Discover the Flavorful Vietnamese Food Paradise of GarViet in San Gabriel Valley

Los Angeles doesn’t have an official Little Saigon, but if you head to the San Gabriel Valley, you’ll uncover a vibrant Vietnamese community along Garvey Avenue, primarily in El Monte, South El Monte, and Rosemead. I like to call this area “GarViet” to capture its essence.

Here, family-run Vietnamese eateries serve up affordable and authentic dishes that reflect the diverse flavors of Vietnam. You can find beloved staples like phở and bánh mì alongside lesser-known regional specialties from Central and Northern Vietnam.

With the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War’s end approaching on April 30, it’s a fitting time to recognize the lasting impact of the Vietnamese diaspora in Los Angeles. When the war ended, many Vietnamese sought refuge in the U.S., and through running restaurants, families found economic stability and shared their culinary heritage.

Here are some must-visit spots in the heart of this community:

Kim Hoa Hue
Located in El Monte, Kim Hoa Hue has been a favorite for nearly 20 years. The restaurant specializes in Central Vietnamese cuisine, with dishes showcasing the flavors of Hue, the former capital known for its imperial dishes. Highlights include the Hue Combo, which serves a variety of steamed rice cakes and dumplings. The bún bò Huế, which combines rich beef broth with slippery noodles, is also a crowd-pleaser.

Bánh Cuốn Hương Bắc
For a taste of Northern Vietnam, check out Bánh Cuốn Hương Bắc. This spot specializes in bánh cuốn, delicate rice flour crepes filled with meats or vegetables. Their menu is streamlined, focusing on getting these few dishes just right, and it seems to be working, as the restaurant has developed a dedicated following.

Thien Tam Vegetarian Restaurant
If you’re looking for plant-based options, Thien Tam serves delicious vegetarian Vietnamese fare. From spring rolls filled with fresh herbs and tofu to Hainan chicken rice made from soy, the menu highlights the rich flavors of Vietnamese cuisine without meat. It’s particularly popular among those observing vegetarian diets on specific lunar calendar days.

Hue Thai Bakery & Deli
For a quick bite, Hue Thai Bakery & Deli offers some of the best Vietnamese sandwiches around. Their baguettes are baked fresh, and the balances of ingredients in each sandwich make them a standout. The dặc biệt sandwich, loaded with head cheese and pâté, is especially recommended.

Che Hien Khanh
Lastly, don’t miss Che Hien Khanh for dessert. Nestled inside the GW Supermarket, this shop is known for its range of Vietnamese desserts. From creamy chè with black-eyed peas to sticky rice and fruit-based dishes, there’s something to satisfy your sweet tooth.

As the Vietnamese community continues to grow in Los Angeles, spots like these help preserve cultural traditions through food. The culinary contributions of these restaurants not only provide delicious meals but also keep the Vietnamese spirit alive in the heart of L.A.

For more about the Vietnamese experience and the richness they bring to L.A.’s food scene, check out resources like the Vietnamese Museum.

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