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King Kee Chinese Restaurant
Master Critic Review
King Kee Chinese Restaurant
8.3
Union Square staple for late-night Cantonese and Sichuan comfort—dim sum snacks, rice plates, and wok-fried noodles until 10 pm. Reliable portions and quick service make it a post-show standby near Powell.
Must-Try Dishes:
Shanghai dumplings, Chongqing hot-numbing noodle soup, BBQ pork over rice
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Broad Hong Kong–leaning menu served late steps from Powell.
Who should go: Post-show diners and hotel-area travelers
When to visit: 8–10 pm for easy seating and quick turns
What to order: Shanghai dumplings, spicy Chongqing noodles, BBQ pork rice
Insider tip: Ask for off-menu vegetable sides to balance heavier plates.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited near Powell; safest bet is the Ellis-O’Farrell garage two blocks away (~$5–$7/hr evenings).
Dress code: Casual—jeans, sneakers, and theatergoer attire all welcome.
Noise level: Moderate—steady chatter but you can hold a conversation without shouting.
Weekend wait: 15–25 minutes after shows let out; usually no wait earlier.
Weekday lunch: Not typically busy; immediate seating.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—mapo tofu (without pork), sautéed greens, and vegetable dumplings available.
Vegan options: Limited—ask for plain stir-fried vegetables, rice, or tofu dishes without sauces containing oyster or egg.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated menu; rice plates are safest, but soy sauce in most dishes means cross-contamination risk.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual or practical dates than a romantic night—it’s fast, affordable, and centrally located, but not atmosphere-driven.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—reservations aren’t needed. Walk-ins are the norm, and turnover is fast thanks to quick service.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for families with school-age kids—portions are shareable and service is quick, though the late-night hours and crowded post-show vibe may not suit toddlers.
Best For
Better for: Quick Cantonese/Sichuan comfort food late near Union Square at budget prices.
Skip if: You want fine dining ambience, strict dietary controls, or dinner after 10 pm—other spots run later.