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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in South El Monte

Food spots

A meal that feels like a discovery, not just another predictable option in a sea of identical storefronts.

Based on 776 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Fuego Restaurant (Peruvian Fusion) image 1
Fuego Restaurant (Peruvian Fusion) image 2
Fuego Restaurant (Peruvian Fusion) image 3
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Hole-in-the-wall spot offers juicy, tender meats with fresh, authentic Peruvian flavors. Signature dishes like wings and lomo saltado shine with unique sauces. Loud music creates a lively atmosphere that can challenge conversation but adds energy.

Food features freshness and great quality with a focus on Peruvian flavors. Dishes come across as consistently delicious and authentic.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and well prepared."

"The shrimp on the honey chicken fries were juicy and flavorful."

"The food here is truly delicious and of high quality."

Good to know

1

Phone ordering is recommended if you have a limited lunch.

2

There is a parking lot available for customers.

3

They accept card payments, making transactions easy.

02
Los Chilitos Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy spot with authentic Mexican dishes like birria tacos and chilaquiles offers generous portions and a warm vibe. Casual décor and sports on TV create a lively, inviting space perfect for groups. Cafe de olla adds a genuine touch to the meal.

Food features great flavor and generous portions with authentic Mexican dishes. The cafe de olla adds to the genuine dining experience.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and spot on."

"Their mole chilaquiles are the best Mexican food I've ever had."

"I found their cafe de olla super delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait during peak lunch and breakfast times.

2

Parking is available in a small lot, but it can be tricky to navigate.

3

Prices are reasonable, with generous portions for the cost.

03
My Hanh Restaurant image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Spacious interior with a relaxed tone welcomes guests. Authentic Vietnamese dishes shine, especially the delicious vegan options. Cash-only policy and free drinks add value, while ample parking makes visits easy.

Authentic Vietnamese cuisine arrives quickly and tastes very good. Vegan options stand out as delicious, making the food the highlight despite a less modern interior.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious and flavorful."

"The authentic Vietnamese food here tastes like home cooking."

"The Pho broth here is incredibly flavorful."

Good to know

1

My Hanh Restaurant accepts cash only.

2

The menu is vegan and vegetarian-friendly.

3

The portion sizes are generous.

04
WaBa Grill image 1
Asian fusion restaurant

Asian fusion spot serves fresh dumplings and shrimp tacos fast. Clean space with bilingual staff and kiosk payment makes ordering easy. Affordable meals include plant-based dishes and rice bowls with beef or chicken.

Food comes out fast and tastes consistently fresh. Quality stays high with great flavor and fresh ingredients every time.

People are saying

"I thought the food tasted fresh and great."

Good to know

1

WaBa Grill has a $5.00 menu that includes rice and beef, as well as rice and chicken.

2

WaBa Grill now offers plant-based options.

3

The staff uses a kiosk for card payments.

05
Progress Brewing image 1

Open-air brewery offers a dog-friendly space with Dodgers-themed decor and a jukebox. Food trucks serve burgers and chicken tenders alongside varied options. Sports on TV and games like pinball create a chill, relaxed vibe for locals.

Food trucks like Yummy Bird and Bawking Chicken operate on site most days. A vendor offers burgers and chicken tenders alongside other items.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the tasty beer and the great IPA selection."

"It's a chill spot with a great, relaxing atmosphere."

"I enjoyed the good selection of craft brews here."

Good to know

1

Street parking is available near the brewery.

2

A food vendor offers burgers and chicken tenders on site.

3

You can sample beer selections for $2-$3 each.

06
Super Pizza Veloz image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small spot with no dining, perfect for takeout and party-sized orders. Pizza shines with fresh toppings and a crunchy crust. Prices stay low, making it great for families and groups. Parking often fills up, but the clean, professional vibe keeps customers coming back.

Food offers great taste and delicious quality at a very good price. No space exists for dining in.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was amazing and flavorful."

"The pizza here is the best party for your taste buds."

"I thought the food tasted great and was really flavorful."

Good to know

1

Family packs and extra-large pizzas are available at reasonable rates.

2

Wings are on the expensive side.

3

They open at 10:00 a.m., but ovens are ready around 10:30 a.m.

07
Lolita's Fast Food image 1
Fast food restaurant

Fast food spot inside a gas station serves authentic Mexican breakfast burritos and large carnitas tortas. Takeout only with no seating, but the atmosphere stays quiet and comfortable. Many call ahead to skip long waits.

Food here is authentic Mexican, made fresh to order with perfect seasoning and hygiene. The carnitas tortas and party subs stand out for their size and flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and perfectly spiced."

