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Bamboo Restaurant
Master Critic Review
Bamboo Restaurant
8.3
Neighborhood standby for Hunan and Mandarin dishes with reliable late hours on Polk. Go for crowd-pleasers done cleanly and quick service that works for post-show dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lotus Root Prawns, Mongolian Beef, Hunan Eggplant
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Late-night Chinese comfort with a huge, Hunan-leaning menu.
Who should go: Groups craving classic Chinese after 9pm
When to visit: Weeknights 9–10:30pm for easiest seating
What to order: Lotus root prawns, Mongolian beef, Hunan eggplant
Insider tip: Ask for extra-spicy on Hunan dishes—the kitchen obliges.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly metered street parking on Polk and side streets; can be tight after 7pm on weekends but usually manageable by circling once or twice.
Dress code: Casual – jeans, sneakers, and relaxed attire are all fine.
Noise level: Moderate – you can carry a group conversation but expect background chatter, especially after 9pm.
Weekend wait: 15–30 minutes during peak late-night hours, especially after shows let out.
Weekday lunch: No lunch service; dinner wait is minimal before 8pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – tofu, eggplant, and vegetable stir-fries are popular choices.
Vegan options: Limited – around 3–4 dishes can be made vegan by request (ask about oil and sauce substitutions).
Gluten-free options: Limited – rice-based dishes are safe, but most sauces contain soy sauce with gluten.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual or second dates; the lively energy and straightforward setup are comfortable but not polished or intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes – they don’t take reservations; walk-ins are the norm and tables turn quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids; booths fit families, but it’s more of a late-night crowd so less ideal for very young children after 9pm.
Best For
Better for: A broad, reliable Hunan/Mandarin menu served late when other neighborhood spots have closed.
Skip if: You’re seeking a quiet, romantic dinner or strictly vegan/gluten-free dining.