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San Francisco

Diners appreciate the authentic Hong Kong-style BBQ, generous portion sizes, and friendly service. The all-you-can-eat hot pot is particularly popular, offering a variety of meats, vegetables, and flavorful Chinese dishes. Some patrons note the environment can be noisy, but the overall experience is enjoyable.

Discover Chef Li's Cafe HK B.B.Q in San Francisco's Portola Neighborhood 

Tucked away at 2726 San Bruno Avenue, Chef Li's Cafe HK B.B.Q offers a vibrant taste of authentic Hong Kong-style barbecue and Chinese cuisine in the heart of San Francisco's lively Portola district. This compact, family-owned gem is cherished for its welcoming ambiance, generous portions, and budget-friendly prices — perfect for foodies, families, and locals seeking a flavorful and relaxed dining experience.

Experience Authentic Hong Kong-Style BBQ and More

Chef Li's menu is a delightful showcase of classic Hong Kong flavors featuring signature dishes like tender roasted duck, savory soy sauce chicken, and sweet and sour fried pork chops. Diners rave about the variety of options that cater to all tastes, including their popular Fujian fried rice and flavorful beef tomato dishes. The hot pot offering is a standout, providing an all-you-can-eat feast with a $26 price tag that covers an extensive selection of meats, vegetables, noodles, and homemade delights like shrimp paste and wontons.

the generous portion sizes and accessible pricing

 without sacrificing quality. While some dishes, like sesame chicken, have received mixed reviews, the overall sentiment highlights the friendly staff and speedy service that make dining here a pleasant experience.

Family-Friendly Amenities and Accessibility

Chef Li's Cafe welcomes guests of all ages with amenities like wheelchair-accessible seating, high chairs for children, and a comfortable dining environment suitable for groups. Whether you're planning a casual lunch, dinner with friends, or a family outing, this restaurant is equipped to accommodate your needs. Though the venue does not offer outdoor seating or alcoholic beverages, it ensures a hassle-free dining experience with options for dine-in, takeout, and delivery.

Frequently Asked Questions about Chef Li's Cafe HK B.B.Q

What are the operating hours of Chef Li's Cafe Hk B.B.Q?

 The restaurant operates daily from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Does Chef Li's Cafe Hk B.B.Q offer all-you-can-eat hot pot?

 Yes, they offer an all-you-can-eat hot pot for $26, featuring a variety of meats, vegetables, and flavorful Chinese dishes.

 Yes, Chef Li's Cafe Hk B.B.Q provides wheelchair-accessible seating and entrances.

 Yes, reservations are accepted to ensure a comfortable dining experience.

Are pets allowed at Chef Li's Cafe Hk B.B.Q?

 Yes, the restaurant is pet-friendly, accommodating pets in their outdoor seating area.

Chef Li's Cafe HK B.B.Q has cultivated a positive reputation within the Portola neighborhood for its consistent quality and hospitable service. Community members appreciate the family-owned charm, the variety of authentic dishes, and the overall value offered. While some dishes may vary in quality, the majority of patrons applaud the restaurant's dedication to delivering satisfying flavors and a welcoming environment for all guests. Whether you're a local resident or a traveler seeking an authentic Chinese dining experience, Chef Li's is a must-visit spot in San Francisco.

North America

United States

Located at 2726 San Bruno Ave in the Portola neighborhood of San Francisco, Chef Li's Cafe Hk B.B.Q is a compact, family-owned eatery that specializes in Hong Kong-style barbecue and hot pot dishes. Since opening its doors, this restaurant has become a local favorite, known for its relaxed atmosphere and friendly service. The establishment prides itself on offering familiar Chinese dishes that evoke a sense of nostalgia while appealing to both locals and visitors alike. With a commitment to quality and affordability, Chef Li's Cafe is a welcoming spot for families and friends to gather over delicious meals.

Chef Li's Cafe offers a diverse menu that features a variety of dishes, perfect for both casual diners and those seeking a hearty meal. The highlight of the menu includes their all-you-can-eat hot pot option, which has garnered rave reviews for its value and selection. Diners can enjoy a range of meats, vegetables, and noodles, making it a great choice for groups. Additionally, the cafe serves classic Chinese dishes that are both comforting and satisfying.

Roasted Duck - A must-try dish, praised for its rich flavor and tender meat.

