22 Best Restaurants in Lynwood, CA
This article was written by local contributor Jamie Houghton & edited by the Travel Lens team.
As someone who calls Lynwood, California, home, I can confidently say that the dining scene in this charming city is truly a hidden gem.
Over the years, I've had the pleasure of exploring the delicious culinary landscape, indulging in everything from mouth-watering Mexican cuisine to scintillating seafood dishes.
What I love most about the Lynwood food scene is not just the incredible flavors but also the warm and welcoming atmosphere each establishment brings.
So, whether you are a fellow local or someone just passing through, let me guide you through some of the best restaurants that Lynwood, California, has to offer.
Restaurant Palos Comida Mexicana
One cold rainy day, my partner and I were on the lookout for some warm, comforting soup, and we stumbled upon Restaurant Palos Comida Mexicana in South Gate.
This hole-in-the-wall Mexican restaurant had a cozy atmosphere.
My partner was delighted to find out they had albondiga soup, also known as Mexican meatball soup, which was exactly what she had been craving.
Our meal arrived, and the aroma of the albondiga soup instantly reminded me of my grandmother and mother's homemade recipes.
I ordered three deep-fried potato tacos, which were crispy and flavorful, with a satisfying crunch in every bite.
The rice and beans that came with our meal were also delicious.
Mariscos Tocho
During my weekend food escapades, I came across this amazing Mariscos Tocho seafood restaurant, and it reminded me of my visit to Puerto Peñasco.
The menu was filled with cheesy seafood and manta ray tacos, sauced-up ceviches, and various other coastal dishes.
I must admit, I'm not a big fan of octopuses, but Mariscos Tocho managed to change that.
I was blown away by the unique flavors in each dish, and the chef's homemade spices were a big hit, even for someone like me who doesn't usually enjoy spicy food.
I couldn't help but order extra food to take home and share with my family.
One day, I decided to visit the restaurant during my lunch break and tried their tostada de ceviche.
It was absolutely delicious, and now I can't wait to go back and explore more of their menu!
Durango Burgers
I've been living in this neighborhood for quite some time now, and one of my favorite joints to grab a bite is Durango Burgers.
I've been to this hamburger restaurant multiple times, and they never fail to impress me with their delicious food and exceptional service.
My family and I often go here for weekend brunch.
My son can't get enough of their pancake breakfast, while my partner's go-to is steak and eggs.
As for me, I'm a huge fan of their breakfast burrito.
The salsa they serve alongside is absolutely amazing and adds the perfect kick to the meal.
I've also taken some out-of-town friends to Durango Burgers, and it's always a hit.
Pepe's Pollo
Just the other day, I decided to grab dinner at Pepe's Pollo, a local chicken restaurant in the neighborhood.
It was my second time buying their chicken, and as expected, the food was absolutely delicious.
The flavors were so rich and satisfying, and for just $20, I got a whole chicken, beans, rice, salsa, tortillas, and a large drink – more than enough for my girlfriend and me, plus leftovers.
Simple and delicious, that's what I'd describe as Pepe's Pollo's offerings.
Raspados El Crystal
I absolutely love Raspados El Crystal! I've been a regular customer since my middle school days, and now that I'm in college, it's still my go-to spot for quality home-style Mexican food.
I remember they once prepared a Thanksgiving dinner, and it was nothing short of fantastic.
Their ice cream with strawberries and whipped cream is another favorite of mine that I highly recommend.
Some people may argue that the prices are a bit on the higher side, but I don't mind since the quality and portion sizes are worth it.
Plus, everything is prepared with patience and care, so you know you're getting a great meal.
Mariscos El Moreno
One of my favorite places to eat in the neighborhood is Mariscos El Moreno.
This Mexican restaurant is the perfect informal pit stop for seafood specialties and Mexican plates, all served in an unpretentious dining room.
The first time I visited Mariscos El Moreno, I tried their signature agua chiles, which I had heard were amazing.
The flavors were outstanding, and the dish had the perfect amount of spice.
Plus, the portion sizes were generous – I had plenty to share with my friends.
