[dropcap size=big]T[/dropcap]here are some pretty damn good places to eat in the San Gabriel Valley that can make you feel that you’re not in Los Angeles, if even for a brief moment. Some of which are still there and some that are now gone. Beyond the endless options of regional Chinese cuisine, there are legacy restaurants that tell the story of the cultural shift L.A.’s eastward suburban community has endured. Places like Petrillo's Pizza, Claro’s Italian Market, B-Mans Teriyaki, Chanos, and The Hat, just to name a few that have survived the test of time.
If you’re not from the S.G.V. or didn’t grow up eating there regularly with your family, it can all be intimidating. Where does one start? Not knowing what or how to order, Yelp only goes so far in helping you. This list is by no means a “Top 10” list of places; it’s here to help guide you by sharing L.A.Taco-approved spots and dishes that can act as a gateway to help you dive even deeper into the neighborhood gems that the San Gabriel Valley has to offer.
Remember, part of eating in the S.G.V. as an outsider is to use your senses and order what looks good on a menu or what the staff recommends. Part of the thrill of eating and trying new places here is to order it and see what is on the other side of the Styrofoam container.
Delicious Food Corner - Hong Kong-Style Cafe, Chinese
You’re coming here for a traditional Hong Kong-style breakfast, and you won’t miss it, because there are usually long lines waiting outside. There are so many items I’ve eaten here that are delicious, but for your first time, you want to start with a few classics. The Hong Kong-Style Egg sandwich is a must, a nice scrambled egg between crustless soft white bread with your meat choice. I recommend Spam. You also want to try the cheung fun or (steamed rice noodles) stuffed with pork or a Chinese donut, and ask for it to get it topped with the peanut sauce. You’ll want to finish off with their fresh warm Pineapple Bun, which is almost like a concha. Except here, that concha is served with a hearty amount of butter to spread around.