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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to El Monte

Authentic food spots

You have no patience for watered-down versions of traditional recipes.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
TAQUERIA ROSA & SUL image 1
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Mexican restaurant

Cozy space with about six tables and one outdoors creates an intimate, lively atmosphere. Authentic Mexican flavors stand out with birria tacos, pastor quesadillas, and handmade tortillas. Large portions and a varied menu attract a mix of diners seeking quality beyond nearby options.

Food features authentic Mexican flavors with a broth called consomé that cooks the meat. Dishes resemble home-style cooking and include chili that can be adjusted on request.

Food here is authentic Mexican and cooked to order, served hot and full of flavor. The dishes are consistently delicious and prepared with care.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really delicious and authentic."

"The carne asada is flavorful and spicy, tasting truly authentic."

"You have to try the handmade tortillas with the mole."

Good to know

1

There is parking available nearby.

2

Street parking is available near the restaurant.

3

They offer catering services.

02
Tai He Ju Dumplings House 泰禾居饺子馆 image 1

Spacious dining area feels like a warehouse with simple, clean seating. Noise echoes even with few people, creating a loud atmosphere despite friendly service and affordable prices. Complimentary egg drop soup adds a unique touch to the experience.

Bold flavors define the authentic Chinese cuisine here, especially in the dumplings. The recipes and fillings stay true to traditional Chinese methods, reflecting a family-run approach.

Authentic Chinese cuisine shines with bold flavors and fresh dumplings. Fried dumplings stand out as very tasty and the food offers excellent quality at fast food prices.

People are saying

"These dumplings are piping hot and so delicious."

"I experienced authentic Chinese cuisine with bold flavors."

"I found the food here to be delicious and freshly made."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers complimentary egg and corn soup with meals.

2

Dumplings are made in-house, ensuring freshness and quality.

3

Prices are very reasonable compared to other options in the area.

03
El Taco Man image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers authentic flavors with generous portions and affordable prices. Atmosphere feels homey and welcoming despite simple decor. Outdoor seating is ample, and the place closes early in the evening.

Authentic Mexican flavors fill the menu, especially in the burrito de asada. Friendly hospitality adds to the genuine experience inside.

Authentic Mexican food stands out with consistently delicious and tasty dishes. The food draws people back repeatedly for its excellent flavors and quality.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was really delicious."

"I found the Mexican food here to be delicious and fresh."

"I loved the authentic Mexican flavors and friendly hospitality."

Good to know

1

The place closes before 6:30 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

Prices are lower than many other local spots, making it budget-friendly.

3

Portion sizes are generous, ensuring good value for your money.

04
El Huarache De Dona Chela Restaurant image 1

Small, cozy Mexican restaurant with two connected rooms and well-ventilated atmosphere. Popular local lunch spot with lots of take-out orders and a large menu featuring authentic dishes like chilaquiles with queso fresco. Space is tight, making it less suited for larger groups.

Mexican dishes here deliver truly authentic flavors. The menu sticks to traditional recipes that taste as genuine as it gets.

Hot homemade Mexican food delivers authentic flavor and a taste of Mexico. Dishes offer real Mexican comfort with rich, delicious flavors that taste like home.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is truly authentic and divine."

"I loved the hearty, flavorful breakfast burrito; it was super satisfying."

"The food here is delicious and tastes like authentic Mexican."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is small, which may not be ideal for larger groups.

2

They charge extra for adding cream to dishes like chilaquiles.

3

Prices are considered high for the portion sizes offered.

05
Mr Chopsticks Seafood & BBQ image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant with lively atmosphere and crowded, noisy environment resembling an old-fashioned Chinese eatery. It attracts local families and groups, often requiring reservations due to popularity. The interior is ordinary and cramped, focusing more on value and food quality than decor.

Authentic Cantonese cuisine shines with old Hong Kong flavors and huge portions. The menu offers a commendable selection of traditional dishes at reasonable prices.

Food features authentic Cantonese style with unfussy comforting flavors reminiscent of 90s banquet restaurants. Portions come large and fresh with reasonable prices, especially on the lunch menu.

People are saying

"The Cantonese food here is so authentic and delicious."

"The seafood here is delicious and comes in huge portions."

"I loved the authentic Cantonese cuisine; it was delicious and reasonably priced."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to dine, especially after 6 pm.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours like weekends and holidays.

3

Parking can be challenging; consider using nearby street parking.

