Pearl River Deli

Pearl River Deli makes the best Hainan chicken in Los Angeles, period. Fragrant, juicy, and served over garlic rice that's been cooked in chicken stock, this dish is on par with the genius of Beethoven or The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement. In addition to the poached chicken, Pearl River Deli’s limited menu includes char siu and glossy gailan—both of which are available Friday to Sunday from 11-3pm (or whenever they sell out). You can pre-order on their website or head straight to the counter inside their dining room, right next to Thank You Coffee and Sesame in Chinatown. Although most people take their poultry to go, there are plenty of wooden tables here for a great, informal lunch.

photo credit: Jakob Layman