The 14 Best Restaurants in Chinatown
Philippe The Original
This is the place that claims to have invented the French dip sandwich, and it has been drawing long lines to its communal sawdust-floor dining room since 1908. Prices are low, the sandwiches are the point, and with over twelve thousand reviews it is about as proven as a restaurant gets.
Eastside Market Italian Deli
A neighborhood institution on Alpine St since 1929, turning out hot beef and pastrami sandwiches and Italian subs at very reasonable prices. The two thousand-plus reviews speak for themselves, and the menu hasn't needed much reinvention.
Nick's Cafe
Open since 1948, this bare-bones diner on N Spring serves breakfast and lunch and has the kind of no-nonsense classic menu that keeps a place running for seven decades. It is a genuine Downtown institution, and both takeout and delivery are available.
Pho 87
A cash-only, no-frills Vietnamese spot on North Broadway where the pho and spring rolls keep a steady crowd coming back. The prices are low and the room is straightforward, which is exactly what the regulars are here for.
Won Kok Restaurant
Pan-fried noodles and traditional Chinese dishes served from morning into late night on Alpine Street. The long hours and thousands of reviews make it a reliable anchor for the neighborhood.
Yang Chow Restaurant
A well-liked Chinatown dining room on N Broadway that takes reservations and offers takeout and delivery. The mid-range price point and strong reputation across a large number of reviews suggest it holds up well for a sit-down meal.
The Little Jewel of New Orleans
Part corner store, part cafe, this laid-back spot on Ord Street imports groceries and culinary staples straight from New Orleans, making it something of a lifeline for anyone craving Gulf Coast flavors in LA. The hybrid setup means you can grab a meal and take a few pantry items home in the same visit. One of the more genuinely distinctive places in the neighborhood.
Foo Chow Restaurant
A no-frills Chinese restaurant on N Hill Street with a large menu, affordable prices, and the minor distinction of appearing in the Jackie Chan film Rush Hour. It takes reservations, offers delivery, and has the kind of broad, well-worn appeal that comes with over a thousand reviews.
Full House Seafood Restaurant
A Chinatown mainstay on N Hill Street known for staying lively into the late hours, drawing crowds for seafood and traditional Chinese dishes. It takes reservations, which is worth keeping in mind if you're coming with a group on a busy night.
Hop Li Seafood Restaurant
A family-friendly Cantonese restaurant on Alpine St with a menu that leans heavily on seafood. It is low-key and reliable, with options for dining in, takeout, or delivery.
Mexicali Taco & Co.
Tacos and quesadillas served in a casual spot with rustic decor on N Figueroa. Takeout and delivery are available if you want to skip the dining room.
ABC Seafood Restaurant
A no-frills Chinatown standby for dim sum and traditional Chinese dishes, with combo specials and takeout for when you need a quick, affordable meal. Over a thousand reviews and still well liked, which says something about the consistency.
Jade Wok
A compact, no-fuss Chinese restaurant on W College St serving traditional dishes in family-style portions at very affordable prices. Reservations, takeout, and delivery are all options.
Far East Plaza
A well-trafficked dining destination in the heart of Chinatown at 727 N Broadway, consistently drawing a broad crowd. It has built a solid reputation over many reviews, making it a reliable stop when you're in the area.