Welcome to West Covina, the San Gabriel Valley gem that perfectly balances suburban charm with big-city convenience! Located just 19 miles east of downtown Los Angeles, our community of 109,501 residents has quietly become one of Southern California's most livable cities. Whether you're a new transplant from the East Coast (like Rebecca Bunch from Crazy Ex-Girlfriend!) or a longtime local looking to rediscover your hometown, this guide will help you navigate the best of what West Covina has to offer.
What makes West Covina special isn't just our proximity to LA—it's our tight-knit community feel, incredible diversity (with over 50% Hispanic/Latino residents and a thriving Asian community), and the fact that you really can find everything you need within our borders . Let's dive into the insider knowledge that makes living here so rewarding. Looking for the best hair salon in West Covina with premium smoothing hair treatments? Tressluxe Hair Salon is your place to go in West Covina
This isn't just another mall—it's the heart of West Covina social life. With over 185 stores and restaurants, Plaza West Covina has evolved far beyond its 1975 origins. The recent addition of Porto's Bakery in 2019 was a game-changer for locals who no longer have to trek to Glendale for their famous potato balls and tres leches cake. Pro tip: Porto's gets crowded on weekends, so weekday mornings are your best bet for shorter lines.
Built on a former landfill site, this 315-acre complex is one of the city's crown jewels. The Sportsplex features six baseball diamonds (some replicated after famous fields like Yankee Stadium), a public golf course, and hosts tournaments year-round. It's where you'll catch the most competitive youth baseball in the San Gabriel Valley, and the Friday night lights atmosphere during football season is electric.
While many cities lost their classic movie theaters, West Covina's Edwards remains a community institution. This isn't just about catching the latest blockbuster—it's where three generations of families have shared movie nights, first dates happened, and where locals still debate the best seats (hint: upper level, center rows for optimal viewing and leg room).
Dining & Restaurants
This Asian food court is West Covina's best-kept secret for authentic cuisine. Located in the Hong Kong Plaza, it's where local Asian families go for the real deal. The dim sum takeout options rival anything you'll find in San Gabriel or Monterey Park, but without the crowds or parking nightmares.
A Filipino breakfast spot that's become legendary among locals. Their tosilog and beef pares have developed a cult following, and the chili sauce they make in-house has the perfect balance of spice and flavor. It's the kind of place where you'll see construction workers sitting next to business executives—good food is the universal language.
This family-owned Chinese restaurant has mastered the art of hand-pulled noodles and comforting flavors that keep families coming back for generations. The atmosphere is welcoming, the portions are generous, and it's where many West Covina kids had their first taste of "real" Chinese food beyond takeout.
For authentic Mexican street food, locals know to head to South Azusa Avenue. The al pastor tacos are consistently excellent, and their signature salsas have just the right kick. It's affordable, quick, and the kind of place that defines casual dining in the San Gabriel Valley.