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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Riverside

Authentic spots

An authentic experience that feels rooted in tradition instead of catering to the tourist crowd.

Based on 776 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Mandi Xpress Yemeni Restaurant and Coffee image 1
Mandi Xpress Yemeni Restaurant and Coffee image 2
Mandi Xpress Yemeni Restaurant and Coffee image 3
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Spacious restaurant with cultural murals offers a warm, family-friendly vibe and laid-back atmosphere. Authentic lamb and chicken mandi deliver rich Yemeni flavors with neat presentation. Outdoor patio with hookah and foosball table adds casual entertainment.

Flavors stay true to Yemeni roots with authentic lamb and chicken mandi served alongside fragrant rice. Presentation is neat and dishes deliver original, rich taste throughout.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing and delicious."

"This Adeni Chai tea is spicy, flavorful, and aromatic."

"The food here is authentic, flavorful, and cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

The restaurant uses organic ingredients and extra virgin olive oil.

2

Expect a clean and well-kept dining environment.

3

The restaurant grills with real coal for added flavor.

02
Thepalmtree - النخلة image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Spacious Mediterranean spot shines with authentic Iraqi recipes and fresh ingredients. Warm, inviting space features traditional decor and Quran recitation, creating a cozy vibe. Attentive service and large seating areas make dining comfortable and friendly.

Food features authentic Middle Eastern and Iraqi recipes cooked to perfection with fresh ingredients. Service is attentive and the flavors stay true to traditional dishes.

People are saying

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

"This baklava is dangerously addictive, crispy, and syrupy."

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

Good to know

1

This place is 100% halal.

2

The restaurant is very clean and well-maintained.

3

Reservations are recommended during peak dining hours.

03
Korean Restaurant image 1

Bright, airy space with Korean aesthetic offers authentic dishes with rich taste. Busy vibe suits families and groups, with private rooms and outdoor seating. Service is friendly, enhancing the genuine experience.

Dishes deliver authentic Korean flavors with consistent quality and rich taste. Service complements the food, enhancing the genuine dining experience.

People are saying

"The Korean food here is delicious and always prepared fresh."

"The tofu soup here has the most perfect, smooth tofu."

"I found the Korean restaurant to be amazing and authentic."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located in Mission Grove, Riverside, next to Cookie Co in the Stater Bros shopping center, with plenty of parking nearby.

2

Expect wait times during peak hours as the restaurant is busy and newly opened.

3

The menu includes a wide variety of iconic Korean dishes and an amazing selection of banchan.

04
Qamaria Yemeni Coffee Co. image 1

Coffee shop offers authentic Yemeni flavor with rich, smooth blends. Cozy decor shows Yemeni Arabic touches and modern elegance. Soft Arabic music creates a vibrant yet comfortable vibe for a unique experience.

Rich, smooth coffee delivers authentic Yemeni flavor with traditional Arabic and Turkish styles. Cozy decor features Yemeni Arabic cultural touches, creating a genuine Mediterranean coffee house vibe.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be amazing."

"I thought the tea here was amazing and delicious."

"The Turkish and Yemeni coffee here is so rich and smooth."

Good to know

1

The parking lot in front offers free 2-hour parking.

2

The coffee shop was open late.

3

The place can get busy, especially during peak hours.

05
Azaad Indian cuisine image 1

Casual spot offers bold North Indian flavors in a cozy, family-friendly setting. Warm hospitality and traditional spices create an authentic taste experience. Vibrant music adds fun energy, making it great for casual dinners or celebrations.

Every dish bursts with authentic flavors and traditional spices. Bold North Indian tastes come through clearly, showing great care in preparation.

People are saying

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

"These dinner spots offer rich, aromatic curries and perfectly cooked proteins."

"The flavors here are so rich and authentic."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a large menu with a variety of Indian dishes.

2

Lunch and dinner combos provide great value for money.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean and hygienic environment.

