Lamb, star anise, cumin, smoky chili oil—these ingredients frequently pop up during a meal at China Islamic Restaurant, a casual halal spot in Rosemead that’s great for a family-style dinner. The menu features Muslim Chinese dishes, as well as more Chinese American staples like kung pao and broccoli beef prepared to halal standards (we’d suggest prioritizing the former and skipping the latter). Start with the bubbling lamb and tofu stew with golden anise-flavored broth that you’ll catch a whiff of before it hits the table, plus an order of the thick, flaky sesame bread layered with scallions. If you’re into those dishes, the owner will point you toward more regional hits, like cold sliced beef with chili oil, lamb stir-fries with heaps of onion and ginger, and fragrant beef noodle soup with chewy hand-cut wheat noodles. Portions are ample, so bring a few friends and load up the lazy susan.