06
Cetana Mon Myanmar Restaurant image 1

Interior showcases cultural decorations and Burmese specialty foods creating an authentic atmosphere. The crowd consists mainly of Burmese diners, contributing to a genuine ethnic vibe. The space feels intimate with family-run warmth and a menu offering extensive traditional dishes.

Food offers authentic Burmese flavors with a solid and flavorful taste. The atmosphere feels genuine, with mostly Burmese customers present during visits.

Food here offers authentic Burmese flavors with an extensive menu full of exciting dishes. The cuisine is consistently delicious and flavorful, reflecting solid traditional recipes.

People are saying

"The fried bean sprout and shrimp had a nice crunch."

"I loved the flavorful and authentic Burmese food here."

"The Burmese food here is delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a small strip mall, but spaces can be tight.

2

The restaurant gets busy during dinner rush hours, so plan to arrive early.

3

Prices are fair and affordable for the portion sizes offered.

07
Havana Club Restaurant & Bar 🇨🇺 image 1

Small, cozy space filled with vibrant Cuban decor and colorful window paintings creates a lively, bar-themed atmosphere. Music plays in the background, enhancing the authentic Cuban vibe without live performances. The place attracts those seeking genuine Cuban cuisine with a warm, inviting energy.

Food offers authentic Cuban flavors that taste genuine and plentiful. Regulars confirm the dishes stay true to traditional recipes.

Food here is authentic Cuban with a variety of fresh plates. The dishes are consistently delicious and the quality keeps people coming back.

People are saying

"The Cuban food here is amazing and authentic."

"Their bread tastes delicious; I could eat the whole basket."

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

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups to ensure seating.

2

They do not split checks for large groups at the same table.

3

Daily specials are available and offer great value.

08
Corner Beef Noodle House image 1
Taiwanese restaurant

Taiwanese restaurant with authentic beef noodle soup featuring half-tendon, half-meat combinations and rich, savory broth. The space feels run down and uncomfortably warm due to poor air conditioning. Cash or Zelle payment is required, and servings are immensely filling.

Beef noodles feature a rich broth with authentic spices and deep beef essence. Fried chicken and noodles carry a true Taiwanese flavor throughout.

Authentic Taiwanese food stands out with large portions and delicious flavors. The dishes offer a genuine taste that feels very original and satisfying.

People are saying

"The beef noodle soup here is so delicious and satisfying."

"I found the Taiwanese beef noodles to be very authentic."

"The beef noodle soup food here has tender beef and flavorful broth."

Good to know

1

They only accept cash or Zelle; credit cards are not accepted.

2

Parking is limited with compact spaces available nearby.

3

Expect a 15-minute wait for ordering and pickup.

09
CURRY TIME image 1
Indian restaurant

Small, family-owned Indian restaurant with a cozy, casual atmosphere and homey vibe. Space includes about six tables and features Indian music playing on TV. Known for authentic fast-service and large portions at reasonable prices, it suits takeaway dining.

Food delivers a rich, flavorful taste that mirrors an authentic home-cooked meal. Service is fast while keeping the dishes fresh and genuine to Indian cuisine.

Food here is fresh and authentic with a hot and creamy texture. It offers a delicious taste that reminds of home cooking and comes at reasonable prices.

People are saying

"I experienced the best Indian food I've ever had."

"The garlic naan here is soft, fresh, and perfectly crispy."

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

Good to know

1

Curry Time accepts EBT payments.

2

A bowl with one item costs $11.99 without naan.

3

A two-item combo costs $13.99.

10
Pho Vit 115 image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Duck-focused Vietnamese restaurant offers clear, savory broths and tender duck dishes paired with various noodle options. Interior features beautiful, non-traditional decor creating a pleasant dining atmosphere. Small space fills quickly, attracting groups for dinner with unique, authentic flavors beyond standard pho.

Signature duck and poached chicken dishes deliver clean and authentic flavors. Rare Vietnamese duck specialties stand out, though the pho lacks authenticity.

Authentic Vietnamese duck dishes stand out with fresh, excellent flavors. Food quality justifies the higher price and delivers a very good, delicious experience.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here, especially the duck, is so flavorful and fresh."

"The duck and chicken food here is so clean and authentic."

"The duck and chicken here are so clean and authentic."

Good to know

1

They don’t accept cash on Saturdays and Sundays.

2

Expect a queue if arriving around 11:30 am.

3

Parking can be challenging; patience may be needed.

