chinatown walking food tour

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New Tour Alert! SWEETS AND SCREAMS: A SUGARY SWEET GHOST WALK OF GREENWICH VILLAGE

Chinatown Food Tour

Savor Authentic Asian Food

Discover the Immigrant History of This Dynamic Neighborhood

Private Version of Tour Available

Taste the authentic Asian flavors in the heart of the city

Uncover immigrant history in New York City’s vibrant Chinatown. Tales of the struggle and survival so far from home , how the community has maintained its character, and dumplings to die for await you on this mouthwatering food tour . Your palate will be singing, and your mind dazzled as you indulge in the delicious flavors and discover the stories that set this neighborhood apart.

Experience immigrant history…..along with incredible food!

Discover how the neighborhood evolved from its origin as the Five Points

Taste the varied cuisines the neighborhood has to offer including Vietnamese and Malaysian

There are way too many restaurants for one tour! We’ll give you our favorite recommendations for when you’re not with us!

Click the Tabs to Find Out More

Trip details.

• Nearby Tourism Tips

$109, but your best value is the combo tour. This tour combines with our Historic Downtown Tour

Tours require a minimum of 2 guests to open, and then single travelers can join. If you are a single traveler, and are having trouble booking, please email or call.

Departure time

Meeting point.

Upon your reservation, you will receive a confirmation with maps and best mode of transportation to get to your meeting point

Finish Point

Mott Street & Bayard St.

Availability

Seven days a week, rain or shine

Approximately 120 minutes

All tours are semi-private with 8 people or less

All your food and drink at five different spots is included, and a fully qualified, knowledgeable, award-winning tour guide

Subsitutions

Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required. Any other dietary needs cannot be accommodated on this tour (vegan, kosher, nut allergies, dairy-free or gluten-free diets)

It is a walking tour, but the pace is slow and comfortable

Private Tour Option

All of our tours are available as private tours . Enjoy the same great tour with just your friends and family, and one of our guides. Get in touch to plan your tour today!

What You’ll Do and Eat

Experience immigrant history , along with incredible food on our Chinatown walking tour. We’ll show you the oldest tenement building in New York City, and bring the culture alive, both old and new. New York’s Chinatown is a complex and diverse community. We’ll show you the hidden gems of New York City’s best diverse Asian restaurants and then the best Chinese Ice Cream Factory in the USA. New York’s Chinatown is a complex and diverse expanding Asian community. Let’s not forget that over half of Chinatown is composed of all the other Pacific Rim Nations, so you can get the finest Thai, Vietnamese, Malaysian and Japanese foods here in Chinatown as well . We know the best places to eat in NYC’s “China town.” Where else can you find dumplings with soup in them instead of dumplings in the soup?

This neighborhood has been Irish, Jewish, and Italian before it was Chinatown. The overlapping experience of all these New York City immigrants is what makes us New Yorkers who we are today, and that’s what your Manhattan Walking Tour guide brings to life for you.

Whether it is barbecue pork with honey glaze or just wasabi peas, New York’s Chinatown has it all. Even choosy New York foodies love this tour of Chinatown! This isn’t just a Chinatown food tour-it’s a culinary experience coupled with amazing stories of New York’s history . So come hungry, the food is plentiful – enough for a full lunch and join us in Chinatown for an unforgettable day re-tracing New York’s family history – maybe even yours.

After your tour you will be very close to a lot of other great attractions and neighborhoods. NOHO, Little Italy, Nolita, St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral, the Tenement Museum, City Hall Park. Chinatown’s downtown location is a great place to catch your NYC subway ride. Almost all New York City trains go to the Canal Street stop in Chinatown, meaning fast and easy access to wherever you are coming from or going to.

Remember, we are a custom NYC walking Tour Company and can make your New York tour match you and your wants or needs. We also offer a guided tour of historic downtown that pairs perfectly with Chinatown at a substantial discount . It is seamless and your guide travels with you from one tour to the other. The Chinatown / HistoricDowntown Double Combo tour (opens in a new tab) lasts about 3.5 hours.

Additional Things We Recommend for You to See and Do

For those of you who want to discover New York City landmarks on your own, here is a list that works well with your Chinatown food tour:

• Score major bargains on NYC souvenirs and a world of other merchandise in the stores and bustling sidewalk markets for which this area is famous.
• Head over to the Lower East Side and The Tenement Museum, where you can be immersed in the immigrant history and folklore of New York City.
• Spend time at Ground Zero and the 9/11 Memorial and Museum. Ascend 102 stories above New York City to the One World Observatory in The Freedom Tower, the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.
• Catch a free ride on the Staten Island Ferry for great views of the Statue of Liberty and the NYC skyline.
• Wander the trendy streets and shops of NYC’s hip Tribeca neighborhood, and maybe even spot a celebrity.
• Enjoy magnificent views of the Brooklyn Bridge from City Hall Park, also a pedestrian access point to this iconic structure known as “the eighth wonder of the world.”
• Visit the storied St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral in Nolita, one of NYC’s oldest surviving churches and where the baptism scene in The Godfather was filmed.

Check Out What Our Guests Are Saying

Lmease750 – testimonials, happy client.

Nancy was a great tour guide, very knowledgable about the area and food. I look forward to doing another food tour with this company.

Wonderful combo of interesting history and lots of tasty food. Alex is a great guide who really knows the area and is enthusiasm makes the experience great fun.

Billy was fantastic. He was really knowledgeable about the area and the food was amazing! We’re all still full!

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CHINATOWN FOOD TOUR

Quick details.

Hour Glass   Duration: 3 hours

Map Marker   Stops:  Five different tasting locations

Food Tastings: All food included. Enough food for lunch. Vegetarian friendly. No Vegan options.  Click here for food substitutions.

ABOUT CHINATOWN FOOD TOUR

Don’t fall for the culinary tourist traps when you’re in San Francisco’s Chinatown! Sidewalk Food Tours of San Francisco offers an irresistible food tour in the cultural hotspot of Chinatown.

Explore the remarkable and historic culture and foods that define Hong Kong and mainland China. Taste authentic Cantonese, Mandarin, and Szechuan cuisine from five Chinese-owned and operated restaurants, food establishments, and bakeries.

Tasting Locations

(We go to the 5 following delicious places, subject to change)

*Private Tour tasting locations may be different than ones listed below.

• New Hollywood Bakery: (est. 1991): Our favorite light and buttery buns filled with barbecue-flavored cha siu pork.
• Xian House of Dumplings: Handmade noodles and dumplings in the Chinese tradition
• House of Dim Sum: Some of the best dim sum options in Chinatown, SF
• Grant Place Restaurant: Local favorite known for Hong Kong-style dim sum and Chinese specialties.
• AA Bakery: (est. 2002): Freshly made, out of the oven, Hong Kong-style egg tarts cooked to a smooth flan-like perfection with a buttery flaky crust.

Behind every great food establishment in this city, there is an equally great story of history, tradition, and even innovation. On our Chinatown food tour, you discover these amazing histories while tasting what has made these Chinese restaurants and bakeries so prized among locals.

Discover just what makes our food tours the best in the city!

Tour Highlights

• Enjoy a variety of five delicious foods from the best specialty food stores and ethnic eateries.
• Three hours of delicious fun with a wonderful guide
• Our fun, fascinating, and knowledgeable tour guide divulges tidbits of information only locals know.
• Walk hidden streets and alleys off the beaten path.
• Hear fun and interesting stories about the Chinese immigrants’ arrival in SF, the Tong Wars, Chinese architecture, and more.
• Visit the Chinese Fortune Cookie Factory, the oldest Buddhist Temple in SF, and an authentic Chinese market.
• Taste a variety of styles of Chinese cuisine, including the best-baked bun, dim sum, and egg tart, all without waiting in the long lines.

Private Chinatown Food Tour

Want to make our delicious and fun Chinatown food tour a private event? Contact Us! We specialize in curating the best private culinary experiences.

• Chevron down Meeting Location

Pacific and Grant Avenues, San Francisco, CA.

The tour meets in front of the East West Bank, located at 1066 Grant Ave San Francisco, CA 94133 . The cross streets are Pacific and Grant Avenues; please meet on the Grant Avenue side.

The closest BART station is Montgomery. It is about a 20-minute walk to the meeting location. The Portsmouth Square Parking Garage is located at 733 Kearny Street, between Clay and Washington Streets, and is about a five-minute walk away from the East West Bank.

• Chevron down What's Not Included?
• Feel free to bring a bottled beverage. Some of the food establishments supply water.
• A tip for your guide. It’s customary to tip between 15%-20% of the ticket purchase price.
• Chevron down Activity-Specific Policies

Please review the seller’s policies for this activity. Once tickets are purchased, these are binding.

• Non-refundable, cannot be rescheduled Once purchased, tickets cannot be refunded and cannot be rescheduled because your space is being guaranteed at the event.
• Activity takes place rain or shine The activity runs regardless of weather conditions. In the rare situation where the seller is forced to cancel the event, ticket-holders are allowed to reschedule to another time (subject to availability).

Related Food Tours

• Most Popular!
• Calendar Friday & Sunday
• Clock 11am-2pm
• Map Marker San Francisco

MISSION DISTRICT FOOD TOUR

The Mission District is one of San Francisco’s most interesting and eclectic neighborhoods, combining a range of influences into one unique culture. This three-hour walking tour includes tastings at five different establishments.

• Calendar Saturday & Monday
• Clock 11:30am-2:30pm

NORTH BEACH FOOD TOUR

This three-hour walking tour gets you off of the main drag and into the beautiful side streets of North Beach and the Barbary Coast, offering the opportunity to discover unexpected shops, sites, and bites.

8 Best Chinatown Food Tours in San Francisco in 2023

LOOKING FOR THE BEST CHINATOWN FOOD TOURS IN SAN FRANCISCO?

You’ve come to the right place because this post features the Top 8 Chinatown Food Tours in San Francisco. We’ve also included other San Francisco food tours that highlight other neighborhoods close by. 

Don’t have time to read the article? As chefs, we recommend this Chinatown Culinary Walking Tour as the best Chinatown food tour in San Francisco , which have perfect five star reviews.