Fujian Fried Rice - A flavorful rice dish that complements any meal.

Tomato Beef Crispy Noodles - A delightful dish with a perfect balance of textures.

Situated in the Portola neighborhood, Chef Li's Cafe is surrounded by a community rich in cultural diversity. The area is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and local parks, making it an ideal spot for families to enjoy a meal together. Nearby attractions include various shops and parks, providing a vibrant backdrop for a day out. The cafe's location makes it a convenient stop for those exploring the broader San Francisco area.

Q: Do you offer takeout options? A: Yes, takeout is available.

Q: Is there outdoor seating? A: No, the cafe does not have outdoor seating.

Q: Do you accept credit cards? A: Yes, credit cards are accepted.

Whether you're craving a comforting bowl of hot pot or a flavorful plate of roasted duck, Chef Li's Cafe Hk B.B.Q is ready to serve you. Join us at our San Francisco location for a delightful dining experience that promises to satisfy your taste buds and warm your heart.

Compact, family-owned eatery providing familiar Chinese dishes & hot pot soups in a relaxed setting.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURmeW9PSzVBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJY2BJ9-J-j4ARj_pzeKOJHF8/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURmeW9PSzVBRRAB

Menu was relatively cheap, portion sizes are good for the price.
Free soup was decent but had a funky smell.
Sesame chicken was rubbery, do not get it.
Roasted pork was tender.
Fujian fried rice was great.
Beef tomato was good but missing eggs.

All in all, you get what you pay for.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ3NkxmM3B3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJY2BJ9-J-j4ARj_pzeKOJHF8/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ3NkxmM3B3RRAB

Love the service and their food always quick and nice people work there and good price

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURva0wyNmlRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJY2BJ9-J-j4ARj_pzeKOJHF8/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURva0wyNmlRRRAB

VALUE! $26 all you can eat hotpot with a huge menu! They have everything from the standard hotpot meats/veggies/noodles, plus BBQ meats from their front store, plus many other miscellaneous Chinese dishes. The meats were solid but not the best. (I thought lamb was the best.) My favorites were their homemade shrimp paste and wontons.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR1aU5DSTVBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJY2BJ9-J-j4ARj_pzeKOJHF8/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR1aU5DSTVBRRAB

Chef Li's cafe started to serving HongKong style B.B.Q since August 1, we will happy to serving you the best quality food and best service. Highly recommend to try the roasted duck 😍

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURPNTVxS3FBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJY2BJ9-J-j4ARj_pzeKOJHF8/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURPNTVxS3FBRRAB

There are rumors the staff from the defunct Wing Hing restaurant down the street are now working here. I came here to see if that was true. Nope, I didn't see anyone I recognize. Maybe they are working another shift. I noticed Chef Li's awning changed their Chinese name from 好滋味 to 永興 (Wing Hing). That can't be a coincidence right? My sentiments remain the same. Hopefully the nice people from Wing Hing all landed a new job or have retired.

My tomato beef crispy noodles $13 was excellent. It wasn't overly soaked with sauce and crispy. Good job staff at Chef Li's.

Delicious Hong Kong BBQ at Chef Li's Cafe in Portola, SF

Chef Li's Cafe Hk B.B.Q is a family-owned Chinese restaurant in San Francisco, specializing in authentic Hong Kong-style BBQ and traditional Chinese cuisine. Known for its all-you-can-eat hot pot and signature roasted duck, the restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and friendly service.

Chef Li's Cafe Hk B.B.Q history overview.

 is a beloved family-owned Chinese restaurant nestled in the heart of San Francisco's Portola neighborhood at 2726 San Bruno Avenue. Since its opening in 2015, it has earned a reputation for delivering authentic Hong Kong-style barbecue and a wide array of flavorful Chinese dishes, all served in a cozy and casual environment that welcomes locals and visitors alike.

The journey of Chef Li's Cafe began in 2015 when the restaurant first opened its doors in the vibrant Portola district. Quickly becoming a neighborhood mainstay, it distinguished itself by offering generous portions of traditional dishes at very reasonable prices, appealing especially to families and groups looking for authentic Chinese flavors without the hefty price tag.

In 2017, Chef Li's Cafe expanded its culinary offerings by introducing an all-you-can-eat hot pot option. This addition was met with enthusiasm, attracting diners eager to indulge in an interactive, communal dining experience featuring a variety of meats, vegetables, and noodles, solidifying the restaurant’s position in the local food scene.