Another favorite of mine is the tacos de pescado.
The fish is crispy and delicious, making it a must-try for any seafood lover.
I also love their morena especial and barba negra plates, both of which are perfect for sharing with friends or family.
El Asadero Prime Taqueria
I have been visiting El Asadero Prime Taqueria for quite some time now, and I must say that their food is absolutely amazing!
The tacos they serve are very simple but extremely delicious.
I have tried their tacos de birria (beef) con consume, tacos estilo tijuana de asada, a vampiro with carne al pastor straight from "la bola", and last but not least, their MI RANCHITO USDA PRIME taco, which has a flour tortilla instead.
I didn't eat all of these in one visit, of course! I tried all of these within my first two visits and was truly impressed with the quality of their tacos.
Next on my list to try are their burritos and their papa rellenada, which I have heard great things about.
BALAM Mexican Kitchen
One of my favorite go-to spots in LA is BALAM Mexican Kitchen.
I just can't get enough of their unique, flavorful dishes.
Every time I visit, I'm always impressed by the quality of the food and the friendly service.
I love their fusion menu with options to get dishes such as tacos, burritos, or bowls.
They even have daily specials that never disappoint, like the pozole verde, which was perfect for a rainy day.
The ambiance at BALAM is equally delightful, with plants all around and open-air seating – perfect for enjoying a leisurely breakfast or lunch.
I've tried their coconut shrimp taco and baja fish taco, and they were simply amazing!
They have some of the most unique and delicious tacos I've had in a while.
La Pasta
La Pasta is an Italian restaurant located in a charming storefront with an open kitchen.
I was pleasantly surprised by the cozy atmosphere and the extensive menu that ranged from salads and sandwiches to main courses, pizzas, and desserts.
I started my meal with the meatball appetizer, which was absolutely amazing!
For my main course, I went with the Chicken Cognac with seasonal veggies.
The portion size was generous, and the dish was full of flavor.
My friends ordered the chicken Alfredo and the Pink vodka pasta, and we all agreed that the food was seasoned just right - not too oily or heavy on the stomach.
The service at La Pasta was excellent as well.
La Hacienda "el Alazan"
Let me tell you about my favorite seafood spot in the city, La Hacienda "el Alazan".
It's a wonderful little restaurant that never fails to impress with its fresh and delicious seafood dishes.
You just have to try the shrimp dishes, like the Camarones ala Diabla and the Ami Sabor Shrimp.
I've been coming here for years, and it still amazes me how they manage to keep their seafood so fresh and full of flavor.
One of the best parts about La Hacienda "el Alazan" is their pulpo (octopus) - it is tender and perfectly cooked every time.
And don't even get me started on the clams! They're so tasty, but you have to act fast, as they tend to run out quickly due to their popularity.
The prices might be a bit on the higher side, but trust me, it's more than worth it for the quality and quantity of seafood you get.
Whenever I have friends or family visiting from out of town, I make sure to take them to La Hacienda "el Alazan".
It's the perfect spot to sit back, enjoy a few beers, and indulge in some of the best seafood dishes around.
Panda House
Panda House is a Chinese restaurant that has been my go-to place for years now, and it's conveniently located just around the corner from my home.
I've been enjoying their delicious and freshly prepared dishes for as long as I can remember.
What I love most about Panda House is that it's not your typical fast-food Chinese joint.
Instead, it's a modest restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere perfect for date nights or family dinners.
Tacos Estilo Guadalajara
I've been living in this neighborhood for quite some time now, and I can confidently say that Tacos Estilo Guadalajara is one of my go-to spots for delicious Mexican cuisine.
These tasty tacos have a unique blend of finely chopped meat, creating an incredible texture that is perfectly complemented by their mouthwatering tortillas and amazing flavor.
The hot sauce they serve along with the tacos is simply out of this world – it's actually hot, which is something I appreciate as someone who loves spicy food!
One thing that keeps me coming back to this Mexican restaurant is its array of meat options.
