Best Chinese Restaurants in Sawtelle
3 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
dan modern chinese (Sawtelle)
High-volume favorite for consistently strong handmade dumplings and noodles.
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A fast-casual chain that built its reputation on handmade xiao long bao and wok-fried noodles with quality a notch above typical counter-service Chinese. The short rib dan mein and crab mapo tofu draw repeat visits from Sawtelle regulars who want something more refined than takeout but faster than a sit-down dinner. Expect competent execution across the menu with occasional wrapper inconsistency on the soup dumplings.
Must-Try Dishes:
Xiao Long Bao (pork soup dumplings), Short Rib Dan Mein, Dungeness Crab Fried Rice
What Makes it Special: High-volume favorite for consistently strong handmade dumplings and noodles.
7.7
A straightforward Sawtelle Thai counter that delivers generous portions of well-executed staples at prices that make it an easy default for West LA regulars. The menu leans into crowd-pleasing standards rather than regional deep cuts, and the low price point relative to portion size is the main draw. Works best as a reliable weeknight takeout rotation spot where you already know your order.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pad Thai, Pad See Ew, Red Curry
What Makes it Special: Consistently low prices with generous portions that keep West LA regulars coming back for dependable Thai staples
A Shanghainese kitchen on the Sawtelle corridor that draws Westside regulars for its xiao long bao, pan-fried shengjian bao with properly crisped bottoms, and a deep noodle and wok menu priced well below the neighborhood average. Service leans efficient over warm, and the experience can swing between genuinely satisfying and uneven depending on the visit—reflected in a notably polarized review history. Best approached as a budget-friendly weekday lunch stop where you stick to the dumpling and cold-dish lineup.
Must-Try Dishes:
Shanghai Xiao Long Bao, House Sauce Noodles (zha jiang mian), Pan-Fried Pork Buns
What Makes it Special: Shanghai comfort staples delivered without a wait.