"You have to try their massive, flavorful tortas; it's the best Mexican food."

"I thought this gas station had the best tortas and tacos."

Good to know

1

Lolita's Fast Food is only available for pick-up orders.

2

Call ahead to avoid long wait times, especially on weekends.

3

There is no seating available as the place is located inside a gas station.

08
Taco Nazo image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican food shines with best fish tacos and attentive service. Indoor seating offers a lively vibe with loud music, while outdoor tables provide a chill atmosphere. Drive-thru and phone orders add convenience, though prices lean higher.

Mexican food here is consistently delicious and excellent. Service is attentive, with staff bringing food directly to the table.

People are saying

"I thought the fish tacos were the best I've ever had."

"I found the salsa to be so delicious and fresh."

"The tacos here are delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Each taco costs about $4 and is larger than a street taco.

2

Parking can be difficult during busy times.

3

Taco Nazo has a drive-thru for convenient takeout.

09
Sam‘s Chinese Barbecue image 1
Chinese restaurant

Unassuming spot serves authentic Cantonese barbecue with standout crispy roast duck and flavorful char siu. Casual, clean setting draws steady takeout crowd. Prices stay fair, matching quality and consistent flavors.

Local Cantonese food offers authentic taste matching what you find in China. Prices stay great while the barbecue stands out as a highlight.

People are saying

"The Chinese food's roast duck was next level, crispy and juicy."

"The BBQ pork here is sweeter than I was used to."

"The food here is good, especially the barbecue."

Good to know

1

Prices are fair for the quality of food offered.

2

The restaurant maintains a clean environment.

3

Expect a good amount of foot traffic, mainly for takeout.

10
Rio's Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Pizza spot buzzes with family-style seating and arcade games for kids. Food offers great value with hearty portions. Fans enjoy large TVs showing games, creating a lively, intense vibe.

Food offers good value with portions that match the price. Staff focus on delivering quality dishes that pair well with the casual ambiance suited for dining or watching sports.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza was gourmet-style and really tasty."

"The pizza here is excellent, with fresh dough and quality ingredients."

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Payment must be made in advance for phone orders.

2

A large pizza with one topping costs $20.99 plus tax.

3

Expect limited seating, especially during peak hours.

11
Phở Hai Restaurant image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Vietnamese spot serves fresh pho with a rich broth and large portions. Enjoy authentic dishes in a clean, calm space with comfortable seating and plenty of parking. Playful touches like a toy capsule machine add charm.

Food here is authentic and tasty with fantastic quality. The restaurant stays clean and serves Vietnamese dishes that satisfy.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here is so flavorful and satisfying."

"There was plenty of parking available."

"The Vietnamese food here is flavorful, authentic, and deeply satisfying."

Good to know

1

There was plenty of parking available, making access easy.

2

Pho Hai has secret menu items, including beef bone with marrow, available after 2 pm.

3

The bowls are enormous, enough to feed two people.

12
Tacos El Chaparrito image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot offers authentic flavors with a clean, casual vibe. Enjoy street tacos and huaraches inside or on the patio. A late-night taco truck adds lively variety and fresh prep views.

Food shows consistently high quality with authentic Mexican flavors. The truck stays very clean, letting you see cooks prep fresh dishes.

People are saying

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

"These tacos were absolutely delicious."

"I love the pastor tacos from the food trucks here."

Good to know

1

The prices at Tacos El Chaparrito are affordable.

2

Grilled onions are provided with no extra charge.

3

The truck is very clean and visible to see the cooks prepping my food.

13
Ruby B.B.Q. Food image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue spot serves crispy roast pork belly with tender meat and crunchy skin in a clean dining space. Food is authentic Chinese style, quick, and reasonably priced. Atmosphere stays comfortable and quiet with a cash-only policy.

Food comes out quickly and tastes authentic with a comforting Chinese style. Dishes are reasonably priced and not too salty, making for a satisfying meal.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here has the crispiest roast pork belly."

"The BBQ pork here is so crispy and juicy."

"The roast pork food here has the crispiest skin I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Ruby B.B.Q. Food only accepts cash payments.

2

Parking is somewhat limited but decent in the lot.

3

The roast pig costs $21.99 per pound.

14
Armando's Mexican Restaurant image 1

Bright, festive decor and soft Spanish music create a cozy vibe. Handmade tortillas and fresh fish ceviche showcase authentic Mexican flavors served hot and flavorful. Mango and limon margaritas made from scratch add a refreshing touch to this family-owned spot.

Food features authentic Mexican flavors with consistent great taste and plenty of flavor. Plates arrive hot and well served, keeping food warm throughout the meal.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was really delicious and flavorful."

