20 Best Chinese Restaurants In San Francisco

From Michelin-starred restaurants to hole-in-the-wall gems, San Francisco's dynamic and diverse culinary scene is one of the best in the country. That said, it's no surprise to learn that the Chinese food there is authentic and abundant. From San Fran's Chinatown to dim sum by the Bay, there are so many wonderful restaurants to explore. Whether you're in the mood for juicy soup dumplings or hot and sour soup, visitors and locals alike are able to find consistent options that always manage to hit the spot.

While there are a couple of fancy and upscale Chinese restaurants that make for a wonderful date night or celebration, many of the most popular eateries are mom-and-pop shops that follow a no-frills and no-fuss rule. Takeout is equally as popular, and there's no shortage of solid spots. That said, we've rounded up the best Chinese restaurants in San Francisco so you can cure your craving.

As the name suggests, Dumpling House is known for serving up some of the best xiao long bao and potstickers in the city. Since it is open for both lunch and dinner, patrons are able to get their dumpling fix all day long. In addition to the classic pork xiao long bao, the mushroom and chicken dumplings are another hit that you'll want to order. When it comes to sides and veggies, the cucumber salad with garlic sauce and the dry-cooked green beans are perfect for sharing.

Other hits include the pork dumplings with sesame sauce and the shrimp and zucchini xiao long bao. For dessert, don't forget to indulge in some black sesame mochi.

Go Duck Yourself is a spinoff restaurant from the popular Hing Lung Company. Go Duck Yourself first launched on Uber Eats during the COVID-19 pandemic so that locals were able to get quality Chinese food delivered right to their doors. The menu revolves around classic Cantonese favorites like honey-glazed spare ribs, roasted pork belly, and, of course, roasted duck.

The rice plates are hearty and filling and are served with rice, veggies, and sweet and savory sauces. You can also order a la carte proteins like a whole roasted duck that is entirely deboned. The seasonal garlic greens are a wonderful side that goes well with all of the meats, and the grass jelly dessert drink is the perfect way to end any meal.

If you're looking for a cozy and inviting sit-down spot for great Chinese in S.F., Yuanboa Jiaozi should be at the top of your list. The small plates and dumplings are great for sharing, and you won't want to miss out on the marinated beef and cucumber salad as a starter. The Napa cabbage and pork dumplings are juicy and flavorful, but the shrimp and zucchini dumplings are a seafood lover's dream.

Those seeking something a bit heartier will love the house-special beef noodle soup. The pickled Chinese cabbage beef noodle soup has a nice acidity that cuts through the richness of the soup, but you really can't go wrong with either dish. If you're not feeling like dining in, you can also order for delivery or pickup.

Mr. Jiu's is a more upscale and fancy spot that is perfect for a special night of quality Chinese cuisine in a refined and modern setting. The plating at Mr. Jiu's is beautiful across the board, and considering Mr. Jiu's has earned a Michelin star, guests can always expect a consistent meal from start to finish. Though reservations are recommended, Mr. Jiu's does welcome walk-ins to sit at the bar.

Since the tasting menu changes with the seasons, even loyal regulars are able to enjoy innovative new dishes throughout the year. In addition to the five-course tasting menu, there are also a handful of communal entrées that are wonderful for sharing. From the Wolfe Ranch quail to the Devil's Gulf half-rabbit, each entrée is worth exploring.

New Fortune Restaurant keeps things simple and classic while serving up Cantonese cuisine that ranges from noodles to dim sum. The wonton soup is a beloved classic that is perfect for warming up on a cloudy day in San Francisco. There are also several different kinds of porridge to choose from, but the shrimp porridge and the pork porridge with a preserved egg are both local favorites.

Other menu highlights include the beef fried noodle, Singapore chow fun, and the pork chow mein. When it comes to entrées, the spare ribs with black bean sauce steal the show, but the curry chicken is a flavor-bursting dish that boasts comfort and quality. Don't forget to order a side of sautéed broccoli with minced garlic.

When it comes to scallion pancakes, House of Pancakes does it best. Located in the Sunset District of San Francisco, House of Pancakes is a very small but locally-loved eatery that is incredibly affordable. That said, it is cash-only, so be sure to come prepared. As expected, the pancakes here are the highlight of the menu, and in addition to plain scallion pancakes, you can also enjoy the rolls that are filled with everything from beef to lamb.

