Best Affordable Dim Sum in San Francisco | Top 12 Affordable Spots

14 restaurants in Best Affordable Dim Sum in San Francisco | Top 12 Affordable Spots

• Old Mandarin Islamic Restaurant — Chinese · rated 4/5: The air here is thick with the intoxicating scent of toasted cumin and searing spices, drawing diners into a bustling space where the bold, soul-warming traditions of Northern Chinese Islamic cuisine take center stage. Tender lamb shanks fall away from the bone in a rich, aromatic braise, while shatteringly crisp "crack fish" and delicate handmade dumplings offer a symphony of textures that celebrate time-honored Beijing flavors. From the cooling snap of sesame-coated noodles to the comforting steam of golden pot stickers, every dish invites a communal exploration of a unique culinary heritage that feels both ancient and vibrantly alive.
• Mandarin House SF — Chinese · rated 4/5: Steaming bamboo baskets arrive in a flurry of activity, unveiling delicate Siu Mai and translucent shrimp dumplings that capture the heart of traditional dim sum artistry. The experience is a symphony of textures, from the pillowy sweetness of BBQ pork buns to the golden, shattering crunch of Phoenix-tailed prawns and the rich, savory burst of broth tucked inside every Shanghai soup dumpling.
• Harborview — Seafood · rated 4/5: Perched where the city meets the water, Harborview invites guests into a refined space filled with the enticing aromas of wok-fired spices and delicate, hand-pleated dim sum. The experience unfolds through a parade of textures, from the crisp snap of salt-and-pepper calamari to the rich, earthy luxury of black truffle Peking duck sliders. Whether sharing a steaming hot pot of tender brisket or cracking into a vibrant Singapore-style chili crab, every meal feels like a celebratory journey through the heart of modern Cantonese cuisine.
• 3rd Cousin — American · rated 3/5: This intimate neighborhood gem invites diners into a space where seasonal Californian ingredients meet refined global artistry, creating an atmosphere of sophisticated warmth. The kitchen masterfully balances texture and depth, offering everything from the delicate snap of local halibut crudo to the decadent richness of A5 Miyazaki dumplings and silken uni crème brûlée. Each dish, from the hand-rolled pici to the vibrant local chicories, reflects a commitment to artisanal craftsmanship and bold, imaginative flavors.
• Marrakech — Middle Eastern: Marrakech transports guests to a vibrant oasis where the intoxicating scents of cumin and saffron mingle with the lively energy of a modern global kitchen. Traditional treasures like honey-kissed bastilla and velvety hummus platters share the table with inventive fusion bites, from spice-dusted "Habibi" fries to savory Maroshki dumplings. It is a sensory journey where the rich, soulful heritage of North Africa is reimagined through a contemporary lens, offering a dining experience as bold and colorful as a sunset over the Atlas Mountains.
• Yank Sing — Chinese: Steam rises in soft clouds from bamboo baskets as a choreographed parade of carts weaves through the elegant, light-filled dining room, creating a vibrant atmosphere of shared discovery. Masterfully pleated dumplings and pillowy barbecue pork buns offer a symphony of textures, from the delicate snap of fresh seafood to the earthy, fragrant embrace of lotus-wrapped treasures. It is a refined culinary theater where every small plate celebrates the artistry of dim sum, inviting guests to linger over tea and a seemingly endless array of handcrafted delicacies.
• Great Eastern Restaurant — Chinese: Steaming bamboo baskets arrive in a steady parade at this bustling culinary landmark, where the air is perfumed with the fragrant scent of jasmine tea and savory ginger. Guests lose themselves in a vibrant tapestry of assorted dumplings, each a delicate, hand-pleated treasure that captures the soul of traditional craftsmanship in every flavorful bite.
• House of Nanking — Chinese: This vibrant, high-energy destination pulses with the rhythmic clatter of sizzling woks and the irresistible aroma of golden, pan-fried delicacies. Guests gather in the lively space to share plates of crispy, honey-glazed shrimp packets and pillowy steamed dumplings, each bite offering a masterclass in contrasting textures and bold, soul-warming flavors. From the crunch of their signature onion cakes to the deep, savory comfort of traditional rice chowder, every dish captures the spirited heart of a bustling urban kitchen.
• Hang Ah Restaurant — Chinese: Tucked away in a historic alleyway, this legendary dim sum parlor invites guests into a world of steaming bamboo baskets and the soothing fragrance of house-special jasmine tea. Delicate shrimp dumplings and pillowy BBQ pork buns arrive at the table alongside rich, broth-filled Shanghai soup dumplings, offering a timeless taste of tradition in every savory bite. It is a sanctuary of comfort where the rhythmic clink of teacups and the warmth of authentic flavors create an enduring, soulful dining experience.
• Lai Hong Lounge — Chinese: Steaming bamboo baskets arrive in a flurry of activity at this vibrant dim sum destination, where the air is thick with the savory aroma of hand-pleated dumplings and sweet, toasted buns. The kitchen transforms traditional flavors into edible art, serving whimsical custard-filled piglets and delicate bunny-shaped shrimp dumplings alongside earthy taro and vibrant pea shoot creations. It is a lively, communal experience where every colorful plate invites diners to linger over fragrant tea and discover the playful craftsmanship hidden within each bite.
• Wha Da Pho — Vietnamese: Steaming bamboo baskets arrive at the table filled with delicate Shanghai soup dumplings and pillowy vegetable bao, filling the air with the comforting aroma of ginger and savory broth. This vibrant eatery brings together the soul-warming depth of traditional pho with the satisfying crunch of golden pan-fried buns and wok-fired noodles, creating a lively sanctuary for those seeking authentic Asian comfort food.
• 707 Sutter — Korean: 707 Sutter captures the vibrant energy of a modern Korean gastropub, where the air is thick with the savory scent of pan-fried dumplings and the enticing heat of simmering ttok bok ki. Guests gather over shareable plates of golden-fried calamari and delicate shrimp tempura, finding comfort in a space that balances the satisfying crunch of potato croquettes with the silky richness of traditional egg omelets.
• San Tung — Chinese: This bustling neighborhood staple hums with a vibrant energy, drawing crowds with the irresistible aroma of its legendary dry-fried chicken wings glazed in a sticky, garlic-ginger sauce. Beyond the signature crunch, the kitchen turns out steaming baskets of plump, hand-pleated dumplings and bowls of thick, chewy noodles drenched in rich, savory black bean sauce or fiery chili oils. It is a place where the clatter of chopsticks and the warmth of shared plates create a quintessential dining experience that balances bold, nostalgic flavors with a lively, communal spirit.
• Hing Lung Co — Chinese: The air at Hing Lung Co. is thick with the savory-sweet aroma of Cantonese roasting, where rows of glistening, honey-glazed ducks hang behind the counter as a testament to time-honored tradition. Diners are treated to a masterclass in texture, from the shatteringly crisp skin of the signature roast meats to the delicate, translucent pleats of handmade dim sum that arrive steaming and succulent. It is a vibrant culinary landmark where the rhythmic chop of the cleaver and the gentle hiss of bamboo baskets create a soulful backdrop for an authentic and unforgettable feast.