I had a free afternoon to sightsee. Off to Chinatown! It was a short walk from the hotel and it was beautiful out. Chinatown is centered on Grant Avenue and Stockton Street. While walking, I spot the iconic Dragon Gate that marks the entrance.
San Francisco’s Chinatown is the oldest Chinatown in North America and considered the largest Chinese community outside Asia. It is highly recommended to tourists as a must-see. I had to see how it compared to New York City’s as well.
Soon after walking up the main street, I kept my eyes open for a good place to have lunch. I strolled down one of the side streets and came upon Chef Hung’s Restaurant. I walked down the stairs into the basement. Very casual and bare with a few tables occupied. It was all Chinese clientele. Always a good sign!
The menu looked really good and I wish I could try it all. I kept it limited to a couple of dishes though. No pork chops. No noodles. No pan-fried flounder. One of the few downfalls of dining solo. Oh well. I ordered the spring rolls as an appetizer. They came out hot and crispy, served with sweet and sour sauce.
I also ordered the Szechuan chicken. It’s pretty much General Tso’s chicken, but slightly better. The chicken was very moist and the sauce was very tasty and slightly spicy.
Fully satisfied from lunch, I walked around some more to check out other sites and stores.
Oh and I had to try a freshly baked pork bun.
The Cantaan Bazaar has many Asian-inspired clothes, accessories, and home decor. They also offer high quality silk products at affordable prices.
I enjoyed spending my afternoon wandering the streets of Chinatown. The good food and authentic shops are worth checking out.