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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Gardena

Authentic salad spots

A craving for an authentic salad is hitting hard. It is time to find a place that prepares it the traditional way.

Based on 592 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
NAM Kitchen image 1
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Asian fusion restaurant

Spacious Asian fusion restaurant with modern clean interior and artistic cultural decor creates a relaxing vibe. Music and food videos add to the atmosphere, which is family friendly despite some noise from open seating. Free noodle refills and well-spaced tables support a comfortable dining experience.

Crunchy, juicy Asian pear salad stands out alongside a very refreshing cucumber salad. The Beef Salad offers a solid, flavorful option as well.

Flavors stay true to traditional recipes with authentic Pho and other Vietnamese dishes. Every bite offers comforting, genuine tastes that reflect classic cooking.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here has the most flavorful broth I've ever had."

"The beef salad here is addicting with a great spicy element."

"The pho broth here is rich, flavorful, and truly authentic."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a small lot just for the area.

2

Expect the restaurant to get packed by 6 PM; arrive early to avoid the dinner rush.

3

The food is served quickly, even during busy hours.

02
Bowl Thai Grill image 1
Thai restaurant

Casual Thai spot with fast-casual setup and cool-toned lighting creates a relaxing atmosphere. Seating includes options inside and outside, with comfortable chairs and clean, simple decor. The vibe is fun and laid-back, attracting those seeking authentic Thai flavors in generous portions.

Salads here stand out with spicy papaya and refreshing greens. Options like steak salad and grilled chicken with papaya salad come with bold flavors and satisfying portions.

Food delivers authentic Thai flavors with a genuine grill style. The taste matches traditional recipes closely, offering a true Thai dining experience.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, with generous portions."

"The steak salad was so delicious and filling."

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

Good to know

1

Parking has improved significantly compared to the previous location.

2

Alcohol is now available on the menu after relocating.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean environment, including restrooms.

03
Borjstar Shawarma Shop image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers casual bright seating and a friendly, inviting atmosphere with soft lighting and tasteful decor. The space feels spacious and clean, creating a comfortable environment suitable for lively gatherings. Free self-serve ice cream adds a unique touch to the experience.

Salads come with a generous complimentary portion that adds a refreshing touch. They pack lots of flavor and can be customized, like leaving cucumbers off when requested.

Shawarma here tastes like it comes straight from the Middle East with authentic Syrian flavors. The food stays fresh and rich, offering a healthy and genuine Middle Eastern experience.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and seasoned to perfection."

"I found the shawarma here to be the most authentic I've tasted in a decade."

"The shawarma wraps are delicious, packed with juicy meat and fresh veggies."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available in the lot for customers.

2

This spot is Halal, catering to those looking for halal options.

3

The restaurant is known for its cleanliness and quality of food.

04
Teriyaki Hawaii image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Small mom-and-pop Hawaiian restaurant with a family-run atmosphere and authentic traditional flavors. Air carries the aroma of spiced wings, and food is prepared fresh to order, leading to a long wait time. Portions are generous and prices remain very affordable.

Macaroni salad stands out with a rich, creamy texture. Both the potato salad and side pasta complement meals well, making salads a clear highlight.

Flavors stay true to authentic Hawaiian cuisine with dishes that capture the island's traditional taste. The menu offers a solid range of classic Hawaiian dishes prepared with care.

People are saying

"These chicken wings are so fresh and crispy, you can't resist them."

"The teriyaki chicken here is so tasty and full of flavor."

"The potato and macaroni salad here is one of the best I've had."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of about 30 minutes during peak hours.

2

Food is prepared fresh upon ordering, which may take 20 minutes or more.

3

Portions are generous, providing good value for the price.

05
The Original Giuliano's Delicatessen in Gardena image 1

Small deli with authentic Italian atmosphere and vibrant, family-oriented vibe. Outdoor seating offers a sidewalk cafe experience next to a busy street. Shelves display imported Italian goods and fresh-baked bread, creating a lively, old-school feel.

Fresh and tasty salads come in several varieties including Antipasto and Chicken Caesar. Ready-made options sit alongside a great selection of deli meats and other fresh ingredients.

Bread tastes like authentic European mishbrot. Shelves hold authentic Italian goods including wines and fresh deli items. The bakery and deli offer high quality, made-to-order dishes with an old school vibe.

People are saying

"I found the Italian deli sandwiches here to be delicious and authentic."

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

"I found the salads here to be so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines during lunch; arrive early to avoid waiting.

2

Parking can be challenging; consider arriving by public transport.

3

Credit cards accepted, but cash is preferred for smaller purchases.

06
Lomeli's Italian Restaurant image 1

Old school Italian restaurant with cozy, classic decor and red booths creates a homey atmosphere reminiscent of 1970s East Coast eateries. The space is small and warm, filled with framed artwork, hanging spices, and plastic vegetables. It draws a steady crowd seeking authentic Italian vibes and well-stuffed pizzas.

Salad comes as a fresh side with meals like beef lasagna. It has a good balance of flavors that complements the main dish well.

The atmosphere feels like a 1970s East coast Italian restaurant with a genuine vibe. Dishes serve authentic Italian flavors that taste fantastic and true to tradition.

People are saying

"I found the pizza crust amazing with all the toppings."

"The inside feels so cozy with its intimate dining room and Italian bistro look."

"I found the salad here to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during peak meal times to avoid long waits.

2

Expect a wait for a table on weeknights after 6 pm.

3

Parking is available in the strip mall lot, with plenty of spaces.

07
Eatalian image 1
Italian restaurant

Warehouse-style space with exposed brick walls and an open kitchen creates a rustic, cozy atmosphere that feels like a family gathering. Wide tables encourage a chill, welcoming vibe without pretension. A central bar and walk-up dessert counter add casual, lively touches to the setting.

Salads include a chicken salad and a Caprese salad. Both pair well with house wine during happy hour.

Authentic Italian food shines through in both quality and menu choices. Coffee matches the same authentic standard, making it a solid spot for genuine Italian cuisine.

People are saying

"I found the pizza here to be delicious and reminiscent of Italy."

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

"The service here is so attentive and kind."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but ordering and running credit with an open tab is necessary before seating.

2

Parking is limited, and street parking may feel unsafe.

3

Prices are reasonable, with lunch for two costing around $76.

08
Waka Sakura Gardena image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi arrives on a high-speed conveyor belt after ordering via touchscreen tablets at each booth. The space feels sleek and modern with a relaxed, upscale vibe that encourages taking time to enjoy the meal. It offers a quieter, more controlled experience than typical revolving sushi spots.

Salads include a seaweed salad that sometimes lacks flavor. Other salads receive mixed feedback, with some enjoying them while others find them bland.

Sushi here tastes fresh and authentic, matching traditional Japanese flavors closely. The atmosphere feels modern yet maintains an authentic vibe throughout.

People are saying

"I considered their sushi the best I experienced in the states."

"The tuna here is so fresh, especially the fatty toro."

"I really loved the salads here."

Good to know

1

Expect a long wait if arriving after 5pm; join the Yelp Waitlist to save time.

2

The restaurant is located on the second floor of Tokyo Central, accessible by stairs or elevator.

3

Parking is easy and available near the entrance of Tokyo Central.

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Gardena, California

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