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ZipPicks Awards
Best Chinese in Downtown LA
Best Dim Sum in Downtown LA
Master Critic Review
Paul's Kitchen
8.8
A downtown legacy since 1946, Paul’s Kitchen serves classic California-Cantonese dishes like chop suey, egg foo young, and chow mein in a cash-only dining room filled with Dodgers memorabilia. Thousands of multi-platform reviews and decades of regulars point to comforting, consistent food and generous family-style portions at working-class prices.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tommy Lasorda Special, Wor Won Ton Soup, Chasu Egg Foo Young
Scores:
Value: 9
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 9.2
What makes it special: One of LA’s longest-running Cantonese spots with true midcentury character.
Who should go: Dodger fans and old-school Cantonese comfort seekers.
When to visit: Weekday lunch or early dinner before downtown events.
What to order: Tommy Lasorda Special, Wor Won Ton Soup, shrimp fried rice.
Insider tip: It’s cash-only, so hit the ATM before digging into huge combo plates.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is the norm; meters can be tight during weekday business hours. Several paid lots within a 1–2 block radius usually have space ($6–$12).
Dress code: Totally casual—tees, jeans, workwear, all fine. It’s an old-school diner-style Cantonese spot, not a dress-up destination.
Noise level: Moderate. You can hold a conversation, but the lunch rush brings some clatter from big family-style tables.
Weekend wait: 15–30 minutes, especially before nearby event start times.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; quick turnover even during the rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—plenty of veggie-friendly dishes like vegetable chow mein, sautéed greens, and tofu plates.
Vegan options: Limited—many dishes use egg or oyster sauce, but simple vegetable stir-fries and steamed rice can be ordered without animal products if requested.
Gluten-free options: Some options, but not extensive. Ask for dishes without soy sauce or thickened gravies; steamed proteins and veggies are safest.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date appreciates nostalgic, no-frills charm. It’s more cozy–casual than romantic, but great for a low-pressure, conversation-friendly meal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—Paul’s Kitchen is walk-in only. Peak pre-event times may require a short wait, but tables move quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—big booths, fast service, mild flavors, and generous portions make it easy for families. Best for kids 5+ who can share family-style dishes.
Best For
Better for: Classic California-Cantonese comfort dishes, huge portions, and nostalgic atmosphere at budget-friendly prices—more soul and history than trendier Chinatown or SGV spots.
Consider Alternatives If: You want modern Cantonese, edgy fusion plates, craft cocktails, or dietary customization. This is an old-school kitchen with traditional prep styles.
Hours
Monday10:30am - 5:30pm
TuesdayClosed
Wednesday10:30am - 5:30pm
Thursday10:30am - 5:30pm
Friday10:30am - 5:30pm
Saturday10:30am - 5:30pm
Sunday10:30am - 5:30pm