Alhambra and San Gabriel is known for cheap eats. I hear people say it all the time "it's so cheap!" or "Everything is so delicious!". Like, literally calm down. Everything has been inflating the past few years. Chicken rice isn't $3.99 anymore, but would be $7.99. And if you are saying I'm not eating at the right places, and that you are still paying that little, then something is definitely wrong with that chicken.
I've given up with some restaurants in 626 even though I still eat around here a few times a week. Competition have really stepped up the last few years. There's a lot more Taiwanese restaurants as well as dumpling houses and hot pots. But what surprised me the most was Chang'An.
Complimentary snacks
Chang'An is located in San Gabriel on 227 W Valley Blvd, Ste 358. Chang'Ans concept is something I envisioned a few years ago. I thought it would be creative if classic Chinese food was presented in an ambitious way where you would find in fine dining restaurant. You will definitely find that here. All the dishes were not just tasty, but insanely beautiful.
I tried a lot of food that day. I liked everything I had so enjoy the photos:
Chang'An Salad
I love the herbaceous flavor of crown Daisy, but I've never had it uncooked. The sesame dressing complimented the salad perfectly. I know a few people who aren't fans of crown Daisies that can definitely appreciate this salad.
Lamb & Beef skewers
Rubbed in cumin and charred to perfection. Perfect pairing to beer :P
Steamed Scallops
These were large lumps of scallops. Served individually so there's no commitment to those who don't eat scallops. Sitting on top of rice noodles, it is drizzled with minced garlic and soy.
Stir fried pea sprouts - one of my favorite chinese vegetables.
Grilled chicken wings
few fried dishes: Fried tofu, Chicken Jidori, Fried Kabocha with salted egg yolk (Must Order)
Sweet and Sour Pork riblets.
Beef Tataki - Seared with House Special Yuzu soy.
Braised Pork belly with sweet soy sauce
Delicious fatty pork belly. You must eat the skin and fat.
Sauteed crystal shrimp
Grilled Beef Tongue
Poached fish in savory broth
Braised Short Ribs
Served with stir fried sweet pea sprouts.
Vanilla Ice cream with grilled Japanese sweet potato. Sweet potato desserts is on the rise. This is definitely a good version of what I've had.
These are mini rice balls filled with black sesame paste in sweet rice wine sprinkled with osmanthus flowers. A very sweet delightful way to end an amazing course.
Make sure to check them out if you haven't:
227 W Valley Blvd, Ste 358 San Gabriel CA 91776