This historic neighborhood is an important part of the culinary heritage of the city, and it is jam-packed with delicious restaurants and bakeries where you can taste the best food in Chinatown, San Francisco .

Let’s dig in and help you find the best Chinatown tours in San Francisco for your trip to the “City by the Bay.”

Top 3 Picks: Chinatown Food Tours in San Francisco

Chinatown Culinary Walking Tour

Chinatown & North Beach Walking Tour

✔️Pizza + Pastries

Little Italy & North Beach Walking Tour

✔️Top SF Food Tour

8 Best Chinatown Food Tours in San Francisco

1. chinatown culinary walking tour.

• ❤️ Best For: A tour that is as informative as it is delicious
• ⭐ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars
• ✅ Check Rates & Availability

⌛ Duration : 3 hours | ⏰ Start Time : 10:30 AM | 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Capacity: Up to 15 guests

Prepare to graze your way through Chinatown on this Culinary Walking Tour , where you can sample delicious treats from Cantonese bakeries, dim sum shops, and restaurants.

The local tour guide will also take you to explore the local shops, where you will learn about and sample ingredients used in regional Chinese cuisines.

The tastings vary, but you can expect to taste classics, including Peking duck, moon cakes, and dumplings like siu mai .

This was one of the best food tours. Our guide Cynthia was funny and shared a lot of interesting stories about china town. The food was excellent. I would do this tour again. – LAVONDA ( READ MORE REVIEWS ) 

HIGHLIGHTS : Behind the scenes at Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory | Traditional Chinese lunch included | Tea tasting

Unlike most walking tours, you will get to sit down at two different restaurants to share a meal, where you will sample several regional Chinese dishes.

If this is not enough, the tour makes a stop at the Golden Gate fortune cookie factory and finishes up at a tea shop for an informative tasting.

Along the way to more tasty treats, the guide will provide historical and interesting facts about Chinatown and stops to admire the temples.

The tour is scheduled to take three hours , and the walking path is relatively flat for San Francisco, which makes it accessible for most people. 

Prepare your appetite and get ready to experience this neighborhood that is an important part of the culinary history of San Francisco on this Chinatown food tour in San Francisco .

2. Chinatown: Tea & Dim Sum Food Tour

• ❤️ Best For: A best of food tasting tour for first-timers to Chinatown

⌛ Duration : 3 hours | ⏰ Start Time : 11:30 PM | 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Capacity: Up to 10 guests

Whether you love tea and dim sum or are excited to try them for the first time, this Chinatown food tour is your chance to taste the best from this historic San Francisco neighborhood.

This three-hour tour will take you on a culinary adventure through the streets of Chinatown, where you will eat a dim sum feast and eat at a restaurant that is over 100 years old .

Not only will you get a San Francisco dim sum tour, but you will also get to visit the Golden Gate fortune cookie factory .

The food at every location was great. And the tour ended nicely with an experience at a tea tasting shop. I would recommend this to anyone visiting San Francisco. – JIRI ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

HIGHLIGHTS : Visit the oldest restaurant and bakery in San Francisco | Instructive tea tasting | A fortune cookie factory tour in San Francisco

The tour takes a one-mile route with seven stops where you will learn about this quintessential San Francisco neighborhood that dates back to the Gold Rush Era.

Along the way, you will be treated to bubble tea, try an egg tart at a traditional bakery , and visit a fortune cookie factory.

The tour also includes a stop at a classic Chinatown tea shop , where you will learn about the techniques, the types of teas, and their medicinal properties.

This is a perfect San Francisco food tour in Chinatown for anyone wanting to experience the best of this delicious and interesting neighborhood in one afternoon.

3. San Francisco Chinatown Food Tour

• ❤️ Best For: A deep dive into the cuisine of Chinatown

⌛ Duration : 3 hours | ⏰ Start Time : 10:00 AM | 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Capacity: Up to 12 guests

This San Francisco Chinatown food tour lets you take advantage of the opportunity to escape the touristy parts of San Francisco and experience the real Chinatown.

You will not only get to do tastings at five great restaurants and bakeries , but you will also get to experience a cultural side of this special portion of the city.

Between the stops to taste the best food in Chinatown San Francisco, the group will make stops at a temple and markets while learning about the history and way of life of the people in Chinatown.

Thank you to our guide Kasey and to the hardworking restaurant staff that prepared food for us to sample. Everything was delicious, and Kasey’s historic information was very interesting. Would highly recommend – WENDY ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

HIGHLIGHTS : Five stops for food tastings | Cultural stop at the oldest Buddhist temple in Chinatown | A visit to a famous fortune cookie factory

You will sample plenty of snacks along the way, including a stop at the famous Grant Place for dim sum and Peking duck . 

In fact, the tour makes five stops for food tasting that will provide a great cross-section of the regional Chinese Food in Chinatown San Francisco, from bbq pork buns to Hong Kong egg tarts .

This is a great Chinatown SF food tour , which is just as much about the food as it is about experiencing a historic part of San Francisco.

4. Chinatown and North Beach Walking Tour

• ❤️ Best For: Tasting two neighborhoods in one day

⌛ Duration : 4 hours | ⏰ Start Time : 2:30 PM | 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Capacity: Up to 15 guests

This Chinatown and North Beach walking tour is the perfect way to get a taste of these two dynamic neighborhoods in one afternoon. 

This four-hour tour starts in Chinatown, where the group will try out several types of dim sum from San Francisco’s oldest bakeries.

Along the way, you will explore Chinatown and its history and traditions before stopping for a tea tasting .

This tour was great!! Brian was very knowledgeable. He seemed to know everyone. Fun fun fun. I would definitely recommend this tour. In fact, I already have. – MARY ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

HIGHLIGHTS : Two neighborhoods in one day | Tastings that range from dim sum to pizza | Cultural education in two cities

The tour then heads over a few blocks to the Italian North beach neighborhood to try out some world-renowned chocolate and pastries . 

The tasting doesn’t stop here, as the group will make a relaxing stop for some wood-fired pizza after exploring the famous Columbus Avenue. 

Book this SF Chinatown food tour and loosen your belt as you prepare to never stop eating as you taste through two of the most delicious neighborhoods in the city.  

5. Chinatown Food & History Walking Tour – Small Group

• ❤️ Best For: A quick tasting and tour of Chinatown

⌛ Duration : 2.5 hours | ⏰ Start Time : 11:00 PM | 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Capacity: Up to 12 guests

Instead of guessing where to eat authentic Chinese food, book this Chinatown Food and History Walking Tour and let the professionals take you out to eat. 

You will not only get a guided lunch where you will get to taste several varieties of dim sum , but along the way, you will learn about the history and culture of Chinatown.

If this is not enough, there are stops along the way for a traditional tea tasting and a visit to a fortune cookie-making factory . 

I’m born and raised in San Francisco and wanted to do this tour for a new look at the city I know and love. Highly recommend this tour for anyone interested in a local’s perspective of San Francisco! – EMMA ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

HIGHLIGHTS : Tea and fortune cookie tastings | Stops at three historic landmarks | Sampling of dim sum 

The tour kicks off at the famous Dragon Gate, with stops at historic landmarks, including Old Saint Mary’s Cathedral and Portsmouth Square.

Whether this is your first time in the Bay Area or if you are a seasoned veteran, this will be an informative and delicious San Francisco Chinatown tour you will remember for a long time.

6. The 10 Tastings of S an Francisco: Private Food Walking Tour

• ❤️ Best For: A customized private tour
• ⭐ Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars

⌛ Duration : 3 hours | ⏰ Start Time : Flexible | 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Capacity: Up to 8 guests

With this private walking tour , not only do you get a private tour, but you get a customized experience that is based on your preferences and food tastes.

If you are not interested in spending the day with several strangers, you can book this private tour led by a knowledgeable local San Francisco resident .

You will chat with your guide leading up to the tour to discuss what you are excited to taste in the city. 

Had a great time touring the Mission district with our guide, and we tasted a wide variety of delicious foods and enjoyed it a lot. – CHANTELLE ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

HIGHLIGHTS : Customized tour | Private group setting | Eight food tastings are included

They will then put together a customized plan that will include tastings at eight different locations .

If you want to spend part of your time sampling dim sum in Chinatown SF, and finish off with a visit to North Beach for some tiramisu, they can arrange an itinerary .

In fact, many people that have taken this tour end up booking another day to explore the food in a different neighborhood like the Mission District.

Taking a private tour like this one is a great way to connect with locals and experience the cuisine in the city in a more relaxed and intimate tour setting.

7. San Francisco Chinatown Walking Tour with Optional Lunch

• ❤️ Best For: An educational walking tour with a 10-course dim sum lunch

⌛ Duration : 2 hours | ⏰ Start Time : 10:00 AM | 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Capacity: Up to 15 guests

This San Francisco Chinatown walking tour is a perfect opportunity to take a deep dive into the cultural dynamics and history of this amazing neighborhood.

This tour goes further and breaks away from the ordinary to give an authentic glimpse of the traditions that are now a part of the daily life of many residents in Chinatown in San Francisco.

You will learn about the unique decorations and the distinct architecture and visit many shops, including places that specialize in Chinese herbal medicine.

Our tour with Jim was fantastic! We learned so much about the culture and history of Chinatown, and he kept our two kids more than entertained. We experienced so much more than we would have on our own – worth every penny! – CANDICE ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

HIGHLIGHTS : Visits to shops that sell exotic ingredients and herbal medicines | 9-course dim sum tasting | A walking tour that is off the beaten tourist path

Along the way, you will stop at an ornate temple and discover many important Chinese ingredients at the local markets .

To cap off the tour, you can choose to add on a special 9-course dim sum tasting at one of Chinatown’s most famous and delicious restaurants.

This is not your typical tour that glosses over the surface, and if you book , you will be treated to a tour that covers the best of Chinatown in San Francisco.

San Francisco Food Tours: Beyond Chinatown

8. little italy and north beach walking tour in san francisco.

• ❤️ Best For: A taste of the culinary and cultural heritage of North Beach

⌛ Duration : 3 hours | ⏰ Start Time : Ex. 10:30 AM | 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Capacity: Up to 15 guests

Do you love Italian food and culture? If so, you will love this little Italy and North Beach Walking Tour .