11
Ocean Bo Dim Sum Cafe image 1
Dim sum restaurant

Dim sum restaurant with a traditional Hong Kong feel and a dim sum counter by the entrance. The space is cramped and crowded, creating a lively, bustling atmosphere with noise from kitchen and customers. It offers authentic Cantonese dim sum served until mid-afternoon.

Authentic Cantonese dim sum offers a true taste of Chinese cuisine. Dishes come at incredibly affordable prices and attract plenty of customers.

Food comes out very quickly and tastes authentic with strong Hong Kong, Cantonese flavors. The small spot serves fast, delicious dim sum and Chinese dishes that impress with their great quality.

People are saying

"I found their dim sum to be the best in town."

"The food here is authentic and absolutely delicious."

"The dim sum here is authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

The cafe opens at 7am, but food options are limited until 3:30pm.

2

Dim sum is served until 3pm; after that, only a la carte is available.

3

Expect a 20-minute wait if arriving around 7pm on weekends.

12
Tacos de Canasta El Rey | The Best Tacos In Los Angeles CA image 1

Small, clean Mexican spot offers steamed tacos served in a cute basket with generous meat portions. Atmosphere stays pleasant with limited parking nearby but ample street options. Known for crispy barbacoa dorados and flavorful tortas ahogadas.

Offers authentic tacos al vapor, tacos dorados, and tortas ahogadas reflecting Guadalajara and Mexican food traditions.

Food includes authentic tacos al vapor, tacos dorados, and tortas ahogadas with a Guadalajara and Mexican style. Quality varies from excellent to cold and very bad at times.

People are saying

"The tacos here are delicious and perfectly crispy."

"I found the food here to be authentic and full of flavors."

"The food here is authentic and full of flavors."

Good to know

1

There was plenty of street parking available.

2

The price is a bit steep for tacos without meat.

3

They were very generous with the meat.

13
SINGKAWANG CAFE image 1
Indonesian restaurant

Indonesian restaurant combines casual dining with a small grocery section selling Southeast Asian snacks. Atmosphere stays relaxed and cozy, suitable for working or casual visits. Food offers authentic flavors with generous portions and affordable prices.

Flavors stay true to Indonesian and Thai roots with authentic spices and nostalgic taste. Dishes like Nasigoran deliver the right texture and full flavor every time.

Authentic Indonesian cuisine shines through dishes like Bakso Komplit, Empek Empek, and nasi padang. The food tastes fresh, delicious, and affordable, with some dishes reminding of home-cooked meals.

People are saying

"The Indonesian and Thai food here tastes like home."

"The seafood here, like the calamari, is light and crispy."

"The Indonesian and Thai dishes here taste like home, truly authentic."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every evening, making it a fun night out.

2

They accept card payments with a minimum of $10.

3

The cafe offers a good lunch special that is affordable.

14
WeChat Cafe image 1
Asian fusion restaurant

Asian fusion restaurant offers an authentic Hong Kong atmosphere with Cantonese conversations filling the space. The vibe is friendly and welcoming, featuring comfortable seating and a menu with a large variety of dishes unique to the area.

Display case shows authentic Cantonese desserts. Food tastes delicious and authentic throughout the menu.

Food here is consistently authentic and well-cooked. Dishes taste good and maintain a high level of quality across visits.

People are saying

"I loved the Hong Kong style food here."

"This tea restaurant has a strong wok flavor."

"I thought the food tasted delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

WeChat Cafe only accepts cash for payment.

2

The restaurant closes at midnight, providing late-night dining options.

3

Expect smaller food portions compared to other restaurants.

15
Don Carlos Pupuseria image 1
Salvadoran restaurant

Family-owned Salvadoran restaurant offers freshly made pupusas and tangy curtido in a vibrant, colorful setting. Atmosphere feels chill and inviting, reflecting rich cultural roots. Service includes cash-only payments with on-site cashier.

Menu features authentic Salvadorian dishes that capture the essence of home cooking. Service complements the food with a wonderful touch.

Authentic Salvadorian cuisine shines with freshly made dishes served hot and delicious. A family-run kitchen delivers food with care alongside friendly, attentive service.

People are saying

"The Salvadoran food here is authentic and delicious."

"I loved the authentic Salvadoran dishes, especially the flavorful pupusas."

"Parking was available, and there was plenty of it."

Good to know

1

Don Carlos Pupuseria only accepts cash payments.