06
Los gordos comida y antojitos colombianos image 1

Colombian restaurant serves authentic flavors with standout dishes like cassava cake and cheese empanadas. Atmosphere is welcoming with minimal wait and affordable prices. Food stays true to traditional recipes, satisfying those craving genuine Colombian taste.

Colombian dishes here taste very delicious and authentic. The flavors match traditional recipes closely.

People are saying

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

"The food here feels like being back in Colombia."

"I thought the prices were very affordable for everyone."

Good to know

1

The prices are very fair and affordable for Colombian food.

2

Expect minimal wait times before being served.

3

Meals are made with local ingredients for authentic flavor.

07
Los Abuelos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Food truck serves authentic homemade Mexican dishes like birria tacos and quesabirrias. Small seating area creates a homely atmosphere. Prices stay affordable, drawing workers before and after shifts.

Food tastes like home-cooked Mexican meals with strong ties to traditional flavors. Dishes deliver a very authentic experience that feels homemade and genuine.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is delicious, especially the flavorful birria tacos."

"The salsa here is amazing."

"I loved the food because it was very authentic and homemade."

Good to know

1

Los Abuelos accepts cash only.

2

The prices at Los Abuelos are very reasonable.

3

Los Abuelos offers a great selection of meats for tacos, burritos, pozole, and menudo.

08
Flat O Wrap image 1
Falafel restaurant

Small fast food spot serves crispy falafel wraps with authentic Lebanese flavors. Vegan-friendly options and house-made dips make meals wholesome and fresh. Clean, simple space offers quick bites with free samples of sauces and juices.

Falafel offers a rich, herby flavor true to Middle Eastern street food. The menu features authentic Lebanese vegetarian food with falafels that taste genuine and satisfying.

People are saying

"The falafel here is perfectly crispy outside and fluffy inside."

"I found the healthy foods here to be incredibly fresh and delicious."

"I found the falafel to be authentic, crispy, and fluffy."

Good to know

1

The menu includes falafel wraps, dips like hummus, and freshly prepared juices.

2

Everything on the menu is prepared fresh daily in-house.

3

The restaurant is primarily a take-out spot with limited seating inside.

09
El Trigo Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot offers authentic Pozole with rich meat and hominy. Cozy vibe feels like a family kitchen with homemade tortillas. Funky decor and jukebox music add to the charming atmosphere.

Small neighborhood spot serves authentic Mexican food with a cozy vibe. Dishes like Pozole with plenty of meat and hominy highlight the genuine flavors.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is great, and the staff is super friendly."

"The burritos here are enormous and really, really good."

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

Good to know

1

There is no dedicated parking lot, but plenty of street parking is available nearby.

2

The restaurant is wheelchair accessible for those with mobility needs.

3

Prices are very reasonable for the quality of food offered.

10
Filet Yummy image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Chicken cooks fresh in front of customers, creating an engaging vibe. Enjoy crispy, juicy chicken with authentic Vietnamese flavors served in a clean, minimalist space with a few bar stools. Perfect for quick, flavorful meals that stay true to tradition.

Flavors stay authentic and perfectly balanced with a generous serving size. The food reflects true Vietnamese taste.

People are saying

"The owners are so nice, they make you feel like family."

"The seafood here is packed with flavor, especially the shrimp."

"The flavors were authentic and perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

Everything is made to order, ensuring fresh meals every time.

2

Expect generous portions; the restaurant does not serve small pieces of chicken.

3

The prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

11
Espumita Cuban Coffee image 1

Spacious coffee shop boasts authentic Cuban décor with a classic car couch and Havana mural. Cozy vibe enhanced by Cuban music and social games like dominos. Espresso offers genuine Cubano flavor, making it a perfect spot for relaxed, cultural enjoyment.

Espresso here delivers authentic Cuban flavor with carefully made Cubano coffee. The space feels cozy and genuine, filled with music and Cuban art that enhance the experience.

People are saying

"The Cuban coffee here is so rich, deep, and flavorful."

"I thought the guava cheese pastry was to die for."

"I found the Cuban coffee to be authentic and handmade with care."

