The Best Food in Chinatown LA: A Guide to the Flavors of the Far East

Discover the Tastes of Chinatown LA

When it comes to food, few places in the world offer the sheer variety and deliciousness of Chinatown LA. From tantalizing street food to elegant fine dining, there’s something for every palate and budget. Whether you’re a local looking to explore new flavors or a visitor eager to experience the best of the Far East, this guide will take you on a culinary tour of the best food in Chinatown LA.

🥡Dim Sum Delights: Brunch in Chinatown LA

Dim sum is a Cantonese style of cuisine that involves small plates of steamed or fried food, perfect for sharing with friends or family. For an authentic dim sum experience, head to the timeless Empress Pavilion, where the steaming carts will tempt you with everything from fluffy char siu bao (BBQ pork buns) and crispy shrimp dumplings to savory turnip cakes and custardy egg tarts.

What is the Best Time to Visit Empress Pavilion?

Empress Pavilion is open daily from 9 AM to 3 PM, making it the perfect spot for a delicious brunch or lunch.

🍜Noodle Nirvana: The Best Noodle Joints in Chinatown LA

Chinatown LA is home to some of the most mouth-watering noodles in the city. For unbeatable hand-pulled noodles, look no further than Lanzhou Lamian Noodle House. Their chewy, flavorful noodles are made fresh daily and served in a variety of broths and sauces. If you’re in the mood for spicy Sichuan-style noodles, head to Qin West Noodle. Their dan dan noodles pack a fiery punch of chili oil and Sichuan peppercorns.

What is the Best Dish to Try at Lanzhou Lamian Noodle House?

Their beef noodle soup is a must-try for noodle lovers. The rich broth and tender beef pairs perfectly with their hand-pulled noodles.

🐟Seafood Sensations: The Best Seafood Restaurants in Chinatown LA

Chinatown LA is renowned for its fresh seafood, with many restaurants specializing in dishes like steamed whole fish, crab, and lobster. One of the best options is Ocean Seafood Restaurant, where you can indulge in live tanks of seafood and choose your own catch of the day. Another great option is MingHin Cuisine, where you’ll find a variety of seafood dishes prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients.

What is the Best Time to Visit Ocean Seafood Restaurant?

The restaurant is open daily from 9 AM to 9 PM, but be sure to call ahead and reserve your live seafood to ensure the freshest meal possible.

🌶️Spice it Up: The Best Spicy Food in Chinatown LA

For those who crave heat, Chinatown LA has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. One of the best is Chengdu Taste, which specializes in fiery Sichuan-style cuisine. Their dishes are packed with tongue-tingling spices like chili, Sichuan peppercorns, and garlic. Another great option is Golden Dragon Restaurant, which serves up a variety of spicy seafood and meat dishes, including their famous spicy shrimp.

What is the Best Time to Visit Chengdu Taste?

Chengdu Taste can get busy during peak hours, so it’s best to arrive early or make a reservation if possible.

🧧Fine Dining: The Best Upscale Chinese Restaurants in Chinatown LA

If you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience, Chinatown LA has plenty of options to choose from. One of the best is Majordomo, the brainchild of James Beard award-winning chef David Chang. The restaurant serves up innovative takes on traditional Chinese dishes, with standout dishes like the smoked brisket ssam and the mapo tofu lasagna. Another must-visit is Bavel, which serves up modern Middle Eastern cuisine with Chinese influences.

What is the Best Time to Visit Majordomo?

Majordomo is open daily from 5 PM to 10 PM, but reservations are highly recommended due to its popularity.

🍧Sweet Treats: The Best Dessert Spots in Chinatown LA

For those with a sweet tooth, Chinatown LA has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. One of the best is Phoenix Bakery, which has been serving up sweets since 1938. Their signature item is the strawberry cream cake, a light and fluffy cake filled with fresh strawberries and whipped cream. Another great option is Scoops Chinatown, which serves up unique ice cream flavors like black sesame and jasmine tea.

What is the Best Time to Visit Phoenix Bakery?

Phoenix Bakery is open daily from 8 AM to 8 PM, but be sure to arrive early to avoid the crowds.

🧺Closing Thoughts: Experience the Best Food in Chinatown LA Today

From dim sum to dessert, Chinatown LA is a paradise for foodies. With so many delicious options to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. But by following this guide, you’ll be well on your way to experiencing the best food in Chinatown LA. So what are you waiting for? Grab your chopsticks and start exploring today!

📝Disclaimer

The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication. However, restaurants may change their menu items or hours of operation without notice. We recommend calling ahead and confirming all details before visiting any restaurant mentioned in this guide.