20 Best Restaurants in Monterey Park, CA
This article was written by local contributor Quinn Patterson & edited by the Travel Lens team.
As someone who has spent a considerable amount of time living in Monterey Park, California, I can confidently say that the culinary scene in this charming city is nothing short of spectacular.
With its diverse range of cuisine offerings, there's always something to satisfy any craving, whether it's a simple snack or a full-blown feast.
In this article, I'm excited to share with you some of the best restaurants in Monterey Park, California.
So if you're ready to embark on a culinary journey like no other, let's dive right in and explore the delicious world of Monterey Park cuisine!
Chubby Cattle Monterey Park
Just last week, I had the pleasure of dining at Chubby Cattle Monterey Park, and let me tell you, it was an experience worth sharing.
I arrived at around 6:30 pm on a Friday, and the place was already bustling, so I had to wait for a table for about 3 hours.
However, once seated, the service and food came super fast!
I opted for the silver menu, which was their lowest tier, but still had a great variety of options.
I tried the Wagyu sandwich and beef tartar, and they were both amazing!
One piece of advice I'd give to anyone planning to visit Chubby Cattle: try to get there early if you want to avoid the crowd.
I've been back since that first visit and found that arriving around 5 pm gets me seated quickly.
The meat quality is superb, and I just can't get enough of their ice cream!
Jay's Pizza
Being a local, I'm always on the hunt for great food spots in the neighborhood, and let me tell you, I've found my go-to pizza place at Jay's Pizza.
I've always struggled to find delicious vegan pizza options, but Jay's Pizza has so many toppings to choose from, and their vegan pizza isn't ridiculously overpriced like some other places.
The crust is always baked to perfection, and I love that they offer a variety of vegan options, like mozzarella sticks, tenders, and even cauliflower wings!
I've gotten to know the workers here, and they're always so friendly and welcoming.
I've even ordered their personal pizza deals that come with a can of pop for only $6.99, and I must say, it's some of the best pizza I've had in a while.
The crust is absolutely amazing, and the Alfredo sauce is to die for.
One time, I had some friends visiting from out of town, and we decided to get Jay's Pizza delivered to our hotel room.
The delivery was fast, convenient, and the food was piping hot and delicious.
P P Pop
One of my favorite hidden gems in the area is P P Pop.
This tiny restaurant is tucked away by an Asian shopping mall, and I swear they make the best beef noodle soup in town.
The soup base is strong and flavorful, and the beef is always tender and well-marinated.
The fried dumplings at P P Pop are a must-try as well – they're juicy and not too greasy.
The atmosphere here is casual and relaxed, and it's always packed with people enjoying their meals.
My go-to order is the spicy beef noodle soup, accompanied by a refreshing honey lemon green tea served in a huge beer mug.
The pan-fried pork bao is another dish you shouldn't miss.
Ravello Osteria
Whenever I crave authentic Italian cuisine, Ravello Osteria is always my go-to spot.
The amazing dishes and warm atmosphere never disappoint.
I've tried their blanco pizza, carbonara pasta, and steak, and each one is an absolute delight.
I can confidently say they're some of the best I've ever had.
What makes this place extra special is the exceptional service.
And as a local, I've become a frequent guest, enjoying my favorite dishes and discovering new ones.
One thing to note is that Ravello Osteria is a cash-only establishment.
But worry not, as they have an ATM inside for your convenience.
On a recent visit, I had the pleasure of dining with a first-generation Italian immigrant friend of mine, and even she was incredibly impressed with the food.
We shared a scrumptious Marsala pasta and an amazing Neapolitan pizza, which she highly recommended.
Now, I can't forget to mention the pesto bread and their chili sauce.
Be careful with the pesto bread; it's dangerously addictive!
As for the chili sauce, make sure to get some extra and try it on other dishes, like hamburgers or French fries.
Sushi Sai Japanese Restaurant
One of my favorite spots to grab a delicious and satisfying meal is Sushi Sai Japanese Restaurant in Monterey Park.
This intimate eatery offers classic sushi and other Japanese options like tempura and soba noodle soup.
I recently visited Sushi Sai with a group of friends, and we all loved the quiet and lovely atmosphere of the place.
During our visit, we tasted Orion and Ichigo, which were unique and delicious.
I particularly enjoyed the spicy calamari and the eel + rice bowl that came with a flavorful miso soup.
