Explore the thoroughfares and back alleys of the oldest Chinatown in the United States. Along the way, learn how the neighborhood formed, fought its red light district roots and maintained its cultural heritage in contemporary San Francisco. The guide features not just the main highlights of Chinatown, but also the treasures found in colorful alleys, hidden stairwells and secret temple patios. We will also stop along the way for snacks and dim sum.
I am all about exploring local history, architecture, food and art to learn about how places came to be. You can find me in search of hidden places, tasty dim sum, high-design speakeasies, skyline vistas and other ingredients to build the perfect day.
The Dragon Gate is the perfect starting point since it is the formal entrance to San Francisco's Chinatown, the largest and oldest (establi…
Old St. Mary's is the first Catholic church in the city, built near its predominantly Irish population in 1854.
Empire Park is one of the privately-owned, publicly-open spaces in the city and provides a refreshing breath of fresh air and escape. At t…
This is more of a quick stop en route to the next guide point.
In a city that is burgeoning with Taiwanese Bubble Tea joints, we come to one of the institutions. Ten Ren is regarded as the authority on…
This is one of the most popular bakeries in Chinatown and specializes in egg tarts (called _Dan Tat_ in Chinese). There is usually a long …
Sharing a building with the US Post Office is the Kong Chow Temple. The temple is dedicated to Guan Di, the god of war and literature. Not…
This hidden dim sum restaurant opened in 1920 and serves as the oldest dim sum restaurant in the United States (Nom Wah Tea Parlor in NYC o…
The 41 alleyways of Chinatown offer some of the most accessible windows into authentic Chinatown. Spofford St does not look like much, and…
Tin How is the oldest Chinese temple in the United States, founded in 1852 by one of the first immigrants from China who was appreciative o…
Ross Alley is the oldest alleyway in San Francisco.
Portsmouth Square is the social center of today's Chinatown. You'll find tai chi here almost every morning between 6-10am, Chinese Chess e…
Oct 23, 2019
Oct 21, 2019
Jan 15, 2019
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Jan 15, 2019
Feb 17, 2018