0 Followers
Bow Hon Restaurant
Master Critic Review
Bow Hon Restaurant
7.7
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Comfort Food Classics
Hidden Gems Heaven
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Old-school Chinatown spot serving clay pots, salt-pepper seafood, and quick rice plates at wallet-friendly prices. It’s a straightforward room where the wok hei and seafood value are the draw.
Must-Try Dishes:
Seafood Clay Pot, Salt & Pepper Squid, Steamed Whole Fish (market)
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Budget-friendly Cantonese seafood clay pots and salt-pepper staples.
Who should go: Value seekers craving classic Cantonese seafood
When to visit: Lunch or early dinner for shortest waits
What to order: Seafood clay pot; salt-pepper squid; steamed fish
Insider tip: Bring cash backup—minimums can vary on small cards.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Chinatown is limited and metered; the Portsmouth Square Garage (733 Kearny St) is the nearest reliable option.
Dress code: Casual – jeans, sneakers, and everyday wear are fine.
Noise level: Moderate – busy at peak times, but you can usually hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: 20–30 minutes during peak hours; longer if arriving with a group.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait; walk-in seating is common.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – vegetable clay pot, stir-fried greens, and tofu dishes are available.
Vegan options: Limited – a few vegetable and tofu dishes without oyster sauce can be made vegan if requested.
Gluten-free options: Not reliably – soy sauce and marinades are used in most dishes; no dedicated gluten-free prep.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a romantic first date; the setting is no-frills and focused on food value rather than ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes – reservations are rarely needed; walk-ins are the norm.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who enjoy seafood and rice plates, but there are no high chairs or kid-specific amenities.
Best For
Better for: Great for affordable clay pots and salt-pepper seafood compared to trendier or tourist-focused Cantonese spots nearby.
Skip if: If you’re looking for upscale dining, romantic ambiance, or strict dietary accommodations, consider alternatives instead.