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ZipPicks Awards

Best Chinese in the Excelsior

Vibe Check this spot

Food Quality 5
Service 5
Atmosphere 5
Value 5
Consistency 5
Cultural Relevance 5

0 / 5 selected

Master Critic Review

Do Eat Restaurant 7.8
Excelsior
Hybrid Cantonese BBQ counter and hot-wok takeout with fast turnover. Roasts are crisp-skinned, and combo plates deliver strong value for quick lunches.
Must-Try Dishes: Roast duck over rice, Soy sauce chicken combo, Salt-and-pepper pork chop
Scores:
Value: 8.9 Service: 7.7 Consistency: 8 Food Quality: 8.1 Atmosphere: 6.4 Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: BBQ deli meats plus wok dishes at speed-run turnaround.
Who should go: Lunch-hour regulars and commuters
When to visit: 11:30am–1pm for freshest roast cycles
What to order: Roast duck rice, soy chicken, salt-pepper pork chop
Insider tip: Ask for ‘mixed sauce’—sweet soy and drippings—over rice.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking available along Mission Street; side streets offer free spots but can be tight during lunch rush.
Dress code: Completely casual—come as you are; most customers are in workwear or everyday clothes.
Noise level: Moderate during peak lunch hours due to takeout traffic; quiet enough for a quick solo meal otherwise.
Weekend wait: No wait—steady but not packed after 6pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically 5–10 minutes during peak hours for combo plates.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—1–2 tofu or vegetable stir-fry options available daily.
Vegan options: Minimal—most dishes use sauces with oyster or soy base; request plain wok vegetables if needed.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated prep area; some rice plate dishes are naturally gluten-free if sauces are skipped.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal—more of a fast-turnaround lunch counter than a date setting. Better for a quick meal than conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—this is a counter-service spot; tables turn over fast and reservations aren’t accepted.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who enjoy rice and BBQ meats; no high chairs or play space, so it’s best for short visits.
Best For
Better for: Faster service and crispier roast meats than larger Cantonese restaurants nearby; great for quick takeout or solo meals.
Skip if: You’re seeking a leisurely dine-in experience or extensive seafood menu—go for a full-service Cantonese spot instead.

Hours

Monday10am - 9pm
Tuesday10am - 9pm
Wednesday10am - 9pm
Thursday10am - 9pm
Friday10am - 9pm
Saturday8:30am - 9pm
Sunday8:30am - 9pm