This tour has been recognized multiple as one of the best food tours in the United States by Lonely Planet. 

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to walk the streets of North Beach with tastings along the way from historic bakeries, delis, and restaurants.

We had a great time on this tour! Even if you are a local, you will still enjoy it! We learned a lot about North Beach and can’t wait to go back and visit some of the stops.  – AMY ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

HIGHLIGHTS : Visits to a historic deli and bakery | Pizza tasting at Mona Lisa | Sip a cappuccino or espresso at a local cafe

The tour dips into the history of this unique neighborhood , and you will even learn about the beatnik and coffee culture that make this area a draw for locals.

You will get to eat some pizza and taste everything you can imagine that is produced in North Beach, from artisan salami to freshly baked cannolis . 

You will not end this San Francisco food tour hungry, but you will certainly want to visit again to taste more of the delicious food you tasted during the tour.

9. San Francisco Walking Tasting Tour with Secret Food Tours

• ❤️ Best For: A culinary and cultural tour of the Mission District

⌛ Duration : 3+ hours | ⏰ Start Time : 1:00 PM | 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Capacity: Up to 12 guests

This San Francisco walking tasting tour combo is an incredible way to experience and taste the Mission District. 

This dynamic multicultural neighborhood is one of the culinary hotbeds in the city, with some of the best Mexican taquerias in the country. 

Two of the tastings that are highlights of this tour include a stop to try one of the famous Mission Style burritos , followed by a queso birria taco that will make your mouth water.

Mark was so energetic and knowledgeable. He was so personable and had wonderful stories to share. The food experiences were unique, and the historical and artistic narrative was amazing. – DARCY ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

HIGHLIGHTS : Eat a Mission-style burrito | Visit the Mission District’s famous street murals | A special “mystery” dish at the end of the tour

The Mission District is also home to some incredible artisan bakers, chocolatiers, and ice cream makers that might just be the secret tour stop.

Not only will you taste many of the best dishes in this neighborhood, but you will also get a tour of the area’s incredible street art and murals .

Prepare yourself for a special experience where you will see the real side of San Francisco away from the touristy spots, with some stunning food along the way.

10. San Francisco Combo: Ferry Building Food Tour and Alcatraz

• ❤️ Best For: A food tasting at the ferry building and Alcatraz in one tour

⌛ Duration : 1 to 4 hours | ⏰ Start Time : 10:00 AM | 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Capacity: Up to 10 guests

If you hope to visit Alcatraz during your trip, why not book this San Francisco combo tour that includes a food tour of the Ferry Building?

The ferry building is a culinary showcase that features many of the best food purveyors and restaurants in San Francisco, all in one large building. 

This includes legendary artisans like Acme Bread Company and Miette Pâtisserie , where you can taste their delicious treats. 

Our host was very knowledgeable, the food was great, and we had a very enjoyable time! We got to learn lots of history of the Ferry Building and learned a lot about the vendors and the local sourcing there. – NANCY ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

HIGHLIGHTS : Explore the Ferry Building farmer market | Tasting of artisan food products and dishes | Ferry ride and audio tour of Alcatraz 

After eating your way through some of San Francisco’s best delicacies, you can board the ferry right outside the building.

You can take in the views of the city on the way to visit Alcatraz , which is one of the top tourist destinations in San Francisco.

Why go through the hassle of booking Alcatraz tickets when you can get two tours in one, and they secure your boat tickets to Alcatraz?

If you want to explore further, you can also check out one of the tours to the famous redwoods near San Francisco . 

Is Chinatown San Francisco worth visiting?

Yes, Chinatown is worth visiting and is one of the top cultural and food destinations in San Francisco.

A visit to Chinatown offers up a chance to experience this historic neighborhood that Chinese immigrants founded during the Gold Rush.

Today, Chinatown is an epicenter of regional Chinese cuisines and influences, and visitors can visit the local markets, temples, and amazing restaurants within eight city blocks.

What is special about Chinatown in San Francisco?

Chinatown in San Francisco is special because of its culinary and cultural heritage, which dates back to the Gold Rush.

This San Francisco neighborhood features stunning regional Chinese restaurants and bakeries that range from dim sum houses to traditional bakeries.

Chinatown also features many historic attractions and sites that are a significant part of the history of San Francisco. 

Is San Francisco a foodie city?

Yes, San Francisco is one of the top culinary destinations in the United States, and travelers from across the globe fly to San Francisco to taste the local delicacies.

San Francisco is home to world-class fine dining restaurants that garner the recognition of the Michelin Guide, with several receiving the top honor of three stars.

This foodie city also features culinary specialties that are native to the area, which includes San Francisco sourdough, Dungeness crab, cioppino, and the Mission-style burrito.

What is Chinatown in San Francisco known for?

Chinatown in San Francisco is best known for its bustling street-side markets and its restaurants that feature a diverse selection of regional Chinese cuisines.

One of the top draws to Chinatown is the many bakeries that specialize in baked treats like egg tarts and dim sum dumplings that are sold right from steaming baskets.

Chinatown is also well known for its important part of the heritage of San Francisco, which started with Chinese immigrants that moved to the city during the Gold Rush.

Is Chinatown in San Francisco safe?

Chinatown is just as safe or safer than most neighborhoods in San Francisco and ranks number six in violent crimes of the major areas in the city.

Chinatown is a very safe place to visit if you stay on the main roads and visit during the daytime when there are lots of people around during their shopping or visiting restaurants.

Crime rates in San Francisco are on the high side, but a large portion is property crimes, as San Francisco has a relatively lower incidence of violent crime than most major cities in the United States.

Is Chinatown SF open on Sundays?

Chinatown is always open as it is a neighborhood in San Francisco.

Sunday is one of the busiest days for many restaurants and bakeries in Chinatown, especially those that serve dim sum specialties like dumplings and egg tarts.

While the majority of the shops and markets are open on Sundays, they tend to be slower than on weekdays, which makes it a great time to visit.

Where is Chinatown in San Francisco?

Chinatown is located in the northeast portion of the San Francisco Peninsula, just blocks from the North Beach neighborhood and the financial district.

Stockton Blvd. and Grant Ave. run parallel to each other and run the length of Chinatown. 

Chinatown is just a five-minute walk north of the popular tourist destination of Union Square and a fifteen-minute walk south from Pier 39.

Which cable car goes to Chinatown?

Both the Powell-Mason and the Powell-Hyde lines stop at Washington and Powell St, which is just one block from the western edge of Chinatown.

You can catch a ride to Chinatown on both lines from Market street or Union Square.

If you are coming from the Fishermans Wharf area, you can take both the Powell-Hyde and the Powell- Mason lines depending on which stop is closer.

Wrap-Up: Best Chinatown Food Tour in San Francisco

With several options to choose from, we understand how it can be challenging to pick the best one for you.

After many trips to SF, this Chinatown Culinary Walking Tour is our top choice for the best food tour in Chinatown San Francisco .

Now all you have to do is show up in some comfortable shoes and save your appetite.

For a unique and memorable addition to your trip to San Francisco, book a Chinatown walking food tour in San Francisco, and let the professional guides lead you through this important part of the city.

Gabriel is the head writer for Chef Travel Guide and has been featured in the Huffington Post, Martha Stewart, Eat This, Not That, Real Simple, Muscle and Health, and many more. He was born and raised in California and has worked as a professional restaurant chef for over 20 years. After escaping the “kitchen life”, he is now focused on his passion for the outdoors and world travel. Gabriel’s passions include trail running and hiking on California's incredible trails, camping in the redwoods, and exploring the golden state from the Eastern Sierras to the rugged North Coast.

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Chinatown Local Food Tour in San Francisco

Taste your way around chinatown’s lively streets, markets, and hidden gems with a local foodie guid.

Want to explore the flavors of San Francisco’s Chinatown but not sure where to start? Our local foodie guides are here to help! Join a small group of food-loving travelers to discover the labyrinth of alleyways and markets that make up this vibrant neighborhood, and enjoy authentic dishes and flavors from the spots that the locals just love. You’ll even visit a fortune cookie factory! From Dim Sum to Peking Duck to Chinese tea and Moon Cakes, taste the very best that Chinatown has to offer.

• Discover Chinatown with your foodie guide
• Enter through the Dragon Gate
• Moon cakes at a century-old bakery
• Visit restaurants handed down through generations
• Indulge in authentic Dim Sum
• See how fortune cookies are made
• Savor an authentic Peking Duck
• Explore the culture of Chinatown

You'll begin your Chinatown discovery at the Dragon Gate entrance, where your friendly foodie guide will be ready to greet you and rest of your small group. As you begin to explore to vibrant streets, alleyways, and markets of the neighborhood, your guide will explain some of the history of North America's oldest Chinatown, and it won't be long before your food-tasting journey begins.

Over the next few hours you'll try moon cakes from a century-old bakery, enjoy a tea tasting experience at a favorite local hangout, savor delicious Chinese snacks from pork buns to Sui Mai and Dim Sum, and sit down for a perfectly-made Peking Duck meal in one of the neighborhood's most beloved restaurants. Along the way, stroll through lively Stockton Street and visit one of the last remaining fortune cookie factories!

San Francisco Chinatown Food Tour Description

Your 3-hour Chinatown tour includes:

Guided walking tour of the lively Chinatown neighborhood

A variety of delicious local food and drink stops

Sit-down meal with Peking Duck

All food and non-alcoholic drinks included

Visit one of the last fortune cookie factories

A passionate local foodie guide

Maximum group size of 12

Meet Your Guide at the Entrance To Chinatown

Your tour begins at an easy-to-find location at the entrance to Chinatown — the Dragon Gate. A gift from Taiwan, the gate is designed in the style of traditional Chinese pailous. Your local foodie guide will be waiting for you here, and as you begin to explore Chinatown they'll explain the history of this enchanting part of San Francisco.

Head to a Century-Old Bakery

Once inside Chinatown, you'll head to the city's oldest Chinese bakery. Run by the same family since the 1920s, the bakery is famous for its moon cakes along with other Chinese sweets like the popular coffee crunch cake.

