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San Francisco

Mama Ji's in San Francisco's Castro neighborhood is a beloved spot offering authentic and flavorful Chinese cuisine. Reviewers rave about the delicious dishes like fried tofu, Shanghai soup dumplings, Pork Chow Mein, Triple C Tofu, and spicy Cumin lamb. The service is exceptional with friendly staff who are attentive to customers' needs. While some reviewers had mixed experiences with certain dishes or burnt rice, overall Mama Ji's stands out for its quality ingredients and love put into each dish.

Discover Mama Ji's: Authentic Chinese Flavors in San Francisco's Eureka Valley District.

Nestled in the vibrant heart of San Francisco's Eureka Valley, Mama Ji's offers a delightful escape into authentic Chinese cuisine infused with a modern twist. Known for its flavorful dishes and inviting atmosphere, this family-owned gem brings everyday dim sum and spicy Sichuan fare to locals and visitors alike.

Mama Ji's proudly serves a range of delicious plates from classic Shanghai soup dumplings to the highly praised Triple C Tofu, a favorite among regulars. Dive into their spicy Cumin lamb or savor the crispy, moist hot numbing fish that leaves a memorable impression. Whether you're dining in or grabbing takeout, each dish is crafted with quality ingredients and a clear passion for authentic flavors.

 will find satisfying options here, with thoughtfully prepared meat-free dishes that complement the spicy, hearty menu offerings perfectly.

The ambience at Mama Ji's is simple yet cheerful, making it a comfortable spot for lunch, dinner, or brunch with friends and family. With fast service and a friendly staff passionate about the menu, many patrons feel welcomed and well cared for. Outdoor seating is available for those who wish to enjoy San Francisco's fresh air while savoring their meal. The restaurant also serves a selection of beers and wines to complement your dining experience.

 While most guests enjoy attentive service, a few have reported issues with staff behavior, affecting their overall experience. It's advisable to approach with an open mind and communicate any concerns directly.

What are the operating hours of Mama Ji's?

 Mama Ji's operates Monday through Sunday, with lunch service from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM and dinner service from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM.

 Yes, Mama Ji's is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort for all guests.

 Yes, takeout is available for those who prefer to enjoy their meals at home.

 Yes, Mama Ji's offers outdoor seating for guests who prefer dining al fresco.

 Yes, Mama Ji's serves alcoholic beverages, including a selection of beers and wines.

Locals and visitors consistently praise Mama Ji's for its authentic Chinese cuisine with a modern flair. The menu's flavorful dishes and the friendly, passionate service create a welcoming dining environment. While there have been occasional concerns regarding staff conduct, the overall sentiment appreciates the restaurant's dedication to quality and authentic taste.

North America

United States

Mama Ji's, located in the vibrant Eureka Valley of San Francisco, is a family-owned restaurant that specializes in everyday dim sum and spicy Sichuan fare. The cheerful setting invites diners to enjoy a casual yet flavorful experience. With a commitment to quality and authenticity, Mama Ji's has become a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike, offering a delightful blend of traditional and innovative dishes.

At Mama Ji's, the menu showcases a variety of dishes that highlight the rich flavors of Sichuan cuisine. Diners can indulge in favorites like the 'Triple C Tofu', known for its unique preparation and delightful taste. The restaurant also offers a selection of dim sum that is perfect for sharing, making it an ideal spot for family gatherings or casual outings with friends. The ambiance is relaxed, allowing guests to savor their meals at a leisurely pace.

Chowmein - A classic dish that never disappoints.

Shanghai Dumplings - A must-try for dumpling lovers.

Hot Numbing Fish - A standout dish praised for its flavor.

Situated at 4416 18th St, Mama Ji's is conveniently located in the heart of Eureka Valley, a neighborhood known for its rich cultural diversity and vibrant community. Visitors can explore nearby attractions such as the Castro Theatre and Dolores Park, both of which offer unique experiences that complement a visit to the restaurant. The area is also filled with charming shops and cafes, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely day out.

