Only $15+ Per Person — Authentic Chinese Food in Pasadena

While strolling through Old Town Pasadena today, I happened to pass by Mama Lu’s Dumpling House and decided to try some hometown flavors (I’m not from Shanghai, but I do love slightly sweet tastes!). In an expensive area like Pasadena, this place turned out to be surprisingly affordable! The entrance looks fancy with crystal chandeliers, but once inside, you realize you can eat well for just $15+ per person. The dishes are cheap, portions are huge, and the style leans toward American-Chinese. The restaurant has two floors, and even at night, there was a line—though we were a big group, so we ordered a lot… and couldn’t finish it all! 😂 【Shanghai Stir-Fried Rice Cakes】👍 Highly Recommend I love the wok hei in these stir-fried rice cakes — savory with a hint of sweetness, chewy and so delicious. Tasted just like childhood! Cooked with cabbage, carrots, and onions — absolutely addictive. 【Steamed Deep Sea Cod】🐟 A perfect healthy option for fitness lovers! Eating this at night meant waking up lighter the next day 😉. The cod was tender, fragrant, and melted in the mouth. Fish lovers, go for it! 【French-Style Beef Tenderloin】🐮 Recommended by our server as a customer favorite. The beef was crispy outside, tender inside, with a savory-sweet sauce — great for Jiangsu-Zhejiang style taste buds. #WhatToEatAlone #HiddenGem #FoodReview #RestaurantHopping #GlobalEats