San Francisco boasts a vibrant Chinese culinary scene, home to the oldest Chinatown in the United States and a diverse array of dining options.
From traditional dishes to modern interpretations, the takeout options are as plentiful as they are delicious.
This article highlights the best 11 Chinese takeout spots in the city as recommended by local chefs and food experts.
Each suggestion reflects their personal experiences and favorites, ensuring a variety of authentic flavors and dishes.
David Yoshimura, chef at Nisei, singles out House of Pancakes located at 837 Taraval St. in Parkside.
Having tried numerous Chinese restaurants in the Sunset district, he deems this spot the ultimate choice for hand-pulled noodles and Chinese pancakes.
Yoshimura describes the lamb hand-pulled noodle soup and crispy beef roll pancake as must-tries, cautioning that the sesame pancake is thicker than traditionally expected.
Max Blachman-Gentile, chef and owner of Jules, is a fan of Spices at 291 6th Ave in the Inner Richmond.
He first discovered it while listening to the “Munchies” podcast and found their playful Szechuan dishes irresistible.
Blachman-Gentile’s go-to orders include chile wings, fried fish, and sizzling cumin lamb among other spicy selections.
Evan Kidera, cofounder and CEO of Señor Sisig, finds himself frequently at House of Nanking on 919 Kearny St. in Chinatown.
This spot is known for its house sizzling fried rice and crispy honey beef short rib, which Kidera cannot resist, even when ordering takeout.
Franky Ho and Mikey Long, chefs at Four Kings, highly recommend Taishan Cuisine at 781 Broadway St. in Chinatown for its celebrated salt-and-pepper tofu.
Their allegiance to Taishan goes back to when they discovered its extensive menu of Cantonese specialties that catered to their late-night cravings.
Bianca Wong, the general manager at Le Soleil Stonestown, routinely visits San Tung at 1031 Irving St. in the Inner Sunset.
Known for its iconic dry-fried chicken wings and mu shu pork, Wong advises callers to order in advance to skip the long wait.
Belinda Leong, pastry chef and owner of b. Patisserie, has been a loyal customer of Wing Lee BBQ at 501 Clement St. in the Inner Richmond for 15 years.
The lure of succulent roast duck and roast pig makes this spot a regular stop for her.
Laurence Jossel, chef and owner of Nopa and Nopa Fish, has a unique approach to recommending Chinese takeout.
He suggests different spots for specific dishes, indicating his expertise and familiarity with the local food scene.
For instance, he touts Mamahuhu for its tingly mapo tofu, while House of Nanking serves the best sizzling rice soup.
Jossel also enjoys Shanghai chicken from Eric’s Restaurant, a dish reminiscent of times long past.
Erin Lang, owner of Garden Creamery, makes it a point to visit Good Mong Kok Bakery at 1039 Stockton St. in Chinatown.
This cash-only shop is known for its baked cha siu baos and other dim sum goods that she insists on stocking up whenever she’s in the area.
Boris Nemchenok, owner of Fiorella, highlights Mamahuhu at 3991 24th St. in Noe Valley as his personal favorite due to its proximity to his own restaurant.
After busy days, he also enjoys Hakka-style dishes at Spice Jar in the Mission, favoring the Mongolian beef.
John Wesley, chef at Kiln, appreciates the dumplings from Dumpling Kitchen at 1935 Taraval St. in Parkside.
His staff enjoys a tradition of indulging in dim sum, emphasizing the variety available at this local establishment.
Joe Hou, chef at Angler, shares that his go-to spot for hand-pulled noodles is Terra Cotta Warrior, but he gives high praise to Yuanbao Jiaozi at 2110 Irving St. in the Outer Sunset for its delicious dumplings.
There, he can’t resist ordering the pork-and-shitake dumplings paired with dan dan noodles.
In summary, these top Chinese takeout spots are cherished by locals and offer an array of delectable flavors and dishes.
Each chef’s recommendation showcases not only the rich culinary tapestry of San Francisco but also the personal connections each expert has with their chosen restaurants.
Whether you’re craving traditional dim sum, spicy Szechuan dishes, or comforting noodle soups, this list serves as a guide to the best that Chinese takeout has to offer in this eclectic city.
image source from：sfstandard
