Seemor

Bamboo InnC+Worth Trying

Name: Bamboo Inn
Address: 2005 W 7th St, Los Angeles, CA 90057, Los Angeles, United States
Rating: 4.6

2005 W 7th St, Los Angeles, CA 90057 · Chinese restaurant · 4.6/5 Google (384 reviews)

Takeout

Old-school Cantonese-American comfort food with rock-bottom prices, warm service, and strong nostalgia, but cleanliness inconsistencies and occasional food safety complaints make it a selective recommendation.

Why it gets a C+ for overall quality

Bamboo Inn delivers authentic old-school Cantonese-American comfort with attentive, friendly service and exceptional value—the kind of time-capsule hole-in-the-wall where regulars have eaten for decades. However, safety concerns including roach complaints and sporadic quality dips with recent off-flavor reports prevent a higher grade, while the aging decor and tight seating limit broader appeal. Worth visiting for nostalgic comfort and bargain portions if you're comfortable with casual, no-frills dining.

Restaurant Summary

The room feels warm and bustling, the kind of tiny, time-capsule spot where servers pour hot tea and regulars greet each other by habit. One diner put it simply: "This tastes like home." It is a true hole-in-the-wall with aging decor, loved for comfort more than looks. The cooking leans classic Cantonese-American: chow mein, chop suey, egg foo yong, beef with broccoli, and bargain family sets. Dishes arrive fast and filling, tuned for cozy satisfaction rather than fireworks. Fans come for nostalgia and value, not modern plating. Families are common here. Kids tend to like noodles and fried rice, sweet-sour flavors, and simple soups. There is no kids menu, but the familiar options work well for younger eaters; note the cash-only policy and tight seating.

At a Glance

Ultra-budget pricing with hearty portions
Loyal multi-generation regulars and friendly service
Cleanliness inconsistencies including pests reported in 2023
Cash only; plan ahead
Parking is tricky; expect to pay nearby

What Sets It Apart

multi_generation_regulars
ultra_budget_family_sets
classic_cantonese_american_menu

What People Love

Nostalgic flavors unchanged for decades
Kind, attentive staff who pour tea and pack leftovers
Prices that feel like a time warp
Chow mein and wonton soup on repeat

Points of Concern

Cleanliness and pests reported by a few diners in 2023; not universal but significant when it occurs
One food illness report tied to sweet-sour shrimp; consider avoiding heavily battered seafood if sensitive
Tight space and dated bathrooms reduce comfort
Cash only; nearby paid parking adds friction

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost$14-$20 per person ReservationsNot required

What to Order

For picky eaters, choose Vegetable Chow Mein or Chicken Fried Rice
Seafood lovers should consider Shrimp with Lobster Sauce over deep-fried shrimp

Perfect For

Nostalgic Chinese-American comfort cravings
Casual family dinners on a budget
Solo quick meals with tea
Neighborhood regulars seeking consistency

Location Insights

Area: Urban, high-foot-traffic corridor near MacArthur Park; working-class and commuter mix with strong local presence.

Safety: Mixed; some reviews allude to grit and aging building conditions. Exercise routine urban caution, especially late.

Nearby: Close to MacArthur Park and Wilshire corridor; mix of small shops, transit riders, and dense residential blocks.

WestlakeWestlake offers a mix of affordable dining options with a strong presence of authentic ethnic cuisines, particularly Central American and Asian. The dining scene is casual and family-oriented, reflecting the neighborhood's multicultural and community-focused character.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday12:00–20:30 Tuesday Wednesday12:00–20:30 Thursday12:00–20:30 Friday12:00–20:30 Saturday12:00–20:30 Sunday12:00–20:30

Available: Takeout

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