Top 10 Chinese Restaurants in California
Chinese Restaurants in USA

Top 10 Chinese Restaurants in California

Din Tai Fung

If you're looking for the pinnacle of Taiwanese dim sum, especially those exquisite soup dumplings, Din Tai Fung in Arcadia is an absolute must-visit. This isn't just a meal; it's an experience, watching the chefs meticulously craft each dumpling through a glass window, a testament to their dedication to perfection. The atmosphere is bustling yet refined, perfect for a family gathering or a special outing where you want to impress. You'll find yourself mesmerized by the delicate folds of their famous Xiao Long Bao, each one bursting with savory broth and tender pork.

Beyond the iconic soup dumplings, don't miss their truffle and pork Xiao Long Bao for an elevated treat, or the perfectly al dente string beans with garlic. The pricing here is on the higher side for Chinese food, but completely justified by the quality and experience; expect to spend around $30-50 per person. It's a place where locals and visitors alike flock for consistently excellent food and service, so be prepared for a wait, especially on weekends – but trust me, it's worth every minute.

What Food Critics Say

Din Tai Fung consistently earns high praise, often boasting 4.5 stars and above across major review platforms. Diners rave about the unparalleled quality of their Xiao Long Bao, noting the thin, delicate skin and rich, flavorful broth. While some mention the wait times can be long, the consensus is that the food's perfection makes it an essential culinary destination.

📍 Address: 1088 S Baldwin Ave, Arcadia, CA 91007

Yang Chow Restaurant

Step into Yang Chow in Los Angeles's historic Chinatown, and you're stepping into a piece of culinary history. This place has been a beloved institution for decades, serving up classic Mandarin and Szechuan dishes in a no-frills, bustling setting that feels like a warm embrace. It's the kind of spot where generations of families have celebrated, and the friendly, efficient service makes you feel right at home. You absolutely, positively cannot leave without trying their legendary Slippery Shrimp – it's a dish that has garnered a cult following for its perfectly crispy texture and sweet, tangy sauce.

Beyond the famous shrimp, their hot and sour soup is a comforting classic, and the pan-fried noodles are a textural delight. The portions are generous, making it perfect for sharing, and the pricing is incredibly reasonable, typically around $20-30 per person, offering fantastic value for the quality and history you're getting. This is where locals go for consistently delicious, comforting Chinese-American fare that never disappoints.

What Food Critics Say

Yang Chow is frequently lauded for its iconic Slippery Shrimp, which often receives 5-star mentions. Reviewers consistently give it a strong 4-star rating, praising its long-standing reputation, generous portions, and the nostalgic, authentic Chinatown dining experience. Many highlight it as a must-visit for classic Chinese-American comfort food.

📍 Address: 819 N Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Chengdu Taste

If your palate craves the fiery, complex, and utterly addictive flavors of authentic Szechuan cuisine, then Chengdu Taste in Alhambra is your pilgrimage destination. This unassuming spot in the San Gabriel Valley is a true gem, renowned for bringing the true essence of Chengdu's culinary traditions to California. The atmosphere is casual and lively, often packed with diners eager to explore the depths of Szechuan spice and numbing peppercorns. It's a place where the food speaks for itself, loud and clear.

You absolutely must try their "Toothpick Lamb" or the "Boiled Fish with Green Pepper" for an explosion of flavor and a delightful tingling sensation. Their mapo tofu is also legendary, perfectly balanced with heat and umami. Pricing is very fair for the quality and authenticity, typically ranging from $25-40 per person. This is where serious foodies and those seeking an authentic Szechuan experience come to get their fix – be warned, the spice levels are real, but so is the incredible flavor!

What Food Critics Say

Chengdu Taste is consistently rated highly, often above 4.5 stars, for its authentic and bold Szechuan flavors. Diners frequently praise the "numbing and spicy" experience, highlighting dishes like the Toothpick Lamb and Boiled Fish. While the spice level is a common topic, reviewers agree it's a top spot for genuine Szechuan cuisine.

📍 Address: 828 W Valley Blvd, Alhambra, CA 91803

Z & Y Restaurant

Nestled in the heart of San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown, Z & Y Restaurant is a culinary beacon for those seeking authentic Northern Chinese and Szechuan flavors. This spot is a local favorite, known for its bold, aromatic dishes that truly transport you. The ambiance is straightforward and bustling, focusing entirely on the incredible food that comes out of their kitchen. It's the kind of place where you'll see tables laden with colorful, aromatic dishes, and everyone is digging in with gusto.

