Foragin in Temple City, California
# **A Foodie’s Guide to Temple City: 10 Must-Try Dining Experiences**
Nestled in the heart of the San Gabriel Valley, **Temple City, California**, is a hidden gem for food lovers. From all-you-can-eat seafood buffets to authentic Vietnamese rolls, sizzling grill bistros, and cozy izakayas, this city offers a diverse culinary landscape. Whether you're craving sushi, dim sum, Mexican street food, or gourmet pizza, Temple City has something to satisfy every palate.
In this guide, we’ll take you through **10 standout restaurants**, highlighting their signature dishes, must-order items, and what makes each dining experience special.
---
## **1. Shiki Seafood Buffet**
? *5535 Rosemead Blvd, Temple City, CA 91780*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/shiki-seafood-buffet-temple-city)
If you love seafood and variety, **Shiki Seafood Buffet** is a paradise. This all-you-can-eat spot offers a **massive spread of fresh seafood, sushi, grilled meats, and Asian-inspired dishes**.
### **What to Order:**
- **Snow Crab Legs & Alaskan King Crab** – A seafood lover’s dream, served chilled with melted butter.
- **Sushi & Sashimi Platter** – Fresh cuts of salmon, tuna, and yellowtail.
- **Grilled Oysters** – Buttery, garlicky, and perfectly charred.
- **Mongolian BBQ Station** – Customize your stir-fry with fresh meats and veggies.
**Pro Tip:** Go for dinner when the full seafood selection is available, and don’t skip the **tempura shrimp** and **spicy tuna rolls**.
---
## **2. Summer Rolls – Temple City**
? *5728 Rosemead Blvd Unit 100, Temple City, CA 91780*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/summer-rolls-temple-city-3)
For **light, fresh, and flavorful Vietnamese cuisine**, **Summer Rolls** is a must-visit. Their menu focuses on **healthy, vibrant dishes** packed with herbs, grilled meats, and rice paper wraps.
### **What to Order:**
- **Summer Rolls (Gỏi Cuốn)** – Shrimp, pork, vermicelli, and herbs wrapped in delicate rice paper.
- **Bún Thịt Nướng** – Vermicelli bowl with grilled pork, spring rolls, and fish sauce.
- **Phở Tái** – Classic beef noodle soup with tender slices of rare steak.
- **Bánh Mì** – Crispy baguette with pâté, grilled pork, pickled veggies, and jalapeños.
**Why It’s Special:** The **lemongrass-marinated meats** and **house-made peanut sauce** elevate every dish.
---
## **3. Red 99 Grill Bistro**
? *5557 Rosemead Blvd, Temple City, CA 91780*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/red99-grill-and-hot-pot-temple-city)
A fusion of **Chinese BBQ and hot pot**, **Red 99 Grill Bistro** is perfect for those who love **interactive dining**. Grill your own meats or enjoy a simmering hot pot with rich broths.
### **What to Order:**
- **Spicy Szechuan Hot Pot** – Numbing, fiery broth with premium sliced beef.
- **Grilled Lamb Skewers** – Tender, cumin-spiced, and smoky.
- **Crispy Pork Belly** – Juicy with a crackling skin.
- **Garlic Edamame** – A perfect beer snack.
**Best For:** Group dinners—opt for the **combo grill & hot pot set** for the full experience.
---
## **4. Sushi in the Box**
? *5927 Cloverly Ave, Temple City, CA 91780*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/sushi-in-the-box-temple-city)
A **sushi lover’s haven**, this spot offers **creative rolls, fresh nigiri, and bento boxes** at great prices.
### **What to Order:**
- **Rainbow Roll** – Crab, avocado, and topped with assorted fish.
- **Dragon Roll** – Eel, cucumber, and avocado draped in unagi sauce.
- **Spicy Tuna Crunch** – A crispy, spicy delight.
- **Bento Box (Teriyaki Chicken or Salmon)** – Comes with miso soup, salad, and tempura.
