Best of 19 comfort food in Chinatown
Indulge in the cozy and inviting world of "comfort food in Chinatown." This unique culinary experience combines the rich cultural history of Chinatown with the satisfying and nostalgic appeal of comfort food. Savor traditional dishes like steaming bowls of wonton noodle soup, flavorful dumplings, and savory bao buns that will warm your soul and delight your taste buds. Come and discover the magic of comfort food in Chinatown.
- 1. Sam Wo Restaurant
- 2. House of Nanking
- 3. Mister Jiu's
- 4. Chong Qing Xiao Mian
- 5. New Lun Ting Cafe
- 6. Chef Hung's
- 7. Begoni Bistro in Chinatown
- 8. House Of Xian Dumpling
- 9. Hunan House in Chinatown
- 10. Z & Y Peking Duck
- 11. FUSION DUMPLING in Chinatown
- 12. Delicious Dim Sum
- 13. Yummy Dim Sum & Fast Food
- 14. Grant Place Restaurant
- 15. Capital
- 16. Far East Cafe
- 17. Today Foods
- 18. New Golden Daisy
- 19. Kam Lok Restaurant
1. Sam Wo Restaurant
Cash-only, No reservations, Long-standing restaurant since 1907

Comfort food lovers will find Sam Wo to be a hidden gem in Chinatown. The congee and chow mein are popular choices, as they provide a satisfying and home-cooked meal experience. For those seeking a cozy meal, Sam Wo's wonton soup and BBQ pork rice noodle rolls are excellent options.
Sam Wo is my recommended restaurant for comfort food in Chinatown. Their wonton soup and BBQ pork rice noodle rolls are perfect for a warm and enjoyable meal. Similarly, the congee and chow mein are popular choices for those seeking a homestyle and satisfying meal.
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- Chinese Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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2. House of Nanking
Cash-only establishment with a bustling and lively atmosphere

The food at this establishment is highly recommended, with several dishes earning high praise from reviewers. The House noodles and Nanking Sesame Tofu with sweet potatoes, in particular, have received positive feedback. However, opinions on the sesame chicken are mixed, with some finding it over-cooked and crispy, and others enjoying it.
As for the noodles, they are a standout option on the menu. There are several varieties to choose from, including noodle soup, vegetarian noodles, black sesame noodles, and house noodles. For those following a vegan diet, some of these dishes can be made vegan. This makes the restaurant a great option for those with dietary restrictions. Overall, the food here is delicious and varied, with something for everyone to enjoy.
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- Chinese Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
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3. Mister Jiu's
Housed in a historic Chinatown building with a beautiful dining room and bar

The restaurant offers a varied menu with smaller and larger plate options, perfect for different group sizes. The creative dishes are absolutely delicious, although there is a limited selection of vegan options, which mostly consist of salad and vegetable side dishes. Protein-rich vegan dishes are scarce on the menu.
This Chinese restaurant is one of the most imaginative and high-end non-Asian establishments, offering a laconic menu and exceptional quality ingredients. The dining experience is always magical, with each dish providing a satisfying and unexpected taste. The restaurant never fails to deliver a memorable and satisfying meal.
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- Chinese Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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4. Chong Qing Xiao Mian
Hand-pulled noodles made to order, authentic Sichuan flavors

Chong Qing Xiao Mian is an excellent choice for those in search of comfort food, particularly soupy noodle dishes with a kick. The spicy and oily consistency of their noodle soups is a popular feature that keeps customers coming back.
One of the top recommendations at Chong Qing Xiao Mian is their spicy beef noodle soup. It's a perfect option for those looking to warm up on a chilly day. The restaurant is a go-to destination for many who crave a hearty and flavorful meal.
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- Chinese Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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5. New Lun Ting Cafe
Family-owned and operated for over 40 years, known for their hand-pulled noodles made fresh daily.

