West Covina is a gem in the San Gabriel Valley, a city whose incredible food scene reflects its rich cultural diversity.
The best food is found in the countless strip malls, where family-run restaurants serve authentic dishes from around the world.
From old-school delis to Filipino buffets and restaurants hidden in grocery stores, flavor is found where you least expect it.
To eat in West Covina is to go on a delicious, no-frills adventure.
Here are five no-frills restaurants in West Covina that serve the best food you’ll ever taste.
1. Bhanu Indian Grocery & Cuisine
Bhanu is the ultimate no-frills experience: an incredible Indian restaurant located in the back of a grocery store.
You order at a counter and eat at simple tables surrounded by shelves of spices and goods.
The food is breathtakingly authentic and flavorful, a true hidden gem for those in the know.
2. The Heights Deli & Bottle Shop
The Heights is an old-school deli that has been serving gigantic, overstuffed sandwiches for decades.
This place is all about quantity and quality, piling high-quality meats and cheeses onto fresh bread.
The “Godfather” is a local legend, a massive Italian sub that could easily feed two people.
3. Nena’s Food
Nena’s is a beloved local spot for authentic Filipino food, served cafeteria-style, or “turo-turo” (“point-point”).
You simply point at the delicious-looking dishes you want, from crispy lechon kawali to savory adobo.
It’s a fast, affordable, and incredibly flavorful way to experience home-style Filipino cooking.
4. Noodle World
A San Gabriel Valley institution, Noodle World is a bustling, casual restaurant with a massive pan-Asian menu.
The book-like menu features dishes from Thailand, Vietnam, China, and beyond, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
It’s known for being fast, affordable, and consistently delicious.
5. Claro’s Italian Restaurant
Claro’s is a time-honored, red-sauce Italian joint that feels like a step back in time.
It’s part of a small, family-owned chain of Italian markets and restaurants that have been around since 1948.
Expect hearty portions of lasagna, ravioli, and other comforting classics in a warm, unpretentious setting.
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