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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Loved by locals

Authentic food in Downey

Nothing beats the taste of a meal prepared exactly as it is meant to be.

Based on 628 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Arabella Mediterranean Grill image 1
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Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant with clean, beautiful interior and warm, welcoming lighting creates a comfortable atmosphere. Casual yet nicely decorated space attracts diners seeking authentic Egyptian and Arabian cuisine. The vibe is inviting and relaxed, making it suitable for any meal of the day.

Food offers rich, authentic flavors that feel like a family recipe. Everything is cooked perfectly with genuine Arabic taste.

Food features authentic Mediterranean flavors with dishes like the Mixed Kabob Plate cooked to perfection. Quality is consistently top grade and full of flavor, reflecting family recipes.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"The shawarma's meat is tender, juicy, and packed with unique spices."

"The food here is so authentic, with rich flavors and seasonings."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers plenty of free parking for guests.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

3

The restaurant is accessible for people with disabilities.

02
Brooklyn Square image 1
Pizza restaurant

Square pies deliver authentic New York-style pizza with a perfect crust and fresh, sweet sauce. Stand-and-eat counters create a convenient, quick meal atmosphere with chill vibes. The menu includes high-quality toppings and notable items like spicy pepperoni and pastrami sandwiches.

Pizza here has a true authentic New York-style with a thin crust and classic toppings. It stands out as authentic New York-style pizza even though it's in Southern California.

Italian dishes come out freshly made and hot with good quality that impresses consistently.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was the best I ever had."

"The food here is delicious and tasted homemade."

"I thought it was the best pizza I'd ever had."

Good to know

1

Online ordering is available and easy to use.

2

Pizza is sold by the slice or as a whole pie.

3

Expect a wait time of about 15-20 minutes for fresh pizzas.

03
Mr. Menudo Oficial - Downey image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with festive mariachi music that creates a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. Space feels clean and nicely decorated despite being somewhat cramped. Micheladas and menudo stand out as notable offerings.

Menudo here offers authentic Mexican flavor with homemade tortillas. The spot feels cozy and spotless, full of Mexican charm.

Food here features great flavors paired with excellent service. The menu consistently delivers good quality dishes that satisfy.

People are saying

"I thought the menudo was delicious and the best I had."

"I thought the food was delicious, like grandma's cooking."

"The menudo here is rich, flavorful, and perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 30 to 40 minutes during peak hours.

2

Free parking is available for customers.

3

Breakfast specials are offered for $9.99 before 10:30 am.

04
Afghan Kabob House image 1
Afghan restaurant

Traditional seating with pillows and rugs creates a cozy atmosphere that feels warm and inviting. The space includes a cultural corner showcasing Afghan heritage, adding to the informal and friendly vibe. Quiet and soothing, the environment blends authentic décor with a simple, clean setup.

Food offers authentic Afghan flavors with fresh ingredients. The setting reflects rich cultural heritage of Afghanistan.

Food here is authentic and fresh with standout dishes like kabli pulao and beef koobideh with rice. Every meal offers rich, flavorful Afghan cuisine that leaves a strong impression.

People are saying

"I thought the food was amazing, especially the kabobs and rice."

"The flavors here are unique and really good."

"I found the Afghani food to be really authentic and fresh."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is HFSAA certified Zabiha Halal.

2

Expect large portions of Afghan food at reasonable prices.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

05
Mariscos Choix image 1
Seafood restaurant

Live mariachi music creates a vibrant energy throughout the space, which includes a chic, recently remodeled interior with lush tropical greenery. Different areas offer varied moods, from a lively bar to a calming outdoor section and a cozy main dining room. The atmosphere feels safe and welcoming, blending festive sounds with comfortable, stylish seating.

Fresh ingredients create authentic flavors in every dish. Seafood comes well-prepared, making the plates truly delicious and genuine.

Food features amazing quality and excellent service. The atmosphere complements the dining experience with great music and attentive staff.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and really well prepared."

"The octopus and marlin tacos here are tender and unforgettable."