**Why Visit?** Quick, fresh, and budget-friendly sushi without compromising quality.
---
## **5. Icho Izakaya**
? *5561-5563 Rosemead Blvd, Temple City, CA 91780*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/icho-izakaya-temple-city-5)
A **true Japanese pub experience**, **Icho Izakaya** serves **grilled skewers (yakitori), sushi, and sake** in a cozy setting.
### **What to Order:**
- **Yakitori (Chicken Thigh, Bacon-Wrapped Scallops)** – Charcoal-grilled perfection.
- **Takoyaki** – Crispy octopus balls with bonito flakes.
- **Sashimi Moriawase** – Chef’s selection of the freshest cuts.
- **Matcha Tiramisu** – A delightful dessert.
**Best With:** A chilled **sapporo beer** or **hot sake**.
---
## **6. Seafood Palace**
? *9669 Las Tunas Dr, Temple City, CA 91780*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/seafood-palace-temple-city)
A **Cantonese-style seafood haven**, this spot is famous for **live lobster, Dungeness crab, and dim sum**.
### **What to Order:**
- **Salt & Pepper Crab** – Crispy, spicy, and addictive.
- **Peking Duck** – Crispy skin with hoisin pancakes.
- **Shrimp Har Gow** – Silky dumplings with plump shrimp.
- **Stir-Fried Clams in Black Bean Sauce** – Bold and briny.
**Ideal For:** Family-style dining—order a whole fish or lobster feast.
---
## **7. Green Zone**
? *5728 Rosemead Blvd unit 106, Temple City, CA 91780*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/green-zone-temple-city-3)
A **modern Vietnamese eatery**, **Green Zone** offers **flavor-packed bowls, banh mi, and coffee drinks**.
### **What to Order:**
- **Bánh Xèo (Vietnamese Crispy Crepe)** – Stuffed with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts.
- **Cơm Tấm (Broken Rice Plate)** – Grilled pork, egg, and pickled veggies.
- **Vietnamese Iced Coffee** – Strong, sweet, and creamy.
**Great For:** A quick, satisfying lunch with bold flavors.
---
## **8. The Original Pepe’s Mexican Food**
? *5829 Rosemead Blvd, Temple City, CA 91780*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/pepes-mexican-food-temple-city-2)
A **local favorite for authentic Mexican street food**, Pepe’s serves **carne asada tacos, burritos, and loaded nachos**.
### **What to Order:**
- **Carne Asada Fries** – Crispy fries topped with steak, guac, and cheese.
- **Al Pastor Tacos** – Marinated pork with pineapple.
- **Horchata** – Sweet, cinnamon-infused rice drink.
**Why It Stands Out:** Generous portions and **homemade salsas**.
---
## **9. Pizza Cart**
? *9578 Lower Azusa Rd, Temple City, CA 91780*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/pizza-cart-temple-city)
A **no-frills pizza joint** with **NY-style slices and hearty calzones**.
### **What to Order:**
- **Pepperoni Pizza** – Thin crust, crispy, and cheesy.
- **Meat Lovers Calzone** – Stuffed with sausage, pepperoni, and ricotta.
- **Garlic Knots** – Buttery, garlicky, and perfect for dipping.
**Best For:** Late-night cravings or a quick takeout meal.
---
## **10. Bay Garden Cafe**
? *9549 Las Tunas Dr, Temple City, CA 91780*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/bay-garden-cafe-temple-city)
A **cozy Hong Kong-style café** serving **comforting noodle soups, milk tea, and baked rice dishes**.
### **What to Order:**
- **Baked Pork Chop Rice** – Tomato sauce, melted cheese, and crispy pork.
- **Hong Kong Milk Tea** – Strong, silky, and slightly sweet.
- **Beef Chow Fun** – Wok-fried flat noodles with tender beef.
**Perfect For:** A nostalgic taste of Hong Kong in Temple City.
---
## **Final Thoughts**
Temple City’s dining scene is **a melting pot of flavors**, from **seafood feasts** at **Shiki Buffet** to **Vietnamese freshness** at **Summer Rolls**, **sizzling hot pot** at **Red 99**, and **authentic Mexican** at **Pepe’s**. Whether you're in the mood for **sushi, dim sum, or pizza**, this city has it all.
