Chaaste Family Market

Walking into Chaaste Family Market, you might wonder if you’ve taken a wrong turn. This Pasadena gem is tucked behind a working convenience store, and that unassuming entrance is part of its charm. Step past the snack aisles and you’ll find yourself in a cozy dining room where some of the best Filipino food in the area is being served cafeteria-style.

The food here speaks for itself. Point at whatever catches your eye behind the counter, or better yet, let the friendly staff guide you to the day’s highlights. The hand-rolled pork lumpia arrive golden and shatteringly crisp, while the adobo chicken delivers that perfect balance of tangy vinegar and savory depth that defines the classic dish. Don’t sleep on the eggplant with shrimp paste either—it’s a standout that keeps regulars coming back.

This is the kind of place where pretense doesn’t exist. You grab a seat, dig into generous portions of home-style cooking, and leave with a full belly and a light wallet. The prices are refreshingly reasonable, making it easy to order one of everything and share with the table.

Save room for the turon—they’re an absolute must. These banana-stuffed lumpia emerge sticky, caramelized, and impossibly crunchy, and there’s a reason they sell them by the box. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick lunch or loading up on takeout, Chaaste Family Market delivers the kind of satisfying, soulful cooking that turns first-time visitors into devoted regulars.