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Uncle Yu's at the Vineyard
Master Critic Reviews (12 Lists)
Uncle Yu's at the Vineyard
8.4
Modern Chinese with an extensive gluten-free program and a serious cellar. Polished service and consistent wok work make it a reliable pick for business dinners and special family meals.
Must-Try Dishes:
Singapore Noodles (GF), Chow Fun (GF sauce), Seasonal seafood stir-fry (GF modification)
Scores:
Value: 6.5
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Dedicated gluten-free preparations across noodles and stir-fries.
Who should go: Gluten-free diners wanting upscale Chinese
When to visit: Weeknights after 7 for easier seating
What to order: Singapore noodles; chow fun; chef’s GF stir-fry
Insider tip: Ask for the separate gluten-free sauce set when ordering.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Private lot shared with the Vineyard Center complex; free parking after 5pm and on weekends. Street parking fills quickly during dinner hours.
Dress code: Smart casual—collared shirts or blouses preferred; jeans acceptable if polished. Business attire common on weekdays.
Noise level: Moderate—quiet enough for business or date conversation except during large-group weekends.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, longer for large parties.
Weekday lunch: Usually seated immediately, brief waits during peak noon rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—dedicated vegetable entrees and tofu options in nearly every section.
Vegan options: Limited—request no oyster sauce or egg in select stir-fries.
Gluten-free options: Extensive program with clearly marked dishes and separate prep area for sauces and noodles.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—romantic but not overly formal, with attentive service and shareable dishes that make for easy conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually possible on weeknights, but weekends and holidays require advance booking—especially for patio or window tables.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older children; they offer mild dishes and flexible portions, but ambience leans adult and quiet during dinner service.
Best For
Better for: Ideal for gluten-free fine dining or upscale Chinese in a polished setting with wine pairings—few local competitors offer this balance.
Skip if: You’re looking for quick takeout or classic Americanized Chinese; this is a sit-down, reservation-oriented experience.
Uncle Yu's at the Vineyard
8.4
Refined Chinese cuisine paired with a deep wine list, including a dedicated private room for groups. Sommelier-guided pairings and polished service suit client dinners and celebrations.
Must-Try Dishes:
Peking duck, Honey walnut prawns, Mongolian beef
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Sommelier-led pairings and a true private dining room.
Who should go: Wine-loving coursed-dining fans
When to visit: Prime dinner hours; reserve weekends
What to order: Peking duck, walnut prawns, sommelier pairing
Insider tip: Ask for the Harvest Room for up to ~50 guests.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on First Street can be tight during dinner hours; a small shared lot is available behind the building. No valet service offered.
Dress code: Smart casual to business casual—dress shirts or blouses fit in; jeans are fine if neat.
Noise level: Moderate—buzzing during peak dinner but private rooms offer quiet conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; book ahead for private dining or peak times.
Weekday lunch: Usually seated immediately or within 10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—ample vegetarian options like tofu entrées and veggie noodles.
Vegan options: Limited—about two or three customizable stir-fry or veggie dishes.
Gluten-free options: Yes—staff can accommodate with gluten-free sauces upon request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—refined without being stiff, with attentive service and a quiet enough atmosphere for easy conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often possible for small parties at off-hours, but reservations are strongly recommended for weekends or private dining rooms.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for families with older children—staff is welcoming, but ambiance skews more toward adults and business diners.
Best For
Better for: Wine pairings and refined Chinese cooking in an elegant setting; standout for business meals and upscale group dining.
Skip if: You’re seeking casual takeout-style Chinese food or quick service—this is a slower, coursed dining experience.
Uncle Yu's at the Vineyard
8.4
Refined Chinese cuisine with a sommelier-led wine program and optional 3- or 5-course Chef & Sommelier tasting menus. Service is polished without fuss, making it a go-to for coursed dining and serious pairings.
Must-Try Dishes:
Peking Duck, Signature Steamed Dim Sum Tray, Chef’s Special Wagyu Fried Rice
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Chef & Sommelier tasting menus with deep cellar pairings.
