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San Francisco

China Live in San Francisco is highly praised for its authentic and innovative Chinese cuisine, attentive service, and vibrant atmosphere. Guests appreciate the open kitchen concept, allowing them to watch chefs prepare dishes in real-time. Signature dishes like the Sheng Jian Bao 'SJB' and House Famous Kung Pao 'Firecracker' are frequently highlighted. The restaurant's ambiance is a blend of modern and traditional elements, creating a unique dining experience. Many patrons also commend the availability of vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, catering to diverse dietary preferences.

Discover china live in san francisco's north beach neighborhood 

Located at 644 Broadway in vibrant San Francisco's North Beach district, China Live is a modern culinary marketplace and restaurant that redefines Chinese dining with a dynamic and energetic atmosphere. This upscale establishment masterfully blends traditional Chinese flavors with innovative California influences, offering an extensive menu that spans Sichuan, Cantonese, Dongbei, Indochine, and Singaporean cuisines. Whether you’re a foodie, a local, or a traveler eager to experience authentic and modern Chinese fare, China Live promises a memorable journey through taste and culture.

a vibrant dining atmosphere with modern flair

Step inside China Live and you’re greeted by a spacious, lively venue divided into intimate zones that make every guest feel welcome, from solo diners at the bar to large groups sharing big tables. The open kitchen layout showcases culinary stations where skilled chefs prepare dishes live, adding an interactive and entertaining dimension to your meal. The atmosphere is youthful and upbeat, perfect for socializing or enjoying a sophisticated night out. Linen napkin table service enhances the modern yet approachable vibe, making it an excellent choice for special occasions or casual dinners alike.

China Live offers a remarkable range of dishes that please both traditionalists and adventurous eaters. Signature items like the 'SJB' Daily Made Pan-Fried Pork Dumplings feature a perfectly crispy crust with juicy fillings, while the Cantonese Fragrant Garlic Chicken boasts a delightfully crispy skin and well-balanced flavors. The menu also caters thoughtfully to vegetarians with standout options such as crisp vegetarian and Impossible dumplings that impress even meat lovers. Desserts like Sesame Soft Serve and Mango Shaved Ice provide a refreshing and indulgent finish to your meal. Diners appreciate the balanced pacing of dish arrivals, ensuring each plate is served hot and fresh.

 ranging from Sichuan spice to Cantonese classics with a modern twist.

 like their signature Impossible dumplings that satisfy even meat enthusiasts.

 served promptly to ensure optimal taste and temperature.

 allowing guests to bring home authentic flavors.

China Live is not only a feast for your taste buds but also convenient and accommodating. They offer dine-in, takeout, delivery, and curbside pickup options, catering to your dining preference. The restaurant welcomes groups and families, providing kid-friendly accommodations though no specific children's menu is offered. Parking is available nearby with both street and paid lot options, including a public parking garage just a block away. Reservations are highly recommended and can be easily made via phone or online platforms to secure your spot in this popular hotspot.

Serves beer, wine, cocktails, and artisan teas

 for those who enjoy dining under the San Francisco sky.

Does China Live offer gluten-free options?

 Yes, China Live provides gluten-free items clearly marked on the main menu.

Is there parking available at China Live?

 Yes, street parking and public parking lots including North Beach Public Parking and Vallejo Parking Garage are nearby.

 Absolutely, reservations are available via phone or online through OpenTable.

China Live consistently earns positive reviews for its lively ambiance, attentive and knowledgeable service, and the authentic yet inventive Chinese cuisine that delights patrons.

While some note that prices are on the higher side, the consensus is that the quality, experience, and unique open kitchen concept make China Live well worth a visit. Its connection to local charities and community initiatives also highlights a meaningful commitment beyond the dining table. Whether you’re craving classic Chinese dishes or modern fusion creations, China Live in San Francisco’s North Beach is a must-visit destination for food lovers seeking a vibrant and authentic cultural experience.

North America

United States

Nestled in the vibrant North Beach neighborhood of San Francisco, **China Live** is not just a restaurant; it’s a culinary journey that invites you to explore the rich tapestry of modern Chinese cuisine. This bustling venue, located at 644 Broadway, boasts an open layout that showcases various cooking stations, allowing diners to witness the artistry behind their meals. From the moment you step inside, the atmosphere buzzes with energy, filled with the enticing aromas of sizzling dishes and the laughter of satisfied guests.

At China Live, the menu is a delightful blend of traditional and contemporary dishes, each crafted with precision and flair. Among the standout offerings are the **'SJB' Daily Made Pan-Fried Pork Dumplings**, featuring a perfectly crisp fried crust that encases a juicy filling, and the **Cantonese Fragrant Garlic Chicken**, renowned for its crispy skin and harmonious flavors. The restaurant also caters to diverse palates with vegetarian options, including the crowd-pleasing Impossible Dumplings, which have even won over meat lovers.

Vegetarian Dumplings: Crisp and flavorful, a must-try for all diners.

Shrimp Fried Rice: A delightful blend of flavors, perfect for sharing.

