My husband and I live in a very unique area of the city. Our property is technically in Nob Hill, but it's really on the edge of Chinatown. We love the unique character of the neighborhood - from watching men playing Chinese Chess on the street corner and listening to the traditional Erhu, to throwing "poppers" in the street and shopping for fresh produce at the many outdoor markets. Here are just a couple of our favorite spots in this iconic SF neighborhood:
1) Hunan Homes, 622 Jackson St.
I featured Hunan Homes on Check Please! Bay Area, a couple of years ago, so I'll let the video speak for itself. In a nutshell you need to be eating: Orange Chicken, Pot Stickers, Hot & Sour Soup, and Beef with String Beans. Hunan Homes has been in business for over 20 years, and it is our favorite restaurant in Chinatown.
2) City View, 662 Commercial St.
Located on one of the oldest streets in the whole city, this is a hot spot with locals "in the know." City View offers some of the best Dim Sum in the city - be sure to order their famous soup dumplings.
3) Red Blossom Tea Company, 831 Grant Ave
Hands down the nicest tea experience you'll have in Chinatown. Learn about the art of tea service and enjoy teas from around the world.
4) Canton Bazaar, 616 Grant Ave
There are a lot of shops on Grant Street, and this one offers a bit of everything. Their downstairs section features a variety of tea pots and housewares for great prices.
5) Comstock Saloon, 155 Columbus St.
Right on the edge of Chinatown, Comstock is rich in history with original tile floors, a 20ft-long original mahogany bar from 1907, and a 150-year-old absinthe fountain. Craft cocktails are their specialty, but the food is just as tasty, and their commitment to offering live music almost every night is impressive. My husband and I have celebrated many events here from birthdays to promotions and we even hosted a group here during our wedding weekend in the city.
Comstock Saloon