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ZipPicks Awards
Best Late Night Chinese in Chinatown
Best Happy Hour Wings in Chinatown
Best Fried Chicken in Chinatown
Best Wings in Chinatown
Best BBQ Ribs in Chinatown
Master Critic Review
Capital Restaurant
8.1
No-frills Cantonese spot famed for salt-and-pepper chicken wings, run by Samantha Lo since 2007. The compact dining room turns out late-evening plates ideal for sharing after a stroll through Portsmouth Square.
Must-Try Dishes:
Salt & pepper chicken wings, Clams with black bean sauce, Garlic pea shoots
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Beloved wings with puff-crisp skin and jalapeño heat.
Who should go: Wing chasers and casual share-plate crews
When to visit: Evenings after 7:30pm for faster seating
What to order: Wings, black bean clams, pea shoots
Insider tip: Bring a card backup—credit minimums can apply.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking around Grant Avenue and Clay Street is limited but metered until 6pm; Portsmouth Square Garage is the closest paid lot (2-minute walk).
Dress code: Casual—hoodies and sneakers fit right in after-hours.
Noise level: Lively late at night; you can talk across the table but expect clatter and Cantonese chatter.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes during peak hours, faster for small groups or late arrivals after 9pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; steady flow of regulars.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—some vegetable stir-fries and tofu dishes available.
Vegan options: Very limited—sauces often contain oyster or fish base.
Gluten-free options: Minimal accommodations—many dishes use soy sauce; best to ask before ordering.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date values great food over ambiance—expect fluorescent lights, fast service, and killer wings, not romance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—Capital doesn’t take reservations. Just walk in; turnover is quick, especially after 8pm.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids comfortable with family-style dining and noise; no high chairs or dedicated kids’ menu.
Best For
Better for: Crispier, spicier salt-and-pepper wings than nearly any other Chinatown late-night spot; dependable flavor consistency.
Skip if: You’re seeking atmosphere, cocktails, or vegetarian-forward options—this is a classic Cantonese fry den focused on meat and seafood.
Hours
MondayClosed
Tuesday11am - 8pm
Wednesday11am - 8pm
Thursday11am - 8pm
Friday11am - 8pm
Saturday11am - 8pm
Sunday11am - 8pm