Best of 27 Chinese restaurants in San Francisco
Discover our curated list of top-ranked Chinese restaurants in San Francisco, compiled from extensive research across reputable websites and blogs. Explore outstanding options like House of Nanking, R & G Lounge, San Tung, Harborview Restaurant & Bar, Yank Sing (Spear St.). Let's explore together!
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- 1. House of Nanking
- 2. R & G Lounge
- 3. San Tung
- 4. Harborview Restaurant & Bar
- 5. Yank Sing (Spear St.)
- 6. Dumpling Home
- 7. Great Eastern Restaurant
- 8. Sam Wo Restaurant
- 9. Mission Chinese Food
- 10. China Live
- 11. Dragon Beaux
- 12. Benihana
- 13. Bund Shanghai Restaurant
- 14. Mister Jiu's
- 15. Spicy King
- 16. Capital
- 17. Begoni Bistro
- 18. Feng Ze Yuan Restaurant
- 19. Dragon Well
- 20. Kung Food
- 21. The Garden Restaurant
- 22. Henry’s Hunan Restaurant
- 23. Wen's Kitchen
- 24. City Chopsticks
- 25. Asian-American Food Co
- 26. Yuet Lee Seafood Restaurant
- 27. Chef Hung's
1. House of Nanking
Family-owned restaurant since 1988, known for its authentic and delicious Chinese cuisine
Indulge in an exquisite culinary adventure at House of Nanking, where each dish is a delightful fusion of flavors and creativity. Set your taste buds free with innovative offerings that defy traditional norms and elevate your dining experience to new heights. This is not your average Chinese eatery; it's a treasure trove of culinary surprises that will leave you craving for more.
Discover the charm of authentic Chinese cuisine nestled in a cozy "hole in the wall" setting at House of Nanking. Let the delicious aromas and vibrant flavors transport you to a realm of culinary excellence. With impeccable service and a quirky ambiance, this hidden gem promises a dining experience like no other. Immerse yourself in a world where every bite tells a story, and every dish is a work of art.
Discover the charm of authentic Chinese cuisine nestled in a cozy "hole in the wall" setting at House of Nanking. Let the delicious aromas and vibrant flavors transport you to a realm of culinary excellence. With impeccable service and a quirky ambiance, this hidden gem promises a dining experience like no other. Immerse yourself in a world where every bite tells a story, and every dish is a work of art.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
2. R & G Lounge
Elegant and upscale Chinese restaurant
Nestled in the heart of the city, R & G Lounge isn't just a restaurant—it's a sanctuary of culinary excellence and celebration. Whether hosting a lavish wedding reception or simply catching up with a friend over lunch, this establishment exceeds expectations with its impeccable service and adaptable approach. The adept team seamlessly executes bespoke decorations, curating a picturesque ambiance that elevates any occasion, while the dual-floor layout adds a captivating dimension to the dining experience, ensuring each visit is a memorable journey through flavors and friendship.
From the first step into the grand ground floor to the cozy embrace of the basement, every corner of R & G Lounge whispers tales of local charm and unparalleled hospitality. It's not just a meal; it's an exploration of tradition and taste, expertly crafted to leave a lasting impression. So whether savoring familiar favorites or embarking on a culinary adventure, this establishment promises an unforgettable gastronomic voyage that transcends mere dining—it's a rendezvous with the spirit of authentic hospitality and delectable delights.
From the first step into the grand ground floor to the cozy embrace of the basement, every corner of R & G Lounge whispers tales of local charm and unparalleled hospitality. It's not just a meal; it's an exploration of tradition and taste, expertly crafted to leave a lasting impression. So whether savoring familiar favorites or embarking on a culinary adventure, this establishment promises an unforgettable gastronomic voyage that transcends mere dining—it's a rendezvous with the spirit of authentic hospitality and delectable delights.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Social Gatherings
3. San Tung
Korean-Chinese fusion cuisine
Indulge in the dynamic flavors of authentic Korean cuisine at San Tung, a culinary gem nestled in the vibrant San Francisco area. Over the years, this establishment has upheld an exceptional standard of quality, showcasing a dedication to craft that sets them apart. While some dishes, like the deep-fried honey wings, may occasionally miss the mark, the overall dining experience remains commendable. Be prepared for potential wait times that can extend up to an hour, a testament to the popularity and demand for their delectable offerings.
Venture into the realm of San Tung's menu and sample the renowned "America's Fried Chicken" for a tantalizing treat. Although some diners may find the dish to be a bit underwhelming, as the chicken is smothered in an overly sweet sauce, the culinary journey continues with the Mongolian beef. While opinions may vary, with some patrons left yearning for a more exceptional rendition, the consensus remains that San Tung shines brightest in the realm of Korean cuisine, even amidst the bustling culinary scene of San Francisco.
