China Islamic Restaurant: A 42-Year Journey of Halal Chinese Cuisine in Los Angeles
Discover China Islamic Restaurant, serving halal Chinese cuisine in Los Angeles since 1982. Try hand-pulled noodles, sesame bread, and authentic dishes rich in tradition.
For over 40 years, China Islamic Restaurant has been a cornerstone of Los Angeles’ diverse culinary scene, offering a rare combination of halal Chinese cuisine that brings together tradition, flavor, and community. Established in 1982 as one of the first halal Chinese restaurants in the area, it has become a beloved destination for those seeking authentic dishes that celebrate both Chinese and Islamic cultures.
Under the leadership of Umar, who took over in 2017, the restaurant continues to evolve while honoring its storied past. It’s a place where classic recipes and bold new flavors come together, drawing in customers from all walks of life.
A Legacy of Halal Chinese Food
China Islamic Restaurant was one of the first halal Chinese restaurants in the Los Angeles area, catering to the dietary needs of the Muslim community while offering dishes that resonate with people from all walks of life. When Umar took over in late 2017, he knew the importance of preserving its legacy.
“Even though there have been two ownership changes since 1982, we’ve kept the restaurant’s name, its main menu, and the essence of what makes China Islamic special,” Umar shared. “For many of our customers, this is more than a restaurant—it’s a connection to their roots and a place that feels like home.”
A Menu for Every Taste
The restaurant’s menu is a celebration of diversity, split into two distinct sections: American-style Chinese favorites and authentic regional dishes from northwest China. For the American palate, staples like Kung Pao Chicken, Orange Peel Chicken, and Mongolian Beef bring familiar flavors with a halal twist. These dishes remain popular, especially among customers seeking comfort food with a unique flair.
On the other hand, the authentic Chinese menu offers specialties that reflect the rich culinary traditions of Umar’s home region in northwest China, which is famous for its role on the historic Silk Road. Hand-pulled noodles, known for their springy texture and delicate preparation, are a highlight. “Our technique is unique,” Umar explained. “We make one strand from one dough, unlike other places that might use multiple strands.”
Another standout is their sesame bread with green onions, a dish so iconic that for many customers, it’s synonymous with the restaurant itself. “If you mention our restaurant to someone in the Chinese community, they immediately think of the bread,” Umar said.
For Umar, though, his personal favorite remains lamb soup, a dish steeped in the traditions of Chinese Muslim cuisine. “As Muslims in China, lamb is central to our diet, and we have hundreds of recipes for it. Lamb soup is the flavor of home for me.”
A Fusion of Cultures
China Islamic Restaurant embodies the beautiful intersection of Chinese and Islamic cultures. “We bring the flavors of northwest China, the recipes of our ancestors, and the dietary principles of halal together in one place,” Umar said. “It’s a reflection of who we are: immigrants, Chinese Muslims, and part of the American story.”
Despite the challenges of running a restaurant in a competitive market, Umar finds inspiration in the cultural diversity of Los Angeles. “America is a place where people from different backgrounds come together. Here, we can share our food and culture with everyone, not just Muslims or Chinese people. We welcome everyone.”
Looking Ahead
Umar has plans to continue evolving the menu, introducing new recipes inspired by his family’s roots while maintaining the classic dishes that have made China Islamic a staple in the community. “We’re always thinking of ways to improve while staying true to our traditions,” he said. “That’s how we’ve lasted for over 40 years, and it’s how we’ll continue to grow.”