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ZipPicks Awards
Best Chinese in Downtown LA
Best Dim Sum in Downtown LA
Master Critic Review
The New Moon
8.3
New Moon’s downtown location brings a polished take on Chinese-American classics, anchored by the family’s much-praised Chinese chicken salad and crowd-pleasing wok dishes. A full bar and contemporary dining room make it a comfortable option for business lunches, pre-theater dinners, or casual date nights in the Fashion District.
Must-Try Dishes:
New Moon Chicken Salad, Shelby’s Sweet & Spicy Chicken, Crispy Orange Peel Beef
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 6.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: A contemporary Chinese-American menu from a family credited with popularizing Chinese chicken salad.
Who should go: Office groups, shoppers, and diners wanting cocktails with Chinese classics.
When to visit: Weekday lunch, happy hour, or early evening downtown meetups.
What to order: New Moon Chicken Salad, Shelby’s Chicken, crispy orange peel beef.
Insider tip: Pair the chicken salad with a lychee martini and share a couple entrées family-style.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Validated parking in the adjacent structure (typically $8–$12); metered street parking can be scarce during peak Fashion District hours.
Dress code: Smart casual. Jeans and sneakers are fine, but many diners lean polished for business lunches or date nights.
Noise level: Moderate—steady buzz from the bar and groups, but you can still hold a normal conversation without shouting.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes without a reservation, especially before events or theater showtimes.
Weekday lunch: Usually little to no wait; busiest between 12–1 pm with office crowds.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several tofu, veggie-forward stir-fries, and customizable noodle dishes.
Vegan options: Limited but workable—ask for vegetable dishes prepared without oyster sauce.
Gluten-free options: Some options available; the kitchen can modify certain wok dishes, but cross-contamination is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The contemporary space, full bar, and shareable menu make it relaxed but still special. It feels elevated without being overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes, especially for early dinners or lunches. For peak weekend evenings or larger groups, book ahead.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally yes for kids 6+. The menu has approachable dishes, though the vibe skews adult with its bar crowd and business diners. No dedicated kids’ menu.
Best For
Better for: Polished Chinese-American comfort dishes, a full cocktail program, and reliable service—ideal for business meals or mixed dietary groups.
Consider Alternatives If: You want ultra-traditional regional Chinese cuisine or budget-friendly casual dining; many nearby spots offer deeper regional specialization at lower prices.
Hours
Monday11am - 5pm
Tuesday11am - 5pm
Wednesday11am - 5pm
Thursday11am - 5pm
Friday11am - 5pm
Saturday11:30am - 3:30pm
SundayClosed