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Guide to San Francisco

Chinese food and dumpling spots

Authentic Chinese food that delivers a proper dumpling experience rather than just a frozen appetizer.

Based on 961 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Lion Kitchen image 1
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Chinese restaurant

Bright, clean space with pink decor creates a cozy, relaxing atmosphere that suits all ages. Seating favors smaller groups, and the environment stays quiet even when full. Wheelchair accessibility and ample natural light add to the welcoming feel.

Handmade dumplings come fresh with pork and wood ear, pork and cabbage, and pork and chive varieties. Frozen take-home dumplings offer convenience without losing the fresh taste.

Handmade dumplings stand out with fresh pork and cabbage or wood ear fillings. The menu features sweet and sour chicken, shrimp with walnuts, and a peach gum dessert. Wonton and egg flower soups add variety, with kids enjoying the wonton soup especially.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing and a great value."

"I found the dumplings to be handmade and delicious."

"The Chinese food here is solid and delicious."

Good to know

1

Most entrees cost $12 to $16, making it affordable.

2

The portions are generous, often leaving leftovers.

3

Street parking is the only option available.

02
Cantoo Latin Asian Rotisserie image 1
Asian fusion restaurant

Basement setting with grotto-like atmosphere and remnants of previous restaurants creates a unique, slightly shabby but welcoming vibe. Latin American music plays softly, adding to the peaceful and cozy environment. Spacious and clean interior feels like a blend of casual dining and cultural character.

Chili oil fried dumplings stand out with aggressive, unique flavors and homemade pork filling. Wontons and spicy chili dumplings feature phenomenal fillings that rank among the best in the city.

Dumplings and potstickers stand out with homemade fillings and great flavor. The Cantonese roast duck and sweet and sour pork chop offer crispy, well-cooked meat with tasty sauces.

People are saying

"The empanadas are huge, with delicious fillings like shredded beef."

"These chili oil dumplings are delicious and make your tongue sing."

"The Chinese Food here is drenched in oil and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant celebrates its one-year anniversary in December with special events.

2

Expect a diverse menu featuring unique Asian-Venezuelan dishes.

3

Portions are generous and reasonably priced for the area.

03
Today Food image 1
Restaurant

Small space with an open kitchen where fresh dumplings are made in view. Atmosphere feels authentic and cozy, lively with friendly faces despite limited seating. Offers fresh handmade dumplings considered among the best outside China.

Freshly made dumplings appear right in front of you, crafted by two ladies. The pork and cabbage and soupy vegetarian dumplings stand out, with flavors enhanced by soy sauce and chili oil.

Freshly prepared dumplings and potstickers come right in front of you, with options like pork and cabbage or vegetarian soupy dumplings filled with delightful goodies. The dumplings taste like home and pair well with soy sauce and chili oil.

People are saying

"These dumplings are super fresh and delicious."

"The T-Burger was tender, juicy, and packed with flavorful pork."

"I found the Chinese food dumplings to be the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Expect limited seating, especially during peak hours.

2

No reservations are accepted, so arrive early to avoid long waits.

3

The kitchen is visible, allowing guests to see dumplings being made.

04
Fuwa Dumpling image 1
Chinese restaurant

Simple, clean space with spacious seating and unassuming decor creates a calm, family-friendly atmosphere. Energy stays easygoing and unpretentious, welcoming a steady flow of diners. Focus centers on authentic, handmade dumplings served in generous portions at affordable prices.

Thin-skinned dumplings come boiled, in soup, or pan-fried with fresh, well-balanced fillings. The menu includes Xiao Long Bao, pork soup dumplings, and vegetarian options, all made in-house with authentic northern-style techniques.

Freshly made Northern Chinese-style dumplings stand out with thin, delicate skins and well-balanced fillings. Options include pork, beef and onion, fish, vegetarian, and Xiao Long Bao, all prepared in-house with care.

People are saying

"I had some of the best dumplings I've ever experienced."

"These pot stickers have a crunchy, chewy skin and leak delicious juice."

"I thought the Chinese food dumplings were mind blowing."

Good to know

1

The restaurant serves a variety of dumplings, including boiled, pan-fried, and soup dumplings.

2

Prices are very low compared to other dumpling places in the city.

3

Portions are generous, with 14 dumplings per order.

05
Taste of Old Street 老街把把烧 image 1

Small, cozy space with a lively, down-to-earth vibe and friendly atmosphere. Walls feature cute interior design and a long counter holds books and games, adding a casual touch. Known for authentic handmade skewers and reasonably priced dishes that invite sharing and tasting.