"This Mexican food's mole flavor brought me back to my grandmother."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Saturday night, starting at 9pm.

2

Handmade corn tortillas are available on weekends.

3

Expect a $5.89 surcharge for debit or credit card payments.

15
Bao Kee Cafe寶記 image 1
Cantonese restaurant

Cozy spot with authentic Taishan cuisine serves large, affordable portions in a family-run setting. Enjoy spicy Jalapeno pork belly and other fresh Cantonese dishes. The quiet, unpretentious vibe makes it perfect for genuine regional flavors.

Food here is authentic Taishan cuisine with a home style feel. The menu includes fresh, affordable Cantonese dishes like spicy Jalapeno pork belly.

People are saying

"The food here tastes so authentic, like real Cantonese."

"The Cantonese Chinese food here is spot-on authentic."

"The food here tastes so authentic, like home-style Cantonese."

Good to know

1

There is a free small parking lot on the side and street parking available.

2

It's best to call ahead to make a reservation or be prepared to wait during peak hours.

3

For groups of more than 4, they had set meals starting at $50 with good prices.

16
Krudos Sushi & Modern Kitchen image 1

Cozy sushi counter seats six, blending Japanese-Mexican fusion flavors with fresh, quick dishes. Drinks often steal the show with bold tastes. Atmosphere shifts from modern and relaxing to loud club beats, mixing fun and energy.

Food comes out fresh and quickly, blending sushi and Mexican flavors in a fun way. Drinks often stand out even more than the food.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and delicious, especially the sushi."

"The Mexican food, especially the chilaquiles, was beyond delicious."

"I thought the food here was delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on the lot and street.

2

It is wheelchair accessible for guests.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is recommended.

17
TACOS LOS 3 POTRILLOS image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers authentic flavors with large portions served fast. Lively vibe with salsa bar and TVs keeps guests entertained. Clean space and quick service make it a favorite for varied meat dishes and taco deals.

Food here offers authentic Mexican flavors with a good variety of dishes. Meals come with large portions and are served quickly, often within 10 to 15 minutes.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is amazing and the tacos are really good."

"The al pastor meat here is one of the best I've ever had."

"The food here is delicious and really great tasting."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers $1 pastor tacos with a buy-one-get-one free deal.

2

Expect your food to be ready in 10 to 15 minutes.

3

There is plenty of parking available.

18
Taqueria Periban Inc. image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor Mexican spot shines with authentic carnitas and Chicken Fideo soup as a unique starter. Live music adds a lively atmosphere that can get loud. Friendly crowd enjoys ample seating and tasty micheladas.

Mexican food here is flavorful and high quality, with carnitas standing out. Chicken Fideo soup arrives as a snack while waiting, replacing the usual chips and salsa.

People are saying

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

"I found the carnitas here to be flavorful and super moist."

"The carnitas here are delicious and savory."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tight, so arrive early to find a spot.

2

The restaurant has outdoor seating under a tent.

3

Live bands perform on certain days, check the schedule.

19
Burger Zone image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Spacious hamburger spot offers pastrami burger and classic Mexican breakfast with quick, top-quality food. Enjoy large seasoned fries in a clean, old-style setting with drive-thru service and historical decor.

Food comes out quickly and stays consistently top-quality. The pastrami burger with fries stands out as a tasty option, with prices ranging from affordable to a bit expensive.

People are saying

"You've gotta try their breakfast burritos, they're so good and filling."

"I loved the hamburger special; it was the bomb."

"I loved the food here; it was delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers hamburger combos at a discounted price.

2

They have a summer special: 2 hamburgers, 2 fries, and 2 drinks for $15.99.

3

Bring your student ID for a hamburger discount special.

20
Kim Kee Noodle House image 1
Chinese noodle restaurant

Old-fashioned Hong Kong-style tea restaurant offers traditional Teochew dishes with noodles cooked to perfection. Food arrives fast and steaming, served in generous portions with fresh garlic and fried shallots. Parking is easy on the street or plaza, but payment is cash only.

Food arrives fast and steaming. Traditional Teochew Chinese dishes offer a tasty and delicious experience, though some find the flavor mild.

People are saying

"The noodle soup here is quick and delicious."

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

"There's plenty of parking available, either in the plaza or on the street."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available in the plaza or on the street.

2

Bring cash to pay at Kim Kee Noodle House.

3

Bean sprouts are complimentary.

21
Ajos Y Cebollas Mexican image 1

Cozy, family-run spot offers authentic Mexican dishes with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Friendly staff create a welcoming atmosphere in a clean dining room. Simple decor fits the old strip mall setting but does not distract from the great food.

