A Guide to Chinese Food in San Gabriel Valley, CA

San Gabriel Valley (SGV) is renowned for its diverse and authentic Chinese cuisine, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers. Whether you’re looking for traditional dim sum, flavorful Sichuan dishes, or mouthwatering Cantonese barbecue, SGV offers a variety of dining experiences that cater to all budgets. Here’s a guide to some of the best Chinese restaurants in the area, what they’re famous for, and what online reviews are saying about them.

1. Lunasia Dim Sum House

• Location: 500 W Main St, Alhambra, CA 91801

• Famous For: High-quality dim sum served all day.

• What to Eat: Har gow (shrimp dumplings), siu mai (pork dumplings), and BBQ pork buns.

• Budget Range: $$ (Around $20-$30 per person)

• Online Reviews: Lunasia is praised for its consistently fresh and delicious dim sum, with many reviewers highlighting the expansive menu and the modern, clean dining environment. However, it can get crowded, so reservations or early arrival are recommended.

2. Sea Harbour Seafood Restaurant

• Location: 3939 Rosemead Blvd, Rosemead, CA 91770

• Famous For: Upscale dim sum and seafood dishes.

• What to Eat: Lobster with ginger and scallions, seafood fried rice, and steamed dumplings.

• Budget Range: $$$ (Around $30-$50 per person)

• Online Reviews: Sea Harbour is celebrated for its top-tier seafood and elegant dim sum offerings. While the prices are higher than average, many reviewers agree that the quality justifies the cost. The ambiance is also frequently mentioned as being refined and suitable for special occasions.

3. Sichuan Impression

• Location: 1900 W Valley Blvd, Alhambra, CA 91803

• Famous For: Authentic and spicy Sichuan cuisine.

• What to Eat: Boiled fish with green pepper sauce, mapo tofu, and toothpick lamb.

• Budget Range: $$ (Around $20-$35 per person)

• Online Reviews: Sichuan Impression is highly rated for delivering bold, authentic flavors that stay true to Sichuan cuisine’s spicy roots. Many reviewers appreciate the restaurant’s commitment to authenticity, although some warn that the spice levels can be intense.

4. Mama Lu’s Dumpling House

• Location: 153 E Garvey Ave, Monterey Park, CA 91755

• Famous For: Affordable and delicious dumplings.

• What to Eat: XLB (Xiaolongbao, or soup dumplings), pan-fried pork buns, and green onion pancakes.

• Budget Range: $ (Around $10-$20 per person)

• Online Reviews: Mama Lu’s is beloved for its budget-friendly prices and tasty dumplings. The XLB are a particular favorite, and many reviewers note the generous portions. The casual atmosphere makes it a great spot for a quick, satisfying meal.

5. Phoenix Inn Chinese Cuisine

• Location: 208 E Valley Blvd, Alhambra, CA 91801

• Famous For: Traditional Chinese comfort food.

• What to Eat: Hot and sour soup, kung pao chicken, and Peking duck.

• Budget Range: $$ (Around $15-$25 per person)

• Online Reviews: Phoenix Inn is well-regarded for its consistent quality and extensive menu of Chinese-American favorites. Many diners appreciate the hearty portions and the comforting flavors that make it a go-to spot for both locals and visitors. The relaxed, casual setting also adds to its appeal.

6. Tasty Noodle House

• Location: 827 W Las Tunas Dr, San Gabriel, CA 91776

• Famous For: Handmade noodles and Northern Chinese cuisine.

• What to Eat: Beef noodle soup, zha jiang mian (noodles with soybean paste), and pork dumplings.

• Budget Range: $$ (Around $15-$25 per person)

• Online Reviews: Tasty Noodle House receives high marks for its fresh, handmade noodles and flavorful Northern Chinese dishes. The casual yet cozy ambiance makes it a favorite for both lunch and dinner. Reviewers also appreciate the reasonable prices for the quality of food.

7. Meizhou Dongpo

• Location: 20 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91105

• Famous For: High-end Sichuan cuisine and hot pot.

• What to Eat: Spicy hot pot, kung pao chicken, and dan dan noodles.

• Budget Range: $$$ (Around $30-$50 per person)

• Online Reviews: Meizhou Dongpo is recognized for its luxurious take on Sichuan cuisine, with a menu that balances authenticity and presentation. The restaurant’s hot pot is particularly popular, with many reviewers noting the rich, spicy broths and high-quality ingredients. The modern, upscale setting also makes it a good choice for special dinners.

8. 101 Noodle Express

• Location: 1408 E Valley Blvd, Alhambra, CA 91801

• Famous For: Beef rolls and hand-pulled noodles.

• What to Eat: Beef roll, chicken noodle soup, and pork and chive dumplings.

• Budget Range: $$ (Around $15-$25 per person)

• Online Reviews: The beef roll at 101 Noodle Express is frequently touted as the best in SGV, with crispy, flavorful layers that make it a must-try. The hand-pulled noodles are also a hit, and the overall experience is described as both satisfying and affordable.

9. New Fusion

• Location: 1024 S Baldwin Ave, Arcadia, CA 91007

• Famous For: Modern Chinese cuisine with a fusion twist.

• What to Eat: Peking duck, fusion sushi rolls, and honey walnut shrimp.

• Budget Range: $$ (Around $20-$35 per person)

• Online Reviews: New Fusion is praised for its innovative approach to Chinese cuisine, blending traditional flavors with contemporary flair. Reviewers highlight the Peking duck and sushi rolls as standout dishes, and many appreciate the stylish, modern ambiance that elevates the dining experience.

10. Din Tai Fung

• Location: 1088 S Baldwin Ave, Arcadia, CA 91007

• Famous For: World-famous dumplings and Taiwanese cuisine.

• What to Eat: Pork xiaolongbao, shrimp fried rice, and spicy wontons.

• Budget Range: $$ (Around $20-$35 per person)

• Online Reviews: Din Tai Fung consistently ranks as a favorite for its meticulously crafted dumplings, especially the xiaolongbao. While the prices are higher than some other dumpling spots, the quality and attention to detail make it worth the splurge. The modern and well-maintained dining space also