Freshly homemade dumplings stand out with pan-fried versions that are super tasty. Options include dumplings in chili oil alongside skewers and wontons, all made with care.

Potstickers and pan-fried dumplings come with a crispy bottom and fresh homemade taste. Spicy Chongqing noodles deliver a numbing heat balanced by bok choy, while skewers and wantons add variety to the Sichuan-style menu.

People are saying

"The handmade wonton and barbecue skewers here are super authentic."

"The Chinese skewers and dumplings here are a must-try."

"The pan-fried dumplings are freshly homemade and super tasty."

Good to know

1

The average cost is around $60 per person for a full meal.

2

Each skewer is smaller, allowing for easier sharing of five skewers per order.

3

Dessert options are available next door or a block over at Joe's ice cream.

06
Yummy Dumpling image 1
Frozen food store

Small storefront offers handmade frozen dumplings that provide great value and are easy to heat and eat. Payment is limited to cash or Venmo.

Handmade dumplings come in pork and fish varieties with green chives. They offer great value and are easy to heat and eat. Frozen options are available from a small storefront.

Small storefront offers homemade frozen dumplings that heat up easily. Pork and fish dumplings with green chives provide great value and solid flavor.

People are saying

"I found the handmade dumplings delicious."

"I loved the pork with green chives dumplings; they were a 10/10."

Good to know

1

They only accept cash or Venmo for payments.

2

The dumplings offer great value.

07
Bao Bao Dumpling image 1
Chinese restaurant

Modern space with glass panel kitchen and QR code menu offers a quiet, cozy atmosphere reminiscent of old Shanghai. Authentic Shanghainese cuisine draws a mix of families and locals seeking stylish, low-key dining with carefully served hot dishes.

Handmade soup dumplings and pan-fried pork baos stand out for their juicy, flavorful quality. The pork dumplings consistently deliver rich taste, whether dining in or ordering delivery.

Soup dumplings and pan-fried pork baos stand out for their flavor and juiciness. Handmade dumplings, especially the pork varieties, maintain consistent quality and taste great whether dining in or ordering delivery.

People are saying

"The pan-fried dumplings here are amazing and sublime."

"The smoked fish here is perfectly crispy and tender."

"The pan-fried dumplings here are amazing and perfectly juicy."

Good to know

1

Parking could be challenging in the area.

2

The restaurant offers authentic Shanghainese taste and affordable pricing.

3

The owner mentioned that more dishes are coming soon, like crab xiaolongbao.

08
Dumpling King image 1
Dumpling restaurant

Open floor plan with visible chefs folding dumplings creates an engaging atmosphere. The vibe is cozy and modern casual, blending traditional dim sum with contemporary design. Frequented by groups enjoying extensive menus featuring fresh, flavorful dumplings and noodles at reasonable prices.

Soup dumplings come hot, fresh, and bursting with flavor, including juicy xiao long bao and crispy pan-fried varieties. The menu offers a wide range of pork belly dumplings, mushu pork, and BBQ bao, all reasonably priced and satisfying.

Soup dumplings come hot, fresh, and bursting with flavor, standing out as a highlight. The menu offers a wide range of dumplings and noodle dishes like garlic noodles and Kung Pao Chicken buns, all reasonably priced and served in a modern, clean setting with a view of chefs folding dumplings.

People are saying

"These dumplings are the best I've had in the city."

"I found the pan-fried pork baos to be flavorful and handmade."

"I thought the Chinese food dumplings were the best I've had."

Good to know

1

Dumpling King offers two menus: one for regular Chinese food and one for dumplings.

2

Expect to pay around $25 per person for a meal, including drinks.

3

Dumpling King has a solid selection of vegan and vegetarian options.

09
Dumpling Specialist image 1
Dumpling restaurant

Small interior holds just a few tables, creating an intimate and cozy atmosphere. Dumplings feature thin skins and flavorful fillings, with pan-fried and steamed textures highlighted. Credit card payments include a 4% surcharge, and the menu leans toward meat and vegetable dishes beyond dumplings.

Dumplings come in a wide variety, including vegetarian options and rarer types like fantuan. Pan-fried pork buns, Shanghai dumplings, and wontons in peanut chili oil stand out for their strong, flavorful seasoning.

Dumplings stand out with Shanghai dumplings, pan-fried pork buns, and a wide variety including vegetarian options. Hot and sour soup and rice complement the flavorful dishes well.

