Ji Rong Peking Duck Review: Is This Rosemead Restaurant the Best Duck in LA? | Eater LA

"At this Chinese restaurant in Rosemead, the glistening, golden brown Peking duck is one of the best in Los Angeles, and the robust menu offers other centerpiece dishes like a whole fried sweet and sour grouper. It’s a particularly great spot for large groups or family dinners; order more than you think you need to load up the lazy Susan and let every dish take a spin. The Peking duck starts at $85 and easily feeds four; the crispy skin is separated from the meat and served with pliable chun bing crepes, hoisin, ribbons of green onion, and cucumbers—assemble everything to curate a perfect bite. The cold chicken in spicy sauce is delightfully savory and packs some numbing heat (spoon the excess sauce over rice), while the baked pumpkin with egg yolk is crispy outside, creamy inside, and balances sweet kabocha squash with savory salted egg yolk; save room for the mashed taro with gingko nut, a not-too-sweet dessert. Peking ducks must be reserved 75 minutes in advance, so call ahead; if you want to walk in, show up right when the restaurant opens. A pot of tea is essential—jasmine is a personal favorite, chrysanthemum suits those avoiding caffeine—and on hot days, freshly blended watermelon juice tempers any spicy dishes." - Kat Thompson