Best of 21 diners in Chinatown
Diners in Chinatown are a culinary delight, offering a wide range of authentic Asian dishes. These establishments provide a unique cultural experience, allowing patrons to savor the rich flavors and traditional cooking techniques of Chinese cuisine. Whether you're in the mood for dim sum, noodles, or a steaming hot pot, Chinatown diners have got you covered. Step into one of these vibrant eateries and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and tastes of China.
- 1. Shooting Star Cafe
- 2. Shan Dong
- 3. New Gold Medal Restaurant
- 4. Lounge Chinatown
- 5. Gum Kuo in Chinatown
- 6. Best Taste
- 7. Vien Huong Restaurant
- 8. Yung Kee in Chinatown
- 9. C&M Bistro
- 10. Imperial Soup in Chinatown
- 11. Ming's Tasty
- 12. Full House Cafe
- 13. Big Dish
- 14. Peony Seafood Restaurant
- 15. Tao Yuen Pastry
- 16. Sobo Ramen in Chinatown
- 17. Battambang
- 18. Oakland Cafe
- 19. Ruby King Bakery Café
- 20. Baby Café Hong Kong Bistro
- 21. Ying Kee Restaurant
1. Shooting Star Cafe
Friendly staff, cozy atmosphere, and outdoor seating
The food at this establishment is varied, with a wide range of options to choose from. It is prepared and served quickly, and the flavors are excellent. The drinks selection is equally impressive, featuring a large variety of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. The non-alcoholic drinks are particularly noteworthy, with a number of unique and delicious choices available.
One of the highlights of the non-alcoholic drink menu is the selection of zodiac sign-inspired options. These drinks are not only tasty, but they also offer a fun and unique twist on the traditional drink menu. Whether you're looking for something sweet, sour, or somewhere in between, there is sure to be a drink on the menu that will suit your taste. Overall, the food and drinks at this establishment are top-notch, and well worth a try.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Dinner
- Downtown Spots
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2. Shan Dong
Hand-pulled noodles made to order, extensive vegetarian options
Shan Dong serves fresh, handmade dumplings and noodles to its diners in a lively atmosphere. The service is swift and welcoming, adding to the overall positive dining experience. One of the most popular dishes is the sesame paste noodles, which guests can't seem to get enough of.
Locals love Shan Dong for its authentic flavors and generous portions. The restaurant is particularly well-known for its special Shan Dong dumplings, which have received high praise from many diners. Whether it's the delicious food or the friendly service, Shan Dong has established itself as a favorite spot for many.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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3. New Gold Medal Restaurant
Family-owned restaurant serving Cantonese cuisine since 1985
New Gold Medal Restaurant is a well-established eatery located in Chinatown, recognized for its traditional and unpretentious American Chinese cuisine. It is open late, making it a popular choice for diners seeking after-hours meals.
The restaurant's extensive menu offers a wide variety of options, from Peking duck to Mongolian beef, providing something for everyone. Its take-out service is especially popular among customers who prefer to enjoy their meals in the comfort of their own homes.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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4. Lounge Chinatown
Offers a variety of vegetarian and gluten-free options, includes a full bar
Lounge Chinatown is a popular Taiwanese restaurant, known for its delicious and authentic dishes. The menu features standout items such as the flavorful beef noodle soup, which closely resembles the one found in Taiwan's night markets, and the unique stinky tofu. This late-night dining option is open until 2 am, making it a perfect choice for those looking for a satisfying meal after hours. The restaurant is praised for its hospitable service, which contributes to a welcoming atmosphere for all guests.
The Midnight Diners, also known as Lounge Chinatown, is a Taiwanese street food lounge that serves up mouth-watering dishes until 2:30 am. Among their offerings, the beef noodle soup shines as a must-try, closely resembling the authentic versions found in Taiwan's bustling night markets. Not to be missed is their stinky tofu, a popular street food in Taiwan. With its welcoming ambiance and hospitable service, it is the perfect spot for a satisfying late-night meal.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Fusion Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Celebrations
5. Gum Kuo in Chinatown
Family-owned restaurant serving authentic Hong Kong-style cuisine
The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere that attracts both locals and tourists. It is common to find crowded tables and you may need to share a table with other diners due to its popularity. The noise level is high, and it may not be the cleanest dining establishment, but these factors should not deter visitors from trying the delicious food.
The food served at the restaurant is exceptional and worth the potential inconveniences of a crowded and noisy environment. Despite the high demand for seating, the food is served quickly and efficiently. Patrons rave about the flavorful and satisfying dishes, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers. The restaurant's reputation for delicious food and a cozy atmosphere keeps customers coming back for more.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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6. Best Taste
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Chinese Cuisine
- Mid-Range
7. Vien Huong Restaurant
Family-owned with authentic recipes, popular for lunch and dinner
If your primary concern is cost, then this unnamed establishment might be worth considering for a meal, although the food is unlikely to leave a lasting impression. One dish that stands out is the #21, which features a type of noodle that is sure to please fans of the dish. However, if you're not a fan of this type of noodle, you may want to look elsewhere, as the other options on the menu may not be as appealing.
