Given the cultural diversity of the nation’s second largest city, it is tough for a Chinese food restaurant to stand out amongst a sea of great options. With so many delicious traditional offerings, it may seem almost impossible to pick just one favorite. Though it was not an easy task, I have been able to sample many of them over the years, and I can steer you in the right direction. If you are looing for tasty Chinese food in Southern California, check out these three great Chinese food restaurants in Los Angeles.
Located in Chinatown on Broadway, Yang Chow offers traditional Mandarin and Szechuan options. It is a family-owned restaurant and has been located here since 1977. When I visit, I start off with an order of their minced shrimp soon which comes with enough to share. For my main dish, I treat myself to their sizzling platter with beef and scallops. This savory offering is one of their house specialties for a reason and I get it every time I come by and visit. Their noodle dishes are simple and plain but they are classics and always hits the spot. I recommend their pan-fried noodles with tender beef shreds because that perfect combination of crispy and soft noodles are a blessing. One of my favorite Chinese restaurants to go to.
What I recommend: beef and scallops sizzling platter
If you do not have the time to sit down for table service, Pine & Crane’s fast casual setting may just be perfect for you. Located in Los Angeles’ Silver Lake neighborhood, they turn simple, traditional ingredients into their authentic fare. When I visit, I start with a daikon salad. They have a variety of small plates that include bok choy pot stickers and pan-fried pork buns (dumpling). If you don't know yet, the biggest hype this past year has been pan-fried dumpling and they make it perfect here. When I am looking for something hearty and comforting, I go with a large, steamy bowl of their beef noodle soup and it really fills your body with warmth. Instead of water, I treat myself to one of their sea salt cream green teas because it tastes great and healthy.
What I recommend: beef noodle soup & pan-fried dumpling
Location: 1521 Griffith Park Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90026
With its location on 3rd Street in Los Angeles, Zzamong has done its part to stand out amongst Southern California’s tasty culinary scene. Famous for their Jam Bong, a spicy noodle soup, they have been serving the Los Angeles area since 2009. From their crispy veggie egg rolls to their savory soups, I have yet to have a bad meal when I visit. I encourage you to try the spicy garlic chicken. If you are a fan of foods on the spicier side, try their Szechuan pork. Every option on their menu is always a winner but I really like their Szechuan menu items.
What I recommend: Szechuan pork & garlic chicken
Location: 4255 W 3rd St Los Angeles, CA 90004
Hopefully the above list will save you some time when trying to decide which local Chinese restaurant to try next. Instead of getting in your car and facing that famous Los Angeles traffic to look for a tasty Chinese spot, just go directly to one of these places instead. No matter what you order at any of the above restaurants, you are going to have savory, authentic experience. Grab the noodle lovers, soup fans, and small plate aficionados in your life and head out to one of these locations today. I just know they are soon to be amongst your favorite Chinese restaurants as well.
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