Food here is consistently fresh and authentic, made with care. The dining room stays very clean, adding to the overall experience.

People are saying

"This Mexican food is authentic and reminds me of home-cooked meals."

"It's a family-run spot; the dad cooks the enchiladas."

"The food here is authentic and delicious, just like home."

Good to know

1

Call ahead to place your order to avoid long wait times.

2

Expect slow service as everything is made fresh.

3

Prices are high, with meals averaging around $60 for two people.

22
Tasty Choice To Eat image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Offers fresh fries and delicious tacos in a clean setting with low music for easy conversation. Food arrives super fast and tastes great, featuring a variety of Hong Kong style dishes. Service slows during peak hours but prices remain fair.

Food comes out super fast and tastes very delicious with a good variety of Hong Kong style dishes. The quality stands out compared to typical fast food options.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was delicious and worth every bite."

"I thought the home-style burgers here were really good."

Good to know

1

Prices at Tasty Choice To Eat have increased significantly since 2020.

2

Menu prices are not displayed, making it hard to know costs upfront.

3

Expect longer wait times during peak hours; visit during non-rush hours.

23
Señor Alberto image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant serves early breakfast with spicy salsa and generous portions at low prices. Casual vibe with some maintenance ongoing. Food is fresh, fast, and filling, but meat quality varies so order carefully.

Mexican dishes come out hot and fresh, with combos like chicken enchiladas served alongside rice and beans that fill more than typical fast food. Food arrives quickly, tastes reliable and tasty, and costs less than many other options.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be really tasty and quick."

"I loved the Mexican food here; it's full of flavor."

"I found the fish taco very good."

Good to know

1

Breakfast is served early, making it a good option for morning meals.

2

Burritos are priced at $7.99, offering a filling option for a low cost.

3

The amount of food per order is generous, suitable for hungry diners.

24
Carl's Jr. image 1
Fast food restaurant

Fast food spot serves fresh burgers and hot coffee with a clean interior and plentiful seating. Big windows brighten the space, making it feel welcoming despite a busy drive-thru. Menu stays varied and tasty even late at night.

Food comes out fresh and tasty, showing good quality compared to other spots. Hot coffee and the nice big windows add to the experience while the menu keeps the options flowing even late at night.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was really good."

"This lunch spot is great for a quick bite."

"The burgers here are served by extremely friendly staff."

Good to know

1

The restroom and seating area are clean and well-maintained.

2

Expect a 20-minute wait during busy hours.

3

You can use multiple coupons, even expired ones.

25
Whittier Narrows Recreation Area image 1

Huge park offers man-made lakes and extensive trails for outdoor fun. Food court near kids' swings serves excellent meals and a s'mores station delights visitors. Picnic spots and playgrounds create a family-friendly vibe perfect for all ages.

Excellent food quality stands out with a s'mores station and a food court offering variety. Plenty of options sit near the kids' swing area for easy access.

People are saying

"It's a peaceful picnic spot with lots of nature and wildlife."

"It's a wonderful, kid-friendly park with plenty of room to play."

"You can find lots of food options near the swings for the kids."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $7 on weekends and $10 on weekdays.

2

Bring cash for the entrance fee; credit cards may not be accepted.

3

The park is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

26
Mr. Baguette image 1
Sandwich shop

Vietnamese-style sandwiches shine with fresh, crispy baguettes and spicy jalapeños. Menu offers vegan and vegetarian options at affordable prices. Atmosphere feels calm but run down, with plenty of seating but limited parking and cleanliness issues.

Food stays consistent and generally good despite a shift to cheap quality ingredients. The dining area lacks cleanliness, which affects the overall experience.

People are saying

"The baguettes here are so fresh and crispy."

"I found the homestyle and Vietnamese style sandwiches amazing."

"The food here is so fresh and crispy."

Good to know

1

Parking is available but limited.

2

The dining area is not very clean.

3

The restaurant has earned an A grade for food safety.

27
El Mercadito Del Pueblo image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot serves fresh menudo and generous tacos with bold flavors. Casual vibe and affordable prices make it a great pick. Crunchy chicharrones add a unique touch to the tasty menu.

Food offers good service and is generally tasty and delicious.

People are saying

"I found the menudo to be the best Mexican food I have ever had."

"I found the tacos to be full of flavor and meat."

"The food here is delicious and really tasty."

Good to know

1

Expect prices to be affordable, making it budget-friendly for visitors.

2

Bring cash as some vendors may not accept credit cards.

3

The market is usually busiest on weekends, so plan accordingly.

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South El Monte, California

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