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Best Breakfast Restaurants in Chinatown (94108)

5 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated

Notable Picks

$ Chinatown
High-volume Chinatown counter turning out hot, freshly fried pastries alongside classic dim sum. Expect fast-moving lines and consistent execution on donut-adjacent favorites like sesame balls and fried dough sticks.
Must-Try Dishes: Sesame Balls (Jin Dui), Chinese Donut (Youtiao), Sweet Egg Puffs
What makes it special: Takeout-only pace with reliably fresh, fried pastries.
$$$ Chinatown
Cart-free, made-to-order dim sum in a bright dining room just off Portsmouth Square. Known for consistent execution and swift pacing for business lunches and weekend families.
Must-Try Dishes: Har gow (shrimp dumplings), Siu mai, Baked BBQ pork buns
What makes it special: Made-to-order dim sum with quick turns and reliable pacing.
$$ Chinatown
Parisian-style brasserie at the Chinatown Gate with photogenic plating, a newsstand vibe, and sidewalk tables. Locals stop for classic bistro fare, all-day espresso, and a lively Union Square backdrop made for the feed.
Must-Try Dishes: Steak frites, French onion soup gratinée, Croque monsieur
What makes it special: Old-world brasserie energy steps from the Dragon Gate.

Worthy Picks

$$$$ Union Square
Casual Union Square standby known for all-day plates and a reliable burger-and-fries combo. Fries are classic diner-style—crisp, salty, and quick from the kitchen for a pre-shopping refuel.
Must-Try Dishes: Roxanne Burger & Fries, Crispy French Fries (side), Chicken Sandwich & Fries
What makes it special: Quick, classic diner-style fries right off the Powell cable car line.
$ Chinatown
Chinatown bakery opening early with a broad case of Cantonese pastries and hot items for a quick, inexpensive breakfast. Steady flow and constant turnover keep egg tarts and buns coming out fresh.
Must-Try Dishes: Sai Yong (Sugar Egg Puffs), Sesame Donut Balls, Chinese Donut (Youtiao)
What makes it special: One-stop pastry counter with reliably fresh fried sweets.