Best of 15 lunch restaurants in Chinatown
Considering a lunch break in the vibrant Chinatown district? Discover a variety of lunch restaurants in Chinatown, each offering unique and authentic Asian cuisine. From steaming dumplings and savory noodle dishes to vegetarian options and sweet desserts, these eateries cater to diverse tastes and preferences. Immerse yourself in the rich culture while enjoying a delicious meal at one of the many lunch restaurants in Chinatown.
Toc
- 1. House of Nanking
- 2. Sam Wo Restaurant
- 3. Bund Shanghai Restaurant
- 4. Chong Qing Xiao Mian
- 5. Begoni Bistro
- 6. Good Mong Kok Bakery in Chinatown
- 7. Capital
- 8. Great Eastern Restaurant
- 9. Delicious Dim Sum
- 10. Brandy Ho's Hunan Food in Chinatown
- 11. New Lun Ting Cafe
- 12. Golden Star Vietnamese Restaurant
- 13. San Sun Restaurant in Chinatown
- 14. Kam Lok Restaurant
- 15. Bow Hon Restaurant
1. House of Nanking
Cash-only, no reservations, long-standing family-owned restaurant
__NEW TEXT__
Noodles are a standout option at this establishment, with a variety of choices such as noodle soup, vegetarian noodles, black sesame noodles, and house noodles. Even some vegans can find something to enjoy here.
The food is a hit, with several dishes receiving high accolades. House noodles and Nanking Sesame Tofu with sweet potatoes are among the favorites. However, there were mixed reviews about the sesame chicken, with some diners complaining it was overcooked and too crispy, while others appreciated its flavor and texture.
Noodles are a standout option at this establishment, with a variety of choices such as noodle soup, vegetarian noodles, black sesame noodles, and house noodles. Even some vegans can find something to enjoy here.
The food is a hit, with several dishes receiving high accolades. House noodles and Nanking Sesame Tofu with sweet potatoes are among the favorites. However, there were mixed reviews about the sesame chicken, with some diners complaining it was overcooked and too crispy, while others appreciated its flavor and texture.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
Relate link
2. Sam Wo Restaurant
Historic establishment serving SF Chinatown for over 100 years
__NEW TEXT__
The beef stew wonton is a standout dish at this Chinese restaurant, and I look forward to trying other wonton noodle offerings in the future. However, the BBQ pork noodle roll was disappointing; it was cold and appeared to be past its prime. On a more positive note, the sweet and sour pork exceeded my expectations with its generous portion size.
This establishment is known for providing authentic and delicious Chinese cuisine at reasonable prices. The restaurant's history dates back to 1908, although its current location has only been open since 2015 due to health code violations at the previous site. With a wide variety of options available, diners are sure to find something that pleases their palate while enjoying a taste of Chinese culinary tradition.
The beef stew wonton is a standout dish at this Chinese restaurant, and I look forward to trying other wonton noodle offerings in the future. However, the BBQ pork noodle roll was disappointing; it was cold and appeared to be past its prime. On a more positive note, the sweet and sour pork exceeded my expectations with its generous portion size.
This establishment is known for providing authentic and delicious Chinese cuisine at reasonable prices. The restaurant's history dates back to 1908, although its current location has only been open since 2015 due to health code violations at the previous site. With a wide variety of options available, diners are sure to find something that pleases their palate while enjoying a taste of Chinese culinary tradition.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
Relate link
3. Bund Shanghai Restaurant
Offers delicious Shanghai cuisine with a modern twist in a cozy atmosphere.
__NEW TEXT__
Xiao Long Bao, also known as soup dumplings, are a standout option for lunch with their flavorful soup inside, despite having a slightly thicker dough than typical. The lunch menu showcases a variety of Shanghai dishes, including the crab and pork dumplings that are highly recommended, even though their skin is a bit thicker.
Shanghai cuisine is well-represented in the lunch menu, offering numerous dishes that are sure to satisfy diners. The crab and pork dumplings are a highlight, bursting with flavor from the savory meat and rich soup encased in a slightly thick dumpling skin. Another dish to try is the Xiao Long Bao or soup dumplings, which provide a delightful surprise with their tasty soup hidden inside a modest dumpling.
Xiao Long Bao, also known as soup dumplings, are a standout option for lunch with their flavorful soup inside, despite having a slightly thicker dough than typical. The lunch menu showcases a variety of Shanghai dishes, including the crab and pork dumplings that are highly recommended, even though their skin is a bit thicker.
