Probably too late for your wife's bday, but I second Yang Chow as a great option near Staples (it's my pregame meal spot most of the time). Another SGV option is Full House Seafood:
Full House Seafood Restaurant - Arcadia, CA
Have you ever hit up New China off of Foothill in between Central and Benson in Upland.
Check it out if you ever have the time. We've been ordering from them for 20 years.
Chen's on Broadway and Temple in Long Beach is the BEST. Huge servings, low prices and VERY fresh ingredients.
If we are gonna keep this thread going here are my two stand by's in the South Bay.
Szechwan Palace Restaurant - Playa Del Rey - Playa Del Rey, CA
Szechwan Restaurant - Manhattan Beach - Manhattan Beach, CA
Hey why not, one can always be greatful for a gem of a food place.
For those in OC, Orange County Food - Sucking in the '70s - page 1
The article is pretty much spot on, the interior hasn't changed much since the early 70s. The beef and broccoli is a winner!