Best of 16 outdoor dining in Chinatown
Outdoor dining in Chinatown is a unique and vibrant experience that combines delicious food with rich cultural heritage. This popular trend allows diners to enjoy their meal in the heart of bustling Chinatown, surrounded by colorful lanterns, lively streets, and iconic architecture. It's a must-try for foodies and culture enthusiasts alike. Whether you're craving traditional dim sum or spicy Szechuan dishes, outdoor dining in Chinatown is an unforgettable way to savor the flavors of this diverse and historic neighborhood.
- 1. Grant Place Restaurant
- 2. Hang Ah Tea Room
- 3. Bow Hon Restaurant
- 4. House of Nanking
- 5. Empress by Boon
- 6. Begoni Bistro
- 7. Dol Ho Restaurant in Chinatown
- 8. Chong Qing Xiao Mian
- 9. San Sun Restaurant
- 10. The Garden Restaurant
- 11. Far East Cafe
- 12. Sam Wo Restaurant
- 13. Great Eastern Restaurant
- 14. Bund Shanghai Restaurant in Chinatown
- 15. Mister Jiu's
- 16. New Lun Ting Cafe in Chinatown
1. Grant Place Restaurant
Live music on weekends, extensive wine list, and cozy fireplace

The outdoor seating area at the restaurant was enjoyed by us. We found the dim sum to be fresh and full of flavor, and the service was prompt. This made for a perfect dining experience on a sunny day in San Francisco.
Due to Covid-19, we opted for patio dining during our walk through Chinatown. The restaurant offered generous portion sizes, and I particularly enjoyed my spicy chicken lo mein. However, my wife's regular chicken lo mein was found lacking in flavor.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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2. Hang Ah Tea Room
Traditional Korean tea house in the heart of San Francisco

Fiorella is a cherished Italian restaurant located in the Outer Richmond neighborhood of San Francisco. It boasts a delightful back patio, equipped with heat lamps to provide comfort during cooler evenings. As one of the city's beloved dining establishments, Fiorella offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere for patrons to enjoy.
San Francisco is home to several exceptional restaurants that feature outstanding outdoor dining options. These venues offer a range of experiences, from breathtaking views and scenic streetside tables to enchanting patios. Whether you're seeking a romantic dinner spot or a place to enjoy a meal with friends and family, these restaurants provide the perfect setting for a memorable dining experience. Fiorella, with its charming back patio, is just one of the many treasured gems that contribute to San Francisco's vibrant culinary scene.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Chinese Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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3. Bow Hon Restaurant

TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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4. House of Nanking
Family-owned Szechuan restaurant since 1988

The outdoor dining experience at House of Nanking was delightful, offering a perfect ambiance for a casual meal with friends. The seating area was located outside, providing a great opportunity to enjoy the delicious food while taking in the sights and sounds of the city.
The location of the outdoor seating area was ideal, situated in the heart of San Francisco and providing a great spot for people-watching. The atmosphere was lively and energetic, with a steady stream of people passing by on the street. The outdoor setting added to the overall enjoyment of the meal, making it a memorable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
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5. Empress by Boon
Family-owned and operated for over 30 years, known for their handmade noodles

Empress by Boon is an ideal location for those who enjoy dining in a scenic setting. Its outdoor dining area boasts magnificent views of North Beach, Chinatown, and Coit Tower, providing a stunning backdrop to the modern Cantonese cuisine served. This makes it a perfect place for special occasions, allowing diners to enjoy both delicious food and breathtaking views.
The outdoor dining area at Empress by Boon is a must-visit for its combination of modern Cantonese cuisine and picturesque scenery. Whether it's a casual dinner or a special occasion, the views of North Beach, Chinatown, and Coit Tower from the restaurant's terrace create an unforgettable ambiance. The stunning scenery complements the delicious food, making it a highly recommended destination for anyone looking for a memorable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Corporate Events
- Celebrations
6. Begoni Bistro
Family-owned Vietnamese bistro serving traditional dishes.

The outdoor dining area at Begoni Bistro was a delightful addition to the overall dining experience. Soft lighting and a comfortable atmosphere made it a perfect setting for a relaxing meal. The food was exceptional, particularly the dim sum which was a standout dish. The service was top-notch, with staff providing attentive and friendly service throughout the meal.
Overall, dining at Begoni Bistro was a wonderful experience. From the moment we arrived until we left, the staff made us feel welcome and well taken care of. The outdoor dining area provided a tranquil and enjoyable ambience, while the delicious food and excellent service made for a memorable meal. If you're looking for a great place to dine outside, Begoni Bistro is an excellent choice.
TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Lunch
- Dinner
7. Dol Ho Restaurant in Chinatown

TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Chinese Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
8. Chong Qing Xiao Mian
Authentic Sichuan cuisine that's both delicious and affordable

Outdoor dining is a delightful experience in this location, offering a pleasant atmosphere that enhances the overall pleasure of the meal. The food served here is truly exceptional, with a variety of dishes to choose from.
The outdoor seating area is a particular highlight, providing a comfortable and enjoyable space to savor each bite. One standout dish is the spicy noodles, which are bursting with flavor and perfect for those who enjoy a little heat. With such delicious food and a great outdoor seating area, this dining experience is not to be missed.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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9. San Sun Restaurant
Serves dim sum every day and has a full bar with a wide selection of cocktails and wines.