House of Pancakes also serves savory noodles and dumplings, and it's best to come with a few people so that you can order a handful of dishes and try a bite of each. The hand-pulled noodles have an amazing texture, so be sure to order at least one noodle dish.

The modern interior in China Live sets the scene for a one-of-a-kind Chinese dinner in the heart of the city. Created by Chef George Chen, China Live puts a contemporary twist on traditional Chinese recipes and flavors and offers eight different stations within the main dining hall. Enjoy grilled goods from the Chinese earthen oven or head to the dumpling station for crispy potstickers and steamed dumplings. There is even a dessert bar where patrons can cater to their sweet tooth.

Since sustainable sourcing and seasonality are priorities, the menus at China Live change daily. However, there are certain signature dishes that guests can typically expect to find, such as the stone oven-roasted Peking duck and the Taipei braised beef noodle soup.

Empress by Boon is without a doubt one of the most beautiful Chinese restaurants in San Francisco. The seasonal menu is elevated and elegant while still being rooted in authentic Cantonese cuisine. The wine list has been carefully curated to pair with the cuisine, and the beer list is also pretty impressive. That said, the craft cocktails are refreshing and inventive, so you'll probably want to try a few different drinks during your visit.

The prix fixe tasting menu costs $98 per person and showcases traditional dim sum items like turnip cakes along with more luxe dishes that utilize ingredients like caviar and scallops. If you'd like to take your experience up a notch, opt for the supplemental wine pairing to enjoy the very best of each course.

Looking for a more modern Chinese eatery? Mamahuhu has a fun and laid-back atmosphere that is complemented by a contemporary menu that blends American and Chinese flavors and methods. Sourcing sustainable ingredients is a top priority at Mamahuhu, ensuring that guests can feel at ease about where their food is coming from.

The crunchy cabbage salad is a refreshing starter that is light and vibrant, but the tomato garlic chow mein can also act as a shareable appetizer if you're craving something heartier. That said, the house specials are truly where it's at. There are even a few vegetarian options, like the mushroom mapo tofu, that plant-based diners will love. Also, be sure to end your meal with some boba soft serve.

It doesn't get more experiential than Palette Tea House. This stunning restaurant is located in San Fran's iconic Ghirardelli Square and offers an unforgettable dim sum experience in the heart of the city. The colorful palette soup dumpling sampler is a must-order that includes an original dumpling, a beet and beef dumpling, a crab dumpling, a kale dumpling, and a truffle and pork dumpling.

When it comes to the signature entrées, the Dungeness crab with garlic butter is amazing but comes with the shell on, so if you're looking to work a little less for your dinner, go with the Peking duck set. Classic dim sum favorites from Palette Tea House include the radish cakes with XO sauce and the saucy chicken claw.

When it comes to fancy Chinese restaurants in San Francisco, Harborview Restaurant should be at the top of your list. The outdoor patio offers breathtaking views of the San Francisco Ferry Building and the Bay Bridge. However, the indoor dining room also offers a sleek and stunning setting. If you're planning on dining in, it is definitely recommended to make a reservation.

The black truffle Peking duck sliders put an elevated twist on a Cantonese classic, while the Dungeness crab congee is rich and comforting. The chilled sea cucumber is an exciting appetizer for seafood lovers, while vegetarians will be starstruck by the spicy mapo tofu. The mango pudding provides a sweet ending to your meal, and you'll definitely want to order your own.

Looking for your new favorite bao bun in the city? Make your way to Bao. This neighborhood teahouse is great for gathering with loved ones or picking up takeout. The adorable bao buns are just as cute as they are delicious, and though the options are plentiful, you'll want to try as many as possible. The adorable steamed sweet red bean bao look like little panda bears, so be sure to snap a picture before you dig in.

Other savory menu highlights include the steamed whole shrimp shumai, the fried Phoenix prawns, the swan-shaped fried curry taro puffs, and the crab xiao long bao. In addition to the sweet red bean bao, there are plenty of dessert options like the coconut bunny, steamed sweet egg custard bao, and steamed sweet sesame bao.

Dumpling Baby Chinese Bistro is the ultimate spot to get your dumpling fix. And best of all, this laidback restaurant is open seven days a week from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., meaning a delicious dumpling dinner is available whenever you'd like. This family-owned restaurant became a San Francisco staple shortly after opening in 2020 and is currently only open for pick up and delivery.

The crystal clear har gow shrimp dumplings shouldn't be missed, but the steamed chicken potstickers will steal your heart. In addition to the savory options, Dumpling Baby Chinese Bistro also offers some sweet treats like the sesame dessert balls, which come in a sizable portion of 10 pieces.

