Best Hole-in-the-wall in San Gabriel

A dim sum spot known for handmade dumplings, fresh-to-order dishes, and affordable Cantonese favorites.

Moderately priced Chinese noodle spot.

Small Chinese spot better suited for takeout and casual meals.

Chongqing Special Noodle in San Gabriel lives up to its name with a numbing, spicy sauce made from Sichuan peppercorns. The noodles soak up that spicy oil and highlight each peppercorn tingle. If you come with three people, you get a free side of saliva chicken, cold chicken in chili sauce. A must for anyone who loves serious heat.

Red Chicken in San Gabriel is known for Thai-style chicken rice, but the real surprise is their spicy Thai noodles. Prices are around $15, portions are generous, and the flavors are bold. It's a good stop if you want something simple but packed with flavor.

A hole-in-the-wall Chinese cafe in San Gabriel that's easy to say yes to — prices lower than most similar spots, a menu with a little bit of everything, and open until 2am. The beef noodle soup alone is a great, affordable version of the Taiwanese classic, but the Hainan chicken rice and popcorn chicken are just as worth ordering.

Chinese hole-in-the-wall.

Looking for incredible deals and big flavors? Auntie Kitchen in San Gabriel is the place to be. Their breakfast and lunch specials include a hearty congee bowl, Cantonese BBQ plates, and sides that keep you coming back. And yes, their pineapple bun is massive. It's perfect for anyone who loves comfort food and huge portions at a great price.

Budget-friendly Chinese cafe and lunch-special stop.