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China Live
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
China Live
8.6
Chef George Chen’s modern Chinatown hall serves refined dumplings and Cantonese plates in a design-forward space. It’s a sit-down option for elevated dim sum staples alongside a broader regional menu.
Must-Try Dishes:
Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings), Sheng Jian Bao (pan-fried pork buns), Prawn Rice Noodle Roll
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Design-driven dining hall with chef-led dumplings and polished service.
Who should go: Modern Chinese and dumpling seekers
When to visit: Weekdays lunch for easier walk-ins
What to order: Xiao long bao, sheng jian bao, prawn cheung fun
Insider tip: Ask about seasonal specials from the dumpling station.
China Live
8.3
Design-forward, multi-kitchen showcase from Chef George Chen with seasonal Chinese dishes and an open-hearth energy. It’s a polished pick for cocktails and modern takes alongside classics, ideal for date nights and out-of-town guests.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sheng jian bao (pan-fried pork buns), Mapo tofu, Scallion ‘shao bing’ pancake
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 9.1
Cultural Relevance: 9.2
What makes it special: Open-kitchen format marrying craft cocktails with modern Chinese cooking.
Who should go: Date nights and visiting friends
When to visit: Weeknights before 7pm for shorter waits
What to order: Sheng jian bao; mapo tofu; shao bing
Insider tip: Pair dinner with a post-meal drink at Cold Drinks Bar upstairs.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Broadway and nearby alleys is limited; nearby garage at Portsmouth Square usually has spaces ($5–$8/hr). Valet available weekends after 5pm.
Dress code: Smart casual — dark jeans or dresses fit in, but many guests lean polished for date nights.
Noise level: Moderate to lively; conversation is possible but expect buzz from the open kitchens.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation during peak hours (7–8pm).
Weekday lunch: Typically little to no wait before 12:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple vegetable-forward small plates and tofu dishes available.
Vegan options: Limited — a few wok-vegetable or tofu-based dishes can be adapted; ask staff.
Gluten-free options: Some options available; soy-based sauces may contain gluten, so request guidance from server.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the dramatic open kitchen, upscale energy, and solid cocktail program create an engaging first-date setting without feeling overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly early or late in the evening; walk-ins accepted at the bar and limited dining spots before 6:30pm, but reservations are strongly advised for weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for small children — service and atmosphere skew adult, though older kids and teens are welcome during lunch hours.
Best For
Better for: A polished, modern Chinese dining experience with craft cocktails and design flair that feels special but still accessible.
Skip if: You’re seeking a quiet, traditional Chinatown meal or large-format family-style feast — other spots nearby are better suited.