People are saying

"The Shanghai dumplings here are surprisingly good and have some juice."

"The vegetarian dumplings here are unique and flavorful."

"The Chinese food here, especially the dumplings, is so good."

Good to know

1

Dumpling Specialist is takeout only as of May 2023.

2

They charge a 4% surcharge on credit card payments.

3

Self-pay options are available for convenience.

10
Broadway Dim Sum Cafe image 1
Dim sum restaurant

Small, cozy cafe-style space with friendly, local regulars creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Dim sum dishes are freshly steamed to order, encouraging a relaxed pace. Limited seating and simple setup emphasize a casual, family-run vibe.

Freshest soup dumplings come with thin skins and chewy shrimp inside. Fried dumplings stand out with rich flavor, alongside BBQ buns, Shu Mai, and steamed dumplings that pack a punch.

Dim sum stands out for its freshness since it is prepared to order, not sitting in steam baskets. The menu features dumpling soup, potstickers, chicken chow mein, egg rolls, and BBQ fried rice, all at reasonable prices.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here, especially the dumplings, is so fresh and flavorful."

"The dumpling soup has a well-balanced, slightly gingery broth."

"I thought the fried dumplings here were the best I had ever tasted."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is cash-only, so bring cash for your meal.

2

Dinner costs around $30 per person, offering great value.

3

Portion sizes are large, with one dish often serving two people.

11
Metro Hong Kong Dessert and Milk Tea image 1
Cha chaan teng (Hong Kong-style cafe)

Cha chaan teng offers authentic Hong Kong-style desserts and milk tea in a cozy, small space with Chinese songs playing. The atmosphere feels homely and inviting, attracting both old and young with its wide variety of affordable, classic dishes.

Xiaolongbao soup dumplings stand out with their great taste and juicy filling. Steamed pork dumplings and BBQ pork buns also come highly recommended, all eaten quickly due to their excellent quality.

Dim sum includes delicious soup dumplings, steamed pork dumplings, and BBQ pork buns. The menu features flavorful dishes like five spice pork, orange chicken, rice noodle rolls, congee with preserved egg and lean pork, and chow fun.

People are saying

"The food here is so tasty and authentic, it feels like Hong Kong."

"You have to try this Chinese food; I recommend it fully."

"I thought the soup dumplings were the best."

Good to know

1

Cash is preferred; credit card payments incur an extra charge.

2

The menu features both sweet and savory options, including boba milk tea.

3

The restaurant is open late, making it a good spot for late-night snacks.

12
CHEF XIONG KITCHEN 川香園鉄木真 image 1

Casual, family-run eatery with a warm and inviting atmosphere. Offers authentic Sichuan cuisine with generous portions and affordable prices. Open late, attracting a mix of diners seeking genuine flavors and value.

Handmade dumplings come with spicy chili oil and pair well with Sichuan pickles. The dumplings offer a savory, authentic flavor that fits well with spicy dishes.

Powerful Sichuan flavors come through in dishes like kung pao chicken and cold Sichuan noodles. The menu features authentic items such as Sichuan sausage, homemade pickles, handmade dumplings, and fresh sticky rice cake.

People are saying

"I experienced the best authentic Szechuan food in the city."

"I thought the Sichuan Chinese food here was very authentic."

"You have to try the handmade chili oil dumplings; they're so good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open until 2am, making it a good late-night option.

2

Prices are quite affordable compared to many other places in San Francisco.

3

Portion sizes are generous, offering great value for the price.

13
Dumpling Union Haight image 1
Dumpling restaurant

Bright, modern space with clean interiors and plenty of seating, including a second-floor overlook. Atmosphere feels generic and bright, lacking coziness despite some candlelit tables. Known for exceptional dumplings and a unique window to watch fresh dumplings being made.

Fresh, flavorful dumplings come in a variety of tasty options including Sichuan and seafood. Dumplings are perfectly prepared and pair well with noodles and rice dishes, all offered at good prices.

Dumplings come in a wide variety of flavors and are fresh, flavorful, and perfectly prepared. Scallion pancakes and steamed pork buns also stand out alongside tasty noodle and rice dishes.

People are saying

"These dumplings are so tasty, especially the Sichuan ones."

"The soup here is so flavorful, especially the won ton."

"The Chinese food dumplings here are so tasty."

Good to know

1

The digital ordering system makes it easy to place orders and get food.

2

They offer upstairs and downstairs seating, with upstairs available once downstairs fills up.

3

Prices are reasonable for downtown San Francisco, making it an affordable option.

