Happy Valley Village/ Shanlitun — Restaurant in Hacienda Heights

This restaurant offers an incredibly authentic Northern Chinese dining experience. Despite the entire building being under renovation, the restaurant remained open, and we were lucky to visit around 2 p.m. (just before their break time) without having to wait. The interior is beautifully designed to evoke old-time China, with every detail, from the decor to the bowls and chopsticks, capturing a nostalgic charm reminiscent of the Red Guard era. It truly felt like stepping into a cozy restaurant run by a Chinese grandmother.

We ordered the Chicken Stewed with Mushrooms, served in a large pot with a timer set for about 12 minutes. The mushrooms added a rich, earthy depth to the broth, perfectly complementing the tender chicken. I visited with a Chinese friend who was thrilled by the dish, saying it tasted just like home. Next time, I’m excited to try more dishes, especially the Guo Bao Rou (sweet and sour pork), and explore their extensive menu further. Highly...

First off, this was the first time trying goose in general. I didn’t know what to expect, but after letting the fatty tender meat chunks hit my tongue, I’ve determined this may be the best tasting bird I have ever had the opportunity to enjoy. It has been hard to go back to basic birds. The big fatty goose meat chunks remind me in the easiest way possible, a combination of the texture of a beef steak with the fatty skin of a duck. It is a banger for sure. All the other side dishes we ordered were fantastic too. The only food item I was indifferent about was the yellow corn bread things. They just didn’t have much flavor even after being soaked in the soup. It also may have been a texture issue.

Try to get a table that isn’t next to the restrooms. Although the aromas of the food generally masked the restroom smells, there were definitely restroom smells to begin with. I want authentic ethnic food, but not that...

Absolutely loved the live fish hot pot at Happy Valley Village ! The fish was super fresh (killed and cooked on the spot), with tender and clean-tasting meat—no fishy smell at all. The broth was incredible—rich, flavorful, and clearly slow-cooked with fish bones and chicken. I couldn’t stop drinking it!

The side dishes were also great—especially the pickled radish and handmade tofu. They soaked up all the flavor from the broth and were absolutely delicious.

The service was friendly and attentive. Staff took time to explain the menu and spice levels, and they checked on us frequently. The atmosphere was cozy and rustic, perfect for a casual meal with friends or family.

Highly recommend if you love fresh fish, rich broth, and authentic flavors. Can’t wait...