21 Best Restaurants in Diamond Bar, CA

Tyler Torres

Aug 6, 2023 • 22 min read

As someone who's spent a considerable amount of time in Diamond Bar, California, let me tell you - we're spoilt for choice when it comes to dining options.

From the moment you step foot in this vibrant city, your senses are immediately greeted with an array of enticing aromas, from sizzling street food to gourmet cuisines wafting from the myriad restaurants lining our bustling streets.

The dining scene here in Diamond Bar is a perfect reflection of our city's diverse culture and rich history, offering a culinary journey that spans the globe.

In this article, we'll embark on a gastronomic voyage, exploring some of the best restaurants in Diamond Bar.

But you might want to grab a snack because by the end of it, your stomach will surely be rumbling!

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About this article: This article was written by a local contributor based on their own experiences and those around them. While this list showcases some remarkable restaurants, it's important to note that this is an opinion piece, and there are many other exceptional dining establishments that are not featured here.
Our aim is not just to guide you to popular eateries but to encourage you to venture out and experience the city's diverse culinary landscape for yourself

My Lunch Spot

If you're looking for a hidden gem in the city, look no further than My Lunch Spot.

This small sandwich shop, so unassuming that it's a bit challenging to locate, has won my heart and appetite with its spectacular offerings.

My absolute favorite is their mushroom and cheese on sourdough.

It's a messy affair, yes, but every bite is an explosion of flavors that makes the drive and the mess worth it.

But that's not all.

The culinary brilliance extends to their other offerings too.

My son can't stop raving about their Roast Beef sandwich with a dash of spiciness.

From their egg sandwich on softened brown bread to their clam chowder soup, every dish is a taste adventure.

But what's a good meal without great service?

The place is run by a humble and bubbly granddaughter who lends a personal touch to the whole experience.

Just remember to get there early.

All their food is freshly made, and they run out pretty quickly.

Tokyo Ramen & More

Whenever I crave a hearty bowl of ramen, I find myself drawn to Tokyo Ramen & More.

It has made a name for itself in our city, transitioning smoothly from a sushi restaurant to a ramen hotspot.

What really hooks me, however, is the rich ramen soup and the tender chashu.

Their ramen bowls boast a certain richness that's hard to come by.

Although I do find the noodles a bit too sticky for my liking, the chashu makes up for it.

The chashu is a bit on the bland side, but when paired with their spicy sauce, it's a different story.

That meat comes out so tender and provides a mouth-watering contrast to the rich soup.

I usually add some toppings and a side of spicy sauce to my black ramen, enhancing its flavor and making it truly a dish to remember.

Another dish I can't get enough of is their karaage.

They serve it with a thick and dense batter - a little too thick for some, but I find it rather appealing.

But what truly sets this place apart is the ambiance and their unique roboserver.

It's something you don't see every day and adds a touch of novelty to the dining experience.

Hungry Bulldog House

You wouldn't believe the gem I found nestled in our city.

The Hungry Bulldog House is a delightful Korean restaurant that has become a family favorite.

A simple exploration of their website here, and I was hooked, but the real magic happened once I stepped inside.

From the moment I walked through the doors, I was welcomed with such warmth and sincerity that the place instantly felt like home.

It’s a charming mom-and-pop shop with an exceptionally friendly couple who are all too ready to guide you through their menu.

My first foray was the dragon fruit lemonade, served in a glass that looked like art.

It was so refreshing, the perfect complement to the spicy soup rice cake that followed.

The rice cake was a burst of flavors, spicy but balanced with cheese, ramen, and dumplings - an absolute delight to the taste buds.

My next venture was their Korean corn dog, a perfect mix of cheesy goodness paired with a crispy exterior that just melted in my mouth.

And let's not forget the Kimchi fried rice with egg, a delicious staple that just rounded off the meal perfectly.

They were half cheese and half dog with a unique sugar coating - a savory treat with a sweet twist.

The fried chicken wings were a revelation and arguably some of the best I've ever had, and they serve them with gloves to save your hands from getting messy.

Such a thoughtful touch!

Jimmy's Poke and Sushi Burrito

Hooked on poke since my last trip to Hawaii, my hunt for the freshest and most delectable poke bowls in the city led me to Jimmy's Poke and Sushi Burrito.

They take their time with each customer, ensuring we understand all the ingredients and their benefits.

Choosing between their mouthwatering options can be a challenge, but I've found my personal favorite.

The large portion with three generous scoops of fresh salmon and two scoops of spicy tuna is just the right size for my partner and me to share.