Historically eaten during the Mid-Autumn Festival, moon cakes are often treated as gifts presented by families to relatives or by business people to their clients. Your guide will explain the symbolism of the cakes and their importance to East Asians cultures, and you'll get to try a selection too, of course!

Sip Local Favorites at a Chinese Tea House

Sit down and relax for a while as you sample savory teas at a local tea house, curated by a true expert. The owner of the shop will present you with a selection of loose leaf Chinese teas dried in the traditional way. It's a perfect place to sip and ponder the feast that lies ahead.

Sui Mai, Pork Buns, and Dumplings

As you stroll through the streets, alleyways, and bustling markets of Chinatown, your guide will lead you to some of our favorite spots for dim sum and authentic classics.

BBQ pork buns, sui mai, rice cakes, scallion pancakes, shrimp dumplings, and more—you'll try the snacks that keep Chinatown moving!

Visit a Fortune Cookie Factory

Did you know that fortune cookies were invented in San Francisco? Many people believe they were, although the origin story of fortune cookies is controversial. Companies across California and even some in China claim that they invented the crunchy sweets filled with a paper message. Your guide will explain some of the theories but no matter who invented the cookie, it is a staple of Chinese restaurants today.

On your tour, you'll visit one of the only remaining fortune cookie factories making the biscuits by hand. See the process up close for an interactive experience not often seen.

Delicious Peking Duck

It's not just snacks on this Chinatown food tour, you'll also have a hearty and authentic sit-down meal to make sure you don't leave the tour hungry! Get to know your group a little better as you enjoy tasty Chinese favorites like Peking Duck, sesame balls, and potstickers, with a cup of tea to wash things down.

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What you get with this tour

See what people are saying

11 total reviews

Amazing history filled tour

We loved this small group tour. Scott our tour guide was knowledgeable about the city and the food in Chinatown. We visited some excellent venues that we would not have found ourselves- and there was plenty of food!

Great tour Great guide we really enjoyed the tour.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What to bring?

Some comfortable shoes and a healthy appetite!

Is this tour run by The Tour Guy?

No, it's run by one of our trusted and vetted partners in San Francisco. They're a specialist local tour company who we know uphold our high standards.

Is this tour suitable for kids?

Sure, if your kids like their food then they'll love Chinatown!

What if I'm vegetarian or vegan?

No problem! Just let us know in advance so we can make the arrangements.

What if I have other dietary needs?

Just get in touch after booking so we can make sure your dietary needs can be catered for.

How much walking is involved in this tour?

The tour covers about 8-10 city blocks with some slight inclines on hills.

Are drinks included?

As well as the food, non-alcoholic drinks are also included.

Free 24-hr cancellation on group tours! Learn more

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San Francisco Chinatown Self-Guided Walking Tour

Melissa Zink / TripSavvy

San Francisco's Chinatown has more guided tour options than the local herbalist has ginseng roots. Many of them are informative and entertaining, but they control the schedule, and you have to plan around that. If you'd rather:

• Tour Chinatown when you want to
• Stay as long as you want at places of interest
• Skip the bits that bore you
• And do it all for free

This self-guided tour covers all the same sights to which tour guides will take you.

Print this page to take along and you're all set—and you can't beat the cost savings.

This walking tour takes you off the main streets into alleys and areas where you'll find some unique Chinatown sights. At a leisurely pace, it takes about 2 hours, including a stop for lunch. If you're a shopper, it may take a bit longer than that.

The total walking distance is 1.5 miles, and it's nearly flat.

Get Ready to Tour Chinatown

Chinatown is woefully short on public restrooms. Your best bet is to find one before you go in. There's a Starbucks at the corner of Sutter and Grant, just a block from the Chinatown gate.

Chinatown Gate to Portsmouth Square

Today's Chinatown was rebuilt after San Francisco's 1906 earthquake, and its architecture is an odd mix of Edwardian fundamentals and Chinese details. Starting from the Chinatown Gate on Bush Street, on Grant Avenue:

• Start at the Chinatown Gate: This 1970 addition to the Chinatown entrance marks the transition into Chinatown from Union Square. A pair of Chinese guardian lions is traditionally believed to provide protection. Called Shi in Chinese or "Foo Dogs" in the West, they're a common sight in front of Chinese Imperial palaces, Imperial tombs, government office, and temples.
• Walking on Grant Avenue: Grant is especially touristy near the Chinatown gate. It's a good place for souvenir shopping, with several large shops offering t-shirts and other trinkets. Further up the street, you'll also find modern Asian items that are both stylish and easy on the pocketbook. This part of Grant is a good place to stop and look up. This isn't a ploy to make you look silly: a couple of interesting things are above eye level. Look around and you'll see that the street signs are written in both English and Chinese and the ornate streetlights (put up in 1925) are supported by golden dragons.
• Stop at St. Mary's Church: Grant at California. The granite stones used in this historic church's foundations came from China and its bricks came "around the Horn" of South America with the gold seekers. It was the first church built as a cathedral in California and for many years was one of San Francisco's most prominent buildings. Inside is a small display of photographs from the 1906 earthquake and fire, showing both how badly it was damaged and how closely the new structure resembles its predecessor.
• Walking: When you cross the cable car tracks at California Avenue, listen. Not only will it help you avoid an approaching car, you'll also hear the cables that move the cars humming beneath the street.
• Stop at the Wok Shop : 718 Grant Avenue. This long-time Chinatown shop sells an extensive selection of cleavers, woks, and chopsticks, all of which make great (and useful) souvenirs.
• Stop at Eastern Bakery : 720 Grant Avenue. Opened in 1924, Eastern is the United States' oldest Chinese bakery. Mooncakes are their specialty, filled with a light melon or rich-tasting lotus-seed paste.
• Walking: At Clay Street, turn right, then go left to enter one of San Francisco's original city parks.
• Stop at Portsmouth Square : One of three city parks set aside by San Francisco's first mayor, Portsmouth is Chinatown's social center, with residents using it as an extension of their homes, taking the kids there to play or meeting friends. You'll sometimes find men playing Chinese chess (also called elephant chess) and groups of women playing cards. Also in the park is the Robert Louis Stevenson Memorial and a marker commemorating the first public school in California. The only public restroom on the tour route is in the park, but be warned—cleanliness can be an issue.
• Walking: Cross the park to Washington Street and turn left.

Portsmouth Square to Broadway

• Stop at the Old Telephone Exchange: (743 Washington) This lovely building is now the East West Bank, but it started out as the Chinese Telephone Exchange. Callers often asked for people by name only, thinking it rude to refer to a person by using a number, so the operators working here had to know each subscriber by name. With many subscribers having the same name, they also had to know everyone's address and occupation. And - they had to speak not only English but also five Chinese dialects. Today's building was rebuilt after the 1906 earthquake and fire.
• Walking: At Grant Avenue, turn right—or take a shortcut through Wentworth Place to Washington Street.
• Chinatown Restaurant Row: Between Grant and Kearny Street on Washington are some of the best-rated restaurants in Chinatown.
• Walking: After looking around or having a bite to eat, return to Grant Avenue. This route bypasses one of Chinatown's best-rated tea shops, Red Blossom. If you want to stop in, turn left on Grant to get there. Otherwise, turn right at Grant and continue.
• To Buy a Unique Souvenir:  Talk to the folks outside the door at 924 Grant or enter through the nondescript lobby and you'll find a place to get one of Chinatown's most unusual souvenirs, a custom-made, carved stone stamp from Rainbow Sign and Art.
• Be Prepared for Game Birds: In the block between Pacific and Broadway on the right side of the street is a small shop called Ming Kee Game Birds. They sell birds used in Chinese cuisine, including a blue-skinned chicken. FYI: Several years ago, a lot of controversy arose over Chinatown shops selling live poultry and shop owners are still sensitive to gawkers and photographers.
• Stop at the Chinatown Mural: At the corner of Columbus Avenue and Broadway where Chinatown meets North Beach, you'll find a mural on the corner building. One side commemorates North Beach's Italian roots. The side facing Broadway is dedicated to San Francisco's Chinese heritage
• Walking: At Broadway, turn left. At Stockton, cross the street and turn left again, walking along Stockton.

Stockton Markets and Alleyways

• Explore the Chinese Markets: The next two blocks of Stockton are packed with markets. Some sell the same kinds of vegetables and groceries you'd find at a neighborhood store anywhere, but others sell fresh fish, Asian specialty vegetables, and foods. For fun people-watching, look for older Chinese women shopping, arguing over asparagus, wrangling over radishes or shaking an eggplant to see if it's firm.
• Walking: At Jackson Street, turn left, then turn right into Ross Alley (which is halfway to Grant)
• Stop at the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory : (56 Ross Alley) It's not what you might expect of a factory, but more like a Wallace and Gromit invention gone awry. Some people think the staff rude, and they'll give about 30 seconds to look around before insisting you buy something, but it's worth a look and something you're not likely to see anywhere else. Bring cash if you want to buy some fresh fortune cookies and expect to pay to take a photo, too. 
• Stop at the Sam Bo Trading Company: (50 Ross Alley) This small shop sells Buddhist and Taoist religious items, Buddha statues, incense and paper goods burned in tribute to ancestors and the gods. A pack of handmade paper printed in gold purchased here makes an inexpensive, beautiful souvenir.
• Walking: At the end of Ross Alley, go right on Jackson and then left into Spofford.
• Explore Spofford Alley: There's not a lot to see in this short alley, but listen: it's home to numerous mahjong parlors and you can hear the tiles clicking as you pass, especially on weekends when you might also get a glimpse inside through an open door.
• Walking: At the end of Spofford, turn left and walk to Waverly Place. Turn around at Washington to walk the street's two-block length.
• Explore Waverly Place is often called the Street of the Painted Balconies, but it wasn't built for tourists and these days the paint is growing a bit faded. Walk along its two-block length and you'll find a dry cleaner, travel agency, employment agency two funeral businesses and two temples. Amy Tan fans may recall the name Waverly from "Joy Luck Club," and Dashiell Hammett's "Dead Yellow Women" is also set here.
• Stop at the Tien Hou Temple : (125 Waverly Place) The smell of temple incense is one of Chinatown's sensory treats, and you'll find plenty of it on the top floor at 125 Waverly Place, in a temple dedicated to the Goddess of Heaven. After you climb the long stairway, you'll find a tiny, incense-filled room hung with red and gold lanterns, several shrines and a statue of the goddess in the back. They don't mind respectful visitors (but don't allow photographs). Admission is free, but I recommend making a small donation, just to be polite.
• Family Benevolent Associations: You'll see the offices for several of these associations on Waverly Place, including the Eng and Wong families. They began as social clubs to serve social and personal needs of Chinese workers and provide political and social support systems to newcomers. These days, they are mostly gathering places, particularly for older Chinese who live in Chinatown.
• Bing-Tong Kong Freemasons: During the early twentieth century, Bing-Tong Kong was one of San Francisco's most powerful Tongs, groups often compared to modern gangs. In the 1930s, it started using the name "Chinese Free Masons," but whether they are formally associated with that organization is unclear. This building appears briefly in the 1982 film Chan Is Missing , directed by Wayne Wang.
• Stop at the  Clarion Music Center (816 Sacramento Street) sells Chinese drums, cymbals, flutes, Tibetan singing bowls and many unusual instruments and is well worth a stop if you like that kind of thing. They are closed on Sundays.

