21 Best Restaurants in Chinatown, Los Angeles, CA in 2025
Exploring the restaurants in Chinatown, Los Angeles, is like uncovering the city’s best-kept secrets, where age-old traditions meet a fresh take on modern cuisine. According to ACHP, Chinese people have been in Los Angeles since 1852, so the influence of their cultural traditions is deeply entrenched in LA's history.
Wandering through Chinatown's vibrant alleys feels like stepping back in time, with red lanterns, bustling herbal markets and shops filled with trinkets and exotic goods. But while the sights may enchant you, it’s the food that will keep you coming back.
Food in Chinatown, Los Angeles, is nothing short of extraordinary, serving up everything from fiery Szechuan dishes to delicate dim sum and creative fusion plates. But with so many options, how do you choose? This article covers all the best restaurants in Chinatown, Los Angeles, so you can skip the guesswork and find the must-try spots.
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The 21 Best Chinatown, Los Angeles Restaurants
1. Yang Chow Restaurant
Since 1977, Yang Chow Restaurant has been serving up classic Mandarin and Szechuan dishes that customers can't get enough of. As one of the top restaurants in Chinatown, Los Angeles, Yang Chow continues to draw a loyal following for its large portions of comforting Chinese fare, including favorites like lo mein and egg rolls.
The Vibe
With spacious tables, comfortable booths and walls decorated with photos of famous customers and accolades, this restaurant in Chinatown, Los Angeles, has a diner-like atmosphere.
What to Order
Order the sizzling platter with beef and scallops for a tender and succulent combination that comes with stir-fried vegetables. The slippery shrimp is also a standout meal raved about by customers.
Yang Chow Restaurant | 819 N. Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$
2. Pho 87
For over 30 years, Pho 87 has been a cornerstone for restaurants in Chinatown, Los Angeles. This family-owned restaurant is known for its rich and flavorful broth, generous portions of tender beef, and affordable prices.
The Vibe
Step into a lively restaurant in Chinatown, Los Angeles, with standard tables, an upfront bar and TVs for sports fanatics to watch their favorite teams.
What to Order
While it may not be one of the fancy restaurants in LA, it's celebrated for its exceptional food. The pho chín nam gau gan sách is one of the favorites on the menu, featuring a flavorful rice noodle soup with well-done fatty brisket, tendon and tripe.
Pho 87 | 1019 N. Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$
3. Lasita
Founded by Chase and Steff Valencia, Lasita is a Filipino rotisserie and natural wine bar that offers a fresh, casual take on classics from the Philippines. Featured in Bon Appetit's 50 Best New Restaurants of 2022, it’s quickly become one of the best eateries in the area.
The Vibe
The inside features modern vibes with contemporary art, dim orange lighting and a welcoming atmosphere. Its friendly staff and delicious food make it the perfect spot for a birthday dinner in Los Angeles.
What to Order
Order the chicken inasal, a brined and marinated whole chicken with lemongrass, garlic and ginger, served with garlic mojo and toyomansi.
Lasita | 727 N. Broadway, Ste. 120, Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$
4. Philippe The Original
Founded by Philippe Mathieu, Philippe The Original claims to have invented the French dip sandwich after a customer noticed an accidental dip in beef gravy. Today, this iconic spot is a staple among restaurants in Chinatown, Los Angeles, attracting visitors with hearty breakfasts, irresistible desserts and, of course, its famous French dip sandwiches.
The Vibe
With its cafeteria-style setup and packed house of eager diners, this spot is one of the most coveted restaurants in Chinatown, Los Angeles.
What to Order
As one of the best restaurants in Los Angeles for sandwiches, you must try the lamb dip. It’s made with hand-carved New Zealand spring leg of lamb, and it pairs perfectly with blue cheese.
Philippe The Original | 1001 N. Alameda St., Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$
5. Howlin’ Ray's
Known for its fiery Nashville-style hot chicken, Howlin' Ray's has become one of the most beloved eateries in the area. Founded by Johnny Ray Zone, this restaurant in Chinatown, Los Angeles, made its mark after transitioning from a food truck in 2015. The menu features crispy, flavorful chicken at varying heat levels, from mild to the daring "howlin'."
The Vibe
The long lines daily at lunch and dinner allude to it being one of the most popular restaurants in Chinatown, Los Angeles. Before being met with a friendly smile at the ordering station, you'll walk through glass doors covered with flame graphics.