And trust me, the portions are quite hefty!

But the real cherry on top at Jimmy's is the sauce.

The house sauce, in both its regular and spicy variants, is an absolute delight.

I always ask for a little extra, as it seeps into the rice, making every bite a flavor explosion.

And for those who like it hot, I would suggest trying their level 5 spice on the side!

And let's not forget the toppings!

The ikura adds a brilliant crunch to the dish.

With a perfect mix of half salad and brown rice, it's not just a meal; it's an experience.

Gangnam Street

Let me tell you about an evening that still lingers on my taste buds - it was at Gangnam Street, a little gem tucked away in my city.

The cozy and relaxed atmosphere immediately put me at ease.

It's an ideal spot if you're looking for a quiet and comfortable place to enjoy a good meal.

However, it was the food that stole my heart.

Each dish was a masterpiece, meticulously prepared and presented.

The Korean spices tantalized my senses with every bite, the ingredients so fresh, they could have been picked right out of a garden.

One of the highlights was the side dishes, cooked just right and bursting with flavors, making me greedy for more.

And let me not forget to mention the top-notch meats.

They were a cut above the ones served at the all-you-can-eat joints, and the unique salad dressing with a hint of floral notes was a pleasant surprise.

What really charmed me was their use of charcoal along with gas, an uncommon practice but definitely a noteworthy one.

My friend and I went for the set for two, and trust me; it was more than sufficient.

When my daughter celebrated her 18th birthday here, the team at Gangnam Street went out of their way to make it special.

Their Birthday Decoration was delightful, and the Karaoke added a fun element to the celebration.

Mr. G's Pizza

You know, there's something undeniably exciting about finding that perfect pizza joint in your hometown.

For me, that spot is Mr. G's Pizza in Diamond Bar.

Residing in the Diamond Bar locale, I've had my fair share of pizza places, but none of them hold a candle to this one.

The authenticity, the warmth, and the downright delicious food at Mr. G's Pizza make it a local treasure.

If I had to pick a favorite, it's definitely their mushroom and pepperoni pizza.

I kid you not when I say they don't skimp on the toppings.

The mushrooms are generously scattered, creating an earthy, savory delight in every bite.

And the pepperoni?

Crisp, slightly spicy, and just the right amount of greasy.

Paired with their chewy, slightly crispy crust, and you've got yourself a slice of heaven.

What's more, the service at Mr. G's Pizza is top-notch.

Whether you're a first-time visitor or a regular like me, you're always greeted with a friendly smile and treated like family.

I remember one time when my friend and I mistakenly messed up our order; they went out of their way to accommodate us and still managed to serve us the exact pizzas we craved despite us paying for less.

And if you thought it couldn't get any better, they even have a lunch special - a small pizza with garlic knots and two drinks for just $19.10.

Now, that's a deal that's hard to beat!

Oh, and did I mention after savoring your meal, you're gifted with a complimentary cookie of your choice?

Talk about a cherry on top!

Makomae Japanese Cuisine

Every bite at Makomae Japanese Cuisine tells a story, a story of meticulous craftsmanship, fresh ingredients, and a deep love for authentic Japanese cuisine.

Nestled in the heart of my city, this place has become our family's favorite spot for sushi and sashimi.

Its authenticity shines through with every mouthwatering morsel.

The fish is super fresh, so much so that I swear it melts in your mouth.

And their sashimi?

Simply divine!

Particularly, the uni - it's flown in straight from Japan!

It's that kind of dedication to authenticity and quality that sets Makomae apart from other sushi places in the city.

Yes, Makomae can get crowded, and yes, you may need to wait a while for a table during dinner time.

We usually go for lunch to avoid the evening rush.

But even at its busiest, the service is impeccable.

Whenever friends or family come to visit, I make it a point to bring them to Makomae.

The ambiance, the food, the service - it's all part of the experience.

But fair warning - don't go there looking for a cowboy roll or any Americanized sushi.

This place is about as traditional as you can get.

And as someone who loves authentic Japanese cuisine, that's a huge selling point for me.

Basil And Co

If you crave authentic Thai cuisine, there's no place like Basil And Co.

From the moment you step inside the beautifully designed restaurant, you're welcomed with the aromatic scent of Thai spices and warm, friendly service.

Trust me; it's a hidden gem in our city, serving the most scrumptious Thai dishes you'll ever taste.

Basil And Co's green curry is a must-try.

It has the perfect balance of rich and spicy flavors, just like how a traditional Thai green curry should be.

The dish is so heavy on taste that it's definitely worth coming back for.