14
Dumpling Bites image 1
Dumpling restaurant

Spacious two-level restaurant with modern design and high ceilings creates a clean, casual atmosphere. The place draws a steady crowd seeking quality Shanghai dumplings and affordable dim sum in a neighborhood setting. Large tables on the balcony accommodate groups, adding to its welcoming vibe.

Soup dumplings feature thin, soft skins with generous soup inside, rivaling well-known spots. The house specialty and Veg Dumplings stand out for their flavor and quality.

Xiao Long Bao stands out with thin, soft skins and rich soup inside, rivaling well-known spots. Dim sum includes traditional Shanghai dumplings and a hot and sour soup that balances spice and sourness well.

People are saying

"The Chinese food's soup dumplings are incredibly juicy."

"I thought the ham fried rice was very good."

"The soup dumplings are amazing and super juicy."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during weekends, especially for dinner.

2

Free parking is available a block or two away from the restaurant.

3

Dumpling Bites offers a 50% discount on select dishes during their anniversary.

15
NoodlePanda Restaurant SF image 1

Large dining room features an open kitchen with chefs hand-pulling noodles visible through a window. Atmosphere stays chill and warm with modern Chinese decor and panda-themed accents. Space fills quickly with a busy crowd enjoying authentic Lanzhou noodles and grilled lamb skewers.

Fresh, homemade dumplings come highly recommended and appear frequently alongside noodles and cucumbers. Kids enjoy the dumplings, which are a popular choice on the menu.

Hand pulled noodles have a perfect chewy texture and rich flavor. Freshly made dumplings come highly recommended and pair well with the deeply flavorful beef noodle soup.

People are saying

"The beef noodle soup broth is flavorful and delicious."

"I found the Lanzhou beef noodles to be very authentic."

"The hand-pulled noodles here are so bouncy and fresh."

Good to know

1

Street parking is the only option available near the restaurant.

2

Expect large portions that can easily feed two people.

3

Currently, there is a promotion that offers better value on dishes.

16
Village Tea House image 1

Spacious restaurant with a minimalist design and clean, well-maintained decor creates a casual but lively atmosphere. Noise levels are high, making conversations difficult, especially during busy times. Known for authentic, delicious dumplings and top-notch noodles, it offers quick service without carts and affordable prices.

Dumplings come plump and juicy with fresh ingredients. Pan fried pork and shrimp dumplings stand out for their soft, tender meat and flavorful soup inside.

Xiao Long Bao stands out with juicy, flavorful soup inside soft, tender meat dumplings. Hot and Sour Soup offers a rich, memorable taste. Dim sum includes plump, nicely steamed dumplings like shrimp and chive or boiled pork and cabbage, all made with fresh ingredients.

People are saying

"The dan dan noodles and pan-fried buns are a must-try."

"The hot and sour soup here is some of the best I've ever had."

"The dumplings here are fantastic and mind-blowing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for lunch to avoid long wait times.

2

The Sheng Jian Bao takes 15-20 minutes to prepare, so expect a wait.

3

Prices are reasonable compared to other dim sum places in the area.

17
Dynasty Dumpling image 1
Dumpling restaurant

Bright, modern space with a clean, casual ambiance and homey neighborhood feel. Atmosphere stays relaxing with Mandarin ballads at a comfortable volume, making it suitable for casual dinners or gatherings. Crowds peak at lunch and dinner, creating a lively but comfortable environment.

Dumplings come house made and packed with vegetables. Options include soup dumplings, spicy wontons, and BBQ pork buns with good flavor and affordable prices.

Hand-made dim sum shines with fresh, house-made dumplings packed with vegetables. Classic dishes like Mongolian beef and Xiao Long Baos stand out alongside tasty vegetarian options like Mapo tofu.

People are saying

"The soup dumplings here are fantastic and flavorful."

"The dinner spots here serve delicious, flavorful food with generous portions."

"You have to try the soup dumplings; they're some of the best I've had."

Good to know

1

Parking may be challenging; street parking is limited.

2

They offer a 10% discount on meals this month for their opening.

3

Reservations are not required but calling ahead for pickup is recommended.

18
HULU WA CHINA BISTRO image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small Chinese restaurant with cozy seating and a loft-like second floor overlooking vintage streetcars. Atmosphere stays quiet and casual, making it a comfortable spot for conversation. Known for fresh, flavorful dishes and large portions at affordable prices.