I'm a huge fan of their tacos de cachete, which are some of the best I've ever tasted.
What's more, their salsa game is definitely on point, adding a burst of flavor to an already delicious dish.
The reasonable prices and quick service make it even better; I never have to wait too long to enjoy my tacos.
My personal favorites at Tacos Estilo Guadalajara are the lengua and cabeza tacos, served with fresh tomatillo salsa.
The tacos al vapor are also a must-try if you're ever in the area.
Mariscos El Viejon
Tucked away in a bustling neighborhood, Mariscos El Viejon, a Mexican restaurant, serves an incredible variety of specialty seafood dishes and cocktails.
Not only is the food top-notch, but the colorful, casual atmosphere and outdoor seating also make it a fantastic spot to enjoy a relaxing meal with friends or family.
Whenever I visit, I always start with their amazing oysters, which are the freshest and most flavorful I've ever had.
I love their shrimp tacos, but the real star of the show is the tacos de Viejon – they're simply irresistible!
My friend once tried their fish taco, and though it wasn't their favorite, we both agreed that the overall quality of the seafood here is excellent.
The service at Mariscos El Viejon is always attentive and polite, even on busy days like Good Friday when the place is packed.
Super Teriyaki
Whenever I'm in the mood for some good Japanese food, I can always rely on Super Teriyaki to satisfy my cravings.
Their chicken teriyaki plate is my go-to dish - the chicken is always cooked to perfection, and the rice is so hot and fresh.
I especially love that their teriyaki sauce isn't too sweet, making it just right for my taste buds.
One thing that sets this place apart is its delicious aguacate (avocado).
Whenever I visit, I make sure to add it to my meal, as it's always super fresh and at its peak.
Another thing I appreciate about Super Teriyaki is its reasonable pricing and satisfying portion sizes.
Even when I don't have the energy to cook, I can count on them for a meal that won't break the bank or leave me feeling hungry.
A word of caution, though - I once tried their lemon pepper jalapeño, and it didn't quite meet my expectations.
Mean Chix Inc
I recently visited Mean Chix Inc and was pleasantly surprised by their Nashville chicken offerings.
This hidden gem is located inside Plaza Mexico, which provides a perfect opportunity to walk off the filling meal by exploring their indoor swap meet.
I really appreciated that they use premium chicken and make everything fresh as orders come in.
One thing that caught my attention was their unique choice of kale slaw instead of the traditional coleslaw.
It was a refreshing change, and I loved the taste.
The seasoned fries were also a great addition to the meal.
The Mean Tacos were my favorite – the chopped chicken and taco combination was simply delicious!
I opted for medium spice, and it was just right for my taste buds.
Mariscos y Sushi Los Tomateros
I've been living in the neighborhood for a few years now, and I've got to say Mariscos y Sushi Los Tomateros has quickly become one of my favorite sushi spots.
It's a unique little gem that offers a delightful fusion of Japanese and Mexican cuisine, all centered around fresh fish.
When I first tried their ceviche, I was blown away by the combination of citrusy flavors and tender fish.
I must confess, I'm not usually a big ceviche fan, but this place definitely changed my mind.
As for the sushi, I can't compare it to traditional Japanese sushi – it's in a league of its own.
The Mango roll is especially interesting, with its blend of sweet mango and a hint of spice.
Apart from the amazing food, what truly makes this place stand out is the warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
The restaurant might be small, but it definitely makes up for it with its unique dishes and exceptional service.
Other Restaurants Nearby
Pop's Chicken (Compton)
I've been living in this neighborhood for quite some time now, and one of my go-to spots for a delicious, satisfying meal is Pop's Chicken.
This compact, no-frills cafe has a nice outdoor seating area and serves some of the most generous plates of meat, chicken, and beans I've ever had.
One of the best things about Pop's Chicken is the quality of their food.
The chicken is always cooked to perfection, and the other dishes they serve are equally amazing.
Whenever I'm in the mood for some mouth-watering food, this is the first place that comes to my mind.
Another great thing about this place is the atmosphere.
