Best Cheap Chinese Restaurants in San Francisco | Cheap Chinese Food

30 restaurants in Best Cheap Chinese Restaurants in San Francisco | Cheap Chinese Food

• JjamPpong — Korean · rated 5/5: Steaming bowls of fiery, crimson broth take center stage at this vibrant eatery, where the air is thick with the savory aroma of wok-seared seafood and hand-pulled noodles. The kitchen masterfully balances bold heat with the delicate sweetness of fresh shellfish, creating a soul-warming experience that invites diners to linger over every spicy, satisfying slurp.
• Sharetea — Chinese · rated 5/5: This bustling social hub hums with the rhythmic clatter of shakers as baristas craft vibrant, hand-shaken infusions that balance time-honored tea traditions with modern flair. Guests are greeted by a kaleidoscope of colors, from the velvety depths of classic milk teas to the sun-drenched glow of fresh fruit zests, all anchored by the satisfying, honey-kissed chew of perfectly caramelized pearls. It is a refreshing retreat where every customizable cup offers a playful symphony of textures and sweetness, perfect for a spirited midday escape.
• Kingdom of Dumpling — Chinese · rated 4/5: Steaming bamboo baskets and the rhythmic clatter of the kitchen define this bustling sanctuary where the air is thick with the savory perfume of ginger, scallions, and toasted sesame. Plump, hand-pleated parcels arrive at the table bursting with rich broths and tender fillings, from delicate soup dumplings to golden, pan-seared potstickers that offer a satisfyingly crisp crunch. It is a vibrant destination where the ancient art of the dumpling is celebrated, inviting guests to lose themselves in a communal feast of authentic, soul-warming flavors.
• 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.
• Mini Potstickers — Chinese · rated 4/5: The air at Mini Potstickers is thick with the savory aroma of toasted sesame and sizzling dough, drawing diners into a space where the rhythmic clatter of the kitchen signals the arrival of golden, pan-fried treasures. Bite-sized pork buns offer a satisfying crunch that gives way to succulent, steaming centers, while vibrant plates of chilled lotus root and spicy shredded pig ear provide a refreshing, textural counterpoint to the warmth of flaky green onion pancakes. It is a sanctuary of authentic flavors where traditional street-food favorites are elevated through careful craftsmanship, inviting guests to linger over a colorful mosaic of small plates and aromatic chive pockets.
• Oodle Yunnan Rice Noodle — Chinese · rated 4/5: Steaming bowls of fragrant broth take center stage at this vibrant eatery, where the air is thick with the comforting aroma of slow-simmered spices and fresh herbs. Silky rice noodles glide through rich, golden soups topped with a colorful mosaic of tender meats and crisp vegetables, offering a soulful taste of Yunnan’s culinary heritage in every savory, warming slurp.
• Fiery Hot Pot and Grill — Chinese · rated 4/5: Wisps of fragrant steam rise from bubbling cauldrons of aromatic broth, inviting guests into a lively space where the bold scents of coconut curry and zesty Tom Yum fill the air. This interactive sanctuary celebrates the art of the simmer, offering a customizable journey through intense fiery spices, comforting roasted tomato, and the savory depth of traditional rich pork. Between bites of crispy, golden potstickers and cool seaweed salad, diners craft a vibrant communal feast that balances heat, heart, and soul.
• Dumpling Zone — Chinese · rated 4/5: Clouds of fragrant steam rise from bamboo baskets at this lively neighborhood haunt, where the rhythmic tap of rolling pins signals the arrival of hand-pleated treasures. Each bite offers a masterclass in texture, from the delicate, translucent skins of soup dumplings brimming with savory broth to the golden, satisfying crunch of pan-seared potstickers served in a space that hums with communal energy.
• Mee Mee Bakery — Chinese · rated 4/5: Step into a nostalgic sanctuary where the sweet, toasted aroma of golden-brown dough fills the air, inviting guests to rediscover the playful crunch of artisanal treats. This charming bakery reimagines the classic fortune cookie through a vibrant palette of flavors, from sun-ripened strawberry and rich chocolate infusions to buttery, bite-sized coin cookies flecked with aromatic black sesame. Every hand-crafted crisp offers a delightful bridge between time-honored tradition and modern sweetness, making each visit a sensory journey through layers of texture and taste.
