Mama Lu’s Dumpling House

Women-owned & operated

Kid friendly

Noodle Street has always been one of my go-to places for comfort food and a good noodle dish. This…read moretime, I had about an hour to kill while waiting for my appointment at the Apple Store in Pasadena. I was walking around thinking about what to eat. The I saw the Noodle Street sign. Of course, I went in because I already know the quality of their food. I always find their noodles fresh and chewy, and the dishes are rich in texture and flavor. But this time, since I was by myself, I didn't order a noodle dish because I was just by myself. So, I ordered the beef roll, which is also to die for! Just really enjoy their food overall. If you've never tried Noodle Street before, definitely check out their menu and give their noodles a try. This particular location was clean, the staff was nice, and the wait wasn't long when I arrived. I would definitely come back again! I'd like to add one more detail. While I was waiting for my food, one of the staff members, possibly the manager, Justin, came over and asked if I'd like to have a small bowl of broth on the side. I said yes and was impressed by that offer. Why? This young man understood that I had ordered only the beef roll, which is a dry dish. Having a little warm broth on the side made it much easier and more enjoyable to eat. I had water, though, but I personally never drink water before or after my meal, so the broth was definitely a perfect complement to the beef roll. This is the first time in my Noodle Street eating history that I've been offered something simple to enhance my dining experience. A small gesture that I think is worth mentioning, as it showed that he was attentive and had very good common sense when it comes to customer service. Thumbs up to him, and an extra star from me for this location.

Old Town, Pasadena Super fun and comfortable Korean noodle and rice dishes place. It advertises…read moreitself as an Asian fusion noodle restaurant. Most of the dishes are Korean and Korean spiced versions however so be prepared. I expected the food to be much spicier and more pungent. They are not -- they are modernized slightly lighter versions of Korean noodle dishes. I'm addicted to the cold noodle salad with kale, carrots, and you can ask for it with tofu as I'm not eating beef for the next six months due to the beef recalls nowadays. Love the modern simple setup. There is a crew of chefs in the back cooking behind the glass. The staff are attentive and they take Apple Pay. I cannot believe the prices here. They are very reasonable. Why go to a fast food restaurant? End of Yelp.

Stir Fry Noodles with Tofu ($15.80) - onions, spinach, bell peppers and carrots. With triangle noodles.

Dining room

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Beef Stir-Fry Noodles

Sichuan Street Food

4.5(108 reviews)

1.3 mi

I've been coming here at least once a week for the past five months, and this place continues to…read moreimpress every single time. The service is consistently great... attentive, efficient, and genuinely welcoming. Fair warning for anyone new to Sichuan cuisine, the dominant flavor is "spicy". That said, the dishes are not just about heat... they're layered, aromatic, and incredibly well-balanced. Every dish I've tried has been outstanding, both in flavor and presentation. If you're a fan of bold, authentic flavors and reliable service, this spot is definitely worth visiting. Tip - If you're new to the cuisine, I strongly recommend getting everything MILD spicy. I've been told by some of my colleagues that MILD spicy is still pretty spicy, so be warned. With that said, strongly recommend the dishes below. Lamb with Cumin 11/10 - My favorite dish here by far. Aromatic, flavorful, and the spices are just on point. Dan Dan Noodles 9/10 - Solid and consistently good. The sauce is properly seasoned and truly compliments the perfectly cooked noodles. Shredded Cabbage with Pork 9/10 - Not to be confused with twice cooked pork. This dish is so simple and bland looking, but it's packed with flavor... so good! Garlic Pork Belly 8/10 - This is a cold dish. The meat was perfectly cooked and properly coated in chili oil. Solid and consistently good. Kung Pao Chicken 8/10 - In my opinion, it's an elevated Kung Pao Chicken. Solid and consistently good.

This place is crazy good. When you think of Szechuan food you're probably thinking SPICE, but you…read morecan adjust the heat of most of the dishes here so you're not frying your tongue off. It can get really busy, though, so expect to wait or just call in your order and take your food to go. I recommend the soy sauce tofu with beef dish. It's fire. Massive W. Gen Z words. Good.