The outdoor dining experience at this location is exceptional, offering a great ambiance and delicious food. On a particularly hot day in San Francisco, it was a welcome respite to be seated quickly and provided glasses of ice water right away. The outdoor dining area added to the overall atmosphere of the restaurant.
If you're looking for a place to have lunch in Chinatown, this restaurant is a great choice. With prompt seating and attentive service, diners can enjoy their meal in comfort. The outdoor dining area is a nice touch, especially on warm days, and contributes to the overall positive experience of dining at this establishment.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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10. The Garden Restaurant
Features a beautiful garden setting for dining, private events, and wedding ceremonies

The outdoor dining area at The Garden Restaurant is a pleasant and atmospheric space to enjoy a meal. Patrons were served delicious and well-prepared dishes, making for a satisfying dining experience. The service at the restaurant was top-notch, with staff providing attentive and friendly assistance throughout the meal.
During our trip, we had the pleasure of dining in the outdoor area of The Garden Restaurant. The beautiful setting, with its carefully tended gardens and comfortable seating, added to the enjoyment of our meal. We were impressed by the flavorful and artfully presented dishes, which showcased the restaurant's commitment to quality and creativity.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
- Vegetarian Options
11. Far East Cafe
Family-owned and operated for over 30 years, known for its traditional Cantonese cuisine

Far East Cafe is an upscale Chinese restaurant with an outstanding outdoor dining experience and a unique setting. The dim sum served is delicious, and the prices are reasonable considering the quality of the food and the ambiance. The restaurant is known for its friendly staff and tasty dishes, particularly the seafood chow mein and spicy green beans.
Diners can enjoy a pleasant meal in a great atmosphere at Far East Cafe. The dim sum is a must-try, and the seafood chow mein and spicy green beans are standout dishes. The restaurant's friendly staff adds to the overall positive dining experience. With its unique setting and high-quality food, Far East Cafe is a restaurant worth visiting.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
12. Sam Wo Restaurant
Family-owned since 1907, cash-only establishment with a rich history

Sam Wo's outdoor seating offers a pleasant spot to enjoy a meal, particularly their well-known wonton noodle soup. The service is prompt and friendly, adding to the overall positive dining experience.
If you're looking for authentic and tasty Chinese food, Sam Wo is the place to go. The outdoor dining area is perfect for a casual meal, making it an ideal choice for an affordable dinner. The cozy atmosphere makes it a welcoming destination for anyone seeking delicious Chinese cuisine.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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13. Great Eastern Restaurant
Dim sum service, historic Chinatown location, and elegant atmosphere

Outdoor dining was a pleasant experience, with the added bonus of taking in the sights and sounds of Chinatown. The food served was excellent, with fresh and delicious options that were authentic to Hong Kong and China. However, there was a slow service pace that slightly detracted from the overall experience.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Dinner
14. Bund Shanghai Restaurant in Chinatown
Authentic Shanghainese cuisine, long history and tradition, and cozy atmosphere

The outdoor dining area was a delightful addition to the dining experience. It provided well-shaded and comfortable seating, making it an ideal location for a meal. The atmosphere was perfect for enjoying food while taking in the sights and sounds of the surrounding area.
The outdoor setup was particularly well-suited for taking advantage of a sunny day in San Francisco. The cozy seating arrangements allowed for a relaxed and enjoyable meal. Whether with friends, family, or solo, the outdoor dining area proved to be a wonderful spot to dine.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Celebrations
- Vegetarian Options
15. Mister Jiu's
Housed in a historic Chinatown building with a rich cultural history, Mister Jiu's combines traditional Chinese techniques with fresh California ingredients

Mister Jiu's offers a fantastic outdoor dining experience, perfect for a relaxing evening with friends. The ambiance is set with a cozy and beautifully decorated seating area, enhancing the overall dining experience.
The outdoor seating at Mister Jiu's is a standout feature. The space is designed to make guests feel comfortable and relaxed while they enjoy their meal. The decor adds to the atmosphere, making it a memorable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Personal Celebrations
16. New Lun Ting Cafe in Chinatown
Long-standing establishment serving authentic Cantonese cuisine since 1973

New Lun Ting Cafe is a historic Chinese-American diner in Chinatown that has been open for over a century. It is known for its signature roast pork, which is juicy, moist, and tender. The cafe offers two sauce options for the roast pork: curry sauce and brown sauce, with the curry sauce being a popular choice. In addition to roast pork, New Lun Ting Cafe also offers a unique version of loco moco, a Hawaiian dish consisting of a hamburger steak with brown gravy over rice, which can be served with a fried egg. The cafe has been a staple for four generations of one family since the 1950s.
New Lun Ting Cafe provides outdoor seating, allowing customers to enjoy their meals in the fresh air while still maintaining social distancing guidelines. The cafe also offers takeout orders for customers who prefer to enjoy their meals at home. The historic diner is one of the last remaining old school Chinese-American greasy spoons in the area, attracting both tourists and locals alike with its delicious food and nostalgic atmosphere. With its rich history and commitment to quality, New Lun Ting Cafe continues to be a beloved institution in Chinatown.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Chinese Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Lunch
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