"The food here is so authentic and bursting with fresh flavors."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times, up to five hours, during peak dinner hours.

2

Parking is available on the side street, but can be limited.

3

Live music is featured on Friday nights, enhancing the dining experience.

06
PITA GR image 1
Greek restaurant

Bright dining room combines modern and traditional Greek design with soft lighting to create a welcoming atmosphere. Space feels clean and spacious with clear views into the kitchen. Background music includes rap, and a game often plays on TV, adding casual energy.

Street style Greek food offers authentic Mediterranean flavors with fresh ingredients. The atmosphere stays casual and clean, matching the genuine taste of the dishes.

Food features fresh ingredients and authentic street style Greek dishes. Lamb, salad, rice, fries, and hummus come out consistently delicious and well-prepared.

People are saying

"The Greek food here is delicious, especially the juicy gyro meat."

"I found the Greek food here to be the best around."

"I found the Greek food here to be authentic and fresh."

Good to know

1

Online ordering is convenient for lunch breaks.

2

The restaurant is spacious with plenty of parking available.

3

Vegan options are available, but ask for modifications.

07
Tamales Guadalajara image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small dining area creates a cozy atmosphere with a family-owned feel. Menu offers a great variety of authentic Mexican dishes, especially noted for tamales with spicy salsa. Prices range from mid to upper, reflecting quality and care in preparation.

Tamales Guadalajara stands out for its authentic Mexican flavors that have remained consistent for over 10 years. The food reflects traditional recipes that resonate with family tastes.

Food features authentic Mexican flavors with a homemade touch and rich, traditional preparation. The menu offers a great selection of dishes that consistently taste delicious and flavorful.

People are saying

"These tamales are delicious and packed with meat."

"The food, especially the tamales, is tasty and packed with meat."

"The food here is authentic, homemade, and prepared with genuine care."

Good to know

1

Reservations or orders should be placed ahead of time, especially during busy months.

2

The restaurant is small, making takeout a convenient option.

3

Prices are mid to upper range, but many find them reasonable for the quality.

08
Tropicana Bakery & Cuban Cafe image 1

Large bakery showcases fresh pastries and authentic Cuban cuisine in a quaint, cool decor setting. Atmosphere feels lively and festive, often filled with music and positive energy. Tables sit close together, creating a bustling, crowded vibe.

Food offers authentic Cuban flavor with well-made fried chicken and freshly baked items. The cafe serves dependable quality and flavorful Central American dishes that stand out outside Miami.

Cuban food here stands out for its delicious flavors and authentic taste. The menu includes Cuban coffee and pastries that complement the meals well.

People are saying

"I loved their pastries; they were heavenly and consistently good."

"The food here is flavorful, balanced, and delicious."

"I found the Cuban food here to be incredibly authentic and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the back, but it can be difficult to navigate.

2

A 3% fee applies for credit card transactions, disclosed only on the receipt.

3

The bakery offers small birthday celebrations with staff singing and playing bongos.

09
Antojitos y Pupuseria Toñita image 1

Small restaurant offers authentic Salvadoran dishes with big pupusas and homemade corn atole. Atmosphere suits families and feels personal and welcoming. Parking is limited but street options are available, and phone orders are common.

Flavors stay true to tradition and the food tastes consistently delicious and authentic. The atmosphere feels personal and genuine from the moment you enter.

Food here is fresh, delicious, and full of authentic Salvadoran flavor. Dishes come with clear care and experience, making each bite satisfying and genuine.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and tastes like home."

"The food tastes like real home-style cooking, full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Parking is directly behind the restaurant with a few marked spots.

2

There is plenty of street parking available.

3

Only 2 parking spots are in front of the restaurant.

10
Señor Birria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Hole-in-the-wall Mexican restaurant with small but roomy space and outdoor seating in the back. Atmosphere includes chill vibes with Spanish music playing, though noise can be overwhelming at times. Known for best birria tacos with handmade tortillas and a condiments bar featuring lemons, red salsa, and habanero onions.

Sauce and chopped onion bring a spicy, authentic flavor. The birria tastes very high-quality and traditional with delicious, genuine Mexican notes.

