Best Chinese Restaurants in San Francisco Bay Area

15 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Harborview Restaurant & Bar restaurant

1. Harborview Restaurant & Bar

4.5

Price: Expensive

• Chinese • Financial District / Embarcadero

Booked 101 times today

Harborview Restaurant & Bar, nestled in the bustling Financial District of San Francisco at Four Embarcadero Center, is a gem for authentic Dim Sum cuisine. With a "beautiful and delicious" selection, each dish is crafted with the highest quality ingredients, offering a taste that is consistently praised as the "best dim sum in the Bay Area." Patrons particularly adore the "buttery, melt in your mouth pork bao" and the "superb dumplings," highlighting the traditional yet innovative approach to their menu. The setting, with stunning views and an "elegant atmosphere," complements the culinary experience, making Harborview a must-visit for both locals and tourists seeking genuine Cantonese delights. Whether it's the herb chicken feet or the praised seafood, the freshness and flavor are guaranteed to impress.

2. China Live

4.7

Exceptional(3184)

Price: Moderate

• Chinese • Chinatown

Booked 84 times today

China Live, nestled in the vibrant heart of San Francisco's Chinatown, is a culinary gem celebrated for its exceptional Chinese cuisine. Crowned Eater's "Restaurant of the Year," this hotspot offers an immersive dining experience with fresh, seasonal dishes that showcase a perfect blend of traditional Chinese techniques and Western culinary innovations. Diners rave about the authenticity and creativity of the menu, noting that the food is "on point" and the Peking duck is a must-try. The energetic atmosphere, complemented by handcrafted furniture from China and views of the exhibition kitchens, adds to the allure, making China Live a "MUST DO in SF" with an experience that is "amazing on all levels." Whether you're a local or a visitor, China Live promises a memorable encounter with the best of Chinese culinary artistry.

3. Four Kings

4.6

Exceptional(119)

Price: Expensive

• Chinese • Chinatown

Booked 14 times today

"The food at Four Kings reads like a metaphor for growing up Chinese in America: you're never Chinese enough for people from China & Hong Kong, and you're not white enough to be American." -- from a recent diner.

A photo of The Empress by Boon restaurant

4. The Empress by Boon

4.5

Awesome(1358)

Price: Very Expensive

• Chinese • Chinatown

Booked 21 times today

Empress by Boon is San Francisco’s newest, must-visit epicurean destination, offering a seasonal menu in modern Cantonese gastronomy. Michelin-starred Chef Ho Chee Boon applies traditional techniques to fresh, local ingredients to produce distinctive contemporary dishes infused with Cantonese flavors. The spacious restaurant occupies the former location of Chinatown’s celebrated Empress of China with striking city views. Reimagined by Chef Boon and team, the Empress was brought back to its former glory by embracing modern design elements while incorporating restored original features, creating a welcoming atmosphere that pays homage to the history of the beloved location.

5. Cold Drinks Bar

4.4

Awesome(54)

Price: Expensive

• Chinese • Chinatown

Booked 4 times today

Cold Drinks Bar, nestled in the vibrant heart of Chinatown, San Francisco, is a hidden gem that offers a unique Asian culinary experience. Renowned for its "Scotch-centric Cold Drinks," the bar is praised for its high-quality, creative cocktails inspired by modern Shanghai with a touch of old-school San Francisco. Patrons rave about the "stellar service" and "beautiful ambiance," highlighting the bar as a "must-visit" spot. The food, sourced from the acclaimed Eight Tables by George Chen kitchen, is described as nothing short of "delicious," with every dish from vegetarian to meat options leaving diners in awe. Reviewers consistently commend the well-balanced, carefully crafted cocktails, making Cold Drinks Bar a standout in San Francisco’s culinary scene.

6. Z & Y Peking Duck

4.4

Awesome(98)

Price: Moderate

• Chinese • Chinatown

Booked 19 times today

Nestled in the vibrant heart of San Francisco's Chinatown, Z & Y Peking Duck offers an authentic Chinese dining experience that stands out in a city known for its culinary diversity. With executive chef Lijun Han at the helm, who has cooked for presidents and VIPs, the restaurant has garnered multiple accolades including a Michelin Bib Gourmand and ZAGAT rating. The signature Peking Duck is a must-try, described as "the best ever" by patrons, thanks to its "shatteringly crisp" skin and succulent meat. Reviewers rave about the "perfectly cooked" dishes and "impeccable" service, making Z & Y Peking Duck a culinary landmark for those seeking a genuine taste of Chinese cuisine in a sophisticated setting. Whether it's the thin, delicate pancakes accompanying the duck or the adventurous Sichuan classics, each dish is a testament to Chef Han's mastery and passion for Chinese cooking.

7. Z & Y Restaurant

4.6

Exceptional(313)

Price: Moderate

• Chinese • Chinatown

Booked 4 times today

Z & Y Restaurant, nestled in the heart of Chinatown, San Francisco, is a culinary landmark renowned for its exceptional Asian cuisine. Chef Han, with the prestigious background of serving Chinese Presidents, brings an unparalleled level of authenticity and expertise to the table. This Michelin Guide recommended restaurant dazzles with its array of authentic Chinese dishes, particularly its Szechuan specialties. Patrons rave about the "explosive flavors" and "authentic Szechuan cooking" that make each dish a delightful adventure. The praise is consistent with one reviewer noting, "Probably the best Chinese food I've ever had." Z & Y's ability to blend traditional recipes with culinary innovation makes it a must-visit for those seeking a genuine taste of Asian cuisine in San Francisco.