Who should go: Wine-focused coursed-dining fans
When to visit: Prime dinner hours; reserve weekends early
What to order: Peking duck; dim sum tray; Wagyu fried rice
Insider tip: Ask for by-the-glass pairings tailored course-by-course.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free parking lot shared with nearby businesses on First Street; street parking fills by 6pm on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual to business casual — collared shirts or dresses fit the vibe; jackets optional but common for Chef’s Table diners.
Noise level: Moderate — relaxed enough for conversation, though the dining room hums during peak dinner hours.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; bar seating may open up sooner.
Weekday lunch: Usually seated right away; Chef’s Table menu requires advance booking.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple vegetarian entrées and appetizers can be adapted upon request.
Vegan options: Limited — kitchen can accommodate with notice, but expect modified dishes rather than dedicated options.
Gluten-free options: Yes — several dishes marked GF; kitchen uses separate utensils and sauces when notified.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — polished yet approachable ambiance with attentive service and intimate booth seating make it ideal for impressing without overwhelming.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on weeknights or for bar seating, but weekend tables, especially for the tasting menu, book out several days ahead.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly — the refined atmosphere and coursed dining format are better suited for adults or teens with adventurous palates.
Best For
Better for: Wine pairings and fine-dining-level Chinese cuisine that stand out for sophistication and balance.
Skip if: You prefer casual Chinese comfort food portions or are dining with small children.
Uncle Yu's at the Vineyard
8.4
Chef John Phung’s 3- or 5-course Chef & Sommelier tasting menu pairs refined Chinese dishes with a deep, award-recognized wine list. Downtown setting, polished service, and optional pairings curated by sommelier Nick Liang make it a reliable choice for coursed dining.
Must-Try Dishes:
Peking Duck, Honey Walnut Prawns, Mongolian Beef
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Wine-paired 3–5 course tasting menus guided by a sommelier.
Who should go: Coursed dining fans and wine lovers
When to visit: Prime dinner hours; reserve weekends ahead
What to order: Chef’s tasting, Peking Duck, Honey Walnut Prawns
Insider tip: Ask for the curated wine pairing to match each course.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Private lot behind the restaurant and ample free street parking along First Street after 6pm. Weekends can fill quickly during downtown events.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy — collared shirts, blouses, or nice denim are appropriate; most guests dress for a refined evening out.
Noise level: Moderate; quiet enough for conversation even when the dining room is full, though bar seating is livelier.
Weekend wait: Reservations strongly recommended; walk-ins may wait 45–60 minutes during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; easy same-day reservations available.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several composed dishes and vegetarian tasting substitutions are available with advance notice.
Vegan options: Limited – can accommodate with 2–3 off-menu adaptations if requested when booking.
Gluten-free options: Yes – gluten-free soy sauce and starches used; cross-contact minimized upon request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The polished yet relaxed setting, sommelier-guided pairings, and thoughtful pacing make it ideal for an impressive first or anniversary date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible for bar or early tables on weekdays, but weekend evenings almost always require advance booking.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly — the coursed format and quiet tone suit adults or teens used to fine dining more than young children.
Best For
Better for: More refined and wine-focused than most Chinese restaurants in the Tri-Valley, with service and pairing depth approaching Michelin territory.
Skip if: You’re looking for casual takeout-style Chinese or large-group family platters; the experience is built for multi-course, plated dining.
Uncle Yu's at the Vineyard
8.4
Refined Chinese cuisine with a cellar-minded wine program and polished service. Couples and execs rely on it for composed courses and informed pairings.
Must-Try Dishes:
Peking Duck, Honey Walnut Prawns, Mongolian Beef
Scores:
Value: 6.5
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Serious wine program tailored to refined Chinese classics.
Who should go: Couples and executive hosts
When to visit: Prime dinner hour; request patio in mild weather
What to order: Peking duck, walnut prawns, Mongolian beef
Insider tip: Ask for coursed by-the-glass pairings.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free public lot and plentiful street parking along First Street; usually open spots after 5pm on weekdays.
Dress code: Smart casual; collared shirts or blouses fit well—jeans are fine if neat and paired with dress shoes.