New Lun Ting Cafe is an excellent choice for those seeking comfort food. Their dumplings and soup are popular choices, providing a warm and satisfying meal. The restaurant specializes in Hong Kong-style comfort food and offers a unique diner atmosphere.
Diners should not miss out on the pork chop and roast beef, which can be enjoyed with either rice or spaghetti. These dishes are standouts on the menu and showcase the restaurant's expertise in creating delicious comfort food.
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- Social Gatherings
- Chinese Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Lunch
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6. Chef Hung's
Handmade noodles and traditional Taiwanese decor

Chef Hung's restaurant provides a comfortable and traditional Chinese dining experience, serving a variety of homestyle comfort food dishes. The menu includes popular choices such as curry chicken with broccoli, beef with string beans in black bean sauce, pork patty steamed with duck eggs, and Mongolian beef.
Chinese broccoli sautéed with beef is another offering from Chef Hung's menu. The restaurant focuses on providing dishes that are both traditional and comforting, offering a homestyle dining experience for its customers. The range of options ensures that there is something for everyone, making Chef Hung's an ideal destination for those seeking authentic Chinese cuisine.
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- Chinese Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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7. Begoni Bistro in Chinatown
Cozy atmosphere, accommodating staff, and convenient location in downtown San Francisco.

Begoni Bistro is known for its delicious and comforting dumplings. These dumplings are always fresh and prepared with high-quality ingredients, making them a must-try for anyone looking for a satisfying meal.
In addition to their dumplings, Begoni Bistro also offers a variety of comforting noodle dishes. Whether you're in the mood for something warm and hearty or light and refreshing, you're sure to find a noodle dish that suits your taste at Begoni Bistro. Both the dumplings and noodles are highly recommended for anyone looking for a delicious and satisfying meal.
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- Indian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Lunch
- Dinner
8. House Of Xian Dumpling
Offers hand-pulled noodles and unique regional Chinese dishes

If you're in search of a comforting meal, look no further than the Hand Pulled Beef Noodle Soup. This dish is a standout, known for its hearty and robust flavor profile. The noodles are hand-pulled, adding to the unique texture and experience of the soup. It's the perfect dish to warm you up on a cold day or to enjoy as a satisfying meal.
Another must-try comfort food at this establishment is the dumplings. These are not your average dumplings. They are perfectly cooked, with a delicate exterior that gives way to delicious fillings. Each dumpling is packed with savory ingredients, making them a satisfying and indulgent treat. Whether you're a dumpling aficionado or just looking to try something new, these dumplings are sure to impress. In summary, both the Hand Pulled Beef Noodle Soup and the dumplings offer a satisfying and delicious comfort food experience, making them popular choices among patrons.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Social Gatherings
9. Hunan House in Chinatown
Authentic Hunan style cuisine, selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes

Hunan House is a popular restaurant choice for those seeking comfort food with a kick. The spicy fish soup, prepared in the Hunan style, is a highly recommended dish for its delicious and comforting properties. Another standout offering at this establishment is the hot pot, which features well-balanced flavors that are sure to satisfy.
In search of the perfect comfort food destination? Look no further than Hunan House and its mouthwatering options. The spicy fish soup, made using traditional Hunan techniques, is a must-try for its soothing and spicy taste. For those craving something hearty and flavorful, the hot pot is an excellent choice. With its perfectly balanced flavors, it will leave you feeling satisfied and content.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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10. Z & Y Peking Duck
Family-owned restaurant serving authentic Northern Chinese cuisine since 1986

Z&Y Peking Duck is a high-end restaurant, an offshoot of the well-known Sichuan establishment, Z&Y, located across the street. While the menus of both restaurants share similarities, Z&Y Peking Duck offers a specialty - Peking Duck. The variety of dishes includes classic and spicy options, such as xiao long bao and pork intestine in a mini flaming pot.
In contrast, 10th & Wood is a casual, affordable eatery, providing a solid dining experience. Often described as having a diner-like atmosphere, the menu offers quality food, featuring classic American dishes. Despite the difference in ambiance and cuisine, both establishments aim to deliver delicious, satisfying meals to their patrons.
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- Chinese Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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11. FUSION DUMPLING in Chinatown

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- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Social Gatherings
12. Delicious Dim Sum

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- Chinese Cuisine
- Asian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Lunch
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13. Yummy Dim Sum & Fast Food
Family-owned restaurant with a rich history, Known for their handmade dumplings and friendly service