To my surprise, the prices were quite decent compared to the quality of food and excellent service they offer.

One of my friends tried the duck noodle soup, which he found a bit sweet for his taste.

But hey, everyone has different taste preferences, right?

For me, it was exactly what I expected – simply delicious.

Now, let's talk about their Tom Yum wings.

I've been to countless Thai places, but these wings are truly one-of-a-kind.

They're so tender, juicy, and loaded with flavors that even children can enjoy them.

Plus, they're not spicy at all.

El Pirata Mexican Seafood

You won't believe what's hiding in plain sight in our very own city.

Blink, and you might miss it, but El Pirata Mexican Seafood is a quaint spot that hits all the right notes for Mexican seafood lovers.

Here's the deal: This place isn't flashy.

There's no fancy sign hanging outside, and there's not a lot of foot traffic, but don't let that dissuade you.

At El Pirata, it's all about the food.

I remember my first visit to El Pirata like it was yesterday.

The ceviche was out of this world, and their Asada fries were a delight.

But what caught my attention were the oysters.

They were HUGE, and they tasted as good as they looked.

Sure, there were a couple of misfires, but that's a small price to pay for the overall experience.

Then came their shrimp cocktails.

A generous serving of shrimp in a tasty sauce, although I felt it could have used a bit more tomato sauce and possibly smaller onion chunks.

But by the time I was halfway done, I was already convinced that I had stumbled upon a small gem.

I know it's hard to find, but trust me, the search for El Pirata is a journey worth taking.

Mr Poke

There's a certain smell that fills the air when you walk into Mr Poke, a small poke restaurant nestled in Diamond Bar.

It's a mix of fresh seafood, roasting seaweed, and the distinct aroma of a kitchen hard at work.

While the exhaust system could use a little upgrade, I've come to associate that smell with the delicious, fresh poke bowls they serve up every day.

During these strange COVID times, Mr Poke has been my go-to spot for a quick, filling lunch that isn't too heavy on the stomach.

You can easily order takeout online ahead of time or even walk in if you're in the city.

They offer a variety of toppings to sprinkle over your poke bowls, from spicy tuna paste to corn and crab meat.

There's a solid chance that the fish might be a touch too cold, as though it just came out of the freezer, but it's nothing that ruins the overall experience.

One thing I absolutely love about Mr Poke is their surprising extras.

On one of my visits, they tossed in two small free miso soups with our order, a pleasant surprise indeed!

And let's not forget about their ice cream macaron sandwiches, a sweet treat for a hot afternoon.

Kamis Sushi

Let me tell you about one of my favorite spots to grab a bite - Kamis Sushi.

Over the years, I've found myself being drawn back to this delightful place, finding comfort in their warm service and authentic Japanese cuisine.

Kamis Sushi is not just a place for a quick sushi fix; it's a culinary journey to Japan right here at home.

The omakase for lunch is a must-try, offering a variety of innovative and flavorful sushi combinations.

The freshness of the ingredients is clearly evident in their offerings - the fish, in particular, is always of the highest quality.

The sushi rice, while already quite good, could benefit from a bit more vinegar, which would perfect the well-rounded flavors of the sushi.

Beyond the food, it's the service that sets Kamis Sushi apart.

On one occasion, we were seated by the door, which was letting in a chilly wind.

The location is also quite convenient, with ample parking, making it an easy choice for a casual dinner or a special occasion.

Seoul BBQ

I've got a secret spot I've got to share, tucked away in a quiet corner of a plaza in Diamond Bar, it's the Seoul BBQ.

This Korean barbecue joint is truly a diamond in the rough.

The first thing that struck me about Seoul BBQ was the top-notch service.

The wait time?

Practically non-existent.

It's a hole-in-the-wall restaurant, which means it's rarely crowded, so you can really relax and enjoy your meal.

The price varies between the two menus, A and B, ranging from 24 to 34 dollars, but let me assure you, it's worth every penny.

The meat, oh, the meat!

It's the best quality you can find in any Korean BBQ around.

The marbling on the beef is just perfect, and when cooked, it's incredibly tender and flavorful.

Plus, the scissors- cut through the meat like butter!

Of course, I can't forget about the drinks.

From soju to beers, the variety is enough to satisfy any palate.

To top it all off, you've got a range of delicious banchan (Korean side dishes) to accompany your BBQ.

Though they're just okay, the main star here is definitely the meat.

BBQ STOP

Every city has its own gem that sets it apart, and for us, it's the BBQ STOP, a Korean BBQ restaurant that takes dining to a whole new level.