Food comes out fresh and perfectly cooked with a delicious and authentic taste. Waiting for the food feels worth it because the quality stays consistent and satisfying.

People are saying

"The birria here is super delicious and tender."

"The food here is delicious and satisfying."

"I found the birria here to have the most delicious, authentic flavors."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers tacos for only $1 each.

2

Seating is limited to about 30 people, so arrive early.

3

Parking is free but can be tough to find on busy days.

11
Fernando's Restaurant image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Small space with authentic Peruvian atmosphere offers a lively and noisy dining experience during dinner hours. The menu features high-quality meat and dishes like Lomo Saltado and fish ceviche that stand out for their flavor and preparation.

Small setting serves authentic Peruvian food with true tastes reflecting typical dishes.

Authentic Peruvian dishes like lomo saltado stand out with rich flavors. The kitchen shows clear pride in delivering delicious, tasty food that consistently satisfies.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the Peruvian flavors."

"I loved the authentic Mexican food; it was the best I've ever had."

"I had the most delicious fish ceviche I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Fernando's Restaurant automatically adds a gratuity fee for a single diner.

2

The prices are reasonable, with plates starting around $23.

3

The parking lot is small and often full.

12
Myra's Salvadorian Cuisine image 1
Salvadoran restaurant

Small space offers a cozy atmosphere with a warm, friendly vibe. Salvadoran dishes feature authentic flavors, especially in pupusas that vary in size and filling. TV presence slightly disrupts the otherwise comfortable setting.

Dishes showcase authentic Salvadorean flavors with recipes that stay true to tradition. The food tastes very authentic and consistently delivers on genuine Salvadorean cuisine.

Food here is very authentic and full of flavor, especially the pupusas. Dishes are consistently fresh and delicious with excellent quality.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and very flavorful."

"I found the food to be very authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is available during midweek visits, making it easy to access.

2

Expect higher prices due to inflation; some dishes may feel overpriced.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean environment, which is a positive aspect.

13
La Barca Restaurantes image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious Mexican restaurant with a high ceiling and authentic decor creates an airy, intimate atmosphere. Seating favors large tables, supporting family-friendly and group dining. The vibe blends modern style with quietness, suitable for private conversations and date nights.

Mexican cuisine here offers authentic flavors and traditional dishes. The decor reflects genuine Mexican style, creating a true cultural atmosphere.

Mexican food here is authentic and delicious with original flavors. The dishes offer great taste and consistently satisfy.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and came with good portions."

"I found the Mexican food here to be truly authentic and the best."

"I found the parking available was plentiful and spacious."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available at the restaurant.

2

The restaurant does not accept American Express for payment.

3

On Fridays and weekends, expect a wait for seating and food.

14
Gaucho Grill Downey image 1
Argentinian restaurant

Argentinian restaurant offers warm, romantic atmosphere with tasteful decor reflecting cultural heritage and live music enhancing the vibe. Indoor and outdoor seating include a bright outdoor screen for added ambiance. The setting suits both casual dinners and special occasions.

Food bursts with authentic Argentinian flavors and precise seasoning. Decor reflects rich cultural heritage, enhancing the authentic dining experience.

Food bursts with authentic flavors and comes perfectly seasoned. Dishes are cooked well and paired with good coffee.

People are saying

"I thought the food was delicious and cooked to perfection."

"The food here is a celebration of authentic, flavorful Argentinian culture."

"The authentic Argentinian food here is unforgettable and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials are only available at the bar.

2

The restaurant can host events like birthdays and baby showers.

3

Expect a 30% automatic gratuity added to your bill.

15
Yolys Mexican Kitchen image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with about 10 basic tables creates a cozy, personal atmosphere. Authentic Mexican vibe shines through, especially with highly praised menudo and mole. Noise levels rise during busy times, reflecting a lively, bustling energy.

Food offers authentic Mexican flavors that taste like home-cooked meals. The atmosphere reflects a genuine Mexican ambiance with an authentic display of dishes.