Tasty and flavorful dim sum can be found at Yummy Dim Sum & Fast Food, a restaurant located in Chinatown. The menu offers a wide variety of options at reasonable prices, making it a great introduction to dim sum. The spareribs with rice noodles or over rice are a popular choice among customers, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to providing delicious and satisfying meals.
The staff at Yummy Dim Sum & Fast Food are known for their kindness and attentiveness to customers. The restaurant's reputation is built on providing exceptional food and service, making it a standout choice in Chinatown. The spareribs with rice noodles or over rice are a must-try, as they highlight the restaurant's expertise in creating delicious and flavorful dishes. Overall, Yummy Dim Sum & Fast Food offers a great dining experience with its tasty food and kind staff at reasonable prices.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Asian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Lunch
- Dinner
14. Grant Place Restaurant
Family-owned and operated since 1954, this restaurant offers a nostalgic step back in time with its vintage decor and menu

Grant Place Restaurant is a popular choice for comfort food in Chinatown, known for its fresh and satisfying dim sum. The restaurant offers a variety of delicious dishes, but the wonton soup and BBQ pork buns are standout menu items.
The dim sum at Grant Place is always fresh and flavorful, making it a go-to spot for those craving comfort food. The wonton soup is a must-try, with delicate dumplings filled with savory pork and shrimp in a flavorful broth. The BBQ pork buns are another customer favorite, with tender, slow-cooked pork enclosed in a soft, sweet bun. Whether you're a local or a visitor to Chinatown, Grant Place Restaurant is definitely worth a visit for its delicious comfort food.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Budget-Friendly Eats
15. Capital
Historic building with a charming patio.

Capital Restaurant is a popular spot for those seeking comfort food with a twist. One standout dish is their salt and pepper chicken wings, which are a favorite among regulars and newcomers alike. The restaurant goes above and beyond when it comes to creating a welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal location for a relaxing meal.
The menu at Capital Restaurant features an array of comfort food options that are sure to satisfy. From the salt and pepper chicken wings to other delicious dishes, everything is made with high-quality ingredients and careful attention to detail. No matter how many times you visit, the food is consistently delicious, making it a go-to spot for anyone in the area.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
16. Far East Cafe
Featuring a large dining area, full bar, and private dining rooms for special occasions.

Far East Cafe is known for its delicious comfort food and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, with several customer favorites standing out. Spicy green beans, bok choi, and vegetable chow mein are among the most recommended options on the menu. For those who enjoy seafood, the seafood chow mein is a must-try.
In addition to the delicious food, Far East Cafe also offers hot and sour soup that has received high praise from customers. Comfort food lovers will find plenty to enjoy at this restaurant. Overall, Far East Cafe is a gem for anyone seeking out delicious Chinese cuisine with generous portions. The attentive service and cozy atmosphere make it a great place to enjoy a meal with family or friends.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
17. Today Foods

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- Chinese Cuisine
- Mid-Range
18. New Golden Daisy
Cash-only, popular late-night spot, and family-owned

New Golden Daisy is a popular restaurant in Chinatown known for its delicious comfort food. The restaurant offers a variety of fried rice and noodle dishes that are always satisfying. In addition to their fried rice and noodles, New Golden Daisy is also known for their BBQ pork and chicken wings, which are highly recommended.
If you're in the mood for comfort food and find yourself in Chinatown, New Golden Daisy is a great choice. This restaurant stands out for its flavorful fried rice and noodles, featuring generous portions and fresh ingredients. Moreover, New Golden Daisy's BBQ pork and chicken wings are a must-try, as they have a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors that keep customers coming back for more.
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- Chinese Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
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19. Kam Lok Restaurant
Small, family-owned restaurant known for its delicious Cantonese cuisine.

Kam Lok Restaurant is known for its comforting and delicious food options, including their wonton noodle soup and roast duck wonton noodle soup. Both dishes feature fresh, tender noodles in a flavorful broth with delicate wontons filled with savory meat. The roast duck version adds an extra layer of richness and depth to the dish.
In addition to their noodle soups, Kam Lok also serves up other comforting dishes such as pork belly with preserved vegetables and runny egg shrimp chow fun. The pork belly is slow-cooked until tender and infused with the salty, umami flavor of the preserved vegetables. Meanwhile, the shrimp chow fun is a satisfying dish with wide rice noodles, tender shrimp, and a runny egg that adds a touch of richness and creaminess to the dish.
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- Chinese Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Cheap Eats
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