2

Parking is limited to two hours on the street.

3

Six pupusas cost around $20.

16
Happy Together 喜薈 image 1
Cantonese restaurant

Small dim sum restaurant with an open kitchen and upscale presentation featuring tablecloths on every table. Atmosphere feels busy and lively, often crowded but less so than typical dim sum spots due to connection with hotel lounge. Food service uses paper order sheets instead of traditional carts, creating a modern dining flow.

Food stays true to Hong Kong and Canton cuisine with strong authentic flavors. The overall experience feels genuinely authentic Cantonese.

Food here is authentic Hong Kong and Cantonese cuisine with a focus on freshly made dim sum. The duck dish stands out as especially great and the overall food quality impresses many.

People are saying

"The Cantonese food here is really authentic and delicious."

"The dim sum here is superb, especially the rice noodle rolls."

"The food here is so authentic to Hong Kong or Canton cuisine."

Good to know

1

During weekends, there can be a wait, especially if arriving during peak hours.

2

Reservations require cash only.

3

The place tends to fill up rapidly, so securing a reservation in advance is highly recommended for larger groups.

17
Tortas Ahogadas El Rey image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with homely feel and Guadalajara-style design creates a warm atmosphere. Background music and multiple big screen TVs add to the authentic vibe. Ordering happens at the counter but food is brought to tables, blending casual and attentive service.

Tortas and carnitas deliver a truly authentic flavor that matches dishes from Guadalajara. The birote bread and Jalisco plates stand out for their genuine taste.

Food here is authentic Mexican, closely matching what you'd find in Guadalajara. Dishes are consistently delicious and often worth the wait.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was delicious and worth the wait."

"I loved the authentic Mexican food, especially the tortas ahogadas."

"It felt like a little piece of Guadalajara, truly authentic."

Good to know

1

The price for two tortas and two tacos is 45 pesos.

2

Parking is limited at the restaurant.

3

Credit cards are accepted for payment.

18
南京盐水鸭 / Nanjing Duck House image 1

Chinese restaurant offers takeout-only service with cash payments. Known for authentic Nanjing salted duck, prepared honestly using traditional recipes. Atmosphere reflects a specialized focus on duck dishes favored by local Nanjing residents.

Salted duck here tastes very authentic and stays true to the traditional Nanjing style. This spot consistently offers Nanjing Salty Duck that stands out for its genuine flavor.

Food features a fresh and flavorful Nanjing taste with consistent quality. Orders are available to go only.

People are saying

"I don't know where else to get authentic Nanjing salted duck."

"The food here tastes like home, just like I remember from childhood."

Good to know

1

The restaurant accepts only cash payments, no credit cards.

2

Food is available for takeout only; no dine-in service.

3

This restaurant specializes in a unique duck dish not found elsewhere.

19
Birrieria Guadalajara image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a drive-thru offers a casual, welcoming atmosphere and hand-made tortillas. The birria tacos stand out for being flavorful and reasonably priced. The setting is clean and organized, catering to those seeking a quick bite.

Beef Birria here lacks seasoning and misses traditional preparation methods. The overall quality falls below what authentic Mexican cuisine usually offers.

Food arrives piping hot and delicious with quick service including an exceptional drive-thru. Prices stay great while flavors consistently satisfy.

People are saying

"The birria tacos here are packed with flavorful meat."

"The food here is delicious and full of flavor."

"The authentic birria here is mouth-watering delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited; consider street parking for easier access.

2

Expect busy hours, especially during lunch and dinner times.

3

Prices are reasonable, with large portion sizes for most dishes.

20
Little Skewers image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue restaurant offers authentic Northeastern skewers with exquisite chic decor featuring wooden tables and hidden Chinese cartoon characters. Atmosphere feels cozy and homey, reminiscent of a night market, ideal for casual gatherings. Prices remain very reasonable, attracting locals for drinks and meals.

Barbecue here delivers a very authentic Northeastern flavor rarely found in the US. Skewers taste super delicious and capture the real tangy flavor of traditional barbecue.

Food here is consistently delicious and very tasty. Friendly waitstaff serve dishes quickly and check in often, making the experience smooth.

People are saying

"I found the barbecue here to be so delicious and authentic."

"I found the barbecue here to be super delicious and authentic."

"I found the food here to be delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open late on New Year's Day.

2

There are many parking spaces available.

3

The restroom is not well maintained.

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El Monte, California

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