Introduction
Cerritos, California, a vibrant city nestled in southeastern Los Angeles County, is often lauded for its excellent schools and family-friendly atmosphere. But beyond its reputation as a suburban haven, Cerritos boasts a diverse and surprisingly delicious food scene, a hidden gem waiting to be explored. This culinary landscape, influenced by its multicultural population and proximity to Los Angeles and Orange County, offers something for everyone, from casual comfort food to sophisticated dining experiences.
This guide is designed to be your comprehensive resource for navigating the best food options in and around Cerritos. Whether you’re a longtime resident, a new arrival, or just passing through, we’ll help you discover the flavors that make this area a true foodie destination. We’ve taken into consideration quality, atmosphere, value, and local popularity to curate a list of restaurants that are sure to satisfy any craving. Get ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure as we explore the culinary delights that Cerritos and its neighboring communities have to offer.
From the sizzling aromas of Korean barbecue to the comforting warmth of a steaming bowl of pho, Cerritos and its surrounding areas offer a culinary adventure for every palate. So grab your appetite, and let’s dive in!
Culinary Delights: Restaurant Recommendations
Asian Flavors
Cerritos and its surrounding communities are a melting pot of cultures, and this diversity is beautifully reflected in the abundance of incredible Asian restaurants. From savory Korean barbecue to authentic Japanese sushi, there’s an Asian culinary experience waiting to tantalize your taste buds.
Korean Barbecue Experiences
When it comes to Korean barbecue, the area surrounding Cerritos doesn’t disappoint. The interactive experience of grilling marinated meats at your table is a favorite among locals, and the banchan (side dishes) are just as important as the main event.
Gen Korean BBQ House: Located a short drive from Cerritos, Gen Korean BBQ House offers an all-you-can-eat experience with a wide selection of meats, including bulgogi, galbi, and spicy pork. The modern and lively atmosphere makes it a great spot for groups. Expect a bit of a wait during peak hours, but the delicious food is well worth it. The price range is moderate, offering great value for the quality and quantity of food.
Road To Seoul: For a more traditional Korean BBQ experience, Road to Seoul is a fantastic choice. They are slightly further from Cerritos (in nearby Buena Park) but well worth the drive. Their focus is on high quality cuts of meat and delicious traditional Korean sides. Road to Seoul is a great location for family gatherings and group celebrations.
Japanese Culinary Artistry
The Cerritos area boasts a number of exceptional Japanese restaurants, ranging from sushi bars to ramen shops and izakayas. Whether you’re craving a meticulously crafted sushi roll or a comforting bowl of ramen, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from.
Kura Revolving Sushi Bar: If you’re looking for a fun and affordable sushi experience, Kura Revolving Sushi Bar is a must-try. The sushi plates circulate on a conveyor belt, allowing you to easily grab what catches your eye. It’s a great option for families and those who enjoy trying a variety of different sushi rolls. Kura also has a rewards program and a points-based system where you can earn prizes.
Shin-Sen-Gumi Hakata Ramen: For a truly authentic ramen experience, head to Shin-Sen-Gumi Hakata Ramen. This restaurant specializes in Hakata-style ramen, known for its rich and creamy pork bone broth. You can customize your ramen with different toppings and levels of spiciness. Be prepared for a possible wait, as this ramen shop is incredibly popular. This location offers a taste of authentic Japanese ramen in a casual setting.
Chinese Cuisine: A Regional Journey
The Chinese food scene in the Cerritos area is diverse, offering everything from classic Cantonese dishes to spicy Sichuan specialties. Whether you’re craving dim sum, Peking duck, or flavorful stir-fries, you’ll find a Chinese restaurant to satisfy your cravings.
Din Tai Fung: While technically a chain, Din Tai Fung (located nearby in Costa Mesa and Arcadia) is renowned for its exceptional Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings). The delicate dumplings are filled with a flavorful broth and juicy pork filling. Be prepared for a wait, as Din Tai Fung is incredibly popular. This place offers a top-notch dining experience with consistently high-quality dishes.
Capital Seafood Restaurant: If you’re in the mood for dim sum, Capital Seafood Restaurant is a great choice. Their extensive dim sum menu features a wide variety of steamed, fried, and baked delicacies. It’s a popular spot for weekend brunch, so be sure to arrive early or make a reservation. This is a great option for groups and families looking to share a variety of dishes.
Vietnamese and Thai Flavors
For those seeking the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia, the Cerritos area offers a number of excellent Vietnamese and Thai restaurants. From aromatic pho to spicy pad thai, you’ll find plenty of options to tantalize your taste buds.
Pho 79: A local favorite, Pho 79 is known for its flavorful and authentic pho. The broth is rich and aromatic, and the noodles are perfectly cooked. It’s a great option for a comforting and affordable meal. The restaurant is usually busy, but the service is quick and efficient.
Thai Nakorn: If you’re craving Thai food, Thai Nakorn is a great choice. They offer a wide variety of classic Thai dishes, including pad thai, green curry, and tom yum soup. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable. This is a great place to enjoy authentic Thai cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere.
