West Covina. Just the name conjures images of sunny California days, bustling shopping centers, and a community brimming with life. But beyond the palm trees and suburban charm lies a culinary landscape that’s as diverse and exciting as the people who call West Covina home. From steaming bowls of ramen to sizzling Korean barbecue, from authentic Mexican tacos to comforting American burgers, this city is a haven for food lovers. Forget the generic chain restaurants; West Covina is where you discover hidden gems and savor unforgettable flavors. Prepare your taste buds for an adventure as we embark on a journey through some of the very best restaurants that West Covina has to offer, catering to every imaginable palate and budget. If you are looking for the best food West Covina has to offer, look no further!
Asian Cuisine Delights
Dim Sum Heaven
Dim sum, those delightful bite-sized morsels of Cantonese cuisine, are a culinary art form, and West Covina boasts a dim sum restaurant that truly elevates the experience. The restaurant provides cart service that includes classics like har gow (shrimp dumplings), siu mai (pork dumplings), and char siu bao (barbecue pork buns), all steamed to perfection and bursting with flavor. The lively atmosphere adds to the experience, making it a perfect spot for a family brunch or a gathering with friends. The restaurant is called “Lunasia Dim Sum House.” The bright and airy dining room hums with the energy of families sharing plates and the clatter of carts laden with bamboo steamers. The menu is extensive, but the must-try items include the crispy shrimp rolls, the delicate scallop dumplings, and the surprisingly addictive chicken feet (for the adventurous). Prices are reasonable, making it an accessible indulgence for any occasion. The key to a great dim sum experience is freshness, and Lunasia Dim Sum House delivers on this front, ensuring that every bite is a burst of authentic flavor.
Ramen Adventures
Ramen, the soul-soothing Japanese noodle soup, has taken the world by storm, and West Covina is home to a ramen shop that serves up bowls of pure comfort and culinary artistry. Nestled in a small strip mall, “Tatsu Ramen” offers a modern and minimalist setting, creating a calm and focused environment for enjoying a steaming bowl of ramen. What sets Tatsu apart is their meticulous attention to detail, from the slow-cooked broth to the perfectly textured noodles. Their signature “Soul Ramen” features a rich and creamy tonkotsu broth, tender chashu pork, a perfectly soft-boiled egg, and a variety of toppings that create a symphony of flavors and textures. Prices are moderate, reflecting the quality and care that goes into each bowl. Whether you’re a ramen novice or a seasoned connoisseur, Tatsu Ramen is a must-visit for anyone seeking a truly authentic and satisfying ramen experience in West Covina. Many would say that this location has some of the best food West Covina has to offer!
Korean BBQ Feast
Korean barbecue is more than just a meal; it’s an interactive and communal dining experience, and West Covina offers a Korean BBQ restaurant that’s perfect for a celebratory feast with friends and family. Stepping into “Road to Seoul” is like entering a different world, the air thick with the aroma of grilling meats and the sounds of laughter and conversation. Each table is equipped with its own grill, allowing you to cook your own selection of marinated meats, from thinly sliced bulgogi (marinated beef) to spicy pork belly. The restaurant offers a wide variety of banchan (side dishes), from kimchi and pickled vegetables to savory pancakes and glass noodles. Road to Seoul Korean BBQ will have you thinking about best food West Covina has to offer. The quality of the meat is top-notch, and the experience of grilling your own food is both fun and engaging. Prices are moderate to high, depending on your choice of meats and drinks, but the generous portions and the overall experience make it well worth the splurge.
Mexican Food Fiesta
Taco Truck Treasures
No exploration of West Covina’s food scene would be complete without a visit to one of the city’s many taco trucks. These mobile kitchens are the unsung heroes of the culinary world, serving up authentic and affordable Mexican street food. There’s one in particular that draws a large crowd, “Tacos Don Cuco,” a bright orange food truck parked on Sunset Avenue, is a local favorite, known for its flavorful carne asada tacos. The simple menu focuses on classic taco fillings, like carne asada, al pastor, and carnitas. The tacos are served on warm corn tortillas with chopped onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. The prices are incredibly affordable, making it a perfect option for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner. The secret to their success lies in the quality of the ingredients and the skill of the taqueros, who grill the meat to perfection and assemble each taco with care. The best food West Covina may be in the back of a truck. Tacos Don Cuco offers a glimpse into the heart and soul of Mexican cuisine.