8. 5A5

4.3

Awesome(2317)

Price: Expensive

• Chinese • Financial District / Embarcadero

5A5 Steak Lounge is reopening as 5A5 Izakaya. Showcasing Chef Cat Wang’s Asian-inspired Izakaya bitesAfter graduating from James Beard Award-winning restaurant 'Animal' in Los Angeles, Cat won an episode on Food Network's Cutthroat Kitchen hosted by Alton Brown. Catch her on Season 15, Episode 3! She travelled throughout Asia, staging at some of 'Asia's 50 Best,' including Nahm, L'Effervescence, and Gaa. In 2017, Cat moved to San Francisco to work at Michelin-starred Kin Khao and later, Akiko's Restaurant. The heart of Cat's food program is to showcase exciting flavors from her worldly travels and to marry them in nuanced, playful ways. Her new izakaya menu features premium A5 Japanese wagyu, fresh local seafood as well as the highest quality seafood flown overnight from the famed Toyosu Market, and the best of California's produce.

A photo of Mr. Tipple’s Jazz Club restaurant

9. Mr. Tipple’s Jazz Club

4.9

Exceptional(849)

Price: Moderate

• Chinese • Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness

Booked 4 times today

Mr. Tipple’s Jazz Club, an acclaimed jewel in San Francisco's Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness area, has become a beacon for cocktail enthusiasts. Celebrated as the ***Best Jazz Club in the City*** by **San Francisco Magazine**, it's not just the music that draws the crowds but also their "excellent cocktails." Patrons rave about the craft cocktails, describing them as a highlight of their visits, with one noting, “Drinks are great, service is amazing.” The ambiance, reminiscent of a 1950s NYC basement, provides the perfect backdrop for savoring these masterfully mixed beverages. It's a place where every cocktail tells a story, paired seamlessly with live jazz, making Mr. Tipple’s a must-visit for an authentic and delightful cocktail experience.

A photo of Burma Love Downtown restaurant

10. Burma Love Downtown

4.6

Exceptional(542)

Price: Expensive

• Chinese • SOMA

Booked 28 times today

Burma Love Downtown, nestled in the vibrant SOMA neighborhood of San Francisco, offers a delightful exploration of Thai cuisine with a unique Burmese twist. Celebrated for its innovative approach to traditional flavors, the restaurant has garnered accolades such as the "Best Salad of the West" by Sunset Magazine for its iconic fermented tea leaf salad. Diners consistently praise the restaurant's culinary prowess, declaring the vegan version of the salad "delectable and unique" and a "typical flavor and texture fiesta." The atmosphere is described as "positively decadent," perfect for both intimate dinners and larger gatherings. With a commitment to accommodating dietary needs and a menu that excites with every dish, Burma Love Downtown stands out as a top destination for authentic and high-quality Thai cuisine in San Francisco.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

G
Grace
San Francisco Bay Area •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
I've been looking forward to "coming back" since I heard about Empress by Boon! I grew up going to the Empress of China for countless weddings, red egg & ginger parties, birthday parties, fundraisers, etc. I even shook Mrs. Barbara Bush's hand in front of the restaurant as she got out of her vehicle to attend a Republican event. So many precious memories at this land mark. It's so exciting to see how Empress by Boon has transformed it into its own special modern style while preserving some of the images of the past. It's beautiful; helps us natives to appreciate what we have in the City. The food portions are just right, & the tastes are so unique & fulfilling! This gives me a good excuse to treat my loved one down a trip on memory lane in addition to sharing a new experience! Thank you for re-creating this special place for all of us to enjoy!
More info
The Empress by BoonPrice: Very Expensive• Chinese• Chinatown
•
4.5
P
Philip
Greater Boston •1 review
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Awesome food and terrific staff to help guide us with choices) recommendations.
More info
Four KingsPrice: Expensive• Cantonese• Chinatown
•
4.6
N
Nancy
San Francisco Bay Area •7 reviews
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
We used Harborview for our business meeting reception both this year and the last and it has worked out splendidly. Roped-off space by the bar with high tables works well for 20 people (could be expanded into adjacent area), with a wonderful appetizer spread. Highly recommend!
More info
Harborview Restaurant & BarPrice: Expensive• Chinese• Financial District / Embarcadero
•
4.5
D
Donald Joevip
Los Angeles •39 reviews
5.0
Dined on Nov 19, 2024
First-time visit to China Live, and we were not disappointed! Attentive, helpful service (Raffi was super-helpful with navigating the menu), lots of choices, and quick service. We got the XLB, sea bass, and crispy noodles with chicken, and really, I can't think of a single negative thing to say about any of them. Dessert was the wonderful mandarin brownie with lychee ice cream. All in all, a wonderful meal and a great time out for my bride and I.
More info
China LivePrice: Moderate• Chinese• Chinatown
•
4.7
OT
OpenTable Diner
Houston •1 review
5.0
Dined on Aug 17, 2024
Great service and delicious drinks! Staff was friendly and very knowledgeable!
More info
Cold Drinks BarPrice: Expensive• Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service• Chinatown
•
4.4

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Best Chinese Restaurants in San Francisco Bay Area

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15 restaurants available nearby

1. Harborview Restaurant & Bar

2. China Live

3. Four Kings

4. The Empress by Boon

5. Cold Drinks Bar

6. Z & Y Peking Duck

7. Z & Y Restaurant

8. 5A5

9. Mr. Tipple’s Jazz Club

10. Burma Love Downtown

See what locals rave about

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