American Classics and Contemporary Fare
From juicy burgers to succulent steaks, the Cerritos area offers a wide range of American and contemporary dining options. Whether you’re looking for a casual lunch or a special occasion dinner, you’ll find a restaurant to suit your needs.
Burgers and Sandwiches
Sometimes, nothing hits the spot like a perfectly cooked burger or a well-crafted sandwich. The Cerritos area has a number of great burger joints and sandwich shops to choose from.
The Habit Burger Grill: A California-based chain, The Habit Burger Grill is known for its charbroiled burgers, crispy fries, and delicious shakes. The Santa Barbara Style burger, with avocado and cheese, is a particularly popular choice. This is a great option for a quick and satisfying meal.
Slater’s 50/50: Known for their creative burger creations, Slater’s 50/50 (located in nearby Huntington Beach) is worth the drive if you love burgers. They are famous for their 50/50 patty (50% ground beef and 50% ground bacon) and their over the top toppings. Slater’s 50/50 is a great location for a fun and unique dining experience.
Steakhouses: Indulge in Luxury
For a special occasion or a truly decadent meal, the Cerritos area offers a number of exceptional steakhouses. These restaurants are known for their high-quality cuts of meat, impeccable service, and elegant atmosphere.
The Grill on the Alley: With a location in nearby Westlake Village, this iconic steakhouse chain offers prime cuts of meat, classic cocktails, and a sophisticated atmosphere. The Grill on the Alley is a great location for business meetings, romantic dinners, or a special occasion celebration.
Brunch Delights
Brunch is a beloved weekend tradition, and the Cerritos area has plenty of restaurants that offer delicious brunch menus. From fluffy pancakes to savory omelets, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your brunch cravings.
Roscoe’s House of Chicken and Waffles: Known for their signature combination of fried chicken and waffles, Roscoe’s House of Chicken and Waffles is a Los Angeles institution. The Cerritos location is a popular spot for weekend brunch, so be prepared for a wait. This is a great place to indulge in a classic comfort food meal.
Mexican and Latin American Flavors
The vibrant flavors of Mexico and Latin America are well-represented in the Cerritos area. From authentic tacos to flavorful enchiladas, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your cravings for Mexican and Latin American cuisine.
Tacos and Burritos: A Street Food Staple
No visit to Southern California is complete without indulging in some delicious tacos and burritos. The Cerritos area has a number of great taquerias and Mexican restaurants to choose from.
Taco Maria: Located in nearby Costa Mesa, Taco Maria offers a modern take on Mexican cuisine. The menu features seasonal ingredients and creative flavor combinations. This is a great place to experience a more upscale and innovative approach to Mexican food.
King Taco: This classic local chain serves up traditional Mexican tacos, burritos, and other favorites. King Taco is a popular spot for a quick and affordable meal. The al pastor tacos are a must-try.
Casual Dining and Quick Bites
Sometimes, you just need a quick and easy meal. The Cerritos area has plenty of casual dining options and quick bites to choose from.
Pizza Perfection
From classic pepperoni to gourmet toppings, the Cerritos area has a pizza place to suit every taste.
Pieology Pizzeria: This build-your-own pizza chain allows you to customize your pizza with a variety of crusts, sauces, cheeses, and toppings. It’s a great option for those who want to create their own unique pizza.
Coffee Shops and Cafes
Need a caffeine fix or a sweet treat? The Cerritos area has a number of great coffee shops and cafes to choose from.
Philz Coffee: A San Francisco-based coffee chain, Philz Coffee is known for its hand-crafted coffee blends and unique brewing methods. The Mint Mojito Iced Coffee is a particularly popular choice.
Tips for Exploring the Cerritos Food Scene
Navigating the Cerritos food scene can be an exciting adventure. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your culinary explorations:
Be mindful of traffic and parking, especially during peak hours. Consider using ride-sharing services or public transportation if possible.
Check online reviews and menus before you go to get a better sense of the restaurant’s atmosphere, specialties, and prices.
Making reservations, especially for popular restaurants and weekend dining, is highly recommended.
Don’t be afraid to explore beyond Cerritos! The neighboring cities of Artesia, Buena Park, and Norwalk offer even more culinary delights.
Support local businesses! By dining at locally owned restaurants, you’re helping to contribute to the community’s economic vitality.
Conclusion
The food scene in and around Cerritos is a vibrant and diverse tapestry of flavors, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the area. From authentic Asian cuisine to classic American comfort food, there’s something to satisfy every palate and every craving.
We encourage you to explore the restaurants listed in this guide and discover your own personal favorites. Don’t be afraid to try new things, venture off the beaten path, and ask locals for their recommendations. The Cerritos food scene is constantly evolving, so there’s always something new to discover.
Now it’s your turn! Share your own favorite restaurants and culinary experiences in the comments below. We’d love to hear about your hidden gems and must-try dishes. Happy dining!