The premium sashimi plate was also a delight with its assortment of scallops, octopus, tuna, salmon, bluefin tuna, and swordfish.
The prices at Sushi Sai are reasonable for the quality of Japanese food they serve.
I tried the Shio salmon with sashimi meal, which costs $16 before tax and tips.
It includes grilled shio (salt) salmon, a generous portion of fresh sashimi, salad, miso soup, and rice.
My boyfriend loves their udon and soba, which he says tastes very homey and comforting.
He usually gets the udon and California roll meal for just $12.
Sushi Sai also offers a great lunch menu with similar combos for $2-5 off.
Taihei Sushi Restaurant
I remember the first time I stumbled upon Taihei Sushi Restaurant, and since then, it has become one of my go-to spots around town.
The long-standing sushi bar offers a variety of classic rolls and Japanese dishes, all served in a mellow atmosphere that makes for the perfect dining experience.
I usually start my meal with their delicious combo sushi plate, which comes with eight pieces of Nigiri and six pieces of tuna rolls.
The freshness of the seafood in their hand rolls, like blue crab and scallops, is something I can always count on.
I also make sure to order their seafood nabemono soup (Yosenabe), which has a rich and tasty broth that warms me up every time.
They are always so sweet and friendly, making me feel right at home.
I was also glad to find out that they serve one of my favorite desserts, green tea ice cream, which is the perfect way to end my meal.
Kaiba Japanese Restaurant
I must say that Kaiba Japanese Restaurant has become one of my go-to places for a quick and satisfying Japanese meal.
The quality of sushi is good, and although the service is quick, it might not be the best place for a romantic date night or a leisurely hangout.
The lunch specials are great deals - a bowl of ramen and a side of sushi fills me up every time.
Plus, you can sign up on Yelp and get a free ice cream!
One of the things that impressed me the most was the efficient use of space for seating and dining.
I appreciate the friendly and attentive service.
Check it out on Google Maps and give it a try.
Mandarin Noodle House
I can't believe I only recently discovered the Mandarin Noodle House, which is just a few blocks away from my home.
I went there for lunch one day, and it instantly became my favorite spot for Taiwanese cuisine.
The beef noodle soup is the star of the show.
The broth has an incredible depth of flavor, thanks to a perfect balance of spices, and the generous serving of beef is tender and just the right amount of fat.
Their website can be found here.
Another dish I loved was pork chop rice, which brought back nostalgic memories of my travels to Taiwan.
Their hand-pulled noodles and beef dumplings are a must-try, and the chili sauces they provide add a wonderful kick to the dishes.
Yoma
I recently had the chance to dine at Yoma Myanmar, a cozy, family-run restaurant that serves traditional Burmese fare, such as spicy curries and noodle soups.
The food was delicious and fresh without being overly heavy, sugary, or pretentious.
The ambiance here made me nostalgic for my home.
Their menu has a great selection, with some dishes only available during the weekends.
I loved their fried samosas, which are similar to Indian fried samosas but with a delicious dipping sauce.
The mohinga noodle soup was dense and rich and came with two crunchy toppings that added a nice change in texture to the taste.
The Shan noodles and Yoma chicken rice were also amazing.
HiroNori Craft Ramen
I've always been a fan of ramen, and when I heard about the HiroNori Craft Ramen opening up in East LA, I knew I had to try it out.
The first thing that caught my eye was the beautiful exterior and interior design of the place.
The menu is quite simple, with only a few selections of ramen, bowls, and sides.
I really appreciated the curated choices, as it was a refreshing change from other ramen places that tend to have overwhelming menus.
I ended up ordering the mazemen and shoyu ramen along with a few friends, and we were all blown away by the amazing flavor and quality of the dishes.
The noodles were cooked to perfection, and the meats were tender and juicy.
HiroNori Craft Ramen is not only about the food but also has a fantastic drink menu.
I tried the yuzu pina colada and the cucumber mint yuzunade, both of which were delicious and not too sweet.
The yuzu pina colada, in particular, had a creamy texture that I loved.
Chop Chop Chicken
As someone who lives nearby, I've had the opportunity to dine at Chop Chop Chicken on multiple occasions.
It has easily become one of my go-to places for a quick and satisfying meal.