**Which spot will you try first?** ?️
Nestled in the heart of the San Gabriel Valley, **Temple City, California**, is a hidden gem for food lovers. From all-you-can-eat seafood buffets to authentic Vietnamese rolls, sizzling grill bistros, and cozy izakayas, this city offers a diverse culinary landscape. Whether you're craving sushi, dim sum, Mexican street food, or gourmet pizza, Temple City has something to satisfy every palate.
In this guide, we’ll take you through **10 standout restaurants**, highlighting their signature dishes, must-order items, and what makes each dining experience special.
---
## **1. Shiki Seafood Buffet**
? *5535 Rosemead Blvd, Temple City, CA 91780*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/shiki-seafood-buffet-temple-city)
If you love seafood and variety, **Shiki Seafood Buffet** is a paradise. This all-you-can-eat spot offers a **massive spread of fresh seafood, sushi, grilled meats, and Asian-inspired dishes**.
### **What to Order:**
- **Snow Crab Legs & Alaskan King Crab** – A seafood lover’s dream, served chilled with melted butter.
- **Sushi & Sashimi Platter** – Fresh cuts of salmon, tuna, and yellowtail.
- **Grilled Oysters** – Buttery, garlicky, and perfectly charred.
- **Mongolian BBQ Station** – Customize your stir-fry with fresh meats and veggies.
**Pro Tip:** Go for dinner when the full seafood selection is available, and don’t skip the **tempura shrimp** and **spicy tuna rolls**.
---
## **2. Summer Rolls – Temple City**
? *5728 Rosemead Blvd Unit 100, Temple City, CA 91780*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/summer-rolls-temple-city-3)
For **light, fresh, and flavorful Vietnamese cuisine**, **Summer Rolls** is a must-visit. Their menu focuses on **healthy, vibrant dishes** packed with herbs, grilled meats, and rice paper wraps.
### **What to Order:**
- **Summer Rolls (Gỏi Cuốn)** – Shrimp, pork, vermicelli, and herbs wrapped in delicate rice paper.
- **Bún Thịt Nướng** – Vermicelli bowl with grilled pork, spring rolls, and fish sauce.
- **Phở Tái** – Classic beef noodle soup with tender slices of rare steak.
- **Bánh Mì** – Crispy baguette with pâté, grilled pork, pickled veggies, and jalapeños.
**Why It’s Special:** The **lemongrass-marinated meats** and **house-made peanut sauce** elevate every dish.
---
## **3. Red 99 Grill Bistro**
? *5557 Rosemead Blvd, Temple City, CA 91780*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/red99-grill-and-hot-pot-temple-city)
A fusion of **Chinese BBQ and hot pot**, **Red 99 Grill Bistro** is perfect for those who love **interactive dining**. Grill your own meats or enjoy a simmering hot pot with rich broths.
### **What to Order:**
- **Spicy Szechuan Hot Pot** – Numbing, fiery broth with premium sliced beef.
- **Grilled Lamb Skewers** – Tender, cumin-spiced, and smoky.
- **Crispy Pork Belly** – Juicy with a crackling skin.
- **Garlic Edamame** – A perfect beer snack.
**Best For:** Group dinners—opt for the **combo grill & hot pot set** for the full experience.
---
## **4. Sushi in the Box**
? *5927 Cloverly Ave, Temple City, CA 91780*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/sushi-in-the-box-temple-city)
A **sushi lover’s haven**, this spot offers **creative rolls, fresh nigiri, and bento boxes** at great prices.
### **What to Order:**
- **Rainbow Roll** – Crab, avocado, and topped with assorted fish.
- **Dragon Roll** – Eel, cucumber, and avocado draped in unagi sauce.
- **Spicy Tuna Crunch** – A crispy, spicy delight.
- **Bento Box (Teriyaki Chicken or Salmon)** – Comes with miso soup, salad, and tempura.
**Why Visit?** Quick, fresh, and budget-friendly sushi without compromising quality.
---
## **5. Icho Izakaya**
? *5561-5563 Rosemead Blvd, Temple City, CA 91780*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/icho-izakaya-temple-city-5)
A **true Japanese pub experience**, **Icho Izakaya** serves **grilled skewers (yakitori), sushi, and sake** in a cozy setting.