The soup offerings at this restaurant have been described as unremarkable, with the possible exception of the #21. It seems that this particular soup has a strong following, as it has been mentioned in glowing terms by those who have tried it. However, if soup is not your thing, or if you're looking for something more memorable or inspiring, you may be disappointed with the other options available.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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8. Yung Kee in Chinatown
Yung Kee has been serving the Oakland community for over 30 years and is known for its traditional Cantonese cuisine.
Yung Kee is a well-known restaurant that offers a taste of Hong Kong cuisine in the area. It is a popular choice for many, as it serves delicious dishes that keep customers coming back for more. On one particular night, when we were craving for a late night snack after 10 pm, we went to Yung Kee to satisfy our hunger.
We ordered a variety of dishes, including barbecued meats, jook (rice porridge), wonton noodle soup, and mei fun (rice noodles). The barbecued meats were flavorful and tender, while the jook was comforting and soothing. The wonton noodle soup had plump wontons with fresh fillings, and the mei fun had a excellent texture and taste. Overall, our late night snack at Yung Kee was satisfying and enjoyable.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Dinner
- Mid-Range
9. C&M Bistro
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
10. Imperial Soup in Chinatown
Traditional Chinese recipes, homemade noodles, and excellent service.
Imperial Soup is a restaurant that provides a cozy and comfortable atmosphere for its diners, making them feel right at home. One standout feature of the restaurant is its delicious soups, which are perfect for warming up on a chilly day. The soups on offer are authentic Chinese herbal soups, providing a unique and flavorful dining experience.
In addition to its tasty soups, Imperial Soup is also known for its excellent service. The staff are friendly and attentive, ensuring that every diner feels welcome and well taken care of. Whether you're a regular customer or visiting for the first time, you can expect to receive the same high level of service at Imperial Soup. The restaurant's commitment to providing an enjoyable dining experience, along with its unique and flavorful soups, makes it a must-visit destination for soup lovers.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Fusion Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
11. Ming's Tasty
Friendly service and cozy atmosphere
Ming's Tasty Restaurant in Oakland offers a satisfying dim sum selection. Standout dishes include the deliciously prepared deep fried shrimp balls and har gao, as well as the flavorful won ton soup. The Portuguese tarts are a must-try with their creamy filling. The service is noteworthy, with fast and attentive staff that enhances the dining experience.
Despite its unassuming exterior, which features a building with no windows, boarded-up walls covered in graffiti art, Ming's Tasty Restaurant is a hidden gem. Upon entering, guests will find a clean and welcoming interior with efficient service. The restaurant is highly recommended for those seeking delicious dim sum and a memorable meal.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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12. Full House Cafe
Features Taiwanese cuisine with a wide variety of tea and coffee options
Full House Restaurant in Oakland offers a variety of menu items and has received positive reviews from its visitors. The entrance to the restaurant might seem unusual, with a wall partially blocking the door, but patrons are encouraged not to let this deter them from entering. Upon visiting for a late lunch, we found ourselves to be the only customers at the time.
Once inside, the restaurant has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Despite being the only customers during our visit, we received excellent service from the staff. The menu features a range of dishes, including popular items such as their claypot rice and hot pot. Overall, Full House Restaurant is definitely worth a visit for those looking for a relaxed dining experience with delicious food.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Breakfast
13. Big Dish
Offers a diverse menu and hosts local events.
Dim sum lovers flock to Big Dish for its wide selection of offerings. The shrimp dumplings and BBQ pork buns are popular choices among diners. Many appreciate the affordability and generous portion sizes at Big Dish. The baked pork buns and BBQ pork are standout dishes, contributing to the restaurant's popularity.
Shrimp dumplings and BBQ pork buns are customer favorites at Big Dish. The restaurant's affordability and sizable portions also attract many patrons. Other notable dishes include the baked pork buns and BBQ pork, which have received high praise.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
14. Peony Seafood Restaurant
Dim sum specials, extensive wine list, private dining rooms available
Peony Seafood Restaurant, located in Oakland Chinatown, is a spacious and well-run establishment. The restaurant offers a vast variety of dim sum dishes that diners find delicious. However, opinions about the service are mixed. Some diners find it excellent, while others think it's poor or just acceptable.
The restaurant's dim sum selection is a highlight, with many tasty options available to customers. Despite some issues with service, the overall experience is generally positive. Peony Seafood Restaurant offers a wide range of dishes in a large and comfortable setting, making it a popular choice for diners looking for delicious and authentic Chinese cuisine in Oakland Chinatown.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Asian Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
15. Tao Yuen Pastry
Traditional Hong Kong-style bakery, Generations-old family recipes
Cantonese takeout food and dim sum are popular items at this location in Oakland's Chinatown. The small space is often crowded with people ordering, paying, and picking up their food to go. While the takeout dim sum is reliable and tasty, with notable baked pork buns and fried shrimp dumplings, it doesn't compare to the experience of dining in a high-quality dim sum restaurant.