The variety of chicken, beef, and veggie bowls they offer are not only delicious but also provide a healthy option for lunch or dinner.
I often find myself ordering the combo bowl, which has a bit of everything – chicken, beef, and veggies.
It's a great way to enjoy the all-rounded flavors that they offer.
And I must mention their sauces – the creamy garlic sauce is my absolute favorite!
While there have been some inconsistencies in portion sizes, I still find that the overall quality and taste of the food make up for it.
I love the tenderness of the chicken and beef, and the basmati rice and veggies add a unique and delicious touch to the bowls.
The pomegranate sauce is also a must-try – it's truly amazing!
The restaurant's interior is clean and comfortable, making for an enjoyable dining experience.
Mexicatessen
Whenever I'm craving some spicy and authentic Mexican food in Monterey Park, I can't help but visit Mexicatessen.
It's truly a local institution known for its Green Chile Burritos.
My personal favorite is the #8 Burrito plate.
It's deliciously spicy, and the rice and beans taste like they were made with love by someone's abuela.
They're always eager to greet you and remember you if you've been there before, making it feel like you're part of a tight-knit community.
The food is not only authentic, but it's also not greasy and quite reasonably priced.
However, those are just minor suggestions for an otherwise fantastic spot.
I can't resist stopping by whenever I'm in the area for my favorite spicy green chili burrito.
The lovely Maria has been there for ages and always makes me feel welcome.
And don't forget to try their delicious fish tacos and crispy hard tacos.
The bean and cheese burrito is another must-try.
Trust me, you'll be hooked after just one visit to Mexicatessen.
Brew Kitchen Bar
One of my favorite spots in town has to be Brew Kitchen Bar.
It's the perfect place to unwind with friends and enjoy some delicious food and drinks in a laid-back atmosphere.
I always look forward to visiting for a casual dinner or just to have a drink at their outdoor seating area.
Once seated, I usually start my meal with one of their amazing appetizers - the Elote Egg Rolls are a must-try!
They are a unique and tasty fusion of flavors that you won't find anywhere else.
For the main course, I can't get enough of their Truffle Mushroom Grilled Cheese.
It's the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet twist, and it pairs perfectly with one of the many brews they have on tap.
Their Chimichurri Steak Salad is another favorite of mine, combining a tender coffee-rubbed NY steak with fresh greens and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette.
Brew Kitchen Bar also offers a great selection of soju cocktails.
The Sojurito, their take on a classic mojito, is my go-to choice - it's refreshing and has just the right amount of kick from the fresh mint and lime.
Kam Hong Garden
I've been to Kam Hong Garden a couple of times and it has quickly become one of my favorite spots for a quick and delicious meal.
It's a no-frills, counter-service Chinese restaurant that's known for its hand-cut noodle dishes, dumplings, and more.
You can find it here: Kam Hong Garden.
The service was always quick, and the food was consistently delicious.
Kam Hong Garden is a local mom-and-pop restaurant with reasonable prices and large portions.
I usually order lamb soup noodles, tomato egg flat noodles, and beef rolls.
The lamb soup noodle is packed with ingredients and is very flavorful without being too salty.
However, I do wish they gave a bit more soup - maybe there were just too many ingredients.
My favorite dish is the tomato egg noodles.
The noodles (flat, wide noodles) have just the right amount of chewy texture and hold very well with the sauce.
It's a bit sweet and tangy, and the cucumbers add a refreshing contrast to the dish.
It's a very simple dish yet very comforting.
My partner really enjoys the beef roll - nothing special, but definitely delicious.
We hope that this small restaurant can get more support during these difficult times.
Just a note - it's cash only, and parking is available in a shared parking lot.
Thai House Express
I absolutely love Thai House Express!
It's my go-to spot for some scrumptious Thai food in the neighborhood.
Located conveniently near ELAC, it's perfect for grabbing a bite after class or a long day at work.
The restaurant has a welcoming ambiance, perfect for a casual dinner with friends and family.
You can check out their menu here.
The first time I went to this place, I was blown away by not only the taste of their dishes but also the affordability.
It has become a regular spot for me now.
Their lunch specials are fantastic, and they even include a refreshing Thai iced tea or milk tea!
It's hard to find such high-quality food at a reasonable price.
One of my favorite things about Thai House Express is how clean and well-maintained the interior is.
They have a decent amount of seating, and the service has always been top-notch.