Shanghai cuisine is well-represented in the lunch menu, offering numerous dishes that are sure to satisfy diners. The crab and pork dumplings are a highlight, bursting with flavor from the savory meat and rich soup encased in a slightly thick dumpling skin. Another dish to try is the Xiao Long Bao or soup dumplings, which provide a delightful surprise with their tasty soup hidden inside a modest dumpling.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Celebrations
- Vegetarian Options
4. Chong Qing Xiao Mian
Authentic Szechuan cuisine with spicy and flavorful dishes
__NEW TEXT__
I had a memorable food experience in an authentic Chinatown restaurant, which was not fancy or touristy. The menu included delicious options such as beef noodle soup, BBQ skewers, and spring rolls, all of which were very tasty, generously portioned, and affordable. The dishes had a nice spicy kick, just as I like it.
During my visit, I was excited to try their Chongqing Xiao Mian, also known as Chongqing numbing spicy noodles. However, the noodles fell short of my expectations as they lacked the promised numbing effect despite the adequate spice level. Additionally, the broth lacked depth and flavor, but the noodles themselves were good. On the bright side, the service level was commendable.
I had a memorable food experience in an authentic Chinatown restaurant, which was not fancy or touristy. The menu included delicious options such as beef noodle soup, BBQ skewers, and spring rolls, all of which were very tasty, generously portioned, and affordable. The dishes had a nice spicy kick, just as I like it.
During my visit, I was excited to try their Chongqing Xiao Mian, also known as Chongqing numbing spicy noodles. However, the noodles fell short of my expectations as they lacked the promised numbing effect despite the adequate spice level. Additionally, the broth lacked depth and flavor, but the noodles themselves were good. On the bright side, the service level was commendable.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
5. Begoni Bistro
Featuring Vietnamese fusion cuisine in a historic building.
__NEW TEXT__
The service at this establishment is exceptional, providing a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere for guests. The Dim Sum offered is a must-try, being the best the reviewer has ever experienced. The authentic Chinese meal includes various dishes that are served at different times, adding to the unique dining experience.
For those looking for a delicious lunch spot, this Chinese restaurant is an excellent choice. The Dim Sum is a standout, with a variety of dishes that will not disappoint. The attentive and friendly service makes for a pleasant meal, and it is recommended for anyone seeking an authentic Chinese culinary experience.
The service at this establishment is exceptional, providing a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere for guests. The Dim Sum offered is a must-try, being the best the reviewer has ever experienced. The authentic Chinese meal includes various dishes that are served at different times, adding to the unique dining experience.
For those looking for a delicious lunch spot, this Chinese restaurant is an excellent choice. The Dim Sum is a standout, with a variety of dishes that will not disappoint. The attentive and friendly service makes for a pleasant meal, and it is recommended for anyone seeking an authentic Chinese culinary experience.
TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Lunch
- Dinner
6. Good Mong Kok Bakery in Chinatown
Cash-only, Long lines during peak hours, Family-owned
__NEW TEXT__
During a lunch break, I decided to visit Chinatown and had to wait in line for about 25 minutes before ordering. The baked and steamed barbecue buns were delicious, but the highlight of my meal was the pineapple buns, which were big and flavorful. The shrimp dumplings were also tasty. Despite the long line, the low prices and generous portions made the wait worthwhile.
I stopped by a popular spot in Chinatown during lunchtime and found myself waiting in a line that stretched down the street. Although the wait was lengthy, taking my meal to a nearby park was a viable option. The BBQ pork buns and shrimp dumplings were both delicious and satisfying. The star of the show was the generously portioned pineapple buns, which were a standout with their big and flavorful taste.
During a lunch break, I decided to visit Chinatown and had to wait in line for about 25 minutes before ordering. The baked and steamed barbecue buns were delicious, but the highlight of my meal was the pineapple buns, which were big and flavorful. The shrimp dumplings were also tasty. Despite the long line, the low prices and generous portions made the wait worthwhile.
I stopped by a popular spot in Chinatown during lunchtime and found myself waiting in a line that stretched down the street. Although the wait was lengthy, taking my meal to a nearby park was a viable option. The BBQ pork buns and shrimp dumplings were both delicious and satisfying. The star of the show was the generously portioned pineapple buns, which were a standout with their big and flavorful taste.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
7. Capital
Historic location with outdoor seating and a wide range of seafood options.
__NEW TEXT__
During the lunch rush, the dining room can get moderately crowded, but the service remains consistently high-quality. Anita, one of the servers, stands out for her attentive and friendly service.
If you're looking for a delicious lunch option, the salt and pepper chicken wings are a must-try. They are perfectly spiced and fried, making them a crowd favorite. This is an excellent spot for those looking for a quick yet satisfying lunch.