Orange Chicken

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Rice- comes with the dish

Ramen Tatsunoya

4.1(1.8k reviews)

0.1 mi

This used to be my photographer's favorite ramen spot, and I hadn't been back in a long time…read more I would call this the closest thing to Ichiran Ramen in Los Angeles. Ichiran is still the best ramen we've ever had anywhere in the world, but sadly, there isn't one in LA. This place comes pretty close. The flavor and quality are always consistent. It's the kind of restaurant you can keep coming back to without thinking too much. It's usually pretty busy, which is probably a good sign. My only complaint is that the portion is a little small, and an extra serving of noodles costs another $2.50. Come on, noodles shouldn't feel like a luxury upgrade. Other than that, everything is solid. Definitely one of our go-to ramen spots in LA.

such a perfect place for a quick, yummy lunch! the service is so friendly and they give you your…read moreown bag stand! i order the regular broth with extra charsiu, it literally melts in your mouth!!! the noodles are perfectly chewy and the woodear mushrooms are a great pairing for a nice crunch. an amazing, consistent place that i find myself returning to, either for a solo date or with friends!

Inside Seating

Koku Tonkotsu

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Crispy Spicy Chashu Wrap

dan modern chinese

4.1(893 reviews)

1.1 mi

Dan Modern left a great impression on the table…read more Ordered the following: 1. Baby Bok Choy 2. Chicken Lo Mien 3. Shrimp Fried Rice 4. Pork/Crab XLB Everything tasted amazing and well prepared. The prices are premium, the quality matches! Enjoyed every dish!

This place is a family favorite. The food is consistently delicious and we highly recommend the Dan…read moreDan noodles with pork chop,Three Cup Chicken, Chinese chicken salad, and the spicy pork dumplings. A special thank you to our server, Eric, who took care of our family. He was warm, attentive, and genuinely kind, making our dining experience even more enjoyable. He also recommended the Dan Dan noodles with the pork chop which we had not tried before and my family raved about. Unfortunately, our experience with the host was the complete opposite. When we asked if we could be seated in a booth, he responded with a sour expression and unnecessary attitude, as though having the booth cleaned was a personal inconvenience. Even after we thanked him for accommodating our request, his response remained cold and dismissive. That interaction is the reason we're deducting one star, because customer service matters just as much as good food. Our family frequently visits the Sawtelle Japantown location, where we've always been welcomed with outstanding hospitality. We hope this location can provide that same level of warmth and professionalism in the future.

Dan mein chicken

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Crispy Pork Dumplings

Sato Ramen House

Fun Fact: A while ago, I saw a video that consisted of an interview asking Dodgers baseball players…read morewhat their favorite restaurant in LA is and Alex Vesia said Sato Ramen House in Pasadena, CA! When he said that, I realized it's right in the area so ofc I had to go try and everything was so delish It was the perfect lunch after some shopping around Old Town Pas! The Order: 1. Japanese Fried Chicken 2. Curry Croquette with Rice 3. Deluxe Mazesoba 4. Tonkatsu Ramen

Excellent ramen house with a solid menu. They offer appetizers, rice bowls, ramen, and mazesoba. My…read morehusband and I each got a bowl of ramen and shared an appetizer. The portion sizes were more than enough. Snowy Karaage Fried Chicken: Deep-fried, crispy marinated boneless chicken served with a lemon wedge and mayonnaise. The exterior was perfectly crispy, while the interior was deliciously juicy. Each piece was packed with flavor. Yuzu Shio Ramen: Slow-cooked chicken based broth, seasoned with yuzu, which gives the bowl a fragrant citrusy kick. The broth tasted clean, savory, and delicate. This is perfect if you want something refreshing rather than rich. Tonkatsu Ramen: 10 hour slow-cooked pork bone broth that tastes rich, creamy, and comforting. The broth was packed with umami flavor. This is perfect if you are looking to eat something hearty and filling without excess sodium.