By 2020, the menu grew even more diverse, incorporating a broader selection of classic Chinese dishes beyond the original BBQ and hot pot specialties. This evolution allowed Chef Li's Cafe to cater to an even wider audience while maintaining the quality and authenticity that diners had come to expect.

 Chef Li's Cafe Hk B.B.Q started welcoming guests, establishing its roots in San Francisco's Portola neighborhood.

 The restaurant introduced a popular hot pot dining option that boosted its appeal.

 More traditional Chinese dishes were added, broadening the culinary choices for customers.

 Celebrating nearly a decade of serving the Portola community with dedication and tradition.

local favorite for authentic chinese cuisine

Chef Li's Cafe Hk B.B.Q is celebrated among San Francisco residents for its flavorful, authentic Hong Kong-style barbecue—particularly the roasted duck, which remains a highly recommended dish. Alongside the BBQ, the establishment offers a variety of Chinese favorites, including Fujian fried rice and tomato beef dishes, pleasing a broad spectrum of palates.

The restaurant's commitment to generous portion sizes at affordable prices has made it very popular for casual family meals and group dining. Its relaxed setting and accommodating service create an inviting atmosphere where guests can enjoy classic Chinese flavors in an unpretentious environment.

 providing great value without compromising taste.

 signature dishes like roasted duck are crowd favorites.

 including diverse Chinese dishes and hot pot selections.

Dine In

Takeout

Delivery

Restroom

Good for Groups

Good for Children

Chef Li's Cafe Hk B.B.Q is a compact, family-owned eatery in San Francisco's Portola neighborhood, offering familiar Chinese dishes and hot pot soups in a relaxed setting. The restaurant features traditional decor and a menu filled with authentic BBQ dishes, including char siu and roasted duck.

Chef Li's Cafe Hk B.B.Q

Authentic Chinese BBQ and comfort food offerings.

House Special over Rice Plate

Pork Spareribs with Green Bean over Rice Plate

Mongolian Beef over Rice Plate

Beef with Scrambled Egg over Rice Plate

Beef with Broccoli over Rice Plate

Kung Pao Chicken over Rice Plate

Sweet and Sour Chicken over Rice Plate

Broccoli with Chicken over Rice Plate

Shrimp with Scrambled Egg over Rice Plate

Ma Po Tofu over Rice Plate

Eggplant in Garlic Sauce over Rice Plate

Rock Cod with Tofu Skin over Rice Plate

BBQ Duck over Rice

BBQ Pork Belly over Rice

BBQ Pork over Rice

BBQ Pork Ribs over Rice

Soy Sauce Chicken over Rice

Steam Chicken over Rice

Double BBQ over Rice

Chef Li's Cafe Menu

Chef Li's Cafe Hk B.B.Q in Portola, San Francisco, offers a delightful array of authentic Chinese BBQ and comfort food. With a focus on Hong Kong-style dishes, the cafe prides itself on providing familiar flavors in a relaxed setting. The culinary philosophy centers around quality ingredients and traditional cooking techniques, ensuring that every dish is a reflection of the rich culinary heritage of Chinese cuisine.

The menu features a variety of signature dishes that highlight the essence of Chef Li's culinary expertise.

House Special over Rice Plate - A hearty dish featuring assorted meats and vegetables served over rice.

Mongolian Beef over Rice Plate - Tender beef stir-fried with onions, served over a bed of rice.

BBQ Duck over Rice - A succulent serving of BBQ duck paired perfectly with rice.

Kung Pao Chicken over Rice Plate - A spicy and nutty dish featuring chicken and peanuts.

While Chef Li's Cafe does not serve alcohol, the menu is complemented by a selection of refreshing beverages, including traditional Chinese teas and soft drinks that enhance the dining experience.

Chef Li's Cafe caters to various dietary preferences, offering vegetarian and gluten-free options. The staff is knowledgeable about allergens and can assist diners with specific dietary needs.

For a seasonal highlight, the Roasted Duck is highly recommended, praised for its rich flavor and tender meat. Another favorite is the Fujian Fried Rice, a dish that captures the essence of comfort food.

Join us at Chef Li's Cafe Hk B.B.Q in San Francisco for an unforgettable dining experience filled with authentic flavors and comforting dishes that will leave you wanting more.