From the moment you step into BBQ STOP, you're consumed by the tantalizing aroma of grilling meats marinated to perfection.

What sets this place apart is the all-you-can-eat concept, allowing you to indulge in an endless feast of mouthwatering meats cooked right at your table.

It's a laid-back, contemporary space, replete with the lively chatter of locals and the clink of beer glasses.

The stars of the show here are undoubtedly meats.

The marinated galbi, briskets, and spicy pork belly are must-tries.

To all the beef connoisseurs out there, their beef tongue will make you swoon.

But the show doesn't stop at the meats; the side dishes too, are a melange of flavor and texture that beautifully complement the grilled meats.

BAGELOO- Coffee & Bagel Shop

Every morning starts with the same ritual for me - a brisk walk to BAGELOO Coffee & Bagel Shop (bageloo.com), conveniently nestled in my city.

This local gem has become the cornerstone of my daily routine, and for a good reason.

The first thing that hits me as I stroll through the door is not just the waft of freshly brewed coffee but also the sight of an array of delicious bagels laid out neatly.

They are amazingly fresh, with that perfect balance of chew and crunch when toasted.

It's a delight that can't be rivaled by any grocery store bagel I've tried.

The cream cheese options are equally commendable.

My regular choices oscillate between the smoked salmon or the strawberry variant, depending on whether my palate leans towards savory or sweet.

I must admit, I'm not a huge fan of drip coffee.

But the brew at BAGELOO has an exception carved out in my list of preferences.

The coffee has a certain fruity undertone that I absolutely relish.

It's my go-to option whenever I run out of beans at home.

And speaking of beans, I should mention that BAGELOO's coffee beans are really underrated.

I used to order specialty beans online, but with the increasing shipping costs, I discovered their bean offerings are just as good, if not better.

I've tried both their Ethiopia and Kenya beans, and they've never disappointed me.

If you're not a bagel person, you might still find yourself spoilt for choices.

Their banana bread, with its crispy top and soft, moist inside, is another favorite of mine.

You also have the option of bagel sandwiches that are always fresh and delectably yummy.

The blueberry muffin might seem like a simple bread with blueberries, but the blueberries are top-notch, and its crumb top could win you over.

Most importantly, the service is always friendly and quick, just the kind of environment you need to kickstart your day.

Dilliwala Indian Kitchen

If you've got a hankering for authentic Indian cuisine, you can't possibly miss out on Dilliwala Indian Kitchen.

Famous for its Mughlai and Indian fare, Dilliwala has quickly become my go-to spot for a satisfying meal with family and friends.

I remember one Saturday night, I and a group of friends decided to treat ourselves to a feast of Indian spices.

We were seated immediately and started our gastronomic journey with chicken biryani, butter chicken, and garlic naan.

Let me tell you, each dish was a melody of flavors, and the serving size was much more than we'd anticipated.

The biryani was so generous that my friend and I couldn't finish it, despite our best efforts!

I tried the lamb vindaloo and lamb seekh kebab, washed down with a warm, comforting cup of chai.

Although I was expecting the vindaloo to be spicier, I was able to kick up the heat with some spicy sauce provided on request.

Not only did it satisfy my love for spicy food, but it added another level of flavor to the already scrumptious meal.

Rolling Spicy Kimchi

Oh, what a night it was!

You know when you stumble upon a hidden gem that completely blows your taste buds away?

Well, that's exactly what happened when I decided to step into the unassuming eatery known as Rolling Spicy Kimchi.

What followed was a parade of the most delish Korean dishes that I've tasted in a long while.

The beef ribs were succulent, with a light, clean, and sharp spicy taste that echoed in my mouth—oh, and let's not forget about the chicken salad!

The sauce was crispy, light, and had an incredibly unique flavor.

But the pièce de résistance was, without a doubt, their signature dish—Kimchi.

Every bite brought back memories of my mom's home-cooked Korean meals.

It was so good; I noticed everyone around me giving it a thumbs up.

The ambiance of the place is equally alluring.

The warm color scheme, coupled with the perfect tone and volume of background music, created a cozy and comfortable atmosphere that made me feel right at home.

Seasons Cafe

You wouldn't believe the treasure tucked away in the unassuming strip mall on Diamond Bar Blvd - it's the Seasons Cafe.

The exterior may not spark your interest, but trust me, that's all part of the charm.

Once inside, the magic begins.

The décor is simple, and the seating arrangement may not be the most exciting, but oh, the dishes are nothing short of remarkable.