Summer Specials 2026

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Tantan Ramen 2026

LAN Noodle

4.2(936 reviews)

7.4 mi

If you're looking for authentic Chinese flavors, Lan Noodle House is definitely worth a visit…read more Every dish tasted fresh, comforting, and full of flavor. What we ordered: * Appetizer Combo - A great way to start the meal with a variety of refreshing side dishes. * Braised Pig Ear in Chili Oil - Crunchy, flavorful, and coated in a fragrant chili oil with just the right amount of heat. * Sliced Pork Belly with Garlic Sauce - Tender, savory, and perfectly balanced with a garlicky sauce that wasn't overpowering. * Xiao Long Bao - Thin wrappers filled with juicy broth and flavorful pork. Definitely a must-order. * Braised Beef Noodle Soup - Rich, comforting broth with tender beef and chewy handmade noodles that really hit the spot. * Dan Dan Noodles - Creamy, nutty, and packed with bold sesame flavor with just the right amount of spice. * Mustard Green Beef Noodles - A comforting bowl with tender beef, chewy noodles, and pickled mustard greens that add the perfect tangy kick. The portions are generous, making it a great place to come with friends or family and share a variety of dishes.

Service: The staff is pretty friendly, very attentive and fast to place the order…read more Ambiance: A typical chinese restaurant in the 626. Wasn't crowded on a weeknight. Food: Be aware that lanzhou beef noodle soup is different than the taiwan one that is more popular. This has a lighter broth and they have a wide variety of noodles. I would get the spicy since it was not too spicy and it was more flavorful than the non spicy version.

Chives leaves flat noodle

Lan noodle thin round

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Thin noodle

5 POT

4.6(165 reviews)

0.9 mi

Came in for a quick dinner and loved it. The ingredient selection is great, and you'll find the…read morestandards without anything too fancy. And honestly, it's hard to complain when you get to customize your own bowl! The space was practically sterile, which I actually find to not be the case with many hot pot restaurants, so this was a very nice and welcome surprise. Only gripe with the place is the price. It comes out to $15.99 per pound, which is quite expensive for raw ingredients. A single bowl could easily run you $20.

I may just not be the target audience for this style of hot pot, but this order didn't really work…read morefor me. I expected the spicy broth to have more heat and depth, but it tasted very mild, and I had to stir around the bottom of the container to find much flavor. The lamb also had a strong gamey smell that I noticed even before opening the takeout. That said, the service was warm, friendly, and fast, and the location is convenient. It may be a good spot for people who prefer a lighter, milder hot pot, but based on this order, it's hard for me to find a reason to go back.

The line

Pork Belly

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Urban Pocha

4.2(267 reviews)

0.0 mi

Came here after Head in the Clouds with my friends! We came around 12:15am, and there was a pretty…read morebig line outside, so we had to wait a bit, but we got seated pretty quick (15-20min). We ordered the honey garlic chicken, seafood pancake, tteokbokki, and corn cheese. For 4 people this was a good amount of food. First off the honey garlic chicken was AMAZING. the chicken was super juicy and crispy and the honey made the fried skin taste like a biscuit. It was actually insane, I would come back here just for the chicken, 10/10. The seafood pancake was also amazing. It was crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside. It had lots of shrimp and squid, and dipped in the sauce it was delicious, 10/10. I'd say both the corn cheese and tteokbokki were not super worth it. The tteokbokki was relatively small, given the price. And it was quite spicy, a little too spicy for me. The corn cheese tasted like butane gas, or how a birthday candle smells, so it was just alright. Both were a 5/10. I would definitely come back again to try more food!

I visited Urban Pocha, and it was an okay experience. The food didn't particularly stand up to me,…read morebut was service was good and friendly. The tteokbokki was decent and satisfied my friend and I's late night cravings. The seafood pancake was pretty mushy, hard to pick up, and lacked the crispy texture I hoped for. Still a fun atmosphere and huge space for hanging out with friends!

Love the decor

Brisket Rose Tteokbokki with a surprise guest of udon

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Freshwater snail salad with cabbage, basil, zucchini, and vermicelli with sweet & spicy sauce

HiroNori Craft Ramen

4.2(1.1k reviews)

1.1 mi

We first discovered hiro nori in san Jose years ago during a trip and when we found out it's also…read morein LA when we came back we were so excited. I say we come in either to this location or other locations once every couple of months. The broth the meat the noodles everything is up our alley. We think it has a resemblance to ichikakuya in japan. The minced garlic and the spicy paste is such a good addition as well. Highly recommend. Service not always the best considering that they have automatic service fee. But the food makes up for it.

