Any insider tips for The Happy Crane?

Duck is limited—reserve it when booking and graze on small plates while it’s finished.

What should I order at The Happy Crane?

Crab cheung fun; gold coin bao; roast duck/quail

When should I visit The Happy Crane?

Book mid-week evenings for calmer pacing

Who should go to The Happy Crane?

Cantonese fans seeking a polished night out

Any insider tips for Dumpling Home?

Go solo at off-hours for the shortest wait; order a second basket to share.

What should I order at Dumpling Home?

Xiao long bao; pan-fried juicy pork buns; chili wontons

When should I visit Dumpling Home?

Arrive right at opening or mid-afternoon

Who should go to Dumpling Home?

Soup-dumpling fans and fast casual diners

Best Dim Sum Restaurants in Tenderloin (94102)

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

Notable Picks

#1 The Happy Crane

8.7

$$$$ Hayes Valley

Vibes: Luxury Dining Elite Date Night Magic Trendy Table Hotspots

Modern Cantonese from chef James Yeun Leong Parry (opened 2025) featuring refined small plates and dim sum–style creations at dinner. Expect pristine technique—stone-milled cheung fun, roasted meats—and a polished room fit for occasions.

Must-Try Dishes: Crab Rice Roll (cheung fun), Gold Coin Bao (liver mousse & coppa), Whole Roast Duck or Lacquered Quail

What makes it special: Dinner-only, chef-driven Cantonese with elevated dim sum–style plates.

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#2 Dumpling Home

8.4

$$ Hayes Valley

Vibes: Quick Bites Champions Trendy Table Hotspots Solo Dining Sanctuaries

Hayes Valley standby specializing in hand-folded dumplings and soup buns made all day behind glass. Since 2020, it’s earned lines for clear, savory xiao long bao and reliably fast, efficient service.

Must-Try Dishes: Juicy Pork Xiao Long Bao, Pan-Fried Juicy Pork Buns, Sesame Chili Wontons

What makes it special: Handmade soup dumplings with unusually clear, balanced broth.

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