• Enjoy Vegetarian Restaurant — Chinese · rated 4/5: This tranquil haven invites diners to rediscover the bounty of the earth through a menu where vibrant, seasonal vegetables and clever plant-based proteins take center stage in a flurry of wok-fired aromatics. Each plate arrives as a colorful celebration of texture and flavor, offering a nourishing escape that balances the lightness of garden-fresh ingredients with the deep, savory satisfaction of traditional comfort food.
• Good Mong Kok Bakery — Chinese · rated 4/5: This vibrant destination reimagines the neighborhood staple as a spirited sanctuary where the air hums with the creative energy of master mixology. Shimmering layers of emerald absinthe, velvety cream liqueurs, and citrus-bright botanicals are artfully combined to create a kaleidoscope of potent, hand-crafted elixirs that ignite the palate and elevate the evening.
• 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.
• Tea Hut — Chinese · rated 4/5: Stepping into this tranquil sanctuary feels like a deep breath, where the delicate aroma of steeping botanicals and the soft glow of natural wood create an atmosphere of effortless calm. Artisanal brews are served in hand-thrown ceramics alongside a selection of refined, seasonal treats, inviting guests to linger over slow sips and quiet conversation in a soulful retreat from the bustling world.
• Imperial Tea Court — Chinese · rated 4/5: Stepping into this serene sanctuary feels like entering a timeless tea house where the air is thick with the earthy fragrance of steeping leaves and the gentle clink of fine porcelain. From the smoky, campfire notes of Lapsang Souchong to the delicate, nutty sweetness of hand-fired Dragon Well, each cup offers a sensory journey through the storied tea gardens of the East. Whether lingering over a velvet-smooth Hong Kong Milk Tea or finding focus in a bright pot of Imperial Keemun, guests are invited to slow down and savor the quiet art of the perfect pour.
• Bangkok House — Thai · rated 4/5: Bangkok House welcomes guests into a warm, aromatic sanctuary where the air is thick with the fragrant perfume of lemongrass, ginger, and sizzling Thai basil. Woks hiss with energy as chefs masterfully balance the bold interplay of sweet, sour, and spicy, crafting jewel-toned curries and charred noodles that capture the soulful, bustling spirit of a Bangkok night market.
• Young's Kung Fu Action Theatre & Laundry — Chinese · rated 4/5: Step into a neon-drenched urban escape where the gritty charm of a vintage laundromat meets the high-energy spirit of a classic martial arts cinema. Amidst flickering screens and retro posters, the air hums with the sizzle of bold, street-inspired flavors and the clink of creative cocktails, creating a playful sanctuary that celebrates both cinematic nostalgia and vibrant, punchy cuisine.
• Song Tea & Ceramics — Chinese · rated 4/5: This minimalist sanctuary invites guests into a serene, gallery-like space where the ancient ritual of tea is celebrated through a curated collection of rare, single-origin leaves and handcrafted ceramics. Sunlight dances across clean lines and earthen vessels as the air fills with the delicate fragrance of floral oolongs and deep, earthy pu-erhs, each meticulously steeped to reveal its hidden complexities. It is a place of quiet discovery, where every pour offers a moment of stillness and a profound connection to the craftsmanship of both the grower and the potter.
• Hunan Chef Chinese Cuisine — Chinese · rated 3/5: The air at Hunan Chef Chinese Cuisine is thick with the savory aroma of toasted sesame and the rhythmic sizzle of the fryer, inviting guests into a space where classic comfort meets culinary craftsmanship. A vibrant array of textures takes center stage, featuring everything from the delicate crunch of golden-fried prawns and hand-folded crab puffs to the tender, honeyed richness of traditional barbecued pork. Each plate is a celebration of time-honored flavors, creating a warm and lively atmosphere perfect for sharing a bounty of savory treasures with friends and family.
• Pineapple King Bakery — Chinese · rated 3/5: The air is thick with the irresistible scent of caramelized sugar and toasted butter, drawing guests into a vibrant sanctuary dedicated to the art of the Hong Kong pineapple bun. Golden, crusted tops shatter into sweet crumbs with every bite, revealing pillowy interiors that cradle thick slabs of melting butter or creative infusions like salted egg and fragrant pandan. It is a sensory celebration of textures where traditional Cantonese baking meets modern whimsy, turning each warm-from-the-oven pastry into a nostalgic yet indulgent escape.