During the lunch rush, the dining room can get moderately crowded, but the service remains consistently high-quality. Anita, one of the servers, stands out for her attentive and friendly service.
If you're looking for a delicious lunch option, the salt and pepper chicken wings are a must-try. They are perfectly spiced and fried, making them a crowd favorite. This is an excellent spot for those looking for a quick yet satisfying lunch.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
8. Great Eastern Restaurant
Established in 1916, family-owned and operated
__NEW TEXT__
Some customers have had positive experiences with the service, praising its quickness, while others have struggled to get the attention of servers. The environment of the restaurant is lacking in atmosphere, and some diners felt ignored by the staff.
The Shrimp Dumplings are a standout menu item, with customers raving about the delicious shrimp filling and the well-intact dumpling wrapper. The Green Beans with XO Sauce are also highly recommended. However, the 1/2 Peking duck with bao buns, while tasty, does not particularly distinguish the restaurant from other Chinese eateries in the area.
Some customers have had positive experiences with the service, praising its quickness, while others have struggled to get the attention of servers. The environment of the restaurant is lacking in atmosphere, and some diners felt ignored by the staff.
The Shrimp Dumplings are a standout menu item, with customers raving about the delicious shrimp filling and the well-intact dumpling wrapper. The Green Beans with XO Sauce are also highly recommended. However, the 1/2 Peking duck with bao buns, while tasty, does not particularly distinguish the restaurant from other Chinese eateries in the area.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Dinner
9. Delicious Dim Sum
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Asian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Lunch
Relate link
10. Brandy Ho's Hunan Food in Chinatown
Offers a wide variety of spicy and non-spicy Hunan dishes, using high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking techniques.
__NEW TEXT__
A visit to San Francisco from Sacramento led to the discovery of a hidden gem, Brandy Ho's, located in the heart of Chinatown. The Italian district was passed through before reaching this restaurant, which offered a clean and inviting atmosphere with a varied menu. The owner's recommendation of Brandy's fish fillet (hot) and fried dumplings was a hit, providing delicious and satisfying options.
A visit to San Francisco from Sacramento led to the discovery of a hidden gem, Brandy Ho's, located in the heart of Chinatown. The Italian district was passed through before reaching this restaurant, which offered a clean and inviting atmosphere with a varied menu. The owner's recommendation of Brandy's fish fillet (hot) and fried dumplings was a hit, providing delicious and satisfying options.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Asian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
11. New Lun Ting Cafe
Offers dim sum and Cantonese cuisine
__NEW TEXT__
New Lun Ting Cafe is a Chinese restaurant with a reputation similar to Denny's in terms of service, cleanliness, and food. The service may be inconsistent, but it is not discriminatory. Every exposed surface has a layer of grease, but the food is decent and the portions are enormous. For approximately $6, customers can enjoy a rice plate with their choice of meat or vegetables, a small bowl of soup, two generous potstickers, a beverage, and a square of jello for dessert.
New Lun Ting Cafe has an overall rating of 4 stars and is open every day of the week, including Monday through Sunday. It offers delivery and pickup options, and reviews mention the unexpected appearance of items like spaghetti and macaroni on the Chinese restaurant's menu, which somehow works.
New Lun Ting Cafe is a Chinese restaurant with a reputation similar to Denny's in terms of service, cleanliness, and food. The service may be inconsistent, but it is not discriminatory. Every exposed surface has a layer of grease, but the food is decent and the portions are enormous. For approximately $6, customers can enjoy a rice plate with their choice of meat or vegetables, a small bowl of soup, two generous potstickers, a beverage, and a square of jello for dessert.
New Lun Ting Cafe has an overall rating of 4 stars and is open every day of the week, including Monday through Sunday. It offers delivery and pickup options, and reviews mention the unexpected appearance of items like spaghetti and macaroni on the Chinese restaurant's menu, which somehow works.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Chinese Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Lunch
Relate link
12. Golden Star Vietnamese Restaurant
Family-owned, long-standing history in the community, authentic Vietnamese cuisine
__NEW TEXT__
The financial district in Vietnam boasts an excellent Vietnamese restaurant, known for its high-quality food and affordability, which recently increased its prices but remains a good value. The eatery is often crowded during lunch hours, offering a menu with various dishes, but the reviewer recommends trying items 33, 40, or 49, which include Five Spices Chicken with Imperial Rolls rice plate, BBQ Pork and Imperial Rolls rice plate, and Flame Broiled Pork and Imperial rolls Vermicelli Bowl, all priced around $7, including tax and tip. The food consistently delivers great taste and generous portions.