There is a big screen TV inside with sports on, which makes it a great spot to hang out with friends and enjoy a game while savoring their delicious offerings.
The service is always fast, and the prices are quite reasonable, making it an ideal place for both a quick bite or a relaxed meal.
Antojitos Los Cuates (Compton)
I stumbled upon Antojitos Los Cuates while exploring my neighborhood.
I tried their tostada de cueritos and was pleasantly surprised by the tender pickled pork skin that wasn't too vinegary.
The flautas de pollo were crispy and packed with tender chicken, topped with fresh veggies and mouth-watering tomato salsa.
I also couldn't resist trying their pozole blanco with purple hominy, which was incredibly flavorful and comforting.
El Tio Carnitas (Compton)
I've been going to El Tio Carnitas for years. This Mexican restaurant holds a special place in my heart, as it has been a family favorite for generations.
One thing I always enjoy about El Tio Carnitas is the family atmosphere.
It's not just the ambiance, though - the food is absolutely outstanding.
In particular, the carnitas and beans are a must-try, whether you're eating for yourself or hosting an event.
I've also had the pleasure of introducing friends and family to the deliciousness that is the Suadero and Carnitas.
It's impossible not to be impressed by the flavor and quality of the food here.
And if you're in the mood for a caldo, let me tell you, they are top-notch at El Tio Carnitas.
TH Teriyaki House (South Gate)
One of my favorite spots for a quick and delicious sushi fix is TH Teriyaki House.
It’s a small sushi restaurant tucked away in the same lot as a car wash, which means it might be easy to miss, but trust me, you don't want to overlook this hidden gem!
Their sushi is fresh, moist, and full of flavor, just the way I like it.
I've tried various items on their menu, and I haven't been disappointed yet.
I must say, their chicken teriyaki and wraps are also really, really good.
Apart from the amazing food, what I also appreciate is the excellent customer service.
Joy Wok Express (South Gate)
I have been a loyal customer of Joy Wok Express since the early '90s when they were located in Lynwood.
They've moved a couple of times, but their current location has been my go-to spot for delicious, hot, and fresh Chinese fast food.
I must say that their chow mein is my absolute favorite, and their orange chicken never disappoints.
Oh, and don't even get me started on their jalapeño chicken - it's amazing!
Do note that they only accept cash, but trust me, it's worth it.
Over the years, the original cooks have changed, but the food still tastes the same, so I assume it's a family business with well-kept recipes.
I've tried many other local Chinese food places, and none of them come close to the taste and quality of Joy Wok Express.
Whenever I visit, I usually order a combo with two sides: half chow mein, half fried rice, black pepper chicken, and orange chicken.
And when I'm feeling a bit indulgent, I'll add their Mongolian beef to the mix.
It takes about 10 extra minutes for them to prepare, but it's worth the wait because they make it fresh!
Just a heads up, they're closed on Sundays, but you can enjoy their mouth-watering dishes any other day of the week.
Chuck's Chinese & American Food (South Gate)
Ever since I moved to this neighborhood, I have been a regular at Chuck's Chinese & American Food.
The food quality never ceases to amaze me. The portions are great, and the dishes always taste fresh.
Among my favorites are the fried shrimp and cheese wontons.
Every time I order the BBQ Pork, it arrives tender, with the perfect amount of sauce placed on top.
I admire the cleanliness of the place.
Though the bathroom is located out in the back, it is always well-maintained.
I am not the only one who feels this way, as I often see large orders going out, indicating a loyal customer base.
One thing I appreciate about Chuck's is their lunch specials.
I can grab a delicious and satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
Whenever I order beef and broccoli, I am never disappointed.
The orange chicken could use a bit more flavor, but it's still an enjoyable dish.
Final Thoughts
Lynwood truly offers an amazing array of delicious and diverse dining options.
From mouthwatering Mexican cuisine to scrumptious seafood and comforting Chinese-American dishes, there's something for everyone in our vibrant city.
So whether you're a long-time resident or just visiting, be sure to take advantage of Lynwood's culinary gems – your taste buds will surely thank you!
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