Good to know

1

Prices for drinks range from $3 to $6, with pastries available for $2.

2

They accept credit cards and mobile payments, but cash is preferred for small purchases.

3

Parking is limited; consider arriving early or using street parking.

12
HK BBQ HOUSE image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small spot serves authentic Cantonese dishes with fresh ingredients and excellent roast meats like duck and BBQ pork. Lively crowd creates a bustling atmosphere during lunch and dinner. Prices stay unbeatable for quality and true Hong Kong flavors.

Authentic Cantonese and Hong Kong style dishes stand out here with fresh ingredients and traditional flavors. The roast duck, char siu, and lemon tea capture genuine tastes from the region.

People are saying

"The roast duck here is succulent and delicious."

"The wonton noodle soup broth was super flavorful."

"I found the Chinese BBQ here to be authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

HK BBQ HOUSE is closed on Wednesdays.

2

The parking situation allows for 90 minutes of free parking before charging.

3

The restaurant can be busy, especially during lunch and dinner.

13
Changan Kitchen image 1
Restaurant

Spacious spot offers authentic Shaanxi flavors with hand-pulled noodles and bold spices. Cozy lighting and quirky pet figurines create a modern-casual vibe. Generous portions and diverse menu keep locals coming back.

Strong local praise highlights authentic flavors and generous portions. Dishes like Xi'an oil-splashed noodles and hand-pulled noodles reflect Shan'xi culinary heritage accurately.

People are saying

"The beef noodle soup here has amazing, bouncy, homemade noodles."

"I found the Xi'an oil-splashed noodles to be very authentic."

"I thought the fried rice here was surprisingly great."

Good to know

1

Parking in University Village is free and unrestricted during certain times.

2

Online ordering is available via a QR code or in person.

3

The restaurant offers a point system for coupons with purchases.

14
Oaxaca de mis amores image 1
Family restaurant

Spacious family restaurant serves authentic Oaxacan cuisine with traditional flavors. Cozy atmosphere offers calm, peaceful vibes perfect for relaxed dining. Unique setting invites guests to enjoy genuine regional dishes in a warm environment.

Food features authentic Oaxacan cuisine with traditional flavors and recipes. Dishes reflect genuine regional ingredients and cooking styles.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic Oaxacan food here."

"I plan to return for the enchiladas with three different moles."

"I experienced a very peaceful and calm atmosphere here."

Good to know

1

Expect to spend around $100 for three people with small portion sizes.

2

The tamales cost $7 each, and tlayudas are priced at $22.

3

Canned sodas are priced at $4 each.

15
Vegan Vatoz Casa De’ Tacos image 1

Food truck serves bold vegan flavors with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Outdoor picnic tables and lively music create an inviting vibe. Authentic Mexican tastes shine through unique vegan tacos and burritos, making it a charming spot for plant-based eats.

Food offers incredibly authentic flavors with a strong focus on vegetarian and veganized options. The food truck adds to the charm with its adorable presentation and genuine taste.

People are saying

"You have to try their amazing vegan tacos and burritos."

"I found the vegetarian food here to be absolutely delicious."

"I found the food incredibly authentic and among the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

They offer specials throughout the week that make some items more affordable on specific days.

2

Tacos with vegan egg are excluded from the $2 taco Tuesdays offer.

3

The restaurant's hours change daily, so check before visiting.

16
Ramiro's Cocina Mexicana image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, charming spot offers authentic Mexican flavors with dishes like Café de olla. Quiet, casual vibe feels like home with friendly energy and well-chosen music. Known for spicy dishes and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Dishes deliver authentic Mexican flavors with a genuine taste. Café de olla and other traditional items highlight the true culinary roots.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic, rich, and exceptionally delicious."

"I found the steak salad fresh and flavorful."

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

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available from Monday to Friday.

2

Taco specials on Tuesday and Thursday cost $1.50 each.

3

Reservations are recommended due to a small menu that changes daily.

