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Hulu Wa China Bistro
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Hulu Wa China Bistro
7.9
Casual Castro bistro serving dim sum staples alongside American-Chinese favorites with later weekend hours. Portions are solid, pricing is fair, and it’s a convenient pickup spot after concerts on Market.
Must-Try Dishes:
Shumai, Honey Walnut Shrimp, Beef Chow Fun
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Dim sum plus Chinese-American crowd-pleasers served later on weekends.
Who should go: Casual groups wanting mix-and-match plates
When to visit: Fri–Sat after 9pm to catch late kitchen hours
What to order: Shumai, beef chow fun, honey walnut shrimp
Insider tip: Call ahead for wait times; late seatings move quickly.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Market and 16th; typically open spots after 8pm but scarce before.
Dress code: Casual and relaxed; anything from jeans and tees to casual date-night wear fits fine.
Noise level: Moderate; buzz from groups and music but still possible to hold a normal conversation.
Weekend wait: 20–30 minutes after 9pm; earlier hours busier with neighborhood diners.
Weekday lunch: Minimal waits; plenty of seating available.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – tofu, vegetable chow fun, and dim sum vegetable dumplings available.
Vegan options: Limited – 2–3 dishes can be modified if you ask to skip oyster sauce.
Gluten-free options: Limited – rice-based dishes like fried rice and steamed proteins are safest bets.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It’s more of a casual comfort spot than a romantic one—great for an easy bite after a show, less ideal for a dressy night out.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are welcome and typical, especially later at night when turnover is fast.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—family-friendly portions and mild dishes make it fine for kids, though late hours skew more adult-oriented.
Best For
Better for: Late-night Chinese comfort food in the Castro when others have closed; solid mix of dim sum and American-style classics.
Skip if: You’re seeking upscale dining or strictly regional Chinese cuisine; this is more neighborhood casual than destination dining.
Hulu Wa China Bistro
8.0
Compact Castro bistro serving dim sum standards and American-style Chinese plates. Locals lean on it for quick dumplings, noodles, and familiar favorites in a casual setting.
Must-Try Dishes:
Shrimp siu mai, Beef chow fun, Spicy wontons
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Neighborhood dim sum and noodle comfort in the heart of the Castro.
Who should go: Casual diners craving familiar dishes
When to visit: Weeknights before 7pm for fastest seating
What to order: Shrimp siu mai; beef chow fun; spicy wontons
Insider tip: Ask for extra-char on chow fun for more wok hei.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Limited metered street parking on Castro and 18th; best luck on side streets before 6pm.
Dress code: Casual; locals often stop by in everyday wear or light layers for quick meals.
Noise level: Moderate during dinner rush; quiet enough for casual conversation on weekdays.
Weekend wait: 20–30 minutes during peak dim sum hours; no reservations accepted.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; quick table turnover ideal for short lunch breaks.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several vegetable dumplings and tofu noodle dishes available.
Vegan options: Limited — some stir-fry and vegetable sides work with sauce adjustments.
Gluten-free options: Minimal — soy sauce and wheat wrappers are common; inform staff for substitutions where possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a formal date; the setting is casual and functional, better suited for low-pressure meals or friendly meetups.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, walk-ins only. Waits are short except on weekend evenings when turnover slows slightly.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, very — simple menu, fast service, and family-friendly vibe make it easy for kids and groups.
Best For
Better for: Quick, affordable dumpling or noodle cravings in the Castro; great for solo meals or casual family dinners.
Skip if: You’re looking for elevated dim sum presentation, upscale ambiance, or extensive regional Chinese specialties.