I used to really like their cold dipping ramen, but haven't been here in a while. Came back today…read moreand ordered the same thing, but it was not as good as I remembered. The noodles were way too hard and almost tasted undercooked. Service wasn't great either. They forgot to give us menus and missed part of our order. Then we got the bill and saw a mandatory 17.8% service fee. I don't mind tipping for good service, but 17.8% being automatically added definitely didn't feel justified for the service we got. Probably won't be coming back anytime soon.

Vibes

PORK RICE BOWL (S) side salad part of combo

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Crispy Chicken

1919 Lanzhou Beef Noodle

4.5(556 reviews)

7.2 mi

Food: - beef noodles: 8.5/10, solid beef noodle…read more- beef roll: 9.5/10, better than noodle street in size and in taste, the texture of the pancake is amazing Service: - friendly staff - fast service - water refills Ambiance: - big parking lot - lots of indoor seating

Spontaneous Stop, Surprisingly Good Beef Noodle Soup!…read more We literally came here spontaneously after trying 626 Ice Cream right next door because apparently vacation mode means eating our way through the neighborhood. No plans, just vibes... and apparently beef noodle soup. Parking: Plenty of spots! Service: Quick, friendly, and efficient. Ambience: Definitely more of a quick sit-and-eat kind of vibe--not somewhere you're hanging out for hours. Braised Beef Noodle Soup -- 8/10 | $15.99 Okay, THIS was the winner! The noodles are handmade, and you can actually see the guy in the back making them. And you can taste the difference! The noodles had that perfect chewy, bouncy texture and tasted incredibly fresh. The braised beef was soft, tender, and nicely seasoned. Add in the little side of Sichuan numbing oil, and that took each bite up another notch. Honestly, we've tried quite a few beef noodle spots, and these noodles were better than some of the others we've had. That fresh handmade texture really made the bowl for me. Trio Cold Dish Combination -- 6.510 | $13.99 You get to choose three, so naturally I had to sample the whole lineup. Bean Curd + Celery -- 6/10 It was okay, but definitely not something I'd order again. Nothing wrong with it, just not memorable. Hot & Sour Sliced Kelp -- 7/10 This one was actually decent! It had more of that seaweed-like texture, with a nice tangy flavor. Not bad, just not something I was craving for seconds. Cucumber -- 6.8/10 Super fresh with a nice crunch, but nothing too special. Sometimes cucumber is just... cucumber. Beef Roll Pancake -- 7.5/10 | $10.99 Now this one surprised me! It's definitely smaller than the typical beef roll you'd get at 101 Noodle Express, but maybe that's why the price is a little lower. Size aside, the pancake itself was fluffy with the perfect crispiness, and the beef was nicely seasoned. It was actually a really enjoyable little bite! Overall, we came in with absolutely no expectations and ended up finding a pretty solid little spot. Sometimes those spontaneous vacation-mode stops are the ones that surprise you! If you're craving beef noodle soup with fresh, handmade noodles, I'd definitely give this place a try. The noodle soup was the standout for me! Happy Eats!

Inside seating

House Special Beef Noodle Soup

1919 Lanzhou Beef Noodle - Handpulled noodles. Also available in different degrees of thinness/thickness. Not commonly seen and must try next time: prism noodles.

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Handpulled noodles. Also available in different degrees of thinness/thickness. Not commonly seen and must try next time: prism noodles.

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29 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Pingning G.