In Chinatown, there's a no-frills Vietnamese restaurant that serves delicious food. The Bun Bo Hue soup comes with a perfect balance of meat and noodles, and while the broth has a good flavor, the reviewer prefers it spicier, easily adjusted with some added sriracha sauce. The quick service and fast food delivery are noteworthy, making it a place worth revisiting to try other menu items.
The financial district in Vietnam boasts an excellent Vietnamese restaurant, known for its high-quality food and affordability, which recently increased its prices but remains a good value. The eatery is often crowded during lunch hours, offering a menu with various dishes, but the reviewer recommends trying items 33, 40, or 49, which include Five Spices Chicken with Imperial Rolls rice plate, BBQ Pork and Imperial Rolls rice plate, and Flame Broiled Pork and Imperial rolls Vermicelli Bowl, all priced around $7, including tax and tip. The food consistently delivers great taste and generous portions.
In Chinatown, there's a no-frills Vietnamese restaurant that serves delicious food. The Bun Bo Hue soup comes with a perfect balance of meat and noodles, and while the broth has a good flavor, the reviewer prefers it spicier, easily adjusted with some added sriracha sauce. The quick service and fast food delivery are noteworthy, making it a place worth revisiting to try other menu items.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
13. San Sun Restaurant in Chinatown
Authentic Japanese cuisine, cozy atmosphere, catering service available
__NEW TEXT__
A refresh in staff has occurred at the establishment, including the chef, waiters, and manager. This change has resulted in inconsistencies in the quality of the food served, with issues such as cold rice noodles and chicken that appears to have been soaked and reheated multiple times. The freshness of the dishes is questionable, and it has been suggested that the microwave could be used to reheat the rice noodles to improve their temperature.
Despite these concerns, the restaurant is a solid option for those seeking basic Chinese food in San Francisco's Chinatown. It is not a fancy establishment and would not be well-suited for a romantic date, but the simple and casual atmosphere makes it a great place to enjoy delicious, unpretentious Chinese dishes. The restaurant is kept clean and the service is fast, making it an ideal choice for a quick and satisfying meal.
A refresh in staff has occurred at the establishment, including the chef, waiters, and manager. This change has resulted in inconsistencies in the quality of the food served, with issues such as cold rice noodles and chicken that appears to have been soaked and reheated multiple times. The freshness of the dishes is questionable, and it has been suggested that the microwave could be used to reheat the rice noodles to improve their temperature.
Despite these concerns, the restaurant is a solid option for those seeking basic Chinese food in San Francisco's Chinatown. It is not a fancy establishment and would not be well-suited for a romantic date, but the simple and casual atmosphere makes it a great place to enjoy delicious, unpretentious Chinese dishes. The restaurant is kept clean and the service is fast, making it an ideal choice for a quick and satisfying meal.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
Relate link
14. Kam Lok Restaurant
Cantonese cuisine specialist with a long history in San Francisco.
__NEW TEXT__
Kam Lok Restaurant is a long-standing eatery in San Francisco's Chinatown, known for its authentic Cantonese cuisine in a basement setting. The menu is compact, specializing in family-style dishes, with a separate page for rice and noodle options. While not everything is listed, the accommodating staff will prepare special requests. The runny egg shrimp chow fun and pork belly with preserved veg are popular choices, showcasing the flavors of wok cooking and tender, juicy meat.
The restaurant's decor and facilities could benefit from updating, including cleaning the menus and bathrooms. Moreover, English-speaking customers might appreciate more English communication from the staff, aside from the younger, friendly, and helpful waitress who took the order. The Chow Fun Beef with Bean Sprouts and Braised Tofu with Duck were served promptly and generously, providing great value for the price. For an authentic Chinatown experience in a classic "Rough Guide" style, Kam Lok Restaurant is worth visiting.
Kam Lok Restaurant is a long-standing eatery in San Francisco's Chinatown, known for its authentic Cantonese cuisine in a basement setting. The menu is compact, specializing in family-style dishes, with a separate page for rice and noodle options. While not everything is listed, the accommodating staff will prepare special requests. The runny egg shrimp chow fun and pork belly with preserved veg are popular choices, showcasing the flavors of wok cooking and tender, juicy meat.
The restaurant's decor and facilities could benefit from updating, including cleaning the menus and bathrooms. Moreover, English-speaking customers might appreciate more English communication from the staff, aside from the younger, friendly, and helpful waitress who took the order. The Chow Fun Beef with Bean Sprouts and Braised Tofu with Duck were served promptly and generously, providing great value for the price. For an authentic Chinatown experience in a classic "Rough Guide" style, Kam Lok Restaurant is worth visiting.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Cheap Eats
Relate link
15. Bow Hon Restaurant
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
Relate link
