected twists.
13. Eastern Chinese Style – Bronx, NY
Yes, it is not in LA, but locals who travel swear by this Bronx gem for true takeout comfort. The combo plates are hearty, with smoky fried rice and saucy chicken that hits the spot. You will get fast service and portions that stretch into tomorrow.
It is the kind of place that reminds you why Chinese American takeout is timeless. If you find yourself on the East Coast, mark it as a detour meal. Affordable, filling, and exactly what you want after a long day.
14. Hengry – Alhambra, CA
Hengry turns up the heat with polished Sichuan leaning plates that never feel heavy. The chili crisp sings over cold appetizers, and the fish in chili broth arrives silky and aromatic. You will feel the tingle of peppercorn without losing nuance.
Service is attentive, and dishes land in a thoughtful order for sharing. It is a great middle ground between casual and date night. Pair with jasmine tea to keep the palate refreshed.
15. Men & Beasts | Modern Chinese Restaurant & Tea Lounge – Los Angeles, CA
Men & Beasts brings modern Chinese cuisine together with a serious tea program. Expect elegant small plates, from delicate dumplings to seared vegetables dressed with fragrant oils. You will be guided toward teas that complement the food, elevating each bite.
The lounge atmosphere encourages slow conversation and mindful tasting. It is ideal for date night or a celebratory catch up with friends. Finish with a floral oolong and leave feeling restored.