2 months ago

Throughout our entire meal, there were multiple flies constantly flying around our table and landing on our food. This wasn't just one or two flies--it was a continuous problem from the time our food arrived until we left. When I brought the issue to the attention of the female manager/cashier (who also appeared to be the lead server), I found her to be rude, dismissive, and uninterested in listening to my concerns. Before I could even finish explaining the situation, she interrupted me and asked, "Which one did the flies land on? I'll have the kitchen make another one." That completely missed the point. I wasn't asking for a free replacement or trying to get extra food--I was trying to alert management that flies were repeatedly landing on customers' meals throughout the restaurant. Her response made me feel like she assumed I was simply looking for free food instead of raising a legitimate food safety concern. I also asked if they had a fly swatter or any other way to control the flies. I was told there was nothing they could do because "It's summer, what do you expect?" That was an unacceptable response. While flies may be more common in the summer, they should not be freely flying around a restaurant and landing on customers' food. Restaurants should have effective pest-control measures in place and take customer concerns seriously. Another thing that concerned me was that when I picked up the dishes to help serve food to my table, the bottoms of several plates were noticeably greasy and felt dirty, which made me question whether the dishes were being properly cleaned and sanitized. Overall, what disappointed me most was not just the sanitation concerns, but the complete lack of professionalism in how they were handled. Instead of acknowledging the issue, apologizing, or attempting to address it, the manager was dismissive and made me feel like my concerns were an inconvenience. I left genuinely concerned about the restaurant's cleanliness, pest control, and overall food safety standards. read more

Jeshow Y.

Elite 24

336

296

109

3 years ago

Mama Lu's Dumplings in Pasadena stands out not just for its delectable menu but also for its elegant and decadent interior, which is notably the finest among all the Mama Lu's locations I've visited. This establishment combines the comfort of a well-decorated space with the culinary excellence it's known for. Parking is straightforward, with options either on the street or in a nearby paid parking garage, making access to this culinary haven quite convenient. The highlight of Mama Lu's, as the name suggests, is undoubtedly their dumplings. The pork soup dumplings are a culinary delight, embodying the perfect balance of flavorful broth and tender meat. Equally impressive are their spicy wontons, which pack a delightful punch with just the right amount of heat to tantalize the taste buds without overpowering the dish's intricate flavors. Another standout is their beef roll - a harmonious blend of savory beef, crisp cucumbers, and a subtle sweetness that ties the dish together beautifully. This item is a testament to the kitchen's skill in balancing complex flavors in a single dish. In contrast to my experiences at other Mama Lu's locations, which have ranged from exceptional to just okay, the Pasadena branch consistently delivers top-notch cuisine. Its consistent quality makes it a location I find myself eagerly returning to. In summary, Mama Lu's Dumplings in Pasadena is a must-visit for anyone seeking high-quality dumplings and more, served in a beautifully appointed setting. It's a culinary jewel in Pasadena, one that I wholeheartedly recommend. read more

Jesse N.

Elite 24

313

3 years ago

Mama Lu's consistently delights with its delectable and reasonably priced Chinese dishes, and the anticipation of a new location closer to home in Pasadena heightens the experience. However, a recent incident warrants sharing due to its disappointing nature. Opting for a to-go order, I was informed of a 30-minute wait from a male waiter, a timeframe I accepted willingly. Upon my return after 40 minutes, I patiently waited by the register. To my surprise, the waiter approached agitatedly, insisting I wait longer. Despite my silent patience, he seemed unreasonably angry, prompting me to step out momentarily. Upon reentering, I received the same treatment, with him stating the order was "almost done." Mind this was after a 50-minute total wait at this point. Frustrated, I sought help from my girlfriend who was waiting outside. She stepped in by herself this time and approached a different female worker, our receipt was examined, revealing a 50-minute wait for a forgotten order. The kitchen acknowledged the error, and the female worker apologized profusely. By the time I returned inside again after resolution of the issue, the previously rude male waiter avoided eye contact and couldn't even look me in the face. Remarkably, the corrected order took just 10 minutes to prepare after the issue was identified. While Mama Lu's is typically known for its great food and service, this encounter, marked by rudeness and significant time wasted, left an unfortunate impression that contrasts with their usual excellence. read more

Guillermo A.