Noise level: Moderate; conversational during early evening, livelier at peak dinner hours but still manageable for dates or client meetings.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; patio and private rooms fill first.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait unless a large group; quick seating available.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple vegetable stir-fries, tofu entrées, and noodle dishes are available.
Vegan options: Limited but possible—request modifications such as no oyster sauce or egg; staff is accommodating.
Gluten-free options: Yes—several dishes can be made gluten-free on request, including rice plates and sautéed entrées.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The elegant setting, polished service, and strong wine pairings make it ideal for a sophisticated first date where conversation matters.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Walk-ins are accepted, especially at lunch or early dinner, but reservations are strongly recommended for weekends and holidays.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally adult-oriented; families with older children are fine, but younger kids may find the pacing and ambiance too formal.
Best For
Better for: Formal Chinese dining with curated wine pairings—perfect for upscale occasions or client dinners where presentation and pairing expertise stand out.
Skip if: You’re looking for casual takeout-style Chinese or a quick, low-cost meal; portions and pacing cater to fine dining expectations.
Uncle Yu's at the Vineyard
8.4
Refined Chinese dining with a Wine Spectator–awarded list and a pet-friendly patio with heat lamps. Couples and business hosts rely on polished service and classic dishes with thoughtful pairings.
Must-Try Dishes:
Peking Duck, Honey Walnut Prawns, Mongolian Beef
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Wine-driven Chinese cuisine with patio seating and heaters.
Who should go: Couples and executive hosts
When to visit: Prime dinner hour; request patio when booking
What to order: Peking duck; walnut prawns; Mongolian beef
Insider tip: Ask the team for by-the-glass pairings tailored to each dish.
Uncle Yu's at the Vineyard
8.4
Wine-savvy Chinese fine dining with a landscaped patio and tableside pairing guidance. Since 2006, couples and business hosts rely on polished service and refined classics.
Must-Try Dishes:
Peking Duck, Honey Walnut Prawns, Mongolian Beef (Wagyu)
Scores:
Value: 6.9
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 8.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Serious wine program with refined Chinese cuisine and patio seating.
Who should go: Couples and executive hosts
When to visit: Prime dinner hour; request patio when booking
What to order: Peking Duck; Honey Walnut Prawns; Mongolian Beef
Insider tip: Ask for by-the-glass pairings tailored to each course.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Private lot shared with the Vineyard Center; ample evening parking and free after 5pm.
Dress code: Smart casual—collared shirts and nice jeans are fine; many guests lean business-dressy for dinner.
Noise level: Moderate—quiet enough for conversation even when full, especially on the patio.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes without a reservation; most book in advance.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; immediate seating common.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several dedicated entrées and appetizers, including tofu and vegetable dishes.
Vegan options: Limited—possible with modifications, but best to ask server for guidance.
Gluten-free options: Yes—kitchen can adjust sauces for gluten-sensitive diners; note request when ordering.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—refined but relaxed atmosphere, polished service, and the garden patio make it ideal for a confident, low-noise date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on weeknights or at the bar; weekends fill quickly, especially for patio seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Better suited to adults, but well-behaved children are welcome; no kids’ menu though portions can be shared.
Best For
Better for: Best for refined Chinese dining with professional wine service and an upscale patio setting.
Skip if: If you’re looking for quick takeout or modern fusion flavors—this leans classic and formal.
Uncle Yu's at the Vineyard
8.4
Wine-savvy Chinese fine dining with polished, linger-worthy service and patio seating. Couples and business hosts rely on it for composed courses and tableside pairing advice.
Must-Try Dishes:
Peking Duck, Honey Walnut Prawns, Mongolian Beef
Scores:
Value: 6.9
Service: 8.9
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Serious wine program paired to refined Chinese classics.
Who should go: Couples and executive hosts
When to visit: Prime dinner hour; request patio in mild weather
What to order: Peking duck, walnut prawns, Mongolian beef
Insider tip: Ask for coursed by-the-glass pairings tailored to dishes.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free shared lot behind the restaurant and ample street parking along First Street; valet not offered.
Dress code: Smart casual—collared shirts or nice blouses fit the setting; avoid athletic wear.