17
Al-Karam Pakistani Cuisine image 1
Pakistani restaurant

Open-plan space creates a calm atmosphere perfect for intimate meals. Skilled cooking shines in an open kitchen, delivering authentic Pakistani flavors rich in spices. Family-oriented vibe makes dining feel like a friendly gathering.

Dishes feature rich spices and a perfect balance of tradition and freshness. Every bite carries authentic flavor true to Pakistani cuisine.

People are saying

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

"I found the biryani here to be very flavorful and perfectly cooked."

"You have to try the mango lassi; it's sweet, creamy, and refreshing."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

2

Expect a wait for food, but it comes out hot and fresh.

3

Prices are reasonable for the high quality of food.

18
Con Madre Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers authentic flavors with homemade chips and tortillas. Vibrant decor and family-friendly atmosphere create a welcoming space. Multiple TVs and loud karaoke add lively energy, all set against an excellent beach view for a relaxed vibe.

Food features authentic Mexican flavors with homemade chips and tortillas adding a genuine touch. The interior reflects an authentic Mexican feel enhancing the overall experience.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and has amazing flavor."

"I'd return just for the perfectly seasoned, flavor-packed burritos."

"The food here is so flavorful and authentic, especially the tortillas."

Good to know

1

Karaoke night happens every Friday at 9pm.

2

Taco Tuesdays offer special pricing on tacos all day.

3

Reservations are recommended for karaoke nights due to high demand.

19
Dos Hermanas Mexican food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, cozy spot with authentic Mexican flavors and a friendly vibe. Booth seating wraps around the kitchen, creating a quaint layout. Prices stay reasonable, making it a great choice for genuine, flavorful dishes.

Food offers authentic Mexican flavors with recipes that stay true to tradition. Dishes deliver a genuine taste that stands out in the area.

People are saying

"I thought the street tacos were some of the best I've ever had."

"The Mexican food here is so flavorful, especially the shredded beef."

"I found the Mexican food here to be really authentic."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features special pricing on tacos every week.

2

Expect a clean environment with well-maintained restrooms.

3

Parking is available nearby for easy access.

20
Meat Lover BBQ and fried chicken kitchen (Greedy Cat 馋猫烤鱼) image 1

Enjoy authentic Northeastern Chinese BBQ with fresh grilled fish and flavorful skewers. Casual, homely vibe makes it perfect for groups. Large portions and good prices add to the fun and relaxed atmosphere.

Authentic Northeastern Chinese BBQ, kebabs, and dumplings stand out here. The menu features grilled fish, hot pot, and a variety of boxed lunches that deliver genuine flavors.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is so authentic, it feels like you're in China."

"I found the grilled fish here to be very fresh and flavorful."

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

Good to know

1

The restaurant does not serve alcohol.

2

Portions are large relative to the price.

3

Parking is available at the back of the restaurant.

21
Tacos La Piedad - Birria Y Mucho Mas image 1

Mexican restaurant serves authentic tacos with large portions in a clean, organized space. Enjoy flavorful birria and carne asada while listening to great hits from the past. A small salsa bar adds variety and enhances the genuine Mexican flavors.

Tacos and enchiladas have a homemade quality with comforting, flavorful tastes. The food feels authentic and not commercial, highlighting genuine Mexican flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic and tastes homemade."

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is so good and fresh."

"The tacos here are authentic, with perfectly seasoned and juicy meat."

Good to know

1

The price point is great for the quality of food.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of salsas and drinks.

3

Expect generous portions; they do not skimp on the meat.

22
Yafa Mediterranean Cuisine image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Tiny space with intimate seating offers a cozy, retro vibe and genuine hospitality. Handmade authentic pita bread and fresh dishes bring true Middle Eastern Mediterranean flavors. Veggie bar adds a distinctive touch to the peaceful, clean setting.

Food features handmade authentic pita bread and dishes that are consistently fresh and delicious. The menu offers Middle Eastern Mediterranean flavors that stay true to traditional recipes.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food here is fresh, flavorful, and generously portioned."

"The falafel here is perfectly crisp outside and tender inside."

