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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Monrovia

Authentic food

There is no substitute for the taste of a meal prepared exactly as it is in its place of origin.

Based on 567 Opinions
+564
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01
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Tacos and Papas offers authentic Mexican flavor in a cozy, laid back atmosphere with a super cool 80s vibe. The space feels roomy and comfortable despite its size, making it a friendly spot for casual dining.

Tacos and Papas serves dishes packed with authentic flavor and care. The laid back ambiance matches the genuine quality of the food.

People are saying

"I found this spot for good authentic Mexican food."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features special deals on tacos.

2

Dinner for two costs around $40 with drinks.

3

Prices are competitive for the area.

02
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Small sushi spot offers authentic Japanese flavors with fresh, high-quality fish. Cozy, dim-lit space creates an intimate vibe perfect for savoring simple, intentional sushi. Unique dishes like Chawanmushi highlight true tradition and care.

Sushi here features authentic Japanese ownership and a sushi chef from Japan. Dishes include fresh, light rolls and unique items like Chawanmushi and Agedashi tofu that stay true to traditional flavors.

People are saying

"This sushi is so authentic, it lets the natural flavors shine."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy nights like the Friday farmers market.

2

Happy hour offers great deals, but arrive early to take advantage.

3

Parking is available nearby, with free options and street parking.

03
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Small, cozy space offers an intimate dining experience with authentic Sichuan flavors. Spicy dishes like spicy pigโ€™s ear deliver bold, genuine tastes. Affordable prices and a bustling takeout business add to the lively atmosphere.

Spicy dishes showcase authentic Sichuan flavors with bold, genuine tastes. The menu offers a variety of interesting dishes like spicy pigโ€™s ear in chili oil, reflecting true Chinese culinary style.

People are saying

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

Good to know

1

The price of Sichuan maocai is $13.99.

2

Seating is limited, so getting to-go is the easier option.

3

You can request to make the food less spicy if desired.

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Colorful, rustic decor creates a warm vibe with indoor and outdoor seating. Authentic Mexican flavors shine in hearty breakfasts and genuine coffee. Loud music and open space cause noise and echoes, making chats tough, but staff add charm with pan dulce from a dessert cart.

Food features authentic Mexican flavors with off the beaten path options. Meals range from hearty breakfasts to leisurely lunches and include genuine Mexican coffee.

People are saying

"The food here is so authentic and packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

Expect wait times of 40-75 minutes during busy weekend brunch hours.

2

Reservations are recommended for large parties to avoid long wait times.

3

A 75-minute time limit on tables applies during peak weekend hours.

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Cramped space with disposable utensils sets a quick, casual tone. Early birds enjoy authentic Taiwanese breakfast featuring meatball and rice bowls. Clean but sterile atmosphere focuses on traditional flavors.

Breakfast features authentic Taiwanese and Chinese dishes with a focus on meatball and rice bowls. The flavors stay true to traditional recipes.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic Taiwanese breakfast here."

Good to know

1

Yi Mei opens at 7 am, making it popular for breakfast.

2

The plaza offers a moderate amount of parking spaces.

3

The menu features a diverse selection of Taiwanese classic foods.

06
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Casual Taiwanese spot serves authentic dishes like Shredded Pork with Bamboo Shoot and Satay Water Spinach with Beef. Signature items such as fried sweet taro strips and steamed cod shine for their freshness. Relaxed vibe with quick seating makes it perfect for a tasty, no-fuss meal.

Authentic Taiwanese dishes include Shredded Pork with Taiwan Makino Bamboo Shoot, Satay Water Spinach with Beef, and Three Cups Sauce. Steamed Egg with Seafood and Spinach also delivers genuine flavors.

People are saying

"I found the authentic Taiwanese food here to be the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is a fast-casual dining option with quick service.

2

Seating is usually available during lunch hours, as it tends to be less busy.

3

Tipping suggestions are based on the post-tax amount, which may confuse some customers.

07
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Bright, vibrant decor and culturally themed music create a lively, family-friendly fiesta vibe. Food tastes 100% authentic and homemade with fresh ingredients, like eating at a family member's house. Cozy, home-like ambiance draws a busy crowd, especially on weekend mornings.

Food tastes 100% authentic and homemade with fresh ingredients. Flavors remind of traditional Mexican cooking, like eating at a family member's house.

People are saying

"The food here is 100% authentic Mexican flavor, like eating at my tia's house."

Good to know

1

The brunch buffet is available on Tuesdays from 10am to 2pm.

2

A Saturday dinner buffet starts at 4:00pm.

3

Expect long wait times during busy weekend brunch hours.

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Family-owned spot serves authentic birria tacos and hearty breakfast burritos at affordable prices. Clean, casual vibe makes it great for filling, flavorful meals. Online deals add extra value to the experience.

Food offers authentic birria and tacos with a delicious taste.

People are saying

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

Good to know

1

The prices at Las Marias are affordable and reasonable.

2

Las Marias offers big portions for a satisfying meal.

3

The restaurant sells eggs all day for breakfast lovers.

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Spacious interior with a wild design sets a warm mood. Bold and spicy flavors deliver an authentic Sichuan kick. Slow food pace invites relaxed dining with standout dishes like boiled fish and hot and sour soup.

Bold and spicy flavors define the dishes here, capturing the signature Szechuan kick. Colors and fragrances stay true to traditional Sichuan cuisine, making the food feel very authentic.

People are saying

"I found the food to be authentic with bold and spicy flavors."

Good to know

1

Be prepared to wait, as the food comes out at a very slow pace.

2

The prices at Szechuan Restaurant are reasonable.

3

Their menu features classics like fish filet in spicy oil and Kung Pao chicken.

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Cozy space with authentic Thai cuisine offers large portions and genuine flavors. Soft lighting and exposed brick create a warm atmosphere perfect for casual meals or date nights. Dog-friendly patio adds a comfortable touch to the charming interior.

Cozy setting serves authentic Thai cuisine with large portions and excellent options that deliver genuine flavors.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic Asian food; it was so tasty and healthy."

Good to know

1

Parking at the parking lot is free.

2

They have a dog-friendly patio.

3

You can choose the level of spiciness from 1 to 5.

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Open, spacious dining area and cozy bar with football TVs create a lively vibe. Menu offers authentic Mexican flavors that match the inviting decor. Staff celebrate birthdays with song, adding a welcoming atmosphere to the bright, recently renovated space.

Menu features an extensive selection of dishes capturing real Mexican flavors. Decor matches the food with an authentic and inviting atmosphere.

People are saying

"The staff here is so friendly, they even sang for my birthday."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers special deals on tacos every week.

2

There is plenty of free parking available.

3

It could get quite busy during peak hours, so be prepared to wait.

12
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Casual Thai spot shines with unique dishes and a lively atmosphere. Real Thai flavors come through in vibrant recipes made for sharing, though boat noodles differ from authentic versions. Spacious plaza and clean design add to the comfortable vibe.

Dishes offer real Thai flavors with a focus on unique, vibrant recipes made for sharing. Boat noodles do not match authentic versions.

People are saying

"The food here tastes like real Thai cuisine."

Good to know

1

Check in via Yelp for a free Thai tea promo.

2

Dine Thai LA event runs from March 21-28 with four set menus at $27.

3

The restaurant has plenty of free parking available.

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Monrovia, California

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