Conveniently located in the heart of North Beach, China Live is surrounded by a plethora of attractions. Just a short stroll away, you can explore the historic streets of Little Italy, visit Coit Tower for stunning views of the city, or enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront at Fisherman’s Wharf. The vibrant atmosphere of this neighborhood makes it an ideal spot for both locals and travelers alike.

 China Live is celebrated for its modern take on traditional Chinese cuisine, offering a diverse menu that includes both classic and innovative dishes.

 The restaurant offers a unique dining experience with an open kitchen concept, allowing guests to witness the culinary magic firsthand.

 There is a convenient paid parking lot right across the street, making it easy for diners to access the restaurant.

Whether you’re a local or visiting San Francisco, China Live promises an unforgettable dining experience filled with flavor and excitement. Gather your friends and family, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere while enjoying a meal that celebrates the best of modern Chinese cuisine. Don’t miss out on this culinary gem—**book your table today** and indulge in a feast that will leave you craving more.

Modern marketplace and culinary stop offering multi-course Chinese fare, casual snacks, and artisan teas.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzNlk3a2tnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJx1IXkvOAhYARMNdQA5IcmEc/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzNlk3a2tnRRAB

Three of us had dinner with a reservation. This is a large commercial venue with linen napkin table service. They have divided the seating up by zones so it feels a little more intimate (until you go to use the restroom and realize just how big the place is). The good news is that they can take singles at the bar and large parties at big tables. The menu is a check the box paper disposable so while its not as personal the server did check in about our choices. The food came out in a reasonable time given how large and how busy they were. The atmosphere is very modern and up beat with lots of young people and several open kitchen stations with staff working on a specialty. Fun to watch. Our food was very good and well prepared. As a modern upscale Chinese restaurant they hit that mark very well. The menu is large. We enjoyed both classic dishes and California fusion.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURYMXRiNTdBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJx1IXkvOAhYARMNdQA5IcmEc/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURYMXRiNTdBRRAB

We really enjoyed our experience at China Live. Our waitress was helpful and patient in helping us navigate the (long) menu. We ordered a mix of vegetarian and meat dishes. The best (from a vegetarian's perspective) were the vegetarian dumplings which were nice and crisp and the Impossible dumplings (perfect for vegetarians that like the taste of meat; they blew even the meat lovers away). We then ordered a shrimp fried rice and delicious green beans which were perfectly crunchy. We will be back soon and will try desert without a doubt!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzN0tIa2pnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJx1IXkvOAhYARMNdQA5IcmEc/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzN0tIa2pnRRAB

We went for an early dinner. It was fantastic. From the service to the food, everything was great. The food was fresh and good. We liked the way they brought the dishes as they were ready. This made it so each dish was just off the stove fresh and hot. I would return the next time I am in town.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURmNXRPNFVREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJx1IXkvOAhYARMNdQA5IcmEc/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURmNXRPNFVREAE

China Live offers a delightful dining experience with a focus on flavorful Chinese cuisine and excellent service. We made a reservation for an early dinner at 5 PM and were seated promptly without any wait.
Our waiter was knowledgeable about the menu and guided us through the ordering process, suggesting family-style dining and recommending about four dishes for our group of three. This advice was incredibly helpful and ensured a balanced meal.
The food itself was impressive:
'SJB' Daily Made Pan-Fried Pork Dumplings: These were a standout, with a perfectly crisp fried crust that complemented the juicy filling.
Cantonese Fragrant Garlic Chicken: The chicken had a delightfully crispy skin, and the flavors were well-balanced and satisfying.
Desserts: Our server suggested the Sesame Soft Serve and Mango Shaved Ice, which turned out to be an excellent choice. The crunchiness of the chocolate paired beautifully with the creamy ice cream and refreshing shaved ice.
One unique aspect of China Live is the open layout, where you can see various cooking stations scattered throughout the restaurant, with dining tables arranged around them. This setup creates an immersive and interactive dining experience. Additionally, they make and sell their own sauces, so if you love a particular flavor, you can take it home with you—an excellent touch for food enthusiasts.
That said, the menu offers a wide variety of cuisines, from Sichuan and Dongbei to Cantonese, Indochine, and Singaporean styles, all presented with a modern twist. While this diversity is exciting, it can be a bit challenging to figure out how to order dishes that complement each other for a balanced meal.
The overall experience was smooth and enjoyable. If you're worried about parking, there’s a convenient parking lot right across the street for $20.
China Live is a great spot for flavorful dishes, thoughtful service, and a unique dining atmosphere. Highly recommended for a modern Chinese dining experience in San Francisco.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzeTVyYkhnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJx1IXkvOAhYARMNdQA5IcmEc/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzeTVyYkhnEAE

We had dinner at China Live with my partner. The food was really tasty and the dishes were huge. We tried the baos, the duck, some dumplings and the kung pao chicken. Most of the dishes are a little spicy, so take that into account if you are not used to spicy food. Inside the place is really beautiful!

Experience Modern Chinese Cuisine at China Live, SF

China Live, established by Chef George Chen, is a renowned Chinese restaurant in San Francisco's Chinatown, celebrated for its innovative approach to traditional Chinese cuisine and its vibrant dining experience.