Noise level: Moderate—conversation-friendly even during peak hours with soft background music.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation during prime hours.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait, especially before 12:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—ample vegetable and tofu dishes; the kitchen accommodates custom requests.
Vegan options: Limited—some stir-fries and vegetable dishes can be made vegan on request.
Gluten-free options: Yes—many dishes can be prepared gluten-free; ask for tamari-based sauces.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—the refined setting, calm atmosphere, and attentive wine service make it ideal for a first or second date where conversation matters.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly on weekdays or early evenings, but reservations are strongly recommended on weekends for guaranteed seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Not primarily geared toward kids, but older children are welcome; no kids’ menu, but kitchen can simplify dishes.
Best For
Better for: Best for upscale Chinese dining with real wine expertise and composed plating—something few East Bay spots match.
Skip if: Skip if you want casual takeout or loud group energy; this is more of a refined, conversation-friendly setting.
Uncle Yu's at the Vineyard
8.4
Wine-focused Chinese fine dining known for tableside pairing guidance and refined classics in a quiet, white-tablecloth room. Operating since 2006, it’s a dependable choice for couples who want linger-worthy service.
Must-Try Dishes:
Peking Duck (advance notice recommended), Honey Walnut Prawns, Mongolian Beef
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Serious wine program paired with elevated Chinese cuisine since 2006.
Who should go: Couples who value wine-savvy service
When to visit: Prime dinner hour; request patio in mild weather
What to order: Peking Duck; Honey Walnut Prawns; Mongolian Beef
Insider tip: Ask for by-the-glass pairings tailored to each course.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Shared lot behind the restaurant and limited street parking on First Street; typically easy to find after 5pm on weekdays.
Dress code: Smart casual—collared shirts or nice tops recommended; jeans fine if clean and dark.
Noise level: Low to moderate—quiet enough for conversation even during peak dinner hours.
Weekend wait: Expect 30–45 minutes without a reservation; reservations strongly advised.
Weekday lunch: Usually seated immediately except during large business lunches.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—dedicated menu section with tofu and vegetable entrées.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 adaptable dishes; staff can customize upon request.
Gluten-free options: Yes—many sauces can be prepared gluten-free on request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—refined but relaxed setting with attentive service and softly lit tables. The wine pairings create a natural flow for conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly on weeknights or early hours, but weekend walk-ins are rarely seated without a long wait. Call ahead or use OpenTable.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for very young children—quiet atmosphere and white-tablecloth service suit adults or teens with polished dining manners.
Best For
Better for: More sophisticated service and wine expertise than typical Chinese restaurants in the Tri-Valley area; ideal for special occasions or business dinners.
Skip if: You’re seeking casual takeout or spicy, regional street-style Chinese food—this leans upscale and wine-centric.
Uncle Yu's at the Vineyard
8.3
Wine-centric Chinese fine dining with polished service, a quiet dining room, and patio seating. Known for tableside wine guidance and refined classics ideal for lingering two-tops.
Must-Try Dishes:
Classic Peking Duck, Honey Walnut Prawns, Wagyu Chow Mein
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Serious wine program paired with elevated Chinese dishes and private room options.
Who should go: Couples who love wine-savvy service
When to visit: Prime dinner hour; request patio if weather allows
What to order: Peking Duck; Honey Walnut Prawns; Wagyu noodles
Insider tip: Ask for suggested wine pairings by the glass to match courses.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Shared lot behind the building with ample spaces; street parking on First Street available after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning upscale—collared shirts or dresses fit the atmosphere.
Noise level: Low to moderate—conversation friendly even during peak dinner hours.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; best to book in advance.
Weekday lunch: Usually seated immediately except on Fridays.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—numerous tofu and vegetable entrées plus adaptable dishes.
Vegan options: Limited—kitchen can modify a few plates upon request.
Gluten-free options: Yes—many stir-fries and proteins can be made gluten-free with tamari substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The quiet atmosphere, attentive staff, and thoughtful wine service make it ideal for an intimate first dinner.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Walk-ins are possible early on weeknights, but reservations are strongly recommended for weekend evenings or holidays.
Is it kid-friendly? Primarily adult-focused, but well-behaved older kids are welcome. No dedicated kids’ menu or play area.
