Monterey Park/East LA
VPAM is located on the East Los Angeles College campus in Monterey Park, California in East LA. Monterey Park offers a number of opportunities to experience unique dining fare, great shopping, and special events such as a Lunar New Year Festival, Cherry Blossom Festival, Cinco de Mayo Celebration, and more.
FOOD
Visiting VPAM and want to grab a bite before or after your visit? Here are some of our staff favorites near the museum.
Cook’s Tortas
1944 S Atlantic Blvd
The menu features handmade Mexican tortas made with house‑baked bread and fresh fillings and other creative sandwiches and aguas frescas in a casual, fast‑service setting.
Chop Chop Chicken
2201 S Atlantic Blvd
Specialities include meal bowls with grilled chicken and a variety of sauces. The pomegranate sauce stands out, while habanero and chipotle add spicy depth.
East Los Tacos
4500 E Cesar E Chavez Ave
Serving authentic, family‑style tacos rooted in over 20 years of food‑truck experience. The menu includes varied taco meats and refreshing aguas frescas.
Mama Lu’s Dumpling House
501 W Garvey Ave
Specializing in xiaolongbao and pork dumplings, with Taipei‑style flair. Critics praise the juicy soup dumplings, green onion pancakes, and consistent quality, despite long lines.
Five 55
555 N Atlantic Blvd (inside Courtyard by Marriott)
A vibrant sports bar/lounge featuring modern American bar food paired with craft cocktails. Daily happy hour and a lively yet cozy vibe.
Leaflet Coffee House
2085 S Atlantic Blvd, Ste J,
This cozy cafe is just steps from East Los Angeles College and serves specialty coffee drinks and light bites. It draws students and locals with its warm atmosphere and unique beverages.
Everytable
5550 Hollywood Blvd
Everytable focuses on healthy, convenient meals for any time of day. They offer prepared, nutritious meals ready for pickup or delivery with accessible pricing.
La Carreta
4538 ½ E Cesar E Chavez Ave
As small community gathering place, they serve authentic Mexican breakfast and lunch in a family‑run setting open from early morning. The menu features chilaquiles, huevos divorciados, menudo, enchiladas, and tortillas that draw regulars daily