Welcome to Metro Stop Highlights, a series where we showcase the various stops along the A Line Metro in Los Angeles, California. Our eighth stop is Chinatown. As you exit the Metro in Chinatown, you’re greeted by an architectural rarity in the greyness of Downtown Los Angeles. Whether you’re contemplating between an iced sugar cane juice from the Saigon Plaza or visiting the Eastern Projects museum, here are some of our favorite things to do near the station.

Kim Chuy Restaurant

Kim Chuy Restaurant is the first Teochew style restaurant in the United States, serving everything from wonton soups to seafood porridges and chicken egg rolls. With countless combinations of noodles and soups, you’ll always find something new to try at the almost 50 year old establishment.

Chunky Paper Goods

Since its opening in June 2021, Chunky Paper Goods has become a one-stop-shop for adorable goods in Chinatown. From diner-style mugs with the classic Chunky baby mascot to food-inspired art prints, the countless products will turn your room into an aesthetic haven to bring you out of the back-to-school slump. In addition, any of the adorable accessories will instantly brighten up your uniformed look.

Eastern Projects: Ernesto De La Loza “LA Real”

Founded in 2016, the Eastern Projects museum features exhibits representing the Los Angeles community. Specifically, from August 23 through September 27, the Eastern Projects spotlighted veteran Chicano muralist Ernesto de la Loza on his five decades of work featuring paintings and murals. This art highlighted the culture and political struggles in the perspective of de la Loza. Since this museum changes throughout the year, we recommend stopping by often to explore the various arts displayed!

Wonder Bakery

Once you push open the double-doors into Wonder Bakery, your world will be forever changed. Between the pastries, drinks, and ice cream, you might just be too overwhelmed to order properly. But take it from the pros—you can never go wrong with an iced tea, croissant, slice of cheesecake, or honestly, any menu item. This small bakery will leave you wanting their fresh-baked goods for weeks to come.

Broadway St. Street Vendors

Just strolling down the streets of Chinatown, you may notice various street vendors with produce, toys, and clothes. Being one of the most valuable aspects of Chinatown, street vendors provide affordable essential goods for the community. During a late weekend stroll, we typically enjoy shopping for starfruit or Smiski mini figures. If you ever need fresh fruit to add to your walk or new keychains for your backpack, simply exploring the streets will provide you just what you need!