Exploring the Best Chinese BBQ in Los Angeles
Los Angeles is a city known for its diverse food scene, and when it comes to Chinese cuisine, the variety is nothing short of spectacular. One of my personal favorite types of Chinese food is BBQ, particularly the smoky, flavorful dishes that come from traditional Chinese barbecue techniques. If you're a fan of grilled meats, savory marinades, and unique flavors, you may be wondering: where can I find the best Chinese BBQ in Los Angeles? In this guide, I’ll share some of the best spots in the city to enjoy mouthwatering Chinese BBQ.
1. What Makes Chinese BBQ Different?
Before diving into the best places to try Chinese BBQ in Los Angeles, it’s essential to understand what makes it different from the typical American BBQ. Chinese BBQ is all about precision and technique. The meats are usually marinated in flavorful sauces made from ingredients like soy sauce, hoisin, five-spice powder, and honey, creating a sweet, savory, and sometimes smoky flavor. The meats are then either roasted or grilled to perfection, resulting in a crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior.
1.1 The Key Dishes to Look For
When I visit a Chinese BBQ spot, there are a few dishes I always look for. The first is “char siu,” or Cantonese-style BBQ pork. This dish is known for its distinctive red color and tender texture. Another must-try is the “Peking duck,” which is crispy, juicy, and often served with thin pancakes and hoisin sauce. You’ll also find skewers of grilled meats such as lamb, chicken, and beef, all marinated with Chinese spices and grilled to smoky perfection.
2. Top Chinese BBQ Spots in Los Angeles
Now that you have a better understanding of Chinese BBQ, let’s get to the exciting part—where to find it in Los Angeles! As a city with a large Chinese population, LA is home to some incredible Chinese BBQ restaurants that are definitely worth a visit. Here are a few of my favorites:
2.1 99 Ranch Market BBQ
Located in the heart of the San Gabriel Valley, 99 Ranch Market is not just a grocery store; it also houses a fantastic Chinese BBQ counter. I’ve visited this spot many times, and their char siu (BBQ pork) is hands down one of the best I’ve had in LA. The meat is always perfectly marinated, tender, and bursting with flavor. Plus, the prices are reasonable, making it a great option for casual dining. Don’t forget to try their roasted duck—it’s juicy, crispy, and delicious!
2.2 The Original Bay Cities Italian Deli & Bakery
Although this may seem like an odd inclusion in a list about Chinese BBQ, I’m including it for a good reason. In addition to their Italian offerings, Bay Cities also features a Chinese BBQ section where you can grab some mouthwatering char siu. Their BBQ pork sandwich is a hidden gem, and the flavors are incredibly authentic. While it may not be the first place you think of for Chinese BBQ, it’s definitely a spot worth checking out.
2.3 Mei Long Village
Mei Long Village is a well-known spot in San Gabriel for traditional Chinese BBQ. It’s one of the go-to spots for locals when they’re craving BBQ duck and crispy pork belly. The crispy skin on their duck is perfectly done, and the meat inside is tender and flavorful. The restaurant also offers a variety of other BBQ meats and sides, making it a great place to try a variety of flavors. I love how consistent their BBQ is—every visit has been a satisfying experience.
3. What to Expect at a Chinese BBQ Restaurant
If you’ve never been to a Chinese BBQ restaurant before, you might wonder what the dining experience is like. From my personal experience, dining at a Chinese BBQ joint is always a treat. These restaurants typically have a casual and bustling atmosphere, with the smell of roasting meats in the air. At many places, you can see the meats hanging in the window, slowly cooking to perfection. Once you’re seated, the waiter will typically bring over a selection of BBQ meats, accompanied by rice or noodles, and a variety of dipping sauces.
3.1 The Best Time to Visit
For the best experience, I recommend visiting Chinese BBQ spots during lunch or dinner rush hours when the meats are fresh and the restaurant is at its busiest. This way, you’ll be sure to get the most flavorful, tender cuts of meat. Also, some restaurants offer specials or combo plates during these times, making it a great value for the price.
4. Chinese BBQ Variations You Should Try
While char siu and Peking duck are staples in Chinese BBQ, I’ve found that many restaurants also offer unique variations of BBQ that are worth trying. Some of my favorite variations include:
4.1 Skewered Meats
Many Chinese BBQ restaurants offer skewers of lamb, beef, or chicken that are grilled and served with a variety of seasonings. These skewers are perfect for sharing and are often packed with smoky, savory flavors. I personally love the lamb skewers—they’re spiced just right, with a little kick that complements the meat perfectly.
4.2 BBQ Fish
If you’re a fan of seafood, you’ll want to try BBQ fish at Chinese BBQ restaurants. The fish is often marinated in a flavorful soy-based sauce before being grilled, and it’s served with a crispy exterior and moist, tender meat inside. It’s a refreshing change from the usual pork and duck offerings, and I highly recommend it for those looking to try something different.
5. How to Choose the Right Chinese BBQ Spot for You
Choosing the right Chinese BBQ restaurant can be tricky, especially in a city like Los Angeles with so many options. Based on my experiences, here are a few factors to consider when selecting a place to try:
5.1 Authenticity
Look for restaurants that serve traditional Chinese BBQ, where the meats are prepared in the traditional style. I’ve found that the best spots often have a strong focus on quality ingredients and authentic cooking methods. Check out reviews online or ask locals for recommendations to ensure you’re getting an authentic experience.
5.2 Menu Variety
If you’re new to Chinese BBQ, you’ll want to visit a restaurant that offers a wide variety of dishes. This will allow you to try different types of BBQ meats and see what you like best. A menu with a mix of BBQ pork, duck, chicken, and even seafood will give you the full experience.
6. Final Thoughts on the Best Chinese BBQ in Los Angeles
Whether you’re a local or a visitor to Los Angeles, there’s no shortage of amazing Chinese BBQ spots to explore. From the smoky, tender char siu to the crispy Peking duck, these dishes are sure to satisfy any BBQ lover’s cravings. I hope this guide helps you discover some of the best Chinese BBQ in Los Angeles. So next time you’re in the mood for a flavorful and filling meal, head to one of these restaurants and treat yourself to a memorable Chinese BBQ experience!
