Dive Into the Supreme Satisfaction of Japanese Home Cooking at This SGV Gem
Discover the hidden gem of Ducks, a restaurant tucked away in a quiet San Gabriel strip mall that has captivated diners for over 25 years. Despite its unassuming name, stepping through the glass door reveals a cozy dining room with ten tables, where the tantalizing scents of bubbling curry and crispy tempura entice your senses. Originally established in 1995 by Natsumi Saeki’s parents, Midori and Shojiro, Ducks emerged from the transformation of an Indian restaurant called Silver Spoons. Since its inception, Ducks has delighted patrons with a delectable selection of Japanese homestyle dishes, including comforting bowls of fried pork cutlet and curry, succulent broiled unagi served over rice, and soba noodles accompanied by generous plates of tempura boasting a popcorn-like batter. Interestingly, ducks themselves have never graced the menu at Ducks. However, Natsumi Saeki fondly recalls her family’s visits to Almansor Park to feed the ducks, which inspired the restaurant’s name. This cherished childhood memory is beautifully reflected in the duck statues adorning the dining room and the whimsical rubber ducks that line the restaurant’s windows, paying homage to the restaurant’s origins and creating an inviting ambiance for diners to enjoy.
Read more here: https://la.eater.com/2023/6/8/23730157/ducks-restaurant-san-gabriel-los-angeles-japanese-food-home-style-tempura-soba-udon-katsu
Restaurant Review: Great chicken, but no duck at Ducks Restaurant in San Gabriel
Located in an unassuming mini-mall on the outskirts of San Gabriel, Ducks is a hidden gem that locals frequent for its unpretentious atmosphere and eclectic décor featuring ducks, cats, and flowers. As a refreshing alternative to the nearby Chinese dumpling and noodle houses, and Szechuan eateries, Ducks provides a haven for those seeking a satisfying, no-fuss meal like curry over spaghetti or rice. Unlike other curry establishments, Ducks’ dishes have a milder sodium profile, making it a favorable choice for health-conscious diners. The menu is straightforward, offering classic curry options such as beef, chicken, pork cutlet, and chicken cutlet, served in mild, medium, or hot varieties over traditional spaghetti. At Ducks, simplicity, affordability, and flavors that hit the spot define the dining experience.
Read more here: https://www.pasadenastarnews.com/2015/09/02/restaurant-review-great-chicken-but-no-duck-at-ducks-restaurant-in-san-gabriel/