This establishment is well-known for its authentic Cantonese cuisine and delicious dim sum, offering a takeout service that is in high demand. The baked pork buns and fried shrimp dumplings are particular standouts, but overall, the takeout experience is good but not quite as enjoyable as dining in a restaurant specializing in dim sum. Despite the limited seating, this location remains a popular choice for those seeking convenient, tasty Cantonese food.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Hidden Gems
16. Sobo Ramen in Chinatown
authentic Japanese ramen with a modern twist
Diners consistently rave about the generous portions and delicious flavor of the broth at this restaurant, but some were confused by the inclusion of raw red onions in their ramen. The atmosphere of the establishment is notably cozy and inviting, making it an ideal location for those seeking a comforting bowl of ramen.
This restaurant has gained a reputation for its generously sized portions and delightful broth in ramen dishes, although the presence of raw red onions has left some diners scratching their heads. With its comfortable and welcoming ambiance, the restaurant has become a go-to spot for those looking to enjoy a satisfying bowl of ramen.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
- Budget-Friendly Eats
17. Battambang
Committed to using local and sustainable ingredients, Creative cocktail menu, Cozy and intimate atmosphere
Battambang, a well-known restaurant in the Bay Area, has been serving delicious Cambodian cuisine for over 30 years. The restaurant is famous for its friendly and efficient service, led by the hospitable hostess. Popular dishes on the menu include boneless duck curry, lamb chops, broiled eggplants with shrimp, and pan-fried trout, making it an excellent spot for various occasions.
I recently visited Battambang while in Oakland for a tech conference. The area around the Oakland Convention Center is open and well-lit, but still recovering from the COVID shutdown, with many vacant storefronts and limited services. The BART at 12th Street offers easy access to the area and the airports. I found Battambang through TripAdvisor, located only a block from the two Marriotts. I was impressed by the tasty food, good selection, and friendly service, and would definitely return, even during my stay in Oakland.
TOPICS
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
18. Oakland Cafe
Homemade syrups and freshly baked goods
Oakland Cafe is a Hong Kong-style restaurant that offers generous portions at a budget-friendly price. The food is usually good, but some dishes may have higher salt content than others, which could be a drawback for some customers. Additionally, dinner options can be inconsistent in terms of quality, with some dishes missing the mark.
Visitors to Oakland Cafe can check out reviews, view a map of the restaurant's location, get its address, and find directions to get there. Despite the occasional shortcomings in the food, particularly during dinner service, the restaurant remains a popular destination for those craving Hong Kong-style cuisine. Its affordability and large portions are undoubtedly part of its appeal.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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19. Ruby King Bakery Café
A local gem with homemade baked goods and welcoming staff
The speaker has a long history with a particular bakery, having visited it since they were a baby in the 1970s or 1980s. The bakery is known for its Hong Kong style cakes, which are consistently high in quality and often bring a sense of nostalgia to its patrons. One specific baked good that stands out are the egg tarts, which the speaker tried for the first time at this bakery. They are well-regarded for their flaky, buttery layers and rich custard filling.
The speaker considers the egg tarts at this bakery to be some of the best, if not the best, they have ever had. Diners seem to share this opinion, praising the combination of the flaky, buttery crust and the smooth, custardy filling. The popularity of the egg tarts suggests that the bakery has mastered the recipe for this beloved dessert. The combination of the delicate crust and the rich filling creates a satisfying contrast in textures that adds to the overall enjoyment of the egg tart.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Holiday Celebrations
20. Baby Café Hong Kong Bistro
Only Hong Kong-style cafe in the area, offers high chairs and toys for kids
Baby Cafe has undergone significant improvements since its opening and is now a popular lunch spot. The Hong Kong-style service is efficient and focused on providing quick service. Although the interior is cute, it shows signs of wear and could benefit from updates. Nevertheless, the establishment's lunch specials, such as the Hainan Chicken, are highly regarded.
In a recent dining experience at Baby Cafe, I tried the Beef Chow Fun and Chicken Rice. While the beef in the Beef Chow Fun dish was tender, the overall flavor was underwhelming. The sauce lacked depth and complexity, and the dish could have benefited from more seasoning. On the other hand, the Chicken Rice was fairly standard, and although it was not exceptional, it was a satisfactory dish. Overall, the experience was decent but not exceptional, leaving room for improvement in the flavors and seasoning.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
- Budget-Friendly Eats
21. Ying Kee Restaurant
Family-owned and operated for over 40 years, offers a nostalgic 60s ambiance.
The restaurant's offerings have been met with positive feedback from patrons, who particularly praise dishes such as the shrimp dumpling soup, stir-fry rice noodle, and BBQ duck noodle soup. The food's affordable pricing and generous portion sizes are also notable features that contribute to its popularity. Furthermore, the restaurant's staff add to the overall positive dining experience through their friendly demeanor.
The variety of meatballs available, such as fish and beef options, offer diverse textures to the meal. These meatballs contribute to the restaurant's diverse menu, which provides a range of options to suit different tastes and preferences. The meatballs are a small detail that adds to the overall appeal of the restaurant's offerings, resulting in a positive dining experience for guests.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Dinner
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