Savor authentic HK BBQ at Chef Li's Cafe in Portola, SF! Experience mouthwatering dishes in a cozy atmosphere. Taste the adventure today!

Chef Li's Cafe: Authentic HK BBQ in Portola, SF

San Francisco County

A variety of meats, vegetables, and flavorful Chinese dishes.

All-You-Can-Eat Hot Pot

Roasted Duck

Crispy noodles topped with savory tomato beef.

Crispy Tomato Beef Noodles

chef li's cafe hk b.b.q san francisco dining experience overview 

Nestled in the vibrant Portola neighborhood of San Francisco, Chef Li's Cafe HK B.B.Q is a compact, family-owned restaurant that brings a delicious slice of Hong Kong-style barbecue and Chinese cuisine to the Bay Area. Known for its relaxed setting and welcoming atmosphere, this spot offers a diverse menu that caters to food lovers who crave authentic flavors without breaking the bank.

signature dishes and all-you-can-eat hot pot

One of the standout offerings at Chef Li's Cafe is the incredible all-you-can-eat hot pot priced at just $26. This feast includes a wide variety of meats, fresh vegetables, noodles, and flavorful Chinese dishes that promise a satisfying and interactive dining experience. Guests rave about the homemade shrimp paste and wontons, with lamb being a popular meat choice for its rich taste.

 is another must-try dish at $14.99, celebrated for its succulent texture and perfect roast. For lovers of classic flavors, the tender Soy Sauce Chicken priced at $12.95 offers a savory and moist experience, while the Sweet and Sour Fried Pork Chops at $16.95 deliver a crispy, tangy delight that balances sweetness and acidity beautifully.

Chef Li's Cafe offers both dine-in and takeout services, making it a flexible option for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner. The restaurant also welcomes groups and families, featuring a menu suitable for children and convenient amenities like restrooms. While outdoor seating and alcoholic beverages are not available, the cafe's efficient and friendly service ensures a pleasant visit every time.

 with generous portion sizes ideal for budget-conscious diners.

 featuring traditional Hong Kong BBQ classics alongside comforting Chinese hot pot.

 complete with children's menu options and attentive service.

 including credit, debit, and NFC, making transactions smooth and quick.

While opinions vary, many patrons appreciate the value and quick service at Chef Li's Cafe. Highlights include hearty portions of Fujian fried rice and the beloved roasted pork. Some reviews note the sesame chicken can be inconsistent, but most agree the overall experience delivers satisfying flavors at wallet-friendly prices. The cafe's commitment to quality and warm hospitality makes it a favorite local spot for comfort Chinese food in San Francisco.

Located at 2726 San Bruno Ave in the Portola neighborhood of San Francisco, Chef Li's Cafe Hk B.B.Q is a compact, family-owned eatery that specializes in authentic Hong Kong-style BBQ and hot pot dishes. With a relaxed atmosphere, this restaurant offers a variety of familiar Chinese dishes, making it a popular choice for locals and visitors alike.

• Authentic Hong Kong-style BBQ
• Generous portion sizes
• Friendly service
• Affordable prices
• All-you-can-eat hot pot option

• Noisy environment
• Limited vegetarian options

Families, casual dining, and groups looking for a hearty meal without breaking the bank.

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours. The restaurant offers takeout and delivery options, making it convenient for those on the go.

Chef Li's Cafe Hk B.B.Q is a solid choice for those craving authentic Chinese flavors in a casual setting. While it may not be the quietest place to dine, the friendly service and generous portions make it worthwhile. With its affordable prices and diverse menu, this eatery is a great spot for families and groups alike.

California

Discover Chef Li's Cafe HK B.B.Q in San Francisco's Portola. Enjoy authentic Hong Kong-style BBQ, hot pot, and friendly service in a cozy setting.

Chef Li's Cafe HK B.B.Q - San Francisco's Family Chinese Experience

Savor authentic Chinese BBQ and hot pot at Chef Li's Cafe in Portola, San Francisco. Perfect for family, groups, and hotpot enthusiasts. Book now!

Experience the Best Chinese BBQ & Hot Pot in San Francisco | Chef Li's Cafe

Opening hours for Chef Li's Cafe HK B.B.Q, San Francisco. Find opening hours for Chef Li's Cafe HK B.B.Q, San Francisco on 2726 San Bruno Ave - novacircle.com

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