One of the best Sichuan restaurants I have found in all of San Gabriel valley. Our favorite dishes are tea smoked duck, assorted mushroom hot pot, chicken with taro, laziji (spicy chicken), and all their noodles.
Overview
Old Chengdu Restaurant located at 1220 S Diamond Bar Blvd, Diamond Bar, CA 91765, is a hidden gem for those who love authentic Sichuan cuisine. This cozy and inviting restaurant brings the bold flavors of Chengdu to the heart of California, offering both familiar favorites and exciting new dishes. Whether you're a long-time fan of spicy food or just looking to try something different, Old Chengdu Restaurant has something for everyone.
When you first step into Old Chengdu, the warm atmosphere immediately sets the tone for a great dining experience. The interior is simple but charming, with touches that reflect traditional Chinese culture. The staff is friendly, always ready to recommend dishes or explain the flavors if you're not familiar with Sichuan cuisine. Their knowledge of the menu is impressive, which makes it easy to explore the rich, complex flavors that the restaurant is known for.
The menu at Old Chengdu offers a wide variety of options, ranging from mouth-watering appetizers to satisfying main courses. For starters, you can't go wrong with the Sichuan spicy wontons. These bite-sized dumplings are drenched in a savory sauce that has just the right amount of spice. If you're in the mood for something even spicier, try the spicy fish stew, a dish packed with bold, rich flavors and a touch of heat that will leave you coming back for more. One of the standout dishes is their mapo tofu, which is a crowd favorite. The tofu is silky smooth, and the sauce is perfectly seasoned with a combination of spices that give it a fiery kick without overpowering the taste.
But it’s not just the heat that makes Old Chengdu special. The chefs take pride in balancing complex flavors, using ingredients like garlic, ginger, and Sichuan peppercorns to create that signature numbness that this cuisine is famous for. Chengdu-style spicy chicken is a great example of this balance. It’s loaded with crispy chicken, peanuts, and green peppers, all stir-fried in a rich sauce that’s both spicy and aromatic. It’s a great dish to share, but trust me, you’ll want to keep it all to yourself once you taste it!
For those who prefer a milder dish, Old Chengdu has options that still pack a flavorful punch. The braised pork belly is melt-in-your-mouth tender, served in a delicious sauce that brings out the natural sweetness of the meat while still delivering a subtle spice. It's the perfect choice for anyone who might not be a fan of the heavier spice used in other dishes.
The restaurant’s offerings also cater to vegetarians, with several plant-based dishes that make full use of the vibrant flavors of Sichuan. The stir-fried eggplant with garlic sauce is a vegetarian delight, tender eggplant tossed in a rich, garlicky sauce that strikes a perfect balance between savory and spicy. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a flavorful yet meatless option.
Customer reviews often highlight the restaurant's consistent quality and friendly service. Many patrons return to try new dishes, and they’re rarely disappointed. It’s clear that the kitchen takes great care in preparing every dish, ensuring that each one is bursting with authentic flavors. The portions are generous, making it a fantastic option for groups or family-style dining.
In addition to the food, Old Chengdu is also known for its reasonable prices. It’s the kind of place where you can get a fantastic meal without breaking the bank. The casual, no-frills atmosphere makes it perfect for a quick lunch or a more relaxed dinner with friends and family.
If you’re planning to visit, it’s good to note that the restaurant is conveniently located near major roads, making it easy to get to from surrounding areas like Walnut, Chino Hills, and Pomona. The Diamond Bar location is an ideal spot for those craving traditional Sichuan flavors without having to drive far into the city.
Old Chengdu Restaurant has earned its spot as a local favorite in Diamond Bar, and for good reason. The authenticity, variety, and quality of the food make it stand out among other Chinese restaurants in the area. Whether you’re a seasoned lover of Sichuan cuisine or just discovering it, this is a place that promises a memorable dining experience every time.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Delivery ✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-inPopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible car park ✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seating ✓ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
✓ Comfort food ✓ Small platesDining options
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Catering ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ ToiletAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ CosyCrowd
✓ Family friendly ✓ Groups ✓ TouristsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ Good for kids ✓ High chairsParking
✓ Free of charge street parking ✓ Free parking lotPhotos
Location
Reviews
Great hole in the wall. Lovely tea selection and good food. Isn't overly spicy like some places. Toothpick lamb/mutton is great.
Newly opened, Old Cheng Du was closed. The new store name is Little Skewer
A must for Chinese Spicy Food Lovers. A real treat for the palate! Perfect Service. Gracious staff
Very spicy food, very enjoyable. The atmosphere feels very Asian and well decorated. The service was soso for one waiter and very good from another. I guess it various. The food was fair amount and enough to share. The prices of the dishes are reasonable. The whole table ordered the cumin potatoes, cold noodles, mixed mushrooms cooked in dried pot, and boiled fish. Rice comes extra, $1 per bowl. However, the bowl is of fair amount, approx. two servings each. Each of the dishes has distinct flavor that is different but tasty. The only complain I have to this experience is the mixed mushrooms cooked in dried pot is awesome but way too many peppers, it was a workout to find food later on. Would recommend for those who like spicy food, and would not recommend for those who don't. I personally would visit again.