• Palette Tea House — Chinese · rated 3/5: Sunlight dances across the vibrant, art-filled dining room in Ghirardelli Square, where the rhythmic clink of porcelain and the fragrant steam of jasmine tea set the stage for a modern dim sum masterpiece. Delicate, hand-pleated dumplings arrive in a kaleidoscope of colors alongside succulent roasted meats, each plate serving as a visual and culinary canvas that reimagines Cantonese traditions with playful, contemporary flair.
• Cold Drinks Bar — Chinese · rated 3/5: Hidden away with a sophisticated, moody allure, Cold Drinks Bar reimagines classic Chinese flavors through a lens of modern indulgence and playful creativity. The air hums with the savory aroma of stone-oven roasted Peking duck and the spicy tingle of Chef Chen’s famous chili crisp, setting the stage for a feast that ranges from soul-warming Taipei beef noodle soup to whimsical snacks like duck-fat-infused popcorn. The experience concludes with a vibrant contrast of temperatures, where the crackle of a Three Treasure claypot gives way to the cooling sweetness of mango shaved ice or a velvety swirl of sesame soft serve.
• The Fate Tea House — Chinese · rated 3/5: Stepping into this serene sanctuary feels like a quiet escape from the modern world, where the delicate fragrance of steeping leaves and the soft clink of porcelain create an atmosphere of timeless tranquility. Artfully prepared infusions and hand-crafted treats are served with a sense of ritual, inviting guests to linger over steaming pots of rare blends that tell a story in every sip. Whether seeking a moment of solitary reflection or a shared connection over a curated tea service, the space offers a soulful retreat where ancient traditions meet contemporary grace.
• Henry's Hunan — Chinese · rated 3/5: The air hums with the rhythmic clatter of woks and the sharp, enticing aroma of toasted chilies and garlic that defines this high-energy Hunanese landmark. Each plate arrives brimming with bold, smoky flavors and rustic textures, where fermented black beans and vibrant spices transform simple ingredients into a fiery, soul-warming celebration of authentic regional heat.
• Yee's Restaurant — Chinese · rated 3/5: Step into a vibrant neighborhood cornerstone where the rhythmic clang of the wok and the fragrant steam of hand-pleated dumplings create an immediate sense of warmth and welcome. Golden-roasted meats and silky noodles celebrate the bold, time-honored flavors of Cantonese tradition, offering a soulful dining experience that feels like an invitation into a cherished family kitchen.
• Village Tea House — Chinese: Sunlight streams through the windows of this charming retreat, where the earthy aroma of steeping leaves and the soft hum of conversation create a cozy haven from the bustling world. Guests linger over hand-poured brews and delicate, artisanal bites, embracing a slower pace of life defined by the soulful ritual of a perfectly steeped pot and the warmth of a welcoming neighborhood hearth.
• Mission Chinese Food — Chinese: Neon-lit and pulsing with energy, this vibrant destination transforms traditional flavors into a bold, sensory-rich celebration of Americanized Sichuan cuisine. The air hums with the sizzle of high-heat woks as chefs craft inventive, spice-forward dishes that balance numbing heat with smoky depth, offering a communal dining experience that feels both rebellious and soulful.
• Chubby Noodle — Chinese: Bathed in the glow of neon lights and fueled by a high-energy hip-hop soundtrack, this vibrant Marina haunt pulses with a social energy that feels like a perpetual dinner party. The kitchen turns out bold, Asian-inspired comfort food, from wok-charred garlic noodles to crispy glazed chicken, all designed to be shared alongside creative sake cocktails and cold beers. It is a boisterous escape where the atmosphere is as spicy as the sauce, offering a sensory-rich experience where the flavors are loud and the nights are long.
• Dim Sum Bistro — Chinese: Sunlight streams through the windows of this lively urban retreat, where the rhythmic clinking of teacups and the fragrant steam rising from stacked bamboo baskets create an atmosphere of communal warmth. Delicate, translucent dumplings and golden-crisp pastries arrive in a vibrant parade of savory bites, each meticulously crafted to balance bright ginger and scallion notes with succulent fillings. It is a place where the timeless art of the midday feast is celebrated with modern flair, inviting guests to linger over endless pots of jasmine tea and a tapestry of traditional flavors.
• Honeybear Boba — Chinese: Sunlight streams into this playful, honey-hued retreat where the comforting aroma of freshly steeped tea mingles with the whimsical charm of a modern tea house. Each vibrant creation balances the chewy satisfaction of artisanal pearls with velvety swirls of cream and golden sweetness, offering a refreshing escape that captures the joyful essence of a perfectly crafted treat.