"The food here is so flavorful and fresh, truly authentic."

Good to know

1

Yafa Mediterranean Cuisine has no parking in front of the restaurant.

2

Yafa Mediterranean Cuisine is a HALAL restaurant.

3

The price was only $5 and some change.

23
Birrieria Little Tijuana image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small hole-in-the-wall spot serves juicy birria tacos with authentic Mexican flavors. Cozy vibe with stylish decor and lively music makes it a popular choice for quick, tasty meals.

Juicy, tender meat defines the authentic birria here, cooked with passion and dedication to true Mexican flavors. Dishes like quesobirria and tacos dorados burst with rich, fresh taste.

People are saying

"This Mexican food is the best birria I've ever tasted."

"I loved the flavorful, non-greasy birria ramen."

"I found the birria meat to be authentic, juicy, and tender."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers special pricing on birria tacos.

2

Expect long lines during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

The restaurant specializes in birria tacos only, with a limited menu.

24
Saet Byul Asian Market image 1
Korean grocery store

Small Korean grocery offers fresh kimchi and homemade kimbap with a chill, community vibe. Customers share cooking tips, making it a genuine Korean experience. Unique ingredients here are hard to find elsewhere locally.

Fresh, authentic kimbap stands out here. Korean clients share tips on making flavorful traditional dishes. The market offers a genuine Korean experience.

People are saying

"Their homemade kimchi and gimbap taste just like the restaurants."

"I loved the fresh and authentic kimbap from this grocery store."

"I found the kimbap and chap-chae noodles to be so fresh and authentic."

Good to know

1

Saet Byul Asian Market offers a wide selection of Korean snacks and Ramen.

2

The store has many Korean-specific ingredients not found in other Asian markets.

3

Parking is available in the back of the store.

25
Morena's Mexican Cuisine image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers authentic flavors with bold seasoning and fresh ingredients. Open, welcoming atmosphere creates a family-friendly vibe with clean, well-lit seating. Great music adds a charming touch beyond the casual strip mall setting.

Food features authentic Mexican flavors with bold seasoning and fresh ingredients. Dishes like Chile Rianos showcase genuine taste and quality.

People are saying

"The food here is rich, flavorful, and authentic."

"The food here is fresh, high quality, and amazing for date spots."

"I found the food to be authentic Mexican cuisine with bold flavors."

Good to know

1

Daily specials are available, offering a variety of dishes at reduced prices.

2

Happy hour menu features discounted items, typically available from 4-6pm.

3

Expect longer wait times during busy weekend dinner hours.

26
Hecho Al Carbon image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space fills with sizzling meats and wood charcoal aroma. Tacos offer authentic Mexican street-style flavors, especially the ribeye. Casual vibe with good music and a lively salsa bar creates a friendly, clean atmosphere.

Tacos here deliver authentic Mexican street-style flavors with simple, classic recipes. Ribeye tacos stand out for their exceptional flavor and genuine taste.

People are saying

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

"The Mexican food, especially the surf and turf burritos, is the best I've ever had."

"I found the Mexican food here to be so authentic and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times on weekends due to limited seating.

2

Taco Tuesday offers $2 tacos, a great deal for visitors.

3

The restaurant charges a 3.2% convenience fee for debit card transactions.

27
Georgie's Mediterranean Cuisine image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Small indoor space has lively vibe with background music and friendly chatter. Outdoor patio offers a water fountain and pleasant atmosphere. Menu serves authentic Mediterranean dishes like steak shawarma with perfect portions.

Authentic Mediterranean flavor shines in dishes like steak shawarma. Portions are perfect and the menu features regional dishes that stay true to tradition.

People are saying

"I thought the Mediterranean food was excellent and really good."

"The outdoor seating is great, with generous portions of flavorful beef."

"I found the Mediterranean food here to be seriously authentic."

Good to know

1

Expect limited seating, especially during dinner on weekdays.

2

Parking is ample in the Canyon Crest Towne Centre shopping center.

3

The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating options.

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