A: Yes, they serve a variety of vegetarian dishes.

A: Yes, outdoor seating is available for guests.

Whether you're a local or just visiting San Francisco, Mama Ji's offers a delightful dining experience that shouldn't be missed. Come and enjoy the flavors of Sichuan cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Everyday dim sum & spicy Sichuan fare with a few twists are served in a simple, cheerful setting.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNyOWFXUXpBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJk5c5ZQR-j4ARhHCzKVyTxTc/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNyOWFXUXpBRRAB

A nice family-owned restaurant. We loved the chowmein, Shanghai dumplings and one of their new Sichuan specials. One of the owners was the server and she was friendly and passionate about her menu. Ambience is okay but service was fast, and food was good.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQOF9YQWdnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJk5c5ZQR-j4ARhHCzKVyTxTc/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQOF9YQWdnRRAB

The food at this restaurant is undeniably excellent, but the behavior of the staff—particularly one waiter—severely detracts from the overall dining experience. I recently took my boyfriend out for dinner, and from the start, the waiter’s attitude was dismissive and unprofessional. When we asked for recommendations on the menu, his curt response was simply, “I don’t know.” Later, when we inquired about their available teas and other beverages, his repeated answer was, “I don’t know,” with no effort to find out or assist us further.

While I understand that language barriers might pose challenges, this was not the root of the issue. The waiter’s attitude escalated at the end of our meal. When we requested the check, he became visibly irritated and raised his voice at me, demanding a tip. I calmly explained that tipping is earned based on service quality, and unfortunately, his behavior did not meet any reasonable standard. Instead of accepting this, he continued to insist, loudly drawing unwanted attention to my partner and me, to the point where other diners were staring. My boyfriend eventually spoke up, telling him that he shouldn’t demand something he hadn’t earned. We left feeling embarrassed and deeply dissatisfied.

This wasn’t an isolated incident. I had a similar experience during a prior visit with a friend. We ordered takeout, which totaled around $70. I tipped $7 through their payment system, only to discover later that the restaurant staff had fraudulently adjusted the tip to $80. I had to contact my bank and the restaurant to resolve the issue. This dishonest behavior is completely unacceptable.

While I’ve met the owner and found her to be a lovely person, I’m unsure if she is aware of how her staff is conducting themselves. It’s shameful that such behavior is allowed to persist, as it ruins what could otherwise be a fantastic dining experience. I fully support tipping when it’s earned, but people need to understand that tips are optional and should be a reflection of good service, not a mandatory surcharge. The behavior I experienced here goes beyond poor service—it’s unethical and unprofessional.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2cG83eGl3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJk5c5ZQR-j4ARhHCzKVyTxTc/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2cG83eGl3RRAB

Not the best Chinese food, for the area it’s good enough if you are in a hurry or don’t want to go all the way to Chinatown.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2ejlPTGdnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJk5c5ZQR-j4ARhHCzKVyTxTc/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2ejlPTGdnRRAB

Absolutely love their 'Triple C Tofu'. Every time I'm in town, I make sure to stop by here just for this dish.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNib3ZtQmh3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJk5c5ZQR-j4ARhHCzKVyTxTc/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNib3ZtQmh3RRAB

Service was excellent. Food comes out quick. The hot numbing fish was exceptional. The fish was moist and the crust was crunchy.  If you like dry fried chicken, try the fish here!

Enjoy Family-Friendly Dining at Mama Ji's in Eureka Valley, SF

Mama Ji's is a family-owned restaurant in San Francisco's Castro neighborhood, known for its authentic Chinese cuisine with a modern twist. The restaurant has gained popularity for its flavorful dishes and friendly service.

Mama Ji's is a family-owned restaurant in San Francisco's Castro neighborhood, known for its authentic Chinese cuisine with a modern twist. The restaurant has gained popularity for its flavorful dishes and friendly service. Established with a vision to bring traditional Chinese flavors to a contemporary audience, Mama Ji's has become a beloved spot for both locals and visitors alike.

The restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity has made it a staple in the community.

• 2013: Mama Ji's graduated from a pop-up cart to a full-fledged dim sum house, offering a regular dim sum menu.
• 2022: The Infatuation included Mama Ji's in their list of the best restaurants in the Castro.

Mama Ji's has thrived in the vibrant Eureka Valley community, where diverse cultures intersect. The restaurant reflects the neighborhood's spirit, embracing both traditional Chinese culinary practices and modern dining trends. This blend has not only attracted a loyal customer base but has also fostered a sense of belonging among patrons.

The heart of Mama Ji's lies in its founders, who are passionate about sharing their heritage through food. Their dedication is evident in every dish, from the chowmein to the signature Shanghai dumplings. The owners often engage with guests, sharing stories and recommendations, which enhances the dining experience.

As culinary trends evolve, Mama Ji's has adapted without losing its essence. The introduction of Sichuan specials showcases the restaurant's commitment to innovation while honoring traditional flavors. This evolution has kept the menu fresh and exciting, appealing to both new and returning customers.

Mama Ji's remains dedicated to its roots, ensuring that every meal is a celebration of culture and community. As it continues to serve delicious dishes in a cheerful setting, the restaurant stands as a testament to the power of family, tradition, and culinary passion.

Dine In

Takeout

Delivery

Restroom

Outdoor Seating

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Good for Groups

Good for Children

Mama Ji's is a delightful culinary gem located in Eureka Valley, San Francisco, known for its everyday dim sum and spicy Sichuan fare served in a cheerful setting. The restaurant offers a vibrant atmosphere with eclectic décor, reflecting the spirit of the neighborhood and a menu that celebrates traditional cuisine with modern twists.

Mama Ji's

Authentic Chinese cuisine with a modern twist, featuring a diverse selection of dim sum, appetizers, main courses, and desserts.

Shanghai Dumplings

Pan Fried Pot Sticker

Crispy Spring Roll

Spicy Cucumber Salad

Bang Bang Chicken

Pork & Cabbage Dumplings

Triple 'C' Wings

Seaweed Salad

Spicy Cold Noodle

Chow Mein

Chow Fan (Fried Rice)

Beef Chow Fun

Ants Climbing Trees

Hot & Sour Fern Root Noodles

Kung Pao Tofu

Chongqing Chicken

Chicken With Asparagus

Beijing Style Chicken & Eggplant

Dry Fried Green Beans

Clay Pot

Country-Style Pork

Boiled Beef Slices In A Fiery Sauce

Fish Fragrant Eggplant

Chinese Broccoli With Garlic

Crispy Eggplant

Mother Chen's Bean Curd

Fish With Chiles & Sichuan Pepper

Xinjiang Cumin Lamb

Steamed Fish With Tofu In Hunan Chile Sauce

Sichuan Beef

Salt-Baked Shrimp With Thai Chiles

Fish Steamed With Salted Chilies & Greens

Triple 'C' Tofu

Stir-Fried Pea Leaves With Garlic

Home-Style Mixed Vegetables

Hot & Numbing Fish

Mama Ji's Country-Style Shrimp

Dry Fried Beef

Sweet & Sour Pork

Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Shrimp

Shrimp With Asparagus

Fish Fragrant Pork

Fish Fragrant Tofu

Wowo Tou

Garlic Spareribs

Hot & Sour Soup

Steamed Golden Lava Buns

Red Bean Buns

Seared Pumpkin Cake

Sesame Balls

Mama Ji's Menu

At Mama Ji's, located in the vibrant Eureka Valley of San Francisco, the culinary philosophy revolves around authentic Chinese cuisine infused with modern twists. This family-owned restaurant specializes in everyday dim sum and spicy Sichuan fare, creating a cheerful atmosphere that invites diners to explore a diverse menu. The focus is on fresh ingredients and traditional recipes, ensuring every dish is a delightful experience.