Authentic Mexican Restaurant
For a more formal Mexican dining experience, “Casa Orozco Mexican Restaurant” is a West Covina institution, serving up traditional dishes in a warm and inviting setting. The restaurant is decorated with colorful artwork and traditional Mexican crafts, creating a festive and authentic atmosphere. The menu features a wide range of classic Mexican dishes, from enchiladas and tamales to mole and chile rellenos. The portions are generous, and the flavors are bold and authentic. The must-try dishes include the mole poblano, a rich and complex sauce made with chocolate and spices, and the camarones a la diabla, spicy shrimp cooked in a fiery red sauce. Prices are moderate, and the restaurant is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. Casa Orozco Mexican Restaurant is a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional Mexican cuisine, offering a taste of Mexico in the heart of West Covina.
American Comfort Food & Casual Dining
Burger Bliss
Sometimes, all you crave is a classic American burger, and “The Habit Burger Grill” in West Covina delivers on all fronts, serving up juicy and flavorful burgers in a casual and friendly setting. The Habit Burger Grill is a West Coast institution, and their West Covina location is no exception, offering a consistent and high-quality burger experience. The menu features a variety of burger options, from the classic Charburger to the Santa Barbara Style Charburger, topped with avocado and cheese on grilled sourdough bread. The burgers are cooked to order and served on toasted buns with fresh toppings. The prices are reasonable, and the restaurant is perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner. The Habit Burger Grill has been a West Covina Staple for a long time. You can always count on the best food West Covina has to offer here!
Pizza Perfection
Pizza, a universal symbol of comfort and indulgence, finds its perfect expression at “Pieology Pizzeria” in West Covina, where creativity and customization reign supreme. Pieology Pizzeria offers a unique build-your-own pizza experience, allowing you to create your perfect pie from a vast selection of crusts, sauces, cheeses, toppings, and finishes. From classic margherita to adventurous combinations, the possibilities are endless. The pizzas are cooked in a high-temperature oven, resulting in a crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese. The prices are affordable, and the restaurant is perfect for a quick and customizable pizza experience. Whether you’re a pizza purist or an adventurous foodie, Pieology Pizzeria is a must-visit for anyone seeking pizza perfection in West Covina.
Sweet Treats & Dessert Spots
Ice Cream Indulgence
What better way to cool off on a warm California day than with a scoop of delicious ice cream? “Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream” in West Covina offers a wide variety of unique and decadent ice cream flavors, made fresh daily. Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream is a local favorite, known for its creamy texture and inventive flavors. The menu features a rotating selection of flavors, from classic vanilla and chocolate to more adventurous options like salty caramel pretzel and graham central station. The ice cream is served in cones, cups, or sundaes, and the portions are generous. Prices are moderate, and the ice cream shop is perfect for a sweet treat after a meal or a refreshing dessert on a hot day. Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream is a testament to the enduring appeal of homemade ice cream, offering a taste of nostalgia and pure indulgence.
Pastry Paradise
For a sweet ending to your culinary journey, “Cream Pan Bakery” in West Covina offers a delectable selection of pastries, cakes, and other sweet treats. The restaurant is known for it’s Strawberry Croissant. A popular choice for locals and tourist alike. Cream Pan Bakery offers an array of delights, from delicate fruit tarts to decadent chocolate cakes. The pastries are made with high-quality ingredients and are beautifully presented. Prices are moderate, and the bakery is perfect for a special occasion or a simple indulgence. Whether you’re craving a buttery croissant, a slice of cake, or a box of cookies, Cream Pan Bakery is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth in West Covina.
Hidden Gems & Local Favorites
Undiscovered Culinary Treasures
Beyond the well-known restaurants and popular chains, West Covina is also home to a number of hidden culinary gems, waiting to be discovered. One such gem is “Saigon Restaurant,” a small Vietnamese restaurant tucked away in a strip mall, serving up authentic and flavorful Vietnamese cuisine. Saigon Restaurant is a family-owned business, and their passion for food is evident in every dish. The menu features a wide range of Vietnamese classics, from pho and banh mi to spring rolls and vermicelli bowls. The prices are affordable, and the portions are generous. The best way to find these hidden gems is by talking to locals, exploring side streets, and reading online reviews. Don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path and discover your own culinary treasures in West Covina. Some would say this establishment has the best food West Covina has to offer.
Conclusion
West Covina’s food scene is a vibrant and dynamic tapestry, woven with threads of diverse cultures and culinary traditions. From the sizzling flavors of Korean barbecue to the comforting warmth of a bowl of ramen, from the authentic taste of Mexican street food to the sweet indulgence of homemade ice cream, this city offers something for every palate and budget. So, the next time you find yourself in West Covina, be sure to explore beyond the familiar and discover the hidden gems that await. Talk to the locals and find out what they recommend. Open yourself up to new culinary experiences, and allow your taste buds to guide you on an unforgettable journey through the very best that West Covina’s food scene has to offer. You are sure to find the best food West Covina has. Bon appétit!