You absolutely have to try their Peking Duck, which is roasted to perfection with crispy skin and tender meat – it's a showstopper! Their Garlic Crab is another standout, bursting with flavor. For those who love a kick, their Szechuan dishes like the Spicy Chicken with Explosive Chili Peppers are legendary. Pricing is moderate to high, with a meal typically costing around $30-50 per person, especially if you indulge in their specialty dishes. This is a must-visit for anyone looking for a truly authentic and memorable Chinese dining experience in San Francisco.

What Food Critics Say

Z & Y Restaurant consistently receives high praise, often boasting 4.5 stars, particularly for its authentic Szechuan and Northern Chinese dishes. Reviewers frequently highlight the Peking Duck and Garlic Crab as must-tries, commending the bold flavors and generous portions. While it can get busy, diners agree the quality of the food makes it a standout in Chinatown.

📍 Address: 655 Jackson St, San Francisco, CA 94133

Capital Seafood Restaurant

When you're craving a grand dim sum experience in Orange County, Capital Seafood Restaurant in Irvine is the place to be. This expansive and elegant restaurant is a local favorite for weekend brunch, with carts brimming with steaming baskets of dumplings, buns, and savory delights rolling by your table. The atmosphere is lively and bustling, perfect for large family gatherings or a celebratory meal. It's a true feast for the senses, from the aroma of freshly steamed delicacies to the vibrant chatter of happy diners.

Beyond the incredible dim sum selection – think har gow, siu mai, char siu bao, and crispy taro puffs – they also offer an extensive menu of traditional Cantonese dishes for dinner, including fresh seafood prepared to perfection. Pricing for dim sum is typically à la carte, making it easy to sample many dishes, usually landing around $25-40 per person depending on how much you indulge. For dinner, it can be a bit more. This is where locals go for a consistently high-quality dim sum experience in a beautiful setting.

What Food Critics Say

Capital Seafood Restaurant is highly regarded, often earning 4 stars or more, especially for its dim sum offerings. Reviewers praise the wide selection, fresh ingredients, and efficient cart service. While some mention it can get crowded, the consensus is that it's a top choice for a traditional and delicious dim sum experience in Orange County.

📍 Address: 85 Fortune, Irvine, CA 92618

Jasmine Seafood Restaurant

For a taste of authentic Cantonese cuisine and a fantastic dim sum experience in San Diego, Jasmine Seafood Restaurant is a long-standing favorite. Located in the heart of Kearny Mesa, this spacious restaurant is known for its traditional approach to Chinese dining, complete with elegant decor and a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. It’s a go-to spot for locals who appreciate classic flavors and a wide variety of dishes, especially during their bustling dim sum hours.

Their dim sum selection is extensive, featuring all the classics like shrimp dumplings (har gow), pork and shrimp siu mai, and fluffy BBQ pork buns, all served fresh from rolling carts. Beyond dim sum, their dinner menu boasts an impressive array of Cantonese specialties, including fresh seafood prepared in various styles. Expect to spend around $20-35 per person for dim sum, depending on your appetite, and a bit more for dinner. This is the perfect place for a large group or family looking for a traditional and satisfying Chinese meal.

What Food Critics Say

Jasmine Seafood Restaurant generally receives strong 4-star ratings, with many reviewers commending its authentic dim sum and extensive menu. Diners often highlight the fresh seafood and the traditional, bustling atmosphere. While it can get busy, especially on weekends, it's widely considered one of San Diego's premier spots for Cantonese cuisine.

📍 Address: 4609 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111

New Canton Restaurant

When you're in Sacramento and craving classic, comforting Chinese-American fare done right, New Canton Restaurant is a local institution that has been serving up deliciousness for decades. This unpretentious spot has a loyal following, known for its generous portions, friendly service, and a menu packed with all your favorites. It's the kind of neighborhood gem where you feel instantly at ease, perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a relaxed family meal.

You'll find all the beloved dishes here, from flavorful chow mein and fried rice to crispy egg rolls and sweet and sour pork. Their BBQ pork is particularly popular, and many locals swear by their wonton soup. The pricing is incredibly budget-friendly, making it an excellent option for a satisfying meal without breaking the bank; expect to spend around $15-25 per person. New Canton is where Sacramentans go for reliable, tasty, and hearty Chinese food that feels like a warm hug.