What to Order
The chicken and waffles dish at this restaurant in Chinatown, Los Angeles, features your choice of crispy, meaty goodness paired with butter and maple syrup.
Howlin’ Ray's | 727 N. Broadway, Ste. 128, Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$
6. Thien Huong Restaurant
Located in the heart of Chinatown, Thien Huong Restaurant offers an authentic experience that transports you straight to Vietnam. This family-run restaurant in Chinatown, Los Angeles, draws in customers with its mouthwatering pho and delectable banh mi.
The Vibe
This eatery features teal walls and unique oriental lamps. Plus, it’s often filled with customers waiting in line, making it one of the most popular restaurants in Chinatown, Los Angeles.
What to Order
Get the bún nem nướng, a delicious vermicelli salad topped with savory pork meatballs, crispy eggrolls and tangy cured pork.
Thien Huong Restaurant | 727 N. Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$
7. Jade Wok
Customers describe this as one of the best restaurants in Chinatown, Los Angeles, not only for its authentic Chinese dishes but also its warm, welcoming atmosphere. With most dishes priced affordably, Jade Wok delivers generous portions and great value.
The Vibe
Jade Wok is one of the most authentic restaurants in Chinatown, Los Angeles, known for its packed lunch and dinner crowds and classic red oriental décor.
What to Order
The house special chow fun or chow mein is as authentic as it gets and satisfying down to the last bite. If you're feeling extra hungry, this restaurant in Chinatown, Los Angeles, has delicious steamed dumplings to start your meal off with.
Jade Wok | 625 W. College St., Ste. 109, Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$
8. Little Jewel of New Orleans
Known for its authentic Cajun and Creole dishes, Little Jewel of New Orleans is a beloved spot among restaurants in Chinatown, Los Angeles. This popular spot that features a market and deli has become a favorite for locals, offering classic po' boys, muffulettas and freshly made boudin.
The Vibe
This restaurant in Chinatown, Los Angeles, offers a laid-back atmosphere with casual tables and drink fridges.
What to Order
Try the soft-shell crab supreme po' boy. This large sandwich has two fried soft-shell crabs with a delectable mix of barbecue shrimp, Havarti cheese and bacon bits.
Little Jewel of New Orleans | 207 Ord St., Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$
9. My Dung Sandwich Shop
For over 15 years, My Dung Sandwich Shop has delighted customers with budget-friendly banh mi while serving as a fresh produce market. With sandwiches being the specialty at this restaurant in Chinatown, Los Angeles, you can expect everything from juicy pork options to crispy chicken bites.
The Vibe
This small hole-in-the-wall Vietnamese restaurant in Chinatown, Los Angeles, takes orders placed at the back. Before reaching the counter, you'll walk through a space adorned with fresh fruits and a wide array of snacks.
What to Order
Order the bánh mì thịt nưóng, a flavorful grilled pork sandwich packed with the savory blend of lemongrass and onions.
My Dung Sandwich Shop | 314 Ord St., Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $
10. Katsu Sando
After a successful stint at Smorgasburg, LA, Katsu Sando found a permanent home in Chinatown. Inspired by Japanese convenience store culture, this must-visit restaurant in Chinatown, Los Angeles, serves an elevated menu of katsu sandos, curry plates and grab-and-go snacks.
The Vibe
The interior of this grab-and-go restaurant in Chinatown, Los Angeles, features a large ordering station and open kitchen. The outside walls are painted bright yellow, so it's hard to miss.
What to Order
Order the snow crab korokke roll for a flavorful experience. It features crispy panko-fried snow crab topped with aonori tartar, fresh herbs and tobiko trio (orange, wasabi and black).
Katsu Sando | 736 N. Broadway, Ste. 105, Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$
11. Phoenix Inn Chinese Cuisine
Having served the community since 1965, Phoenix Inn Chinese Cuisine is one of the longest-standing restaurants in Chinatown, Los Angeles. This popular eatery is known for traditional Cantonese dishes, with a menu that spans everything from fried whole fish to sweet and sour pork.
The Vibe
The modern Asian setup inside this family-style restaurant in Chinatown, Los Angeles, features upscale wooden panel dividers and large communal tables.
What to Order
Opt for the barbecue duck noodle soup at this restaurant in Chinatown, Los Angeles. The tender roasted duck combined with springy egg noodles in a rich broth will keep you going back for more.