### **What to Order:**
- **Yakitori (Chicken Thigh, Bacon-Wrapped Scallops)** – Charcoal-grilled perfection.
- **Takoyaki** – Crispy octopus balls with bonito flakes.
- **Sashimi Moriawase** – Chef’s selection of the freshest cuts.
- **Matcha Tiramisu** – A delightful dessert.
**Best With:** A chilled **sapporo beer** or **hot sake**.
---
## **6. Seafood Palace**
? *9669 Las Tunas Dr, Temple City, CA 91780*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/seafood-palace-temple-city)
A **Cantonese-style seafood haven**, this spot is famous for **live lobster, Dungeness crab, and dim sum**.
### **What to Order:**
- **Salt & Pepper Crab** – Crispy, spicy, and addictive.
- **Peking Duck** – Crispy skin with hoisin pancakes.
- **Shrimp Har Gow** – Silky dumplings with plump shrimp.
- **Stir-Fried Clams in Black Bean Sauce** – Bold and briny.
**Ideal For:** Family-style dining—order a whole fish or lobster feast.
---
## **7. Green Zone**
? *5728 Rosemead Blvd unit 106, Temple City, CA 91780*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/green-zone-temple-city-3)
A **modern Vietnamese eatery**, **Green Zone** offers **flavor-packed bowls, banh mi, and coffee drinks**.
### **What to Order:**
- **Bánh Xèo (Vietnamese Crispy Crepe)** – Stuffed with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts.
- **Cơm Tấm (Broken Rice Plate)** – Grilled pork, egg, and pickled veggies.
- **Vietnamese Iced Coffee** – Strong, sweet, and creamy.
**Great For:** A quick, satisfying lunch with bold flavors.
---
## **8. The Original Pepe’s Mexican Food**
? *5829 Rosemead Blvd, Temple City, CA 91780*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/pepes-mexican-food-temple-city-2)
A **local favorite for authentic Mexican street food**, Pepe’s serves **carne asada tacos, burritos, and loaded nachos**.
### **What to Order:**
- **Carne Asada Fries** – Crispy fries topped with steak, guac, and cheese.
- **Al Pastor Tacos** – Marinated pork with pineapple.
- **Horchata** – Sweet, cinnamon-infused rice drink.
**Why It Stands Out:** Generous portions and **homemade salsas**.
---
## **9. Pizza Cart**
? *9578 Lower Azusa Rd, Temple City, CA 91780*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/pizza-cart-temple-city)
A **no-frills pizza joint** with **NY-style slices and hearty calzones**.
### **What to Order:**
- **Pepperoni Pizza** – Thin crust, crispy, and cheesy.
- **Meat Lovers Calzone** – Stuffed with sausage, pepperoni, and ricotta.
- **Garlic Knots** – Buttery, garlicky, and perfect for dipping.
**Best For:** Late-night cravings or a quick takeout meal.
---
## **10. Bay Garden Cafe**
? *9549 Las Tunas Dr, Temple City, CA 91780*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/bay-garden-cafe-temple-city)
A **cozy Hong Kong-style café** serving **comforting noodle soups, milk tea, and baked rice dishes**.
### **What to Order:**
- **Baked Pork Chop Rice** – Tomato sauce, melted cheese, and crispy pork.
- **Hong Kong Milk Tea** – Strong, silky, and slightly sweet.
- **Beef Chow Fun** – Wok-fried flat noodles with tender beef.
**Perfect For:** A nostalgic taste of Hong Kong in Temple City.
---
## **Final Thoughts**
Temple City’s dining scene is **a melting pot of flavors**, from **seafood feasts** at **Shiki Buffet** to **Vietnamese freshness** at **Summer Rolls**, **sizzling hot pot** at **Red 99**, and **authentic Mexican** at **Pepe’s**. Whether you're in the mood for **sushi, dim sum, or pizza**, this city has it all.
**Which spot will you try first?** ?️
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