What Food Critics Say

New Canton Restaurant typically holds a solid 4-star rating, with reviewers consistently praising its generous portions, classic Chinese-American comfort food, and friendly service. Many highlight it as a long-standing local favorite for reliable and affordable meals, especially noting the BBQ pork and chow mein.

📍 Address: 6020 Stockton Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95824

Duck House

For an unparalleled Peking Duck experience in the heart of Monterey Park, Duck House is the go-to destination. This restaurant specializes in the art of roasted duck, delivering a truly authentic and memorable culinary journey. The atmosphere is elegant yet comfortable, making it suitable for both special occasions and a delightful dinner out with friends or family. You'll be captivated by the aroma of perfectly roasted duck as soon as you step inside.

Their signature Peking Duck is carved tableside, presented with delicate pancakes, crisp cucumbers, and scallions, allowing you to assemble your perfect bite. Beyond the duck, they offer a range of other Northern Chinese specialties, including flavorful noodle dishes and savory stir-fries. Pricing is on the higher side, especially for the whole duck, but it's an experience worth splurging on; expect to spend around $40-60 per person, depending on your order. This is where serious duck enthusiasts and those seeking a refined Chinese dining experience come to indulge.

What Food Critics Say

Duck House is highly acclaimed, often boasting 4.5 stars, specifically for its exceptional Peking Duck. Reviewers consistently praise the crispy skin, tender meat, and tableside carving presentation. While some note the higher price point, the consensus is that it's the premier destination for authentic Peking Duck in the area.

📍 Address: 501 S Atlantic Blvd, Monterey Park, CA 91754

Dynasty Chinese Seafood Restaurant

In the bustling Silicon Valley, Dynasty Chinese Seafood Restaurant in Cupertino stands out as a fantastic choice for authentic Cantonese cuisine and a lively dim sum experience. This spacious and often bustling restaurant is a favorite among locals for its fresh seafood and extensive menu, perfect for large family gatherings or a celebratory meal. The vibrant atmosphere, especially during weekend dim sum, adds to the authentic dining feel.

Their dim sum selection is vast and delicious, with carts constantly circulating, offering everything from delicate shrimp dumplings and savory pork siu mai to crispy spring rolls and sweet egg tarts. For dinner, their live seafood tanks ensure the freshest catches, prepared in traditional Cantonese styles like steamed fish with ginger and scallions, or lobster with ginger and green onion. Pricing is moderate to high, typically ranging from $25-50 per person, depending on your order. This is a go-to spot for those seeking a high-quality, traditional Chinese seafood and dim sum experience in the South Bay.

What Food Critics Say

Dynasty Chinese Seafood Restaurant consistently receives strong 4-star ratings, particularly for its fresh seafood and authentic dim sum. Reviewers often commend the wide variety of dishes and the lively, traditional atmosphere. While it can get busy, especially on weekends, diners agree it's a reliable choice for quality Cantonese cuisine.

📍 Address: 10123 N De Anza Blvd, Cupertino, CA 95014

Shan Dong Restaurant

If you're in Oakland and craving the comforting, chewy goodness of hand-pulled noodles, Shan Dong Restaurant is an absolute must-visit. This unpretentious, family-run spot in Oakland's Chinatown has earned a legendary reputation for its freshly made noodles, crafted right before your eyes. The atmosphere is casual and bustling, filled with the happy sounds of slurping noodles and lively conversation. It’s a true local favorite that embodies the heart of authentic Chinese comfort food.

Their signature dish, without a doubt, is the hand-pulled noodles, whether in a savory broth with beef, or stir-fried with various meats and vegetables. The texture is simply divine – perfectly chewy with just the right bite. Don't miss their potstickers or their flavorful garlic eggplant either. Pricing is incredibly reasonable, making it a fantastic value; expect to spend around $15-25 per person for a very satisfying meal. This is where locals go for a taste of true noodle artistry and a hearty, authentic Chinese meal.

What Food Critics Say

Shan Dong Restaurant consistently earns high praise, often reaching 4.5 stars, specifically for its exceptional hand-pulled noodles. Reviewers rave about the fresh texture and flavorful broths, highlighting dishes like the beef noodle soup and stir-fried noodles. It's widely celebrated as a local gem for authentic and affordable Northern Chinese cuisine.

📍 Address: 328 10th St, Oakland, CA 94607