Phoenix Inn Chinese Cuisine | 301 Ord St., Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$
12. Kim Chuy Restaurant
Since 1982, Kim Chuy Restaurant has been a staple restaurant in Chinatown, Los Angeles, especially for its authentic Chiu Chow-style noodle soups. With nearly 30 variations featuring delicate broths paired with egg and rice noodles, it’s a must-visit for fans of traditional flavors.
The Vibe
As one of the most popular hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Chinatown, Los Angeles, it offers a window menu and limited outdoor seating.
What to Order
Many meals stand out at this restaurant in Chinatown, Los Angeles, but few do so more than the Chiu Chow duck noodle soup. This hearty dish will arrive at your table brimming with tender duck and aromatic broth.
Kim Chuy Restaurant | 727 N. Broadway, Ste. 103, Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $
13. Hop Woo BBQ and Seafood Restaurant
Family-owned since 1993, Hop Woo BBQ and Seafood Restaurant is a cornerstone of Chinatown’s dining scene. Started by Chef Lupe Liang with just eight tables, it has grown into one of the most welcoming and enduring restaurants in Chinatown, Los Angeles.
The Vibe
As one of the most prominent banquet-style restaurants in Chinatown, Los Angeles, it boasts red carpets and swaying lanterns. Choose to sit under the shaded outdoor seating if you want a fresh breeze while enjoying your meal.
What to Order
Order the hot pot lamb stew to enjoy some of the best Chinese food in Los Angeles. It's packed with tender lamb, tofu and noodles in a rich, savory broth.
Hop Woo BBQ and Seafood Restaurant | 845 N. Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$
14. Amboy
Located in Chinatown’s Far East Plaza, Amboy is a burger haven by Chef Alvin Cailan, who rose to fame as the host of The Burger Show. The impressive menu at this restaurant in Chinatown, Los Angeles, features everything from classic smash patties to gourmet options, and a variety of sides to pick from.
The Vibe
The sleek black cushioned seating and playful wall plaques make this one of the more unique restaurants in Chinatown, Los Angeles. An upfront meat ordering station lets you choose the cuts that look most delicious to you.
What to Order
Sink your teeth into the Truffle DH Burger. Each bite features a 10oz dry-aged beef patty surrounded by a crust of 24-month-aged Parmigiano Reggiano and topped with black truffle aioli.
Amboy | 727 N. Broadway, Ste. 117, Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$
15. Won Kok Restaurant
A true Chinatown gem, Won Kok Restaurant has been serving delicious dim sum and Chinese pastries since 1976. From char siu bao to egg custards and sesame balls with red bean filling, its menu showcases why it’s among the most beloved restaurants in Chinatown, Los Angeles.
The Vibe
With communal tables and waiters rolling dim sum carts, this classic banquet-style spot ranks among the best Cantonese restaurants in Chinatown, Los Angeles.
What to Order
Try the house-special combination chow fun, a dish loaded with shrimp, barbecue pork, beef and chicken, all tossed in smoky, savory noodles.
Won Kok Restaurant | 210 Alpine St., Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$
16. Broadway Cuisine
Occupying the iconic former Plum Tree Inn space, Broadway Cuisine is a fresh addition to the scene of restaurants in Chinatown, Los Angeles. Its sprawling 200-plus-item menu offers everything from Cantonese dishes to Chinese-American favorites like Peking duck and pan-fried whole fish.
The Vibe
Expect a packed house during weekend lunches as families gather around large communal tables. The white tablecloths and carpeted floors give this restaurant in Chinatown, Los Angeles, a regal feel.
What to Order
If you're in the mood for a seafood Chinese favorite, this restaurant in Chinatown, Los Angeles, has a flavorful house-special shrimp in black pepper sauce. You won't get enough of the tender shrimp coated in a rich, peppery glaze.
Broadway Cuisine | 913 N. Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$
17. Mexicali Taco and Co.
Inspired by the street food of his northern Baja hometown, Chef Esdras Ochoa founded Mexicali Taco and Co. to bring bold flavors to LA. Celebrated for inventive dishes like the garlic-laden vampiro and the massive Zuperman, this casual restaurant in Chinatown, Los Angeles, has a lot of flavor to offer customers seeking tasty Mexican treats.
The Vibe
This spot blends fast-food vibes with Mexican décor and a self-serve sauce bar. It's a great restaurant in Chinatown, Los Angeles, to visit for a casual meal with friends family, or colleagues.