Your palate will be treated to a symphony of flavors and spices with dishes like spicy intestine and veggie Dry Pot or sour cabbage fish soup.

They also serve the most divine dumplings and potstickers that are so authentic they'd give grandma's recipe a run for her money.

And, if you're always on the go like me, their frozen dumplings are an absolute lifesaver.

Quick and easy to prepare, they never fail to deliver on taste.

And the best thing?

The price is unbeatable.

You'd be hard-pressed to find anywhere else that offers such exceptional food for around $20 per couple.

Not to mention the service is also top-notch, carried out by the dedicated husband and wife team who run the place.

Ginkgo Katsu & Tea House

Imagine finding a place where the ambiance is just as good as the food they serve.

That's what I've found at the Ginkgo Katsu & Tea House right here in our city.

The moment I walked in, its tranquility enveloped me.

It's always super quiet, perfect for when you need to unwind after a long day.

The food?

Brilliant.

I've seen a lot of people doing takeouts here and thought I'd try it out myself.

The bento katsu box is a must-have.

While some may argue that the price is a bit on the higher side, I personally feel it's worth every penny.

It’s a substantial portion, almost the size of a laptop, and is loaded with various delightful flavors.

It also comes with several amazing sides that complement the main dish perfectly.

The katsu itself is out of this world.

Crispy, succulent, and packed full of flavor, it’s something you definitely need to try.

The tea here, too, is top-notch.

The blend is smooth and soothing, making it the perfect beverage to accompany your meal.

One thing I discovered on one of my visits was the kimchi fried rice.

It was pretty good, priced at $14 without cheese and $17 with.

Mandarin Taste

You can bet that the minute you walk into Mandarin Taste, the warm, wood-accented ambiance and the rich aroma of Chinese cuisine will have you hooked.

I've been here a couple of times, and it never fails to impress.

It's become quite a tradition for my brother and I to celebrate our birthdays here with our family.

At the heart of the wonderful experience is the exceptionally friendly service.

The place isn't too busy around noon on Sundays, which works just perfectly for us.

The big family-style servings add a homely touch to the dining experience.

The menu is a treasure trove of traditional Chinese staples.

We usually order a variety of dishes like hot and sour soup, shrimp fried rice, Chicken Lo Mien, honey walnut shrimp, the kung pao shrimp, chicken, and beef combo, Szechuan beef, chop suey, and Sweet and sour chicken.

My personal favorites are the honey walnut shrimp and the Szechuan beef.

They do serve a few fried dishes like the salt and pepper chicken and prawns, which may not be to everyone's liking.

But trust me, the rest of the menu more than makes up for it.

The cherry on top?

They serve Qingdao beer in a chilled glass.

Just perfect for washing down a scrumptious meal.

Delicious Food Corner

Delicious Food Corner is tucked just off the highway.

You'd be forgiven for not noticing it; it's a humble spot that used to be a cocos restaurant.

But don't let that fool you - this place is a haven for authentic Hong Kong cuisine that'll make your taste buds dance!

You might find yourself eavesdropping on a loud conversation from an overly excited diner, but don't let that distract you from the star of the show - the food.

For around 15 dollars a person, you get to savor dishes that are just right - not overly fussy, but definitely not lacking in flavor or quality either.

The fried pork?

Good.

The buns and the cauliflower?

Also good.

But what really gets me excited is the salted fish rice and the stir-fried ong choy - they are right up there in my all-time favorite dishes list.

If you're feeling adventurous, dare to try the dim sum or the BBQ plate - experiences vary, but aren't all good stories born from a bit of risk?

And don't even get me started on the kumquat lemonade!

Vista Pointe Deli

One of the things I've noticed about living in the area is the abundance of diverse food options.

Among them, Vista Pointe Deli stands as a unique pit stop tucked away in a business building with plenty of parking, isolated from the hustle-bustle of other restaurants and local businesses.

It's like an obscure culinary adventure waiting to be explored.

Their Chicken Caesar wrap and the turkey cranberry cream cheese wrap deserve mention.

Their pizza, too, is quite a delight, and spaghetti Wednesday is a jackpot.

The food is reasonably priced, and the service is swift, making it a good place for a quick bite or a takeout.

Final Thoughts

I've had the privilege of trying out many of the local eateries.

I have to say, the variety of food options here in Diamond Bar is nothing short of impressive.

From the mouth-watering ramen at Tokyo Ramen & More to the flavorful sushi burritos at Jimmy's Poke and sushi burrito 2, there's a dish to satisfy every craving.

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