A dish that I particularly enjoy is basil tofu.
They are very accommodating to their customers' preferences.
Carnitas El Momo
Oh, how I love my neighborhood, and one of the reasons is Carnitas El Momo.
I've been frequenting this place for quite some time now, and it never disappoints.
They're absolutely delicious and loaded with meat, making them really filling.
I first discovered this gem after watching the Netflix show that featured their story.
The passion the owners have for their food and business is truly inspiring.
When you visit, you'll notice the restaurant is simple and inviting.
And they take cleanliness seriously, which is always a great sign.
My personal favorite is their pork butt carnitas - it has the perfect balance of flavor and tenderness.
I've also tried their pork belly, which was tasty but not quite my style.
If you prefer fattier meats, you'll love it.
The portion sizes are quite generous, so two to three tacos should be enough for most people.
And if you're craving something more, they also offer quesadillas.
Good Shine Kitchen
As someone who loves discovering hidden gems in the neighborhood, Good Shine Kitchen Chinese Food has become one of my go-to spots for a late-night dinner.
Located in a small strip mall, this hole-in-the-wall restaurant may not impress with its dated interior, but it more than makes up for it with its delicious variety of Taiwanese dishes and incredibly friendly service.
It almost feels like having a meal at a loved one's home.
I've tried several dishes here, but my favorites have to be the popcorn chicken and Taiwanese beef noodle soup.
The portions may be on the smaller side, but the quality is always on point.
The place can only accommodate around 25 people, making it perfect for a quick, no-fuss dinner.
Just remember that Good Shine is cash-only, so be prepared before you go.
Thai House
One of my all-time favorite spots to grab a delicious meal is Thai House.
Their casual atmosphere makes it the perfect place to catch up with friends or even just enjoy a meal by myself.
I've found their location to be quite convenient, with ample parking in the surrounding area if you know where to look.
What I absolutely love about Thai House is their creative menu that offers a wide variety of traditional Thai dishes – from noodles and rice to flavorful meat dishes.
One of my personal favorites is their spicy spaghetti, an interesting fusion of Italian and Thai flavors.
I also can't get enough of their chicken satay with pickles, which is a definite must-try.
Dim Sum World
One of my favorite spots for a quick and satisfying meal is Dim Sum World.
This take-away-only place opens quite early, at 9 am, which is perfect for those mornings when I crave something different for breakfast.
On my last visit, I ordered Steamed Vegetable Buns, Vegetarian Spring Rolls, and a Pan Fried Chive Pocket.
I had to wait around 15 minutes for my order, but it was worth it.
While these might not be the best dim sum dishes I've ever had, they were certainly tasty and hit the spot.
The prices were pretty reasonable, too.
What I really appreciate about Dim Sum World, besides the food, is the friendly service.
I've also heard great things about their beef wrap and juicy pork dumplings, so I'm planning to try those next time I'm in the area.
Just remember, they only accept cash, so be prepared for that.
Nha Trang Restaurant
One of my absolute favorite spots for Vietnamese food in town is Nha Trang Restaurant.
Their Bun Bo Hue is simply the best in town!
Whenever I visit, I like to order the large Pho Bo Hue instead of the regular Bun Bo Hue, as it offers the chewy texture that I prefer.
I also decline the cooked pork blood cubes and opt for an extra pig knuckle instead.
Don't forget to ask for the complimentary egg roll, as they have one of the best shrimp egg rolls I've ever tasted.
To fully enjoy the Bun Bo Hue soup, be sure to add the provided veggies (thin-cut lettuce, cabbage, bean sprouts, and spearmint) and let them soak in the hot soup.
A squeeze of lemon into the bowl completes the delicious experience of sliced beef, pig knuckles, and pho noodle soup.
The restaurant itself is cozy, with seating options both inside and on the patio.
Parking in the plaza can be limited, so I usually opt for street parking.
They close at 6 pm on weekdays and 8 pm on weekends, so plan your visit accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Monterey Park truly has a diverse and mouth-watering array of dining options.
From satisfying my sushi cravings at Taihei Sushi Restaurant to indulging in my favorite dim sum at Dim Sum World, I am never short on choices when it comes to satisfying my taste buds.
The city never ceases to amaze me with its culinary scene, and I can't help but feel grateful and proud to call Monterey Park my home.
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