Venture into the realm of San Tung's menu and sample the renowned "America's Fried Chicken" for a tantalizing treat. Although some diners may find the dish to be a bit underwhelming, as the chicken is smothered in an overly sweet sauce, the culinary journey continues with the Mongolian beef. While opinions may vary, with some patrons left yearning for a more exceptional rendition, the consensus remains that San Tung shines brightest in the realm of Korean cuisine, even amidst the bustling culinary scene of San Francisco.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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4. Harborview Restaurant & Bar
Located on the 4th floor of the Embarcadero Center with floor-to-ceiling windows and an outdoor patio.
Indulge in exquisite Cantonese cuisine at Harborview Restaurant & Bar, where the dim sum reigns supreme, earning a spot among the Bay Area's finest. Impeccable service ensures a seamless dining experience, with the option to relish your meal on the inviting patio. Don't overlook the convenience of validating your parking on the second floor.
Opt for the alfresco seating during pleasant weather, savoring an array of delectable dim sum and buns. While the Peking duck falls short due to unremoved bones, the overall dining experience at Harborview remains a culinary delight.
Opt for the alfresco seating during pleasant weather, savoring an array of delectable dim sum and buns. While the Peking duck falls short due to unremoved bones, the overall dining experience at Harborview remains a culinary delight.
TOPICS
- Waterfront
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Holiday Celebrations
- Vegan Options
5. Yank Sing (Spear St.)
High-end dim sum and Chinese cuisine in a bustling atmosphere
Yank Sing on Spear Street offers a culinary experience that is sure to impress. Despite the bustling atmosphere, the quality of the dim sum remains consistent. The standard offerings may lack surprises in flavor, but dishes like the ribs stand out with their subtle yet distinctive taste, setting them apart from other dim sum establishments. Arriving early on a Saturday morning ensured a seamless dining experience, with no extensive wait times to detract from the overall enjoyment of the meal.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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6. Dumpling Home
Traditional dumpling house with a neighborhood feel
Indulge your senses at Dumpling Home, where every moment is a culinary delight. Despite the bustling Friday night crowd, the vivacious ambiance drew us in, promising an unforgettable dining experience. Surpassing expectations, the 25-minute wait felt like mere seconds as we savored the anticipation of what was to come. Choosing to bask in the charming spring evening, we settled outside, immersed in the perfect setting for a gastronomic adventure. Our server mirrored the pace of the evening – swift, yet attentive, adding to the overall seamless dining experience.
A testament to its popularity, Dumpling Home attracted eager food enthusiasts even before its weekend opening, with a queue that snaked around the block. The buzz of anticipation grew with every passing minute until the grand reveal. The sight of the bustling line at opening time only fueled our excitement, hinting at the gastronomic treasures that awaited within. Beyond the waiting game, the promise of exceptional flavors and a vibrant atmosphere lingered in the air, setting the scene for a memorable feast ahead.
A testament to its popularity, Dumpling Home attracted eager food enthusiasts even before its weekend opening, with a queue that snaked around the block. The buzz of anticipation grew with every passing minute until the grand reveal. The sight of the bustling line at opening time only fueled our excitement, hinting at the gastronomic treasures that awaited within. Beyond the waiting game, the promise of exceptional flavors and a vibrant atmosphere lingered in the air, setting the scene for a memorable feast ahead.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Lunch
- Dinner
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7. Great Eastern Restaurant
Elegant dining experience with a rich history of traditional Cantonese cuisine
Indulge in the ultimate DimSum experience at Great Eastern Restaurant, a gem nestled in the heart of Chinatown. Prepare your taste buds for a tantalizing journey of fresh and flavorful shrimp dumplings served in three delightful variations, including the uniquely delicious fried ones that are a true standout. However, steer clear of the disappointing layer cake that falls short with its doughy texture and overpowering sweetness, lacking in nuanced flavors. While the vegetable dishes may be on the pricier side, the overall dining experience remains a testament to the restaurant's reputation, which even boasts a visit from former President Obama.
Ready to embark on a culinary adventure that takes you to the bustling streets of Chinatown? Look no further than Great Eastern Restaurant, where DimSum dreams become a reality. Treat yourself to an array of delectable dishes, from the mouthwatering shrimp dumplings to the creatively crafted fried variations that elevate your dining experience. Just a word of caution – the layer cake may not meet expectations, as its uninspiring taste and texture miss the mark. While some dishes may come at a premium, the opportunity to dine where former President Obama once enjoyed a meal adds a touch of prestige to your visit, making Great Eastern Restaurant a must-try destination for all food enthusiasts.