1 year ago

- Mama Lu's Dumpling House, Old Town Pasadena A truly disappointing experience. From the moment we were seated, the service was abysmal. No one brought us menus -- I had to get up and grab them myself. Once we finally ordered, the kitchen staff, not the servers, dropped the dishes on our table, randomly guessing who ordered what. The servers? They were too busy chatting amongst themselves to notice we even existed. No one offered water -- we had to specifically ask for it. There was no follow-up to check if we needed anything else. The food was mediocre at best, and for the price, it was absolutely not worth it. To make matters worse, no rice was included, which is unacceptable at any Chinese restaurant. I noticed the table next to us had no rice either. Despite the lackluster service, the bill included suggested tips starting at 18%, which felt insulting. Honestly, I've had better service at local Chinese fast-food spots like the one near Vallarta Market or the takeout place on Lake north of Washington Blvd -- and that's saying something. There was a woman -- possibly the owner or manager -- wandering around, completely disengaged. No greeting, no thank you, no effort. The restaurant wasn't even full -- they had every opportunity to offer attentive service and didn't. The presentation was poor, the food was tossed on our table like an afterthought, and the entire vibe was unwelcoming. This is not a place I'll be returning to. One star is generous -- if I could give zero stars, I would. read more

Lilian W.

231

809

5410

2 years ago

Mama Lu's Dumpling House, located in Old Town Pasadena, offers a welcoming experience with a nice, spacious interior. Parking in this area can be tricky as usual, but there are paid parking structures nearby, so it's manageable. The service here is friendly and efficient. They had tea, soy sauce, vinegar, and chili oil ready at the table, which was a nice touch. The staff were attentive and made sure everything was going smoothly. The highlight, of course, was the food. Their dumplings are well-portioned and reasonably priced. I tried the Juicy Pork Dumplings for $9.99 and the Chive & Pork Dumplings for $7.99, each with 8 pieces. They arrived fresh and steaming, and tasted fantastic, especially when paired with the sauces on the table. Both were very filling. The inside of the restaurant feels like an authentic Chinese eatery. There's a lot of seating, and the place is surprisingly large, spanning two floors. The chandeliers and décor give it a classy touch, while the space itself feels very clean and inviting. If you need to use the restroom, they're located on the second floor. I visited on a Wednesday evening, and while there were a decent number of tables occupied. The restaurant is suitable for families, small groups, or even large parties, making it a versatile dining spot. Overall, Mama Lu's offers a great dining experience with delicious dumplings, excellent service, and a welcoming atmosphere. A place I'd return to! read more

Sherri L.

314

2 years ago

I had the best time at Mama Lu's in Pasadena with my friends! We usually hang out at the Chinatown spot, but we decided to switch things up and give this one a shot - and wow, what a treat it was! We dug into all our favorites like the beef wrap, spicy wontons, and crab and fried scallop fried rice, and they were absolutely sensational. The House Special Fish Filet is crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and just bursting with flavor. The Egg Tofu with mushrooms - it was so saucy and savory, with the tofu melting in my mouth like butter. We popped in on a Monday night thinking it would be quiet, but the place was buzzing with good vibes and great food. The casual yet classy vibe, the quick and friendly service, and the steamy hot, delicious dishes made Mama Lu's feel like a home away from home. The servers were super sweet and made us feel so welcomed. I can't wait to go back and try more of their menu. Mama Lu's is the kind of place where you can kick back, enjoy some amazing food, and make memories with your loved ones. read more

Madi S.

206

2 years ago

Mama Lu's in Pasadena always has a long line, so I finally decided to see what the hype was all about. Honestly, after trying the food, I probably won't be back. We ordered the orange chicken, chicken fried rice, pork dumplings, and sautéed assorted vegetables. The orange chicken had more dough than chicken, making it overly heavy. The chicken fried rice was lacking in flavor and felt more like plain white rice with a few added ingredients. The dumplings were the best part of the menu with a decent filling. On the plus side, portion size was large and complimentary peanuts were a nice touch. The decor was interesting, with two gorgeous towering chandeliers that seemed a bit large for the space. Service was disappointing, as staff were not attentive and did not check on us during the meal. Overall, if you're a fan of large portions or curious about the lovely decor, it might be worth a try. Otherwise, there are plenty of other options in Pasadena for better Chinese cuisine. read more

Sunny E.