What to Order
The Zuperman is renowned as being one of the best at this restaurant in Chinatown, Los Angeles. It features a hearty mix of three flavorful meats and cheese layered in harina tortillas for an authentic taste of Los Angeles food. The nachos are great if you feel like something with a little extra cheese.
Mexicali Taco and Co. | 702 N. Figueroa St., Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$
18. Oriel
Sat beneath the glow of pink neon near the Chinatown metro station, Oriel is a cozy wine bar perfect for date nights with significant others or friends. Offering a curated selection of wines from France alongside bistro classics like creamy tartare and bavette steak, it’s a must-visit for some of the best French food Chinatown, Los Angeles has to offer.
The Vibe
Everything about this neon-lit space makes it one of the most fun restaurants in Los Angeles. Take a seat on the cozy couches or at the impressive bar where an endless display of alcohol is on show.
What to Order
The bavette at this restaurant in Chinatown, Los Angeles, is a perfectly seared steak paired with rich garlic butter and creamy mashed potatoes. It will quickly become your new favorite meal.
Oriel | 1135 N. Alameda St., Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$
19. Golden Tree Restaurant
Opened in 2021 in the former Yum Cha Café space, Golden Tree Restaurant has quickly become a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. This popular restaurant in Chinatown, Los Angeles, specializes in expertly crafted Cantonese dishes, such as stir-fries, dumplings and various soups.
The Vibe
Golden Tree captures an old-school Cantonese charm with wooden tables and menu pictures lining the walls. It’s a go-to among restaurants in Chinatown, Los Angeles for late-night eats.
What to Order
If you're a fan of spicy meals, go for the double kung pao. This bold stir-fry features tender chicken, juicy shrimp and a perfect kick of heat. If you're not in the mood for seafood, the orange crispy chicken is a good choice.
Golden Tree Restaurant | 640 N. Broadway, Ste. 1, Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$
20. Soulo’s Kitchen
Derrick Bivens, aka Chef Soulo, brings his award-winning soul food to Soulo’s Kitchen. It’s one of the top restaurants near Chinatown, Los Angeles, serving favorites like oxtails over rice and turkey chops with gravy.
The Vibe
Soulos Kitchen is a laid-back spot with TVs and a central bar. It's a good choice if you're looking for a restaurant near Chinatown, Los Angeles, where you can enjoy comfort food and catch the game.
What to Order
Try the fried lamb chops with mashed potatoes, delivering tender, crispy bites with a buttery, savory finish.
Soulo’s Kitchen | 2319 E. Washington Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90021 | $$
21. New Kamara Restaurant
A staple in the neighborhood for decades, New Kamara Restaurant is a beloved spot for authentic Chinese and Cambodian comfort food. Known for its flavorful noodle soups and crispy fried leek cakes, this restaurant in Chinatown, Los Angeles, perfectly embodies the rich culinary tradition of the city's best foods.
The Vibe
The inside is a simple retro-Hong Kong-style eatery with straightforward tables and booths. Whether celebrating a birthday or having a casual dinner, this restaurant in Chinatown, Los Angeles, is the perfect place for all occasions.
What to Order
The beef lok lak on fried rice is a filling meal all meat lovers will enjoy. It combines tender, well-seasoned beef with flavorful fried rice for a flavorful balance of protein and carbs.
New Kamara Restaurant | 709 N. Hill St., Ste. 14, Los Angeles, CA 90012 | $$
Other Fun Culinary Experiences in Los Angeles
Now that you've read up on the culinary magic in the area, what if there was a way to recreate all the mouthwatering Chinatown dishes you love right in your own kitchen? Thanks to cooking classes in Los Angeles, you can do just that. These exciting and immersive experiences, led by expert chefs, are the key to mastering the creation of gourmet meals.
If you’d rather explore LA’s culinary scene firsthand, food tours in Los Angeles are a great way to uncover the city’s hidden gems and iconic food spots. Whether you’re biting into tacos in Boyle Heights or sampling sweets in Koreatown, experienced guides will help you experience the city in the most enthralling and delicious ways possible.
There’s a reason Chinatown, Los Angeles restaurants draw in huge crowds of locals and tourists. The aroma of dumplings wafting through the air, vibrant red lanterns swaying above and busy streets lined with endless dining options make this neighborhood a true feast for the senses.
With this guide to the top restaurants in Chinatown, Los Angeles, you can head straight into the neighborhood’s most iconic spots. Best of all, the variety here gives you plenty of delicious reasons to return again and again.
For even more ways to explore Los Angeles and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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