Food features authentic Mexican flavors with a home-cooked taste reminiscent of grandma's cooking. Dishes come freshly made and consistently flavorful.

People are saying

"You have to try the flavorful breakfast chilaquiles."

"The food here is so authentic and flavorful."

"I found the food to be very authentic and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Restroom access is only available after paying the bill.

2

Prices are not displayed on the menu or screens inside.

3

Expect to pay around $20 for chorizo and eggs, plus drinks.

16
Hong Kong Chef image 1
Chinese restaurant

Hole-in-the-wall Chinese restaurant with a utilitarian interior and no air conditioning. Offers an authentic, traditional yet contemporary ambiance with affordable lunch specials that include soup and rice. Food features classic Hong Kong-style dishes with well-cooked meats and flavorful soups.

The place serves authentic Cantonese cooking with a strong focus on traditional flavors. The noodles taste genuine and the atmosphere feels true to the culture.

Food features authentic Cantonese cooking with a home-cooked taste. Dishes come fresh, hot, and plentiful with very good flavor.

People are saying

"I've been eating their delicious Chinese soup for over 15 years."

"The lunch specials are an amazing value for the quality."

"I found the Chinese food here to be great tasting."

Good to know

1

The lunch special costs $10 and includes soup and rice or fried rice.

2

Cash only accepted for lunch orders under $20 due to merchant fees.

3

The minimum fee for card payments is $10, which may not be worth it.

17
El Salto Del Fraile image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Small space with modern decor and a welcoming atmosphere suits both quiet dinners and celebrations. Authentic Peruvian vibe fills the clean, cozy interior. Good Peruvian beer and music add to the relaxed energy.

Ceviche matches the authentic taste from Lima, Peru. Dishes come generously portioned and stay true to traditional Peruvian flavors.

Food here is consistently delicious and authentic Peruvian. Drinks and service also stand out as excellent.

People are saying

"The Peruvian food here is authentic and delicious."

"The seafood here, especially the fish ceviche, is delicious."

"I found the Peruvian food here to be truly authentic."

Good to know

1

Credit and debit cards are not accepted; Zelle payment is required.

2

Expect a wait time of 30-45 minutes during busy dinner hours.

3

The food is made fresh, which may increase wait times.

18
R&J Southern Homecooking image 1
Soul food restaurant

Soul food restaurant with a homey, down-to-earth atmosphere and live jazz music on Saturday nights. The vibe is friendly and lively, with good sports and entertainment on TV. The interior feels aged and cluttered but maintains a clean and positive energy throughout.

Real Southern soul food shines through with dishes that reflect authentic southern home cooking. Familiar names like Aunt Betty and Mabel in the kitchen keep the tradition alive.

Soul food stands out with amazing jambalaya and consistently delicious southern dishes. The food delivers great flavor and quality every time.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and amazing."

"The fried seafood here is crispy, light, and perfectly seasoned."

"I loved the authentic Southern soul food here."

Good to know

1

Live music happens every Friday night.

2

The restaurant is handicap accessible.

3

They can accommodate dietary restrictions with vegetarian-friendly options.

19
La Chiva Loca Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with authentic warm decor and loud indoor atmosphere that encourages outdoor seating for quieter dining. The menu highlights tortas ahogadas and tacos dorados, with a focus on traditional flavors. Cash-only policy and limited parking add to the straightforward, no-frills experience.

Food offers authentic Jalisco style with fresh, flavorful dishes like Tortas Ahogadas and tacos dorados. The atmosphere reflects a warm, authentic Mexican decor that feels like a slice of Mexico.

Food features crispy tacos with ricotta cheese and meat that offer a different take on a taco. Dishes are authentic from Guadalajara, Jalisco and consistently delicious.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and full of flavor."

"The Mexican food, especially the tortas ahogadas, tasted just like Guadalajara."

"The food here is so good, fresh, and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

The restaurant only accepts cash or Zelle for payments.

2

Parking is limited and can be difficult to find.

3

Expect to pay around $50 for a lunch for two.

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Downey, California

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