312

155

2 years ago

We usually go to the Monterey Park location of Mama Lu's Dumpling House, but since the Pasadena spot is much closer, we decided to give it a try. Honestly, it was just as good as the original, if not better! The quality and flavors were on point, and it's great to have this gem so close by. We ordered the Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings) and they were perfect--delicate and packed with savory broth. The Pan-Fried Pork Dumplings were crispy and juicy, just like we remember from the other location. Another must-try is the Shrimp and Pork Wontons in Spicy Sauce, which had the right amount of kick. We also had the Beef Roll and Sautéed String Beans, both of which were flavorful and satisfying. The service was quick and friendly, and the vibe of this location was more relaxed and spacious. If you're a fan of the Monterey Park location, you'll love this one too. It's a fantastic alternative without sacrificing any of the quality Mama Lu's is known for. read more

Ivy Z.

377

133

5 months ago

Came here after seeing it all over social media, and honestly... it lived up to the hype. Be prepared for a wait, especially during peak hours, but the turnover is pretty quick. We ordered the pork soup dumplings, pan-fried dumplings, and beef roll. The soup dumplings were the highlight -- thin skin, super juicy, and packed with rich broth. Just be careful because they come out really hot. The pan-fried dumplings had a crispy bottom with a juicy, flavorful filling, which I loved for the texture contrast. The beef roll was also really good -- flaky on the outside with tender beef inside, and a nice savory sauce that ties everything together. Portions are generous and prices are pretty reasonable for the quality. It definitely has that busy, no-frills SGV dumpling house vibe, but the food is what you're here for. Overall, I'd come back when I'm craving comfort food and dumplings done right. read more

King A.

3 years ago

My wife has been talking about how her family loves Mama Lu's Dumpling House for ages. Every time they go, I was busy with work, so I was unable to attend. BUT our schedules finally aligned and I was able to try the famous Mama Lu's Dumpling House. We met her family at the new Pasadena location, it had a nice spacious interior, and we were seated downstairs in another room. Their menu was quite extensive, and there was just so many things to try I didn't even want to read it. In the end, I just ordered myself a fried rice and let them order their favorite dishes, and figure I would find something I would like. The food came out fairly quick. I enjoyed the pan fried dumplings and was actually a really big fan of the Pan Fried Beef Udon. I didn't expect those noodles to taste so good. Will definitely join them for dinner more often, can't wait to be back. read more

Misikga F.

111

906

809

2 years ago

My experience at Mama Lu's Dumpling House was fantastic! The menu offered a wide variety of Taiwanese dishes, and the portions were incredibly generous. I highly recommend trying their delicious dumplings, which were bursting with flavor and perfectly cooked. The noodles were also a hit, with a great texture and savory sauce that complemented the other dishes well. I highly recommend sweet and sour soup. It was a delightful blend of tangy and savory flavors that left me wanting more. Overall, Mama Lu's Dumpling House is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Taiwanese cuisine with generous portions and incredible flavors. The ambiance at Mama Lu's Dumpling House is perfect for families or large groups. The spacious seating arrangements and welcoming atmosphere make it easy for everyone to enjoy their meal together. read more

Natel S.

144

131

3 years ago

I am beyond thrilled that Mama Lu has opened a new location in Pasadena. I used to make the trek to the Monterey Park spot just to satisfy my dumpling cravings, but now I can indulge right in my own backyard. Mama Lu has always been my go-to for the best dumplings in town, and the Pasadena branch certainly lives up to the reputation. The variety of dumplings here is astounding, and each one is a burst of flavor. The classic pork and chive dumplings are a must-try. Not only the dumplings but all the dishes on the menu are a 10/10. The portions are huge! I can't express how happy I am to have Mama Lu in Pasadena. So, if you're in the area and haven't tried Mama Lu yet, what are you waiting for? Your taste buds will thank you, and you'll be planning your next visit before you know it! read more

eriko p.

