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R&G Lounge
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
R&G Lounge
8.6
Cantonese seafood specialist known for salt-and-pepper Dungeness crab, live-tank selections, and banquet-friendly portions. Locals and visiting chefs alike rely on it for precise wok work and day-to-day consistency in the heart of Chinatown.
Must-Try Dishes:
Salt & Pepper Dungeness Crab, Garlic-Steamed Live Lobster, XO Sauce Sautéed Scallops
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.9
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 7.1
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Live-tank Cantonese seafood executed with precise wok technique.
Who should go: Crab lovers and Cantonese banquet fans
When to visit: Early dinner or late lunch to avoid peak waits
What to order: Salt & pepper crab; live lobster; honey-walnut prawns
Insider tip: Ask about off-menu seasonal preparations for live seafood.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in Chinatown; public garages nearby (Portsmouth Square, St. Mary’s) are the best bet. No valet on-site.
Dress code: Smart casual; business attire common at lunch. Jeans are fine but most guests lean neat and polished.
Noise level: Moderate to loud during peak dinner hours; quieter during weekday lunches. Conversations are possible but large tables can get lively.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation; reservations strongly recommended for groups.
Weekday lunch: Usually seated within 5–15 minutes; prime noon slots may see a brief wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – vegetable stir-fries, tofu dishes, and noodles available.
Vegan options: Limited – a few vegetable dishes without oyster sauce can be requested.
Gluten-free options: Possible with advance request; many seafood items can be made without soy sauce but cross-contact risk remains.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if your date appreciates lively Chinatown energy and impressive seafood. It’s not intimate-quiet but the crab presentation makes for a memorable experience.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but expect a long wait at prime dinner times, especially weekends. Walk-ins fare better at late lunch or early dinner.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for families with older children who enjoy seafood and shared plates. High chairs are available but the bustling atmosphere can be overwhelming for toddlers.
Best For
Better for: Authentic Cantonese seafood and banquet-style dishes, especially live crab and lobster, prepared with consistent wok technique.
Skip if: You want quiet, romantic fine dining or a fully vegan/gluten-free experience.
R&G Lounge
8.5
Polished Cantonese standby known for expertly executed classics and hot, well-paced service. The ribs lean sweet-salty with glossy lacquer, landing alongside seafood and banquet staples in a comfortable dining room.
Must-Try Dishes:
Kiang Tong Spareribs (Jingdu-style), Honey Spare Ribs, Salt & Pepper Crab (non-rib benchmark)
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Refined Cantonese ribs with balanced sweet-savory glaze and precise execution.
Who should go: Teams, travelers, and business diners
When to visit: Early lunch or pre-dinner to avoid peak waits
What to order: Kiang Tong Spareribs; Honey Spare Ribs; seasonal greens
Insider tip: Ask for ribs to land last so the glaze stays hot and glossy.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No valet; limited metered street parking nearby, best option is the Portsmouth Square Garage one block away (~$4/hr).
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans are fine but many business diners lean dressy.
Noise level: Moderate to lively during peak dinner; conversation is comfortable at smaller tables.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Usually seated quickly before noon; short waits after 12:15pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several vegetable and tofu dishes available, including stir-fried greens and claypot tofu.
Vegan options: Limited — a few vegetable dishes can be made without oyster sauce if requested.
Gluten-free options: Some options (e.g., steamed seafood, plain vegetables), but no separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for business or group dining; the polished but bustling atmosphere isn’t as intimate as a romantic date spot.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but expect waits at peak times. Walk-ins before noon or early evening have the best odds.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, families are welcome. High chairs are available, and the menu has approachable options like fried rice and ribs for kids.
Best For
Better for: Well-executed Cantonese banquet dishes, polished service, and reliable ribs in a refined setting — stronger for business or celebratory meals than most Chinatown spots.
Skip if: You want quiet intimacy, a fully vegan/gluten-free menu, or quick counter-style BBQ — choose a specialized rib shack or more casual spot instead.