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Far East Cafe
Master Critic Review
Far East Cafe
8.3
Vibes:
Group Dining Gatherings
Late Night Legends
Birthday & Celebration Central
Trendy Table Hotspots
Banquet-style Cantonese institution (est. 1920) with high ceilings, private booths, and a seafood-leaning menu that runs later than most in the neighborhood. Ideal for groups craving classic sauces and big platters.
Must-Try Dishes:
Peking duck, Honey-walnut prawns, Salt & pepper crab
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Century-old banquet hall experience with late seafood classics.
Who should go: Large groups and celebration dinners
When to visit: Fri–Sat after 8pm; reserve booths for privacy
What to order: Peking duck, walnut prawns, salt-pepper crab
Insider tip: Ask for a private booth—vintage sliding doors still work.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; metered spots on Grant and Bush fill quickly after 6pm. Closest garage is Portsmouth Square Plaza (733 Kearny St).
Dress code: Smart casual—collared shirts or nice tops fit the traditional setting. Avoid overly casual athletic wear.
Noise level: Lively—group chatter and banquet energy; booths offer partial sound privacy for conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without reservation; reservations recommended for groups over 4.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, though service may be slower due to limited staff midweek.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—ample tofu, vegetable, and noodle dishes available on request.
Vegan options: Limited—request custom stir-fries without oyster sauce or egg.
Gluten-free options: Partial—some rice dishes and steamed seafood are safe, but sauces often contain soy and flour.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for an established couple or double date—grand, lively, and not intimate, but memorable in an old-school Chinatown way.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes for small parties before 7pm, but late-night weekends and large groups should reserve ahead to secure a booth.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—spacious tables, quick service, and family-style platters make it easy for kids to share and explore new dishes.
Best For
Better for: Large-group celebrations and late-night Cantonese seafood feasts in a nostalgic setting.
Skip if: You’re seeking quiet ambiance, modern plating, or lighter contemporary Chinese fare—opt for Mister Jiu’s or Palette Tea House instead.