About This Spot

Stepping into Rice Bowl Express feels like arriving at a familiar neighborhood treasure—unpretentious yet welcoming, a place where the pace slows just enough to savor a meal made with care. Its modest storefront on Del Obispo Street hints at the comfort awaiting inside: friendly smiles, the reassuring aroma of freshly prepared dishes, and an easygoing atmosphere where neighbors and newcomers alike find their rhythm.

This Chinese eatery carries the steady, warm energy of a family-run spot that’s been quietly nurturing its community for decades. The staff’s genuine attentiveness creates a sense of being looked after, whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or settling in for a relaxed meal. Here, the kitchen honors the tradition of fresh, thoughtfully prepared food — each plate an inviting medley of familiar flavors, from the bright and tangy notes of orange chicken to the rich, savory depth of braised beef. Portions come generous, reinforcing that sense of abundance without rushing you out the door.

Meals here feel like real moments: sharing a potsticker appetizer with someone special, warming up with a fragrant bowl of braised noodles, or discovering new favorites tucked among staples like teriyaki chicken or sweet and sour pork. Even those who come expecting typical takeout find themselves pleasantly surprised by the care in every bite—nothing greasy or hurried, just honest food that nourishes beyond the plate.

For many, Rice Bowl Express has become more than just a spot to eat; it’s a quiet part of their routine, a place tied to memories of seasonal traditions or the warmth of longtime neighborhood ties. The welcoming, relaxed vibe invites visitors to slow down and enjoy the simple pleasure of comfort food thoughtfully done — a reminder that sometimes the best experiences happen where hospitality and good cooking come together naturally.

What’s Available Here

  • IconTakeaway
  • IconDine-in
  • IconLunch
  • IconDinner
  • IconSolo dining
  • IconWheelchair-accessible car park
  • IconWheelchair-accessible entrance
  • IconWheelchair-accessible seating
  • IconWheelchair-accessible toilet
  • IconComfort food
  • IconHealthy options
  • IconQuick bite
  • IconSmall plates
  • IconVegetarian options
  • IconLunch
  • IconDinner
  • IconCounter service
  • IconSeating
  • IconToilet
  • IconCasual
  • IconCosy
  • IconQuiet
  • IconFamily friendly
  • IconGroups
  • IconTourists
  • IconAccepts reservations
  • IconCredit cards
  • IconDebit cards
  • IconNFC mobile payments
  • IconCredit cards
  • IconGood for kids
  • IconHigh chairs
  • IconFree of charge street parking
  • IconFree parking lot
  • IconParking
  • IconDogs allowed outside

Location & Hours

Monday 10:30 AM - 09:00 PM
Tuesday 10:30 AM - 09:00 PM
Wednesday 10:30 AM - 09:00 PM
Thursday 10:30 AM - 09:00 PM
Friday 10:30 AM - 09:00 PM
Saturday 11:00 AM - 09:00 PM
Sunday 11:00 AM - 09:00 PM

Guest Reviews

Rick Cas 28 Dec 2025

First of all, I would like to send my appreciation to this family for doing the most out work I've seen in a restaurant. Food has great flavors, not greasy great prices. Staff is friendly and very attentive to your needs. I'm not from the area, but I will definitely be back! (My picture does not do this meal justice. I had already added hot sauce and mixed everything up)

Ryan Doyle 14 Nov 2025

Holy smokes, the name does not do this place justice. I’m not overstating when I say the food quality is Tao level. The braised beef is outrageous. Orange chicken and Mongolian beef are both excellent. I wish I’ve tried more entrees but I keep ordering these three. Truly worth a stop. They’ve been in business for 30 years. Beyond supporting a staple in the community, you’re gonna get better food than any sit down restaurant. Give this place a go.

Jeff Holton 11 Nov 2025

Wife’s family has been going here for many years. We have made this a Christmas Eve tradition for many years, on our way home from church! Always friendly, tasty, and fresh!

K B 08 Nov 2025

Extremely shocked that this non assuming chinese takeout tasted so good. Food tasted extremely fresh and not greasy and thrown together like your average chinese takeout. HUGE portions as well. Staff was extremely friendly and even stopped to check on all the customers that were sitting to eat even though it is a simple take out place.

So Cal Says 30 Oct 2025

Thank you to Mrs. Valerie and her family/team for the tasty food and the wonderful service! The restaurant is always clean and they are so friendly. I also love that they have vegetarian options as well. I love making the drive to come here. Reminds me of homemuch love

Ray Lin 21 Oct 2025

After a fun day at Capistrano Beach, my family and I dined at Rice Bowl Express nearby. We ordered two bowls with three items each. The pork BBQ was exceptionally tasty. The other items were great too, but the fried rice could use some improvement. Overall, a delightful experience with quick service.

Tobi West 09 Oct 2025

Good quality! We were enthusiastic to try a new place after finding it had good reviews and was a short drive away. The food was good and the servers were nice. I enjoyed the orange chicken and the sweet and sour pork the most. The bbq pork was a tad dry and the pork chop bites were good dipped in sweet and sour sauce. Will definitely go back to try the Mongolian beef.

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