The menu features a variety of options, from starters to main courses, all designed to cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences.

Mama Ji's offers a selection of standout dishes that showcase the essence of their culinary expertise:

Shanghai Dumplings - Delicate dumplings filled with savory pork, perfect for a starter.

Chow Mein - A classic dish with your choice of chicken, pork, beef, shrimp, or vegetarian.

Triple 'C' Tofu - A fan favorite, this dish features crispy tofu with a delightful sauce.

To complement your meal, Mama Ji's offers a selection of beverages, including local beers and wines. Each drink is thoughtfully chosen to enhance the flavors of the dishes.

Mama Ji's caters to various dietary preferences, offering vegetarian and gluten-free options. The menu is designed to accommodate those with specific allergens, ensuring everyone can enjoy a meal.

For a truly memorable dining experience, the chef recommends trying the Hot & Numbing Fish, a dish that perfectly balances spice and flavor, or the Beef Chow Fun, which is a crowd-pleaser.

Join us at Mama Ji's in San Francisco for an unforgettable dining experience that celebrates authentic Chinese flavors with a modern twist. Whether you're a local or just visiting, our menu is designed to delight your palate.

Savor authentic flavors at Mama Ji's in Eureka Valley, San Francisco. Delight your taste buds with our diverse menu! Visit us today!

Dine at Mama Ji's: Authentic Eats in San Francisco

San Francisco County

Mama Ji's San Francisco Dining Experience in Eureka Valley 94114 CA USA 

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Eureka Valley, Mama Ji's at 4416 18th Street offers a delightful journey into the world of everyday dim sum and spicy Sichuan cuisine. This family-owned gem in San Francisco’s 94114 area code is known for serving comforting dishes with an exciting twist, all within a simple yet cheerful setting that invites everyone to savor authentic flavors.

Whether you are a dim sum enthusiast or a spice lover, Mama Ji's menu offers standout options like their famous Triple C Tofu, hot numbing fish with a crunchy crust, and Shanghai dumplings that guests rave about. The menu caters to all meal occasions, serving lunch, brunch, dinner, and even coffee and dessert, making it a versatile spot for any time of day.

Mama Ji's shines with its family-owned charm and the passion the owners bring to the table, often personally serving guests and sharing stories behind the dishes. The atmosphere is casual and friendly, perfect for families and groups. They offer dine-in, takeout, and delivery options, accommodating busy locals and visitors alike.

 with passionate owners often personally serving guests.

 like hot numbing fish and versatile dim sum favorites.

 including dine-in, takeout, and delivery.

 with seating options including outdoor spaces.

Located in the lively Eureka Valley neighborhood, Mama Ji's provides free street parking options and accepts multiple payment methods including credit, debit, and NFC payments for convenience. The restaurant serves beer and wine, making it a great spot to enjoy a drink with your meal. It's also good for children, ensuring a welcoming environment for families.

Note on service experiences: While many guests appreciate the food quality and fast service, some have reported issues with staff attitude. We recommend visiting with an open mind to enjoy the tasty offerings and lively local atmosphere.

Located in the vibrant Eureka Valley neighborhood of San Francisco, Mama Ji's is a family-owned restaurant that specializes in authentic Chinese cuisine, particularly dim sum and spicy Sichuan dishes. With a cozy and inviting atmosphere, it has become a local favorite for those seeking flavorful meals in a cheerful setting.

Exceptional service with friendly and attentive staff

Diverse menu with both dim sum and Sichuan specialties

Families, casual diners, and those looking for a quick bite will find Mama Ji's to be a delightful option. It's also a great choice for anyone craving authentic Chinese flavors without the need to travel to Chinatown.

Enjoy Family-Friendly Dining at Mama Ji's in Eureka Valley, SF

Dining and Culinary Delights

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Visit Mama Ji's Today

Me & Tasty

Poesia

Thai Chef