The easiest way to get to many other parts of San Francisco from Chinatown is by cable car. Find everything you need to know about riding them in the San Francisco Cable Car Guide .

• If You're Done for the Day: Turn left at Sacramento Street and right onto Grant. Walk 3 blocks and you'll be back where you started.
• To Go to  Union Square : Turn right on Bush, left on Stockton and you'll be there in 3 blocks
• To See the  Ferry Building, Waterfront, Bay Bridge : Turn left on Grant to California and catch the cable car (the one going downhill)
• To Check Out Nob Hill: Turn left on Grant to California and get on the cable car (the one going uphill)
• To Go to  Fisherman's Wharf : Turn right on Sacramento and walk 2 blocks to catch the Powell-Mason or Powell-Hyde cable car
• To Explore North Beach: Turn right at Sacramento Street and then right onto Stockton. It's about 6 blocks to the edge of North Beach from there

Apps for Your Chinatown Tour

Sutro Media's San Francisco Chinatown app provides a map and an A to Z listing of points of interest. The map is filled with detailed icons, but unfortunately, they overlap and are hard to read on a mobile phone screen. If you're the type who likes to wander but occasionally wants to know more about something, you may find it useful.

The free app City Walks provides minimal information and you'll have to pay for an upgrade to access their guided tours. It's a pricing strategy, this app rates only 2.5 stars out of 5, largely because of complaints that the free version has nothing to offer.

Time Shutter - San Francisco  is custom-made for history buffs and anyone who wonders what a place looked like long ago. Using their map- or list-based index, you can bring up historic photos of the place you're standing. Double-tap and they'll transform into modern-day views.

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Group travel.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors and rich history of Chicago’s Chinatown on our top-rated TripAdvisor food and culture tour. Enjoy seated dining at five authentic restaurants where you’ll feast on Hong Kong dim sum, spicy Szechuan dishes, and sweet milk egg tarts. While you enjoy the food, you’ll get a lesson in traditional Chinese etiquette and customs.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a lifelong Chicagoan, our guides will take you through the incredible stories of both Old and New Chinatown, its out-of-the-way secret gems, and its most famous landmarks. Come hungry and leave inspired with a deeper appreciation for the sophisticated flavors and regional cooking styles that define Chinese cuisine.

$80 Adult $50 Adolescent Free Child (6 & Under)

Dress for the weather! We go rain, shine, or snow. Washrooms available during the experience.

Vegetarian Options

• Authentic Dining Experience: Enjoy full-course tastings at five restaurants featuring an array of Chinese cuisine, from spicy Szechuan to traditional Cantonese and innovative Hong Kong-style dishes.
• Cultural Immersion: Participate in demonstrations of ancient Chinese etiquette and pageantry, deepening your understanding of the rich traditions embedded in every meal.
• Guided Exploration: Navigate through the hidden alleys and vibrant streets of both Old and New Chinatown with our expert guides who bring the history, culture, and stories of the neighborhood to life.
• Scenic Landmarks: Visit significant cultural and historical sites, including the Ping Tom Memorial Park and the architecturally stunning Pui-Tak Building.
• Local Insights: Learn about the intricacies of regional Chinese cooking styles, the significance of local customs, and the unique offerings of Chinese specialty stores throughout the tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will local chicagoans enjoy your tours.

Absolutely! More than half of our guests are local to the Chicagoland area, and they always say the same thing: “I learned so much about Chicago’s history and restaurant scene that I didn’t know!” Locals who come on our tours will find their new favorite date night spot, and can impress their visiting friends with all their Chicago “insider” knowledge.

I hate feeling like a tourist. Will the guide have a bullhorn and an umbrella?

Yeah, we hate that, too. And, no, no umbrellas or bullhorns. Our guides feel more like part of the group. They’re friendly without being annoying, and they don’t just recite a script. We hire people who love this city, and we train them extensively to make their job look effortless. No cringey tourist stuff, we promise.

This seems like a lot to spend on sample bites. How much do we get to eat?

No need to make reservations for after the tour. You’ll enjoy the equivalent of a full meal or more on our food tours.

What happens if it rains or snows?

Rain or shine, you gotta eat! Unless the weather looks like it’ll threaten the safety of our guests or guides, the tours will run in most conditions. If it’s too wet or cold, we’ll just spend more time indoors at our restaurant partners.

Can you accommodate my dietary restriction?

If you let us know during the booking process/checkout of your tour, we CAN provide vegetarian-friendly tasting, but we CANNOT offer alternatives or substitutions for any other allergies (including lactose intolerant) or dietary restrictions (including vegan and gluten free). Vegetarian-friendly options must be requested in advance during the ticket purchase process.

Lock in your spot.

Unlocking Chinatown’s history, cuisine, and people.

I love guiding locals and visitors through the hidden culinary gems of Chinatown. Even for locals who think they know every nook of our city, Chinatown often remains a mysterious, vibrant enclave, a city within our city with its own unique pulse that’s as integral to Chicago's story as the Magnificent Mile.

Through this tour, I want to connect you with the authentic flavors and incredible history that most Chicagoans don't even know about. It's an eye-opening experience that shows just how diverse and multifaceted Chicago really is.

Check Availability

The #1 rated Chinatown Food Tour in Chicago!

Private experiences.

Corporate Groups

Bachelorette Parties

Cancellations

If you need to cancel your reservation and provide us 72 hours or more notice when doing so, you will receive a full refund. Any cancellations requested with less than 72 hours notice will not be refunded unless you added the Tour Ticket Insurance option for $2 per ticket during the check-out process. No-shows will be charged the full price unless they had taken out the tour insurance option.

In the event that you must cancel less than 72 hours prior to the tour date/start time, and did not have Tour Ticket Insurance, no refund will be provided.

Customers will also receive a full refund or credit in case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Contact us by phone to cancel or inquire about a cancellation.

Chicago
Food &
City Tours

• Private Tours

Local Tastes of the City Tours wants your entire experience with us to be exceptional and we want you to feel confident reserving a tour, whether by phone or online, which is why offer one of the most flexible change/cancellation policies around. We ask you to give us 48 hours notice to cancel a tour. If it's less than 48 hours, and the unexpected happens, such as being delayed at the airport, flight cancelled, or something else, call us and we'll do our best to make you happy.

San Francisco Chinatown & North Beach Food Walking Tour

Taste the best of two worlds, Chinatown and Little Italy. $89 per person - 4 hours ($89 plus 6% Online Booking Fee = $94.34)

• All food, a glass of wine, and non-alcoholic drinks included
• Important Info

On their own, North Beach (Little Italy) and Chinatown stir your senses...

Together, they awaken you to the tastes of a city like San Francisco, where food is everything to us.

While there will always be plenty of noteworthy restaurants to taste across our 7x7 metropolis, there's always something special that draws us, locals and travelers alike, to Chinatown and North Beach's most classic restaurants.

On this small-group walking food tour, your Bay Area local guide weaves history and storytelling into a handful of stops where you enjoy full servings of what makes this food scene so eclectically San Francisco: peking duck, teas, fortune cookies, pizza, cannolis, and more.

The only two things you really need to know for this tour: wear comfortable shoes and come hungry! These neighborhoods sit next to each other, making it easy to walk from one side of the world to another in just four hours.

• All food and drink is included
• Start in Chinatown with moon cakes from one of the neighborhood's oldest bakeries
• Enjoy tea tastings in Chinatown
• Sit down for Chinese food at a local favorite spot
• Enjoy chocolate from one the top chocolatiers in the US
• Bite into a fresh cannoli from an Italian bakery, which has been making cannoli since 1942
• See famous sights like Coit Tower from lesser-known vantage points and secret alcoves
• Relax with pizza at Mona Lisa Restaurant
• Expect more than 5 generous food and drink tastings along the way
• Vegetarian and special dietary needs welcome
• Whether you are in Union Square, Pier 39, Market Street, or Nob Hill, our tours are easy to get to.

Taste of the Tour

These are just some of the highlights when you come out with our San Francisco local guides.

Start at the Dragon's Gate of Chinatown

Begin under the archway of the intricately designed gateway into North America's oldest Chinatown. Throughout the tour, you zigzag across Kearny, Grant, and Stockton streets — often cutting through alleyways — to see the elaborate architecture, stop in some of Chinatown's oldest restaurants, and more.

Stop for treats at Chinatown Bakeries

One of the first stops is at an iconic Chinese bakery in San Francisco, where you get to try complimentary moon cakes. It opened in 1924, and has been a neighborhood mainstay ever since. In 2020, loyal customers ensured this beloved bakery stayed open, with many people special ordering its popular coffee crunch cake and moon cakes with homemade filling.

Sit down for a traditional Chinese meal

In addition to generous samples, this tour also includes a sit-down meal at a favorite local spot in Chinatown. Enjoy Peking Duck, potstickers, sesame balls, and tea, as you chat with your small group. Vegetarian and vegan options can be added!