Fresh dumplings avoid overcooking and excess salt. XLB soup dumplings hit the mark, and siu Mai dumplings stand out as some of the best in the city.

Mongolian beef offers a medium spicy kick with a chewy yet pliable texture. Dim sum includes spot-on XLB soup dumplings and fresh dumplings that avoid overcooking or excess salt. Dishes like sesame chicken and chow mein balance tender meat and great texture without greasiness.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is delicious and fresh."

"I found the American Chinese food here to be quite good."

"I found this place to be a delicious hidden gem."

Good to know

1

The lunch specials offer great prices and portion sizes.

2

Expect large portions that provide good value for money.

3

They offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan options.

19
606 image 1
Chinese restaurant

Space blends modern elegance with traditional charm in a cozy, inviting atmosphere that suits casual and date dining. Jazz music adds a lively touch while the interior feels tastefully remodeled and clean. Noise levels rise during busy times, creating a vibrant energy.

Pork Dumplings deliver a strong first impression with rich flavor. Shanghai dumplings offer a great start, while fried chicken wings and beef with broccoli complement the meal well.

Flavors come through in dishes like Salt and Pepper Pork Chops, Mongolian Beef, and Shrimp with Baby Bok Choy in garlic sauce. Portions stay generous with options like dim sum, pot stickers, and hot and sour soup added recently.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and packed with flavor."

"The Chinese food here is so delicious and flavorful."

"The pork dumplings were amazing and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups, especially during holidays.

2

Parking is difficult to find near the restaurant, so plan accordingly.

3

The restaurant is family-friendly and offers a clean environment.

20
Hon's Wun-Tun House image 1
Cantonese restaurant

Open kitchen reveals chefs making massive authentic wontons and preparing orders with fast, efficient service. Small, clean, modern space fills with a busy, no-nonsense vibe during peak hours, while quieter times feel more peaceful and welcoming.

Freshly made dumplings stand out with juicy soup fillings and full-flavored shrimp that is not minced. Vegetarian dumplings highlight each ingredient clearly, and pan-fried versions add a satisfying texture.

Pan Fried Potstickers stand out with fresh, full-flavored shrimp inside, not minced. The wontons are authentic Cantonese style, paired well with scallion pancakes that are crispy and flavorful.

People are saying

"The wonton noodle soup here is authentic and comforting."

"The wonton noodle soup here is a comforting, authentic Chinese food classic."

"The soup dumplings here have silky wrappers and rich broth."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; register your name and party size at the counter to wait for a table.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours; arrive early to secure a spot.

3

The broth in the beef noodle soup contains seafood, which is crucial for those with shellfish allergies.

21
Shanghai Dumpling King image 1

Neighborhood restaurant offers a homey atmosphere with quiet, inviting energy suited for casual meals. Diners find authentic Shanghai dumplings with handmade thin wrappers and juicy fillings. The spot feels like a hidden gem with fair prices and generous portions.

Soup dumplings have a rich, brothy filling and thin wrappers. Pan-fried dumplings feature a crispy bottom while Shanghai-style dumplings are larger with a juicy, not overly chewy filling.

Soup dumplings feature thin wrappers and juicy fillings with a rich, brothy taste. Pan-fried dumplings have a crispy bottom, while fried dan dan noodles and tong choy vegetables carry a strong wok hay flavor.

People are saying

"The soup dumplings are delicate and rich with a juicy filling."

"The food here is so authentic and homey."

"Their handmade Chinese dumplings have thin wrappers and juicy fillings."

Good to know

1

There is only street parking available, which can be hit or miss.

2

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

3

Portions are generous, making it a good value.

22
Old Mandarin Islamic Restaurant image 1

Small space filled with traditional Chinese decor and old furniture pieces reflecting Silk Road history. Atmosphere feels cozy yet crowded, with an upbeat vibe despite some cleanliness issues. Limited seating and busy times create a sense of urgency among diners.

Start with 3 flavored dumplings as a great appetizer. Dumplings also come with the Beijing hot pot, paired with meats and vegetables.

Halal hot pot stands out alongside Mongolian beef, cumin lamb, and crack fish. Dumplings, scallion pancake, and chicken corn soup add variety to the Chinese food offerings.

People are saying

"I found the Halal Chinese food here to be delicious and flavorful."

"I thought the Chinese food here was the best I ever had."

"I considered this the best halal Chinese spot for dumplings."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating and high demand.

2

The restaurant serves only halal food with zabiha meat and no alcohol.

3

An 18% gratuity is automatically added for parties of 3 or more.

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