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ZipPicks Awards
Best Late Night Chinese in Russian Hill
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.
Hours
Monday11am - 10:50pm
Tuesday11am - 10:50pm
Wednesday11am - 10:50pm
Thursday11am - 10:50pm
Friday11am - 11pm
Saturday11am - 10pm
Sunday5pm - 10pm