From fried rice to fruit tea, Mr Szechuan is a delicious and consistent Chinese restaurant in the city. The customizable little hot pot is the perfect size for those looking to cure their craving without ordering too much, and it comes with six toppings of your choosing. Regarding tasty sides you won't want to miss, the stir-fry pea shoots, as are the eggplant string beans, are a must-order.

The hand-made chili oil wontons have the perfect amount of heat that makes them perfect for those seeking a spicy appetizer, while the pan-fried pork buns have crispy bottoms that offer the ideal crunch. If you're looking to branch out and try something new, take a chance on the shredded pig ears.

For many locals, Sichuan Tasty Restaurant is the ultimate go-to for Chinese takeout. The dim sum dishes are unbeatable, and you'll want to order as much as possible for a satisfying spread. That said, some must-order items include the beef pancakes, Shanghai steamed buns, and spicy wontons. The cold noodle appetizer is nice on a warm (and rare) sunny day in San Francisco, as is the cucumber and dry bean curd dish.

If you're hosting a large group or dinner party at home, consider ordering some of the party trays for easy catering. From the broccoli and beef tray to the salt and pepper fish filet tray, these sizable meals are sure to impress all of your guests.

Located in San Francisco's legendary Chinatown, Sam Wo Restaurant has been serving authentic Chinese food to locals and visitors alike since 1908. Considering this beloved eatery has been around for more than 100 years, you can expect to leave satisfied and impressed. Tradition remains at the root of Sam Wo Restaurant, resulting in authentic flavors and dishes that will have you coming back for more.

Best of all, the prices are incredibly low. Start off with the BBQ pork noodle rolls and a Chinese donut before moving on to one of the heart noodle soups. The traditional jook (or rice porridge) is also exactly what you'll want to warm up on a cold day, but you can of course never go wrong with the classic stir-fry noodle.

Located within China Live, Eight Tables by George Chen offers an unforgettable and upscale dining experience in San Francisco. As the name suggests, there are only eight tables in the dining room, resulting in a very intimate and exclusive dinner that is met with an unforgettable tasting menu. Though the menu is fixed, you can alert the restaurant ahead of time so that they may work around any dietary restriction you may have.

The five-course tasting menu is $150 but can also be enhanced with a $150 wine pairing. One of the coolest things about dining at Eight Tables is the fact that the menu will change each time you visit, meaning that no two experiences are the same. Reservations are required, so be sure to plan your visit ahead of time.

Caught a craving for comforting Chinese cuisine? Head to Cheung Hing Restaurant in San Francisco's Sunset District. This Cheun Hing Restaurant is not to be confused with the one in Millbrae, so keep that in mind since they can easily be confused. If you're looking to enjoy a cozy night at home with some quality comfort food, Cheung Hing Restaurant offers delivery and takeout.

The roasted pork with bean curd is a must-order, as are the honey walnut prawns. That said, roast duck noodles are another popular dish that offers the ideal combo of carbs and protein. You can also order nostalgic Chinese takeout favorites like fried rice and lo mein if that's more up your alley.

From all-you-can-eat hot pot dinners to dim sum, Dragon Beaux has a massive menu that is full of Chinese staples. The Five Guys xiao long bao is a colorful dish that looks just as great as it tastes. Other favorites from the dim sum selection include soft rice crepe rolls, durian custard bao, and sea bass dumplings.

During dinner, patrons are able to enjoy a classic hot pot with all of their favorite fixings. Cook everything from American A4 Wagyu to shrimp and squid in your choice of broth. If you're looking to stock up on some at-home goods for your next dinner party, you can pre-order your favorite dim sum dishes for pickup.

YH-Beijing blends modern decor with traditional Chinese artwork to create a cozy and inviting eatery that is ideal for both lunch and dinner. Whether you're going out with friends or simply want to enjoy a solo meal in between meetings, the menu at YH-Beijing truly has something for everyone. Some highlights from the starter section of the menu include the fried chicken wings, the fried tofu, and fried avocado spring rolls.

The steamed BBQ pork buns are a must order as are the red chili oil dumplings. If you're looking for plant-based options, the mushroom and cabbage-filled vegetable dumplings are wonderful. The pan-fried king salmon filet is one of the more popular entrees, but the Sichuan boiled fish is perfect on a rainy San Francisco day.