I couldn't believe the diamond in the rough that is Happy Family! It is truly a gem! Located in the heart of Korean Town, this family owned Chinese restaurant has an authentic Northern flare! By no means does it remotely reflect the generic taste of fast food restaurants like Panda Express, nor does it cost you an arm or a leg to order some of the finest foods cooked to order. The service is friendly and is never without a smile. The hostess/co-owner Diane really loves to get to know her guests, even if they're just picking up a To-Go order. The 2 chefs are more than just preparers of food, they work wonders with the freshest of ingredients. I spoke with the owners and they told me that they are famous for the Jam-Bon, or Korean Spicy Seafood Noodles. I also ordered their take on the Orange Chicken, which was out of this world. It was like nothing I've tasted at other restaurants! The chicken pieces were huge! Juicy and flavorful, unlike the clumps of fried dough you'd get at other establishments. The noodles were a beautiful consistency. Nice and soft on the outside with a slight give when you bite into them. Seafood atop galore! Everything was fresh, fresh, fresh! But I can only praise this restaurant so much, you'd need to check it out for yourself! Trust me, for a meal that satisfies 2, under $20 and leaves you feeling happy and full, you can't go wrong with Happy family! I know my family was! Slow down though, because this little gem is located inside the California Market on Western and 5th. So go hungry, expects a friendly face, and don't blink! You might miss it!
Pros: Prices, Freshness, Portions, Service, Parking
Cons: Inside California Market and not on its own
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