Savor Local Favorites

Enjoy everything from BBQ Pork Buns, Sui Mai, Rice Cakes, Shrimp Dumplings, and more from Chinatown's favorite restaurants. Savor Dim Sum; from onion pancakes to Shanghai Dumplings and more, at local Chinatown eateries.

Enjoy tea tastings at a wonderful local spot

We also stop in a wonderful local spot for a variety of tea tastings where you learn Chinese customs regarding tea ceremonies, as well as the health benefits of the tea leaves you taste.

Meet chocolatiers, cannoli pioneers, and more in North Beach

During this portion of the North Beach walking tour, you experience the friendliness of this neighborhood through its rich and delectable foods. Expect samples from a top U.S. chocolatier, cannolis from a Sicilian bakery, and of course local pizza! Bonus: Enjoy a glass of wine with your pizza during our stop to the Mona Lisa Restaurant on Columbus Avenue.

Important Information

• Upon booking, let us know if you have any dietary requests for the tour
• Our tours operate daily
• If you need to get in touch with us, we are available 24/7. Contact us here , or by phone at (415) 665-0480

Cancellation Policy

Local Tastes of the City Tours wants your entire experience with us to be exceptional and we want you to feel confident reserving a tour, whether by phone or online.

We ask you to give us 48 hours notice to cancel a tour. If it's less than 48 hours, and the unexpected happens, such as being delayed at the airport, flight cancelled, or something else, call us and we'll do our best to make you happy.

Meeting Location

Our tour begins next to 400 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA (Chinatown) at Bush and Grant, in front of the Chinatown (Dragon) Gate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this san francisco food tour wheelchair-friendly.

Yes, please let us know at the time of booking.

Is this San Francisco food and walking tour kid-friendly?

Yes, and we've heard from plenty of parents how much fun their kids had in the fortune cookie factory in Chinatown!

Does this tour offer vegan and vegetarian options?

Yes, we are happy to accommodate dietary needs. Please let us know at the time of booking.

Are masks required on this tour?

Vaccinations are not required on our tours; however, we highly recommend that you are vaccinated.

Are you able to dine indoors in San Francisco restaurants?

Masks may be required in some stops. Proof of vaccination is required on all tours.

How much walking is involved in this tour?

This tour covers about 8-10 city blocks with some slight inclines on hills, particularly in the North Beach neighborhood.

Is it called North Beach or Little Italy in San Francisco?

Locals call it North Beach and people outside San Francisco call it Little Italy, however it is the same neighborhood.

If I need to cancel my booking, can I get a refund?

Local Tastes of the City Tours wants your entire experience with us to be exceptional and we want you to feel confident reserving a tour, whether by phone or online, which is why we offer one of the most flexible change/cancellation policies around.

What is the meeting point of this tour?

Our Chinatown and North Beach Food Walking Tour begins next to 400 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA (Chinatown) at Bush and Grant, in front of the Chinatown (Dragon) Gate.

The Best Tour of San Francisco Chinatown

• (650) 355-9657

Wok Wiz Chinatown Walking Tours

Wok Wiz Walking Tours is the perfect way to explore all that Chinatown has to offer. Join us on the best walking tour of San Francisco’s Chinatown.

“One of the top 100 things about San Francisco.” Gourmet Magazine

“One of the best tours in San Francisco!” The New York Times

“‘Not to Miss’ while in San Francisco, Wok Wiz is among the ‘top ten.’” Cooking Light Magazine

Wok Wiz Classic Tour

The Wok Wiz Chinatown tour is offered on several times per week and is available as a walk only experience, or ending with a dim sum tasting luncheon. Hear fascinating stories about the first Chinese immigrants to arrive in San Francisco during the Gold Rush.

Chow Ciao! Multicultural Stroll

What do China and Italy have in common, besides Marco Polo and noodles? Great love of family and too much fun. See changing neighborhoods with ethnic foods in diverse, colorful communities. Hear stories of history & folklore of these changing neighborhoods. 

“I Can’t Believe I Ate My Way though Chinatown” Tour

For food-lovers only! We are very serious about food and love to feed people! Experience one of San Francisco’s most popular destinations for visitors by eating your way through it. Enjoy tastings, tea shop visit, food focused stops and a hosted dim sum luncheon on this tour, while you learn about America’s largest Chinatown.

Wok Wiz Classic Tour: A Winning combination!

“This tour is a nice combination of local and national history with an interesting variety of food choices at lunch. Our guide was well read and grown up in the area which added to our walk through the neighborhoods. A very pleasant morning.”

Wok Wiz Classic Tour: An Absolute Smash!

“My wife, my adult son, and I could not have enjoyed the Wok Wiz tour more! Quock Dorothy: Nae Ho! Our tour guide gave us a warm, dynamic, and incredibly informative tour explaining the depth of the culture and history of Chinatown, Chinese culture, and the history of San Francisco. We finished with a Dim Sum lunch that was the best Chinese food I’ve ever had, aided by Dorothy’s good-humored chopstick coaching. The tour was a high point of our vacation. This should be a Do Not Miss for anyone visiting San Francisco.”

I Can’t Believe I Ate My Way Through Chinatown! Tour: A culinary treat!

“I had a ton of fun on the “I Can’t Believe I Ate My Way Through Chinatown ” tour. Frank, our host, was vivacious, fun and humorous and we ate SO well. I never would have tried some of the menu items – not that they were “scary” but I’d have stayed with something familiar and I loved almost everything. I particularly enjoyed the tea tasting. Great tour!”

Visitors will find dim sum teahouses, shops, and restaurants frequented by locals. Experience Chinatown by wandering its back alleys, peek into herbal shops and Chinese temples of this historic neighborhood.

Gift Cards are available! Call (650) 355-9657 to purchase.

Meet Our Team

We love to walk, talk, eat, and laugh with you!

Tina Pavao, Owner

Shirley’s daughter, Tina will gladly assist with booking a tour. This former 4th grade teacher now works with the tour leader team in operating Wok Wiz.

Lola Hom, Tour Leader

Born and raised in Chinatown, Lola was a member of the elite all-girls St. Mary’s Drum & Bugle Corps. Pleasant and engaging, she was a flight attendant for the FLYING TIGERS and is an extensive traveler.

Frank Jang, Tour Leader

Frank grew up above the Wo Chong Bean Sprout Factory in Chinatown. He supports countless community fundraising events. Frank is currently the Vice President of the Association of Chinese Cooking Teachers.

Gimmy Park Li, Tour Leader

Gimmy is a veteran of nearly 40 years as a public affairs program host and producer at KNBR Radio. In addition to leading Wok Wiz tours, she volunteers with the Presidio Park Stewards.

Dorothy Quock, Tour Leader

Dorothy receives rave reviews for her wonderful tours. Born in Chinatown, she has been with Wok Wiz since 1991. Dorothy spent a year in China writing a guide book.

Hank Quock, Tour Leader

Hank is the former president of the Association of Chinese Cooking Teachers, and also a performer. Born and raised in Chinatown, Hank taught Chinese cooking for 25 years and is a retired restaurant owner.

Emily Soo, Tour Leader

Emily was born in Santa Rosa and resides in San Francisco’s Chinatown. She spent many years in the hotel and restaurant industry, including “high tea” service at the Garden Court in the Palace Hotel.

Herman Young, Tour Leader

Besides being a tour leader, Herman coaches badminton, and basketball at several Bay Area schools. He has been a Chinese New Year’s Parade float driver for the past 15 years.

Wok Wiz Daily Tour: An Absolute Smash!

Wok Wiz Daily Tour: A Winning combination!

Chinatown Food & History Walking Tour

Home > Tours > Chinatown Food & History Walking Tour

Chinatown Food & History Walking Tour

Elevate your San Francisco experience with a captivating historical and culinary adventure through Chinatown. Savor delicious homemade Dim Sum, witness the intriguing process of Fortune Cookie creation, and delve into the secrets of the largest Chinese enclave outside Asia. This journey promises to be a delightful exploration of culture and cuisine

• Stop At: The Dragon's Gate
• Pass By: The Old Cathedral of St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception
• Stop At: iCafe or Hang Ah for Pork Buns & Spring Rolls or Carnival Buns.
• Stop At: Portsmouth Square
• Stop At: Delicious Dim Sum
• Stop At: Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory
• Narrated walking tour of Chinatown
• Plenty of stops with Photo opportunities
• Food included on your tour:
• Pork Buns & Spring Rolls or Carnival Buns at iCafe or Hang Ah
• Delicious Dim Sum
• Fortune Cookies
• Small group activity guaranteed, maximum of 12 customers
• Gratuities (optional)
• Hotel Pick up or drop off.

Restrictions

• In order to cancel the booking with no penalties you must contact us at least 24 hours in advance.

When would you like to go?

Unavailable, please select:, options selected:, optional extras, price breakdown:.

• Stop At: Dragon's Gate
• Stop At: Old Cathedral of St. Mary
• Stop At: iCafe or Hang Ah
• Stop At: Golden Gate Fortune Cookies Co.

Pickup Info

Hotel pick up is not provided for this tour. * Please be at the meeting point: The Dragon's Gate, Bush St @ Grant Ave, San Francisco at 10:45 am, 15 minutes before the tour begins at 11 am

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San Francisco Chinatown Walking Tours: 5 Top Tours Around This Interesting SF Neighborhood

by Jill Loeffler   •

Updated: June 8, 2022

These San Francisco Chinatown walking tours offer you a chance to get a insider's view on this amazing and colorful part of town. It's a little city within a city that is full of history and always changing.

If you want to get to know the real Chinatown, then I recommend taking one of these guided tours. They range from free tours offered through the SF Public Library to more involved paid options that include sampling food.

On these tours, you get the chance to try dim sum (traditional small plates), take a peek into the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory, and see this district's gorgeous temples. You will love what you learn on all of these SF Chinatown tours.

Disclaimer : I receive a small commission from some of the links on this page.

1. SF Chinatown Walking Tour

On this Chinatown adventure, you'll see the cultural side of this small city within San Francisco and discover the secrets of this old-world neighborhood.

You'll learn more about Chinatown's herbal pharmacies, watch how fortune cookies are made at the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory , and see very colorful food for sale along Stockton Street.

