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ZipPicks Awards
Best Late Night Chinese in the Tenderloin
Master Critic Review
Golden Kim Tar
7.8
A Tenderloin workhorse since 2002 that keeps the Hunan-Mandarin playbook simple and the portions oversized for the price. The draw is straightforward wok work—chow fun, kung pao, Mongolian beef—delivered at a speed and cost that makes it a repeat-visit spot for the neighborhood lunch crowd. Expect cafeteria-speed service and zero frills; what you get instead is a plate that feeds like two for under fifteen bucks.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chow Fun, Kung Pao Chicken, Mongolian Beef
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Tenderloin mainstay since 2002 serving generous Hunan and Mandarin plates at some of the lowest prices in the neighborhood.
Who should go: Budget-minded diners craving big portions of Hunan-Mandarin classics
When to visit: Weekday lunch for quick counter service; open daily at 10am
What to order: Pair a noodle dish like the chow fun with a saucy protein — the kung pao chicken or mongolian beef — and split portions; they run large.
Insider tip: Portions easily feed two; order one fewer dish than you think you need and save on the check.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is tight in this Civic Center/Tenderloin block — there's a garage at Golden Gate & Larkin with the first hour free, which is your best bet
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Dedicated vegetable section on the menu including stir-fried vegetables with broccoli, pea pods, and onion; eggplant in garlic sauce; and Mandarin spicy eggplant with tofu
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? No - this is a casual, no-frills dim sum spot with a hole-in-the-wall vibe. Think fluorescent lighting, simple decor, and a bustling lunch crowd from the nearby Civic Center. Great for sharing plates with someone you already know, but not the ambiance for a first impression. If your date values amazing food over atmosphere, it could work as an adventurous pick - but manage expectations.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes - walk-in only, no reservations accepted. Service is quick and turnover is fast, so waits are usually short. That said, peak hours (especially lunch near the Civic Center crowd) can push wait times past 30 minutes despite what the phone estimate says. Off-peak or early arrival is your safest bet for immediate seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes - the casual, laid-back atmosphere means kids won't feel out of place, and the affordable family-style dishes (most under $15) give plenty of options for picky eaters. Dim sum plates are naturally shareable and fun for little ones to try. High chairs and a dedicated kids menu are not confirmed - call ahead at (415) 346-8889 if those are must-haves.
Is it good for groups? Yes - there's a downstairs banquet room that seats up to 45 people, making it one of the better options in the area for large parties. Family-style platters are the way to go for groups. For smaller groups of 4-6, you can usually walk in without issue. For larger parties needing the banquet space, call ahead to confirm availability.
Is there outdoor seating? Not confirmed - some listing sites indicate outdoor seating, but no reviewers describe an actual patio or sidewalk dining experience. Given the Tenderloin location on Larkin Street, a dedicated outdoor area seems unlikely. Call (415) 346-8889 to verify if any outdoor option exists.
Best For
Hours
Monday10am - 9pm
Tuesday10am - 9pm
Wednesday10am - 9pm
Thursday10am - 9pm
Friday10am - 9pm
SaturdayClosed
Sunday10am - 9pm