San Francisco’s Chinatown neighborhood has an incredible blend of culture, tradition and beautiful shops. From the moment you enter at Dragon’s Gate and start your walk up Grant Avenue, you’re swept into an exciting blur of sights and sounds. There’s so much to see, you may feel like you can’t get to everything in one day. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here are our favorite things to do in Chinatown so you won’t miss a thing:
Photo credit: R&G LoungeTo make sure you’re well fed and energized as you browse vintage kimonos and art galleries, stop into R&G Lounge for incredible Chinese food. Take the stairs down to the main dining room and you’ll be greeted by welcoming staff. Whether you order your own meal or choose to dine family style so you can try a bit of everything, make sure you try the Prawns with Honey Walnuts and the Scallop and Steak with Macadamia Nuts. The flavors burst, it’s all cooked to perfection and you’ll be full, happy, and ready to explore Grant Ave.
One of the biggest draws of Chinatown is that it’s where to buy kimonos. From vintage kimonos to more modern aesthetics, the neighborhood has something for everyone. Stop into Old Shanghai and Canton Bazaar, our two family stores, for knick knacks and souvenirs including kimono robes you’ll love. Or, if you’re looking for something more modern, stop into KIM + ONO just up the road on Grant Ave. While we take inspiration from traditional kimono robes and vintage Asian art, we’ve woven our love of wellness and luxury into every single kimono.
Where to Have a Cocktail
Not only is Mister Jiu’s a delicious place to eat, but they have incredible cocktails for a pre or post shopping drink. And Mister Jiu’s really brings the spirit to their spirits with cocktails named Immortality, Tranquility and Prosperity. While you’re quenching your thirst, if you’re craving a little something sweet, try their Rosebud Mousse Tart for a divine end to the day.
If you’ve stopped into Mister Jiu’s, you’ll find yourself exiting on Waverly Place — a delightful little street with beautiful, traditional Chinese street lanterns. If it’s late enough, you’ll see the lights come on and it’s a great street for a sweet, late evening stroll. If you’re lucky and visiting Chinatown in February, you may even catch the Chinese New Year Parade showcasing elaborate floats, dancers, bands, Chinese acrobats and so much more.
Chinatown offers so much to its visitors, from food to kimonos to heritage. Whether you’re a local or just visiting for a weekend, make sure you walk through Dragon’s Gate and up Grant Avenue so you can experience all this incredible neighborhood has to offer. We may be partial, since this is like our second home, growing up here and now bringing our own business to life here. But we know there’s something for everyone. So when you visit, stop in and say hello!