During the walk, you'll also stop by an authentic Buddhist temple, taste some exotic teas (if available during your tour time), and get an insider's list of where to shop in Chinatown . 

This tour runs daily at 10 am.

Tour Length : 2 hours Book : Chinatown Walking Tour

2. Chinatown Food Walking Tour

Dive into the amazing dishes of San Francisco's Chinatown. This interesting food walking tour will take you to some of this district's top restaurants, bakeries, and food shops.

You'll love this San Francisco Chinatown walking tour as you get to sample five tasty foods, including traditional egg tarts and barbecue pork buns. You will also visit the local fortune cookie factory, SF's oldest Buddhist Temple, and an authentic Chinese food market.

As you learn about this district's cuisine, you will also learn quite a bit about its history. Your guide will also give you some fun insider's tips on additional places to visit here. 

This tour runs on Saturday and Sundays at 10 am.

Tour Length : 3 hours

Book : Chinatown Food Walking Tour

>> Find additional fun food walking tours around SF

3. Food Walking Tour of Chinatown & North Beach

This combined trip of both Chinatown and North Beach takes you through two of the most visited neighborhoods in the city . 

First, you'll get the chance to savor some Chinese tea and try the famous dim sum in Chinatown. You'll also get a chance to walk by some of the most famous Chinese sculptures and architecture. 

After your exploration of Chinatown, you'll walk a few blocks over to San Francisco's North Beach community. Here you'll learn more about this Italian neighborhood's hidden secrets and find the best places to enjoy its amazing coffee.

From dim sum and tea to pizza and wine, this is a great way to stimulate your senses and learn about the unique cultures of these two famed SF neighborhoods. This tour is offered most days at 2:30 pm. 

Tour Length : 4 hours

Book : Food Walking Tour of Chinatown & North Beach

>> Additional cool night tours around town

4. Free Guided Walking Tours

SF City Guides offers informative, free, two-hour San Francisco Chinatown walking tours each week.

They start at Portsmouth Square on the corner of Washington and Kearney Streets. During the trip, you'll walk along Chinatown's crowded streets, learning about the district's historic temples and its colorful past.

Periodically, the library also offers other tours of Chinatown, although none of these are currently listed on their schedule. Check the schedule before your trip to see if one will be offered during your visit.

Tour Length : 2 hours

Start Time : See current schedule

Price : Free

5. Self-Guided Tour of Chinatown

If you prefer to explore Chinatown on your own, check out my self-guided tour . I created this for anyone who is not able to book one of the tours above or would just prefer to head out on their own. It includes a walking route that takes you past three Chinese temples , as well as the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Company, and helps you find a great place for dim sum for lunch. 

On this tour, you can also opt to visit the Chinese Historical Society , discover bargains along Grant Avenue, and step inside the oldest herbal pharmacy in SF.

>> More great self-guided tours and suggested itineraries around SF

Top Guided San Francisco Walking Tours : Do you want to explore additional neighborhoods in San Francisco? Here you'll find some of the best options throughout the city, including everything from the 75th Anniversary Golden Gate Bridge Walking Tour to the colorful Haight-Ashbury Flower Power tour.

Food Walking Tours : San Francisco is famous for its amazing restaurants. Why not sample some of its tasty treats on these food walking tours? Choose from the sweet treats in the Ferry Building to the savory delights throughout the Mission District.

More Self-Guided Walking Tours : Do you prefer to venture out on your own? This list of self-guided tours includes something for everyone. You can choose from detailed audio tours to self-guided walking tour maps. Both allow you to explore on your own while seeing the sights at your own pace.

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Chicago Chinatown Tour

Chinatown Tours

Experience chinatown with guided tours from chicago chinese cultural institute.

90-min Walking Tour

From Memorial Day to Labor Day, Join our History and Cultural Walking Tour of Chinatown on every weekend

3-hour Food Tour

On select dates this summer, join us for a 3-hour sumptous food tour.

Private group Tour

Book a private group tour with us. Multiple tour guides available for large groups.

Student Field Trips

K-12 students groups enjoy a special discounted rate for their field trips.

Chinese Cultural Workshops

Dumpling Making

Hands-on experience to learn how to make Chinese dumplings. Great fun for youth and adults.

Kite Coloring

China invented kites in ancient time. Hear the stories and create your own design on blank silk kites

Paper cutting

Experience the wonder you can create with simply a piece of paper and a pair of scissors.

Martial Arts Exercises

Learn the basics of Taichi with a master

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Chinatown Food & Culture Walking Tour

• 3 Hours 4pm Fri - Sun & 11:30am Sat
• Ages from 1+
• Length: 1 Mile
• VIP Upgrade $19.99 Bubbly Tea/Beer/Wine

Chinatown Food & Culture Walking Tour

Curious about Chicago’s Chinatown but unsure where to start? Let our Bobby’s Bike Hike Chinatown Food and Culture Walking Tour be your local guide on this tour!

Chicago’s Chinatown, located next door to the Loop on Cermak Street and Wentworth Avenue, bursts with colorful shops, impressive monuments, and of course, delicious restaurants. Like a Chinese menu, the sheer number of possibilities can be overwhelming. Fortunately, with our local knowledge and partnerships we have created the perfect sampling tour for you.

You’ll sample culinary delights from five distinct Chinese regions while learning interesting facts about China and the history of Chinese immigration to Chicago. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Chicago native, our walking culinary tour of this thriving neighborhood will whet your appetite for another visit!

All food samples are included in ticket price, but consider upgrading to our VIP Package to include samples of plum wine, bubble tea, and a specialty jasmine Chicago craft beer only served at Phoenix Restaurant.

What’s Included

• Tour price includes all food samples.
• VIP Tea/Wine/Beer upgrade package available (21+, please bring ID)
• All ages welcome

What to Bring

• Wear comfortable clothing/shoes for walking.
• Please bring a bottle of water. A few restaurants will serve water, but not all of them. So it’s highly recommended to bring a bottle of water.
• Bring a phone or camera, there will be plenty of photo opportunities.

Important Info

• Tours may run up to 15-20 minutes over or under the scheduled end time due to speed of restaurants/group.
• We ask that you stay with your guide during the duration of the tour.

Departure Locations

• Phoenix Restaurant 2131 S Archer Ave, Chicago

What to Expect

The Tour Starts with Cantonese Cuisine

Our first stop is a restaurant featuring cuisine from the southeastern region of Guangdong, formerly known as Canton. The Cantonese were the first Chinese people to emigrate to the United States during the California Gold Rush; to this day, most Chinese restaurants in America serve predominantly Cantonese or Cantonese-derived dishes. The restaurant we’ve chosen specializes in the traditional Cantonese appetizers known as dim sum, served with two varieties of Chinese tea.

Sweet Stop at a Chinese Bakery for Dessert Sample

The many offerings on display at the Chinese bakery we’ll visit next are a feast for the eyes, as well as the tongue. We’ll enjoy a popular dessert from the former Portuguese territory of Macau which melds Chinese and colonial traditions. Be warned, though, that you may have difficulty leaving the premises without purchasing an extra treat or two for the ride home!

Try Xi’an Cuisine

Perhaps the greatest advantage of having such a well-developed Chinatown in our city is the opportunity to experience regional Chinese cuisines that aren’t widely available in the US. The third restaurant on our tour features delicacies from the northwestern city of Xi’an, one of China’s ancient dynastic capitals. This food has a Middle Eastern influence due to Xi’an’s position at the eastern terminus of the ancient network of trade routes known as the Silk Road.

Visit Chinatown Square for Sichuan Cuisine

Next, we’ll visit Chinatown Square for a taste of the bold, exciting flavors of Sichuan cuisine. Sichuan’s famous chili peppers are found in dishes from every region of China. You’ll enjoy samples of spicy chili chicken and eggplant with garlic sauce at a restaurant founded by one of Chinatown’s best-known celebrity chefs.

Sample the Best Noodles in All of Chicago

Our fifth and final stop is for what Chicago Magazine dubbed “the best noodles in all of Chicago.” The centerpiece of the noodle soup is a large cauldron of broth placed atop a heating element at your table. You an add to your soup from a platter of thinly sliced meat or vegetables cooked to your liking. Several spices and sauces are also provided for a variety of delicious flavor combinations.

Extra Information

Many people visit Chinatown to eat or go into the shops. We believe this historic area is worth knowing more about than who makes the best dim sum, although that’s certainly something we enjoy! Our Chinatown walking tour opens your eyes to some of the lesser-known history of Chicago. You cannot fully understand the city unless you know the story of its immigrants, because Chicago is a town dependent on them for its culture.

Plus, when you go on a Chinatown food tour, you go beyond the touristy destinations. We take you to the spots that make the very best food — the restaurants Chinatown insiders know about but the general public does not. These places offer you samples that will amaze and delight your taste buds. Often, the chefs at each stop give our guests items that do not even appear on the menu. Many people go straight from our tour to booking a reservation at their favorite Chinatown spot.

We recommend this tour for anyone who wants to know more about the history of Chinese Americans, Chicago arts and culture, or immigration in The Windy City.

Wentworth Avenue is the main artery of Chicago’s Chinatown district, and home to some of the most popular shopping and dining in the area.

Cantonese cuisine comes from the southeastern region of Guangdong, formerly known as Canton. The Cantonese were some of the first Chinese to emigrate to the United States and their influence is seen in most American Chinese restaurants today.

Dim sum is a traditional Cantonese appetizer, served in small bite-sized portions in steamer baskets. When paired with tea, dim sum makes for a complete Chinese brunch.

Chinese Bubble tea (VIP add-on) , the other component of a dim sum brunch, is world-famous. China has been growing tea leaves for centuries and has a rich tradition of refined tea flavors.

Portuguese-Chinese bakery treats come from the Portuguese Macau territory of China, and combine traditional and colonial flavors.

Xi’an cuisine comes from the northwestern city of Xi’an, one of China’s ancient dynastic capitals. It is rare in the United States, a special delicacy in Chicago’s Chinatown.

Lao Sze Chuan is one of the most popular Chinese restaurants in the United States, opened by celebrity chef Tony Hu, who is lovingly regarded as the unofficial mayor of Chicago’s Chinatown.

Top-rated Noodles in Chicago (by Chicago Magazine) which are popular in dishes from every region of China.

