Oak Tree Inn Chinese Restaurant: South Pasadena's Hidden Gem

Unless you happen to be a resident of South Pasadena, this Chinese restaurant can be easily missed as it is not in the Old Town Pasadena area where most of the other restaurants are located. This food establishment is closer to Huntington Drive or Monterey Park near the local post office and two schools.

It's open 7 days a week, from 11 am to 10 pm and has been in business since 1992. I've frequented this restaurant several times now and during my last visit I was able to closely scrutinize most of the details so AC readers can get an idea what this place is like.

Parking is small to medium in size. At times it can be filled up, but you can also park in the side or near the housing areas, if necessary.

One bad thing I noticed immediately is the grade of the restaurant, which was given a "B". Judging from the outside or the inside appearance, it's hard to determine what prevented it from getting an "A", but this is important to note. Scanning all around from where I was sitting, I would estimate the place can hold about sixty guests. There are about 15 tables and most have 4 chairs. There are some large round tables with a lazy susan for eating food family style and these tables can hold about 10-11 people. The tables and chairs look to be in very good condition and are cleaned well. They include a flower vase in each table.

For a Sunday evening, I noted the service was fairly quick (10-13 minutes) and it was not filled with customers just yet. The waiter and waitresses were very courteous and patient.

Prices on the menu are reasonable; most ranging from 7.50 to as high as 35.50. Since they serve many seafood dishes, they also have seasonal dishes which will vary in price.

The lunch specials are 5.75 - 6.25 per item and included steamed rice. This is served from 11 am to 3:00 pm.