11 months ago

Casual Chinese tasty food at a reasonable price! Every time I arrive with friends, we only waited a few minutes to be seated. Service is just okay. We usually had to look for staff and flag them down, but they all work hard and were prompt, once we asked for something. A pot of jasmine hot tea with salted peanuts arrived promptly as we were seated, complimentary. We shared the crab and pork soup dumplings which was super tasty! I will order these again. The garlic green beans were stir fried perfectly, with a crunch. The beef chow fun was really good! Finally we shared the Green Onion pancake. It was crispy and good, but a bit greasy for my taste. We ate until we were full and there were leftovers for us to take home! read more

Roland C.

102

6 months ago

We always love exploring different Chinese and Asian restaurants, and this place definitely holds a special spot whenever we're in Pasadena. The service is quick, attentive, and always on point, which makes the whole dining experience smooth and enjoyable. The ambiance is warm and pleasant -- a nice place to sit down, relax, and enjoy a good meal. The food is consistently good and exactly what you hope for when craving Asian cuisine. It's definitely one of those places you can rely on when you want satisfying dishes and a welcoming atmosphere. A great spot to enjoy good Asian food in Pasadena. We'll definitely keep coming back! read more

Lucia Y.

637

2 years ago

We tried their signature dishes: House Special Crystal Chicken, Steamed Buns, Honey Garlic Pork Chops, and Salt and Pepper Shrimp. The chicken had a perfect blend of crispy skin and tender, juicy meat. The steamed buns were translucent, filled with rich broth and flavorful meat. The pork chops were marinated to perfection, offering a delightful mix of crispy exterior and tender meat with a strong garlic aroma. The salt and pepper shrimp provided a unique combination of crispy texture and fresh shrimp flavor. Mama Lu excels in capturing the essence of Hong Kong cuisine, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic flavors. read more

Yingxue L.

See more unrecommended reviews

112

3 months ago

Mama Li's Dumpling House is such a hidden gem! The dumplings were fresh, juicy, and packed with flavor. You can really taste the quality of the ingredients, and everything tasted homemade. The service was warm and attentive, and the restaurant had a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that made us feel right at home. We also tried a few other dishes, and every single one was delicious and generously portioned. If you're craving authentic Chinese comfort food, this is definitely a place worth visiting. I'll absolutely be back to try more items on the menu. Highly recommend! read more

Miguel M.

369

2 years ago

Mama Lu's Dumpling House is a gem! The dumplings are absolutely delicious--perfectly crafted with thin, tender wrappers and flavorful fillings. I tried the pork and chive dumplings, and they were juicy and packed with taste. The menu is extensive, with a great variety of authentic dishes that are all reasonably priced. The service was fast and friendly, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. It's the perfect spot for a casual meal with friends or family. I can't wait to go back and try more of their dishes. Highly recommend! read more

Jessie L.

179

2 years ago

I recently tried Mama Lu's Dumplings in LA and it's quickly become a top spot for me. The xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) here are a must-try; they're perfectly steamed with a rich, savory broth inside that's absolutely delicious. The yudofu (silken tofu) is another standout, served hot and comforting with a delicate flavor that's just right. It's great to have such authentic Chinese dishes so well-prepared close to home. If you love genuine Chinese food, you'll enjoy Mama Lu's! The service is also really good! read more

Jessica G.

4 months ago

Mama's Dumpling House in Pasadena was honestly SO good. Everything we ordered was fresh, flavorful, and came out hot. The soup dumplings were amazing, the beef noodles were packed with flavor, and the fried rice was perfect. Even the veggies and soups were delicious. You can tell the food is made with care and the portions were great too. Definitely one of those spots where every dish hits. Service was friendly and the whole experience was super comforting. Can't wait to come back! read more

Solovino D.

133

2 years ago

The service is good, the acoustics are as crappy as when Chef Tony was here, and the prices are modest. But this "dumpling house" doesn't really do dumplings. Of the 119 items on the laminated menu, fewer than 20 are dumplings, and if the array we ordered were representative, you're not missing much. The dumplings were tasteless, but shredded beef and snow peas were great. We won't go back. We'll get our dim sum in Alhambra. Go China has better Chinese. read more

Mama Lu’s Dumpling House - chinese - Updated September 2026

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