Chinatown Square is a two-story outdoor mall in the center of Chicago’s Chinatown, packed with popular shopping and dining.

Whether you live in the city or you’re visiting from out of town, you’ll enjoy one of the best Chicago food tours of Chinatown! If you are here on vacation or business, we recommend you take our tours at the beginning of your stay. This gives you background knowledge you can draw on throughout the rest of your time here. It may also give you ideas for how you want to spend the rest of your time in Chicago.

We pride ourselves on our excellent safety record. Our well-trained guides can assist you with any concerns as you walk your way through the city, enjoying all the culinary spoils of Chinatown while also learning more than you ever thought possible about Chicago’s history. Educating yourself while you eat? It’s the perfect way to celebrate Chicago.

Book your Chicago Chinatown food tour online today or contact us for a private group tour.

Phoenix Restaurant has been a Chinatown institution since the 1990s, serving up fine Cantonese cuisine with an emphasis on seafood and dim sum.

Chiu Quon Bakery is the oldest bakery in Chicago’s Chinatown, specializing in treats from the Macau region of China with a colonial Portuguese influence.

Xi’an Cuisine serves up dishes from the northwestern Xi’an region of China, a rarity in the United States.

A Chicago original since 1998, Lao Sze Chuan has since expanded to locations all over the country, and was named “Best Chinese Restaurant in the U.S.” by both Travel & Leisure and The Daily Mail.

Yummy Yummy Noodles has been named “Best Noodles in all of Chicago” by Chicago Magazine. You’ll soon find out why.

VIP Bubbly Tea, Beer/Wine Tasting Upgrade Upgrade to our VIP Beverage Package, which includes samples of plum wine, bubble tea, and a specialty jasmine Chicago craft beer only served at Phoenix Restaurant.

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Chicago Highlights & Attractions Walking Tour

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Reserve Your Spot with Confidence! Full Refunds with 24 Hrs Notice. Reschedule at any point, even after tour, if space allows!

Chicago Chinatown Food Tour | Self Guided

Chicago’s Chinatown is considered as one of the largest and most vibrant ethnic communities in North America. The densely populated 30-block commercial area of Chinatown, centering at Wentworth and Cermak, is home to over 10,000 residents and approximately 400 businesses and community institutions. In the broader Chinatown community, there resides an estimated 27,000 Chinese Americans in the near-south neighborhoods. Set amongst the backdrop of cultural landmarks and popular sights such as the Nine Dragon Wall, Chinatown Gate, and Ping Tom Memorial Park, Chinatown offers a glimpse into the customs, traditions, and rich culture of one of the oldest civilizations in the world.

We hope this self-guided tour saves you money.  Save even more money in Chicago with a tourist concession pass  and check out our Chicago food tour page for more culinary tips.

If you would like a guided tour of Chicago's Chinatown, we hope to be offering a guided tour soon.  In the meantime, we would be happy to offer you a private tour.  You could also take a look at Viator's Chinatown Food Tour .

Start (A): Cermak-Chinatown CTA Station

Start off at the Chinatown Pavillion, steps away from the Chicago red line. This classic-style Chinese pavilion plays a significant historical role in the planned business and residential relocation of 1912, by Chinese immigrants originally located in the Clark Street/downtown loop area. West of the pavilion, are 19th century-era buildings on Cermak and Wentworth, home to some of Chinatown’s first businesses and enterprises. Today, the pavilion is at the epicenter of Chinatown, with major thoroughfare routes, Chinatown Square to its north, and the Wentworth strip to its south.

Steps from the Chinatown Pavillion is the Nine Dragon Wall. One of only three outside of Beijing’s Bai Hai Park, and one inside  an Imperial garden northwest of the Forbidden City, this replica was sculpted in pieces for shipment and reassembly in Chicago. There are over 500 small dragons that accompany 9 larger, brightly-painted dragons. In addition to the number and color symbolism, this benevolent and mystical creature is greatly revered as it symbolizes protection, fortune, and a potent emblem for imperial power.

As one of Chinatown’s most identifiable and memorable landmarks, the Chinatown Gate was built in 1975 and was considered as the original entryway into Chinatown. Reading from right to left, the characters on the gate read, Tian Xia, Wei Gong, which literally means, “Everything Under The Heaven, For The People,” which was the motto of a key fi gure in modern Chinese history, Dr. Sun Yat-sen. It’s design also lends from the basic principles of feng shui.

Continue heading west on until you get to the 6 corner intersection of Princeton, Cermak and Archer. Look across the street of this busy 6-corner intersection and you’ll notice the Chinese Veterans Memorial. It commemorates and honors the service and dedication of the thousands of Chinese Americans in the United States military.

Here comes our first food stop, The Phoenix Restaurant.   In the Canton provinces, many people gather at tea houses during the morning and early afternoon to socialize or conduct business over small meals. In China this is most popularly called 'yum cha' - going to tea - because the art of drinking tea is so strongly associated with the snack foods served. In the United States, we familiarize with the term dim sum to describe these small meals. Dim sum, literally translated from the Cantonese language, means 'dot-hearts' - small treats that touch the heart.

Most dim sum foods are savory pastries, either steamed or fried dumplings, filled buns, and noodles. There are also sweet pastries, vegetables, and meats. The portions are bite-sized, and they are served in small quantities, usually three or four to a plate. This allows you to enjoy a variety of foods, whether they eat very little or indulge in a huge feast

Servers push carts loaded with a variety of foods through the dining room. These carts go passed the customers who keep an eye out for appealing dishes. Once a desired item is in sight, the diner flags down the car and points out what they want. Servers will mark your selections on a sheet kept at your table and you continue to select and eat until you’re done. We recommend the various shumai dumplings, wrapped sticky rice in tea leaves, the congee rice porridge, crispy eggrolls and the sweet egg custard tarts. Here we’ll feast on a traditional dim sum brunch, fondly known as a ‘moving buffet on wheels’. Dumplings, wrapped sticky rice, eggrolls and sweet egg custard tarts. The idea is to choose things continually throughout the meal, rather than to gather all the food at once before eating. Sweets are woven through the savories dishes.

Next stop is the Chinatown Market. If you’re feeling inspired after your dim sum brunch, this stop will meet your needs. At this store, check out the exotic ingredients and items available. They have a wonderful selection of fresh and live seafood, including a variety of fish, shellfish and even turtles! Peruse the aisles for their vast options for fresh and dried noodles, and fresh Asian produce too, all at very reasonable prices.

Every neighborhood needs a pharmacy, but here in Chinatown, folks hit up Tai Fok Hong Company to feel better. This a great boutique that specializes in herbal teas and medicines. A Chinese doctor is on staff to take your ailments, assess what is needed and begins to combine various herbs, dried ingredients and liquids to concoct a customized remedy just for you. We can’t promise it tastes or even smells great, but it’s an interesting stop to check out what ingredients they use. Dried shark fin, anyone?

Got a sweet tooth? If so, then the Sweet House Candy Shop is the place for you. Here, check out the exotic candies such as preserved plum, sweet rice paper candy, matcha green tea chocolate bars and even dried savory snacks like salted fish and octopus chips! We love the international chocolate bars offering up flavors we don’t have here stateside. Some examples are strawberry and matcha green tea flavored Kit Kat bars!

You might be parched at this point and if so, make a stop at Joy Yee’s Bubble Tea Shop . If you love smoothies, this place is for you. From over 2 dozen flavors to choose from, you can also customize your ultimate fruit smoothies with the addition of chewy, sweet ‘boba’ or tapioca bubbles.  Don’t be surprised if there is a line out the door to dine in the restaurant or even a long line for the window service specifically for bubble tea shakes. In fact, we suggest you use the time in line to peruse the lengthy dine in menu, complete with li smacking photos and the large bubble tea shake listing… or come up with your own fruity combination on your own!

Walk over to the center of Chinatown Square and enjoy some free shows or people watching at the Pan Asian Cultural Center. The Pan Asian Cultural Center, which is enclosed by statues of the 12 Chinese zodiac animals, is where various concerts and festivals are held. Here you can also check out a 320 sq. ft. mural, constructed of 100,000 individually cut and hand-painted, glass tiles that details the history of Chinese immigrants to the U.S. during the Gold Rush. The square was formerly the sight of the Santa Fe Railroad Yard.

After enjoying your bubble shake at the square, take a peek into AJ Housewares & Gifts . No need to look any further for that perfect wok or a bamboo steamer set or even a pair of good chopsticks! At this stop, they have all the necessary equipment for learning some Chinese cooking techniques and to stock your kitchen with some affordable housewares. Not exactly comfortable in the kitchen? No worries! You can find a lot of great Asian gifts and décor here too. From bamboo plants to even Buddhas, this place got you covered!

A trip to Chinatown wouldn’t be completed without some Peking Duck. The BBQ King House is spot on with their peking duck and you can either dine in or grab some duck or Chinese BBQ to go. The rich golden color of the crispy, glistening skin makes your mouth water just seeing them hung to dry. Don’t resist. Buy some and take it to go. You’ll thank us later. And you’re welcome.

Finally we will end our tour on a sweet note and take in all the sweet bakery smells. No Chinatown tour is complete without a Chinese moon cake and this location has some of the best the city has to offer! Another favorite item here if you prefer something savory are the bao, savory buns that are either baked or steamed and filled with BBQ pork.

If you’re still up for a side trip off the main Chinatown area, take a stroll over to the Ping Tom Memorial Park. Situated next to the south branch of the Chicago River on the north end of Chinatown, this picturesque 12-acre park, with its Chinese-inspired design is a popular backdrop for residents practicing yoga, tai chi and qigong, or simply seeking a moment of respite and solace. A riverwalk extends north toward the athletic field and field house. During the summer months, a water taxi operates between downtown and in July, the park plays host to an annual Dragon Boat Race Festival where a fast-paced boat tournament, with authentic Chinese-style rowing boats, compete and celebrate this ancient Chinese tradition.

End: You can walk back to the red line on S. S. Wentworth Ave to the cross section of S. Wentworth Ave & W. Cermak Rd where the tour started .

+++Check out our other walking tours of Chicago with a real tour guide.+++

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