Best For
Better for: Refined Chinese dining with wine pairings and serene service—perfect for upscale date nights or small celebrations.
Skip if: You want casual takeout-style Chinese food or a lively, high-energy setting.
Uncle Yu's at the Vineyard
8.1
Upscale Cantonese spot with a dedicated dim sum section featuring har gau, shumai, and seasonal specials. Locals choose it for polished service, a Wine Spectator–recognized list, and the option to sample dim sum at lunch or as a starter at dinner.
Must-Try Dishes:
Har Gau (shrimp dumplings), Lobster Shumai, BBQ Pork Puffs
Scores:
Value: 6.6
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.1
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Elevated Cantonese with a dedicated dim sum menu and strong wine program.
Who should go: Dim sum fans seeking an elevated setting
When to visit: Weekdays 11:30–1:00pm for quickest seating
What to order: Har gau; lobster shumai; BBQ pork puffs
Insider tip: Order the Signature Dim Sum Tray to sample multiple items.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Private lot shared with The Vineyard shopping center; easy access from First Street. No valet needed, and spaces are generally available except during weekend dinner hours.
Dress code: Smart casual—button-downs or blouses fit well; jeans are acceptable if paired with polished shoes or a jacket.
Noise level: Moderate—refined background conversation with occasional clatter from dim sum service, suitable for business or date conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, though bar seating is often available sooner.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait before 12:30pm; reservations recommended for groups.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—ample options including vegetable dumplings, tofu stir-fry, and seasonal greens.
Vegan options: Limited—around 2–3 dishes can be adapted if requested in advance.
Gluten-free options: Yes—many items are naturally gluten-free, and staff can guide selections upon request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its upscale setting, attentive pacing, and refined Cantonese menu make it ideal for a relaxed, polished first date. The outdoor patio offers privacy and ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes—walk-ins are often seated for lunch, but dinner slots fill quickly. Calling ahead for same-day availability is strongly advised.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids—high chairs are available, but the calm dining room and wine-forward vibe skew more adult. Great choice for family celebrations, less so for toddlers.
Best For
Better for: Refined service, wine pairings, and presentation—ideal when you want an elegant take on dim sum rather than a bustling cart experience.
Skip if: You’re seeking traditional push-cart dim sum or a boisterous, communal setting—this is more fine-dining than casual teahouse.
Uncle Yu's at the Vineyard
8.6
Locally owned since 2006, this modern Asian–Chinese spot pairs wok classics with a deep Wine Spectator–recognized list. Locals book it for polished service, balanced flavors, and a downtown setting suited to dates or business meals.
Must-Try Dishes:
Honey Walnut Prawns, Mongolian Beef, Salt & Pepper Calamari
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Chef-driven Chinese plates paired with a serious wine program.
Who should go: Couples and client dinners
When to visit: Weeknights after 7pm for calmer pacing
What to order: Honey walnut prawns; Mongolian beef; salt & pepper calamari
Insider tip: Ask for a patio table in mild weather for a quieter experience.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free parking in the Vineyard shopping plaza lot; street parking also available on First Street after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual—button-downs or blouses fit right in, though jeans are acceptable if neat.
Noise level: Moderate—conversation is easy at most tables, though weekend groups can raise volume slightly.
Weekend wait: Typically 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially after 6:30pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; quick seating even for walk-ins.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—ample vegetarian dishes including tofu entrées and vegetable noodles.
Vegan options: Limited—2–3 adaptable dishes; staff can omit oyster sauce on request.
Gluten-free options: Yes—several gluten-free items marked on the menu; soy sauce substitutions available.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—modern decor, attentive pacing, and an excellent wine list make it ideal for an upscale but relaxed first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on weekdays, but weekends fill quickly—reservations are strongly advised after 6pm.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat—families are welcome, but the ambience skews more adult; best for older kids comfortable in quieter dining rooms.
Best For
Better for: Refined presentation, polished service, and a curated wine program that few local Chinese restaurants match.
Skip if: You’re seeking fast-casual takeout or budget-friendly portions—this is a sit-down, wine-driven experience.