Ready to embark on a culinary adventure that takes you to the bustling streets of Chinatown? Look no further than Great Eastern Restaurant, where DimSum dreams become a reality. Treat yourself to an array of delectable dishes, from the mouthwatering shrimp dumplings to the creatively crafted fried variations that elevate your dining experience. Just a word of caution – the layer cake may not meet expectations, as its uninspiring taste and texture miss the mark. While some dishes may come at a premium, the opportunity to dine where former President Obama once enjoyed a meal adds a touch of prestige to your visit, making Great Eastern Restaurant a must-try destination for all food enthusiasts.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Dinner
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8. Sam Wo Restaurant
One of the oldest restaurants in Chinatown, San Francisco
Step back in time and savor the legacy of Sam Wo Restaurant, a cherished gem heralded as one of the oldest Chinese culinary establishments in the United States. Nestled discreetly in the bustling streets, this unassuming "hole in the wall" eatery exudes authenticity and tradition through its hearty Chinese fare that tantalizes the taste buds. With over a century of history tucked under its belt, Sam Wo continues to stand the test of time, beckoning food enthusiasts from near and far to partake in its flavorsome offerings.
Upon entering, the lively ambiance and bustling crowds denote the restaurant's enduring popularity, a testament to its unwavering appeal and quality. Securing a coveted spot amidst the filled seats, our dining adventure began with a delectable order of Americanized Chinese delights. From savory chicken dishes to crisp green beans, each bite was a symphony of flavors that left a lasting impression. Dive into a culinary journey at Sam Wo, where the essence of tradition meets the vibrancy of modern dining, promising an unforgettable gastronomic experience.
Upon entering, the lively ambiance and bustling crowds denote the restaurant's enduring popularity, a testament to its unwavering appeal and quality. Securing a coveted spot amidst the filled seats, our dining adventure began with a delectable order of Americanized Chinese delights. From savory chicken dishes to crisp green beans, each bite was a symphony of flavors that left a lasting impression. Dive into a culinary journey at Sam Wo, where the essence of tradition meets the vibrancy of modern dining, promising an unforgettable gastronomic experience.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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9. Mission Chinese Food
Authentic Szechuan cuisine with a modern twist in a lively setting
My visit to Mission Chinese Food was a revelation, thanks to a knowledgeable local guide who navigated us through the menu with precision. While not a vegan myself, the vegan options were surprisingly delicious, with only the fried chicken standing out as non-vegan fare. The innovative blend of flavors in the dishes presented a modern twist on traditional Mission District cuisine. The crispy hamachi kama with its delectable sweet sauce was a standout, while the wings, while tasty, didn't quite reach the same heights. A unique and flavorful experience overall.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
10. China Live
Modern and upscale Chinese food hall experience
China Live exceeds all expectations, delivering an unforgettable dining experience. While the bustling ambiance near the open kitchen may be a bit overwhelming, the outstanding quality of every dish more than makes up for it. A must-visit for Chinese cuisine enthusiasts, the restaurant offers a delightful family-style dinner in a well-appointed setting. With a menu free of disappointments, the chicken meatballs in chili broth emerge as a personal favorite, embodying the culinary excellence that defines China Live.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
11. Dragon Beaux
Modern and upscale Chinese restaurant with creative cocktails
Dragon Beaux is a spacious haven for dim sum enthusiasts. Despite its popularity, we were promptly seated and served within minutes. The menu features classic dishes with unique, Americanized names, adding a touch of excitement to the dining experience. The efficient service ensures a quick turnover, perfect for those seeking a delightful and efficient dining adventure.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
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12. Benihana
Interactive teppanyaki grill dining with skilled chefs
Benihana, a classic tourist favorite, offers a lively dining experience where skilled chefs entertain guests with their culinary theatrics. Despite the slightly inflated prices, the delicious offerings, from flavorful soups to freshly squeezed lemonade and perfectly prepared vegetables, along with the friendly service provided by chefs like Mario, ensure a memorable dining experience for all. With over 30 years of continued patronage, it's evident that the allure of Benihana's immersive dining experience transcends generations.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- High-End
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13. Bund Shanghai Restaurant
Serves authentic Shanghai dishes in an elegant setting.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Celebrations
- Vegetarian Options
14. Mister Jiu's
Located in a historic Chinatown building with a beautiful dining room and bar
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Personal Celebrations
15. Spicy King
Offers a unique and flavorful Szechuan dining experience
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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16. Capital
Fine dining with a long history in San Francisco
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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17. Begoni Bistro
Authentic Vietnamese cuisine with a modern twist
TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Lunch
- Dinner
18. Feng Ze Yuan Restaurant
Family-owned and operated, using traditional recipes and cooking techniques
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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19. Dragon Well
Exclusive tea tasting events and classes
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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20. Kung Food
Long-standing Chinese restaurant in the heart of San Francisco
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Cheap Eats
21. The Garden Restaurant
Features a beautiful garden patio in the heart of the city
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
- Vegetarian Options
22. Henry’s Hunan Restaurant
Authentic Hunan cuisine in the heart of San Francisco
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
23. Wen's Kitchen
Family-owned restaurant serving authentic Hong Kong-style dishes
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Dinner
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24. City Chopsticks
Offers a range of vegetarian and vegan options
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
25. Asian-American Food Co
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
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26. Yuet Lee Seafood Restaurant
A classic San Francisco Chinatown seafood institution
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
27. Chef Hung's
Authentic Taiwanese comfort food in the heart of San Francisco
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Downtown Spots