Best Authentic Restaurants in San Gabriel

The food is always excellent and I have been coming here for years. Best Italian food. One cannot go wrong with any restaurant owned/run by the Drago brothers but Celestino is my favorite. Have a hard time steering myself away from my favorite appetizer, calamari steak, favorite pastas of either the spinach fettuccine with wild boar sauce or the risotto with marscapone cheese and porcini mushrooms. just can’t go wrong with anything on their menu. Panna cota is my favorite dessert. I guess everyone was in town for the rose parade and the rose bowl game as the place was packed so nosier than is the norm and I have never waited for my table before but we were in no hurry so got a drink at the bar until our table was ready. Calo Drago was working and always treats us well and last night was no exception. Everyone I have taken to this restaurant raves about the food, service and comes back to this restaurant on their own.

Tucked away in the vibrant Arts District of Los Angeles, Bestia is a haven for food lovers seeking innovative flavors and impeccable execution. This dining experience is not just a meal; it’s an exploration of taste that leaves you yearning for more. Starting with the **Herb Caesar Salad**, I was immediately struck by its refreshing twist on a classic. The combination of crisp romaine and endive created a delightful crunch, while the Parmigiano Reggiano added a rich creaminess that melded beautifully with the unique squid ink breadcrumbs—adding both texture and depth to each bite. Finished off with bright lemon zest, this dish was light yet satisfying, setting a high bar for what was to come. Next up were the **Pan Roasted Chicken Gizzards**—a dish that showcases Bestia's flair for transforming humble ingredients into extraordinary culinary delights. The gizzards were cooked to perfection, tender and flavorful, sitting atop a bed of smoked cabbage that lent an earthy richness. Croutons provided an exciting crunch, while aged goat cheese introduced an intriguing tanginess; every forkful was balanced and comforting. The star of our appetizer parade was undoubtedly the **Housemade Buttermilk Ricotta**. Deconstructed yet elegantly presented, this dish felt like poetry on a plate. Aged balsamic drizzled over the creamy ricotta offered sweet acidity that harmonized perfectly with fennel pollen’s aromatic qualities. Paired with grilled bread dusted with lava salt, this appetizer transformed simple ingredients into something truly sublime. Moving on to our pasta course—the **Chestnut & Mushroom Agnolotti**—was an experience worth savoring slowly. These little square raviolis packed a savory punch that lingered beautifully on the palate. The mascarpone gave them an indulgent creaminess, while fried sage added depth—a perfect marriage of flavors reminiscent of autumnal harvests. Love in every bite.

Excellent service and great guidance regarding selection. Food was outstandingly delicious and interesting too. The cocktail offerings looked creative; I wish that I had had one! The reception was warm and friendly and unrushed. Very attractive interior design and artwork/photographs. Very enjoyable time was had by all.

The food was really good, the vibe was great and the scenery was really cute!! ✨

If you're craving authentic Japanese food, Shin-Sen-Gumi Yakitori & Men-Ya in Alhambra is a must-visit! The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with an authentic vibe that transports you straight to Japan. I started with their famous Japanese meat skewers—absolutely delicious! The yakitori was perfectly grilled, with just the right amount of char and tenderness. The flavors were spot-on, and each skewer was a delightful burst of savory goodness. Next, I had the ramen. The broth was rich and flavorful, with a great depth that comes from hours of careful preparation. The noodles were perfectly cooked, and the toppings (from soft-boiled eggs to tender slices of pork) really elevated the dish. It's easily one of the best ramen bowls I've had. To round out the meal, I enjoyed a glass of cold sake. It was smooth and refreshing, a perfect complement to the meal. Overall, everything was great. The service was friendly and attentive, and the food came out quickly without sacrificing quality. Whether you're a fan of yakitori or ramen, this place does it right. I’ll definitely be back for more!