China Live: A Modern Culinary Icon in San Francisco's Chinatown 

Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of North Beach, San Francisco, China Live stands as a beacon of contemporary Chinese cuisine and culture. Founded in 2017 by visionary restaurateurs George and Cindy Chen, this expansive 30,000-square-foot food emporium has quickly become a landmark destination for foodies and travelers seeking an immersive dining and shopping experience.

for China Live, as George and Cindy Chen launched this unique culinary concept that blends a marketplace, multiple dining venues, and a retail store under one roof. Their innovative approach earned instant recognition, with China Live being named "Restaurant of the Year" by Eater San Francisco the same year. Additionally, the establishment earned a spot in Time magazine's prestigious "World's Greatest Places" list, cementing its reputation as a must-visit culinary destination.

A Unique Marketplace and Dining Experience

China Live redefines the traditional notion of a Chinese restaurant by offering a dynamic marketplace where visitors can explore a wide array of authentic Chinese ingredients, sauces, and artisan teas. The venue’s open kitchen stations allow diners to watch skilled chefs craft dishes that span diverse regional cuisines, from Sichuan’s bold flavors to Cantonese classics, all with a modern California fusion twist. This interactive and educational setup creates an engaging atmosphere that appeals to locals and tourists alike.

Guests appreciate the large and thoughtfully designed space, which offers intimate zones and accommodates both solo diners at the bar and large groups at expansive tables. The comprehensive menu features everything from crisp vegetarian and Impossible dumplings to flavorful shrimp fried rice and fragrant garlic chicken, catering to varied tastes and dietary preferences. The attentive and knowledgeable service, combined with the option to purchase proprietary sauces, enhances the overall experience.

 that balance traditional Chinese tastes with modern culinary innovation.

 providing an immersive culinary theater experience.

 including paid parking and a family-friendly environment.

Dine In

Takeout

Delivery

Outdoor Seating

Good for Groups

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

Curbside Pickup

China Live is a modern marketplace and culinary stop in North Beach, San Francisco, offering a fusion of traditional and contemporary Chinese cuisine, including multi-course meals, casual snacks, and artisan teas.

China Live

Experience a diverse array of traditional and modern Chinese dishes, including salads, starters, main courses, and desserts, all crafted with seasonal, sustainable ingredients.

Chrysanthemum Ten Ingredient Salad, Plum Vinaigrette

Shrimp & Green Papaya, Herb Salad

Bang Bang Spicy Cold Noodle Salad with Chicken

Winter Peking Duck Salad, Grapefruit & Roasted Beets, Wonton Chips, Jujube Dressing

Ahi Tuna Poke, Sweet Onions, Cashews, Wonton & Rice Chips

"Betelnut" Minced Chicken Lettuce Cup (6) / Or Tofu (Vg)

Singapore Chicken Wings with Chef Chen's Famous Chili Crisp

Basket of Fried Scallion Bread (5) with Handcrafted Lemongrass Sichuan Peppercorn Jelly (Vg)

Grilled Indochine Chicken Satay Skewers with Savory Spicy Peanut Sauce, Marinated Cucumbers

Dungeness Crab & Shrimp Spring Handrolls, Dual Dipping Sauce (8)

Famous Sheng Jian Bao 'SJB' Daily Made Pan-Fried Pork Dumplings (5). Hot & Juicy Inside!

Dongbei Vegetarian Long Pot Stickers (4) (Vg)

Shanghai Xiao Long Bao 'XLB' Soup Dumplings, 18 Folds Open Chimney Kurobuta Pork with Ginger Vinegar (6)

Shrimp & Scallop Shumai Dumpling (4)

Sichuan "Working Hands" Pork Dumplings, Sesame Butter, Peppercorn-Chili Broth (10)

"Impossible" Sichuan Working Hands Dumplings (10) (Vt)

Shandong Chicken 'Shui Jiao' Dumplings with Chili Broth

Peking Duck" in Sesame Pockets (5)

Kurobuta Pork Char Siu, Hot Mustard

Taiwan Braised Pork Belly "Gua Bao" Lotus Bun (3)

Char Siu BBQ Pork "Dutch Crunch" Baked Buns (3)

Miso-Glazed Pan-Roasted Chilean Sea Bass

House Famous Kung Pao "Firecracker" Prawns

Sichuan Red Chili Prawns, Rice Lees, Bloomsdale Spinach

Roasted Eggplant Claypot, Basil & Shallots (Vg)

Three Styles Spicy Tofu Medley with Seasonal Veg - Family Style (Vg)

Yu Choi, Roasted Black Garlic (Vg, Gf)

Sichuan Blistered Green Beans, Yunnan Olive, Pickled Radish, Salted Plum, Mushroom & Toon Paste (Vg)

Charred Chinese Broccoli, Oyster Mushroom, Roasted Sesame Seeds (Vg, Gf)

Sweet & Sour Cauliflower - Lychee Poppers with Caramelized Pecans (Vg)

Hong Kong Wok-Fried Egg Noodles with Mushroom & Bok Choy

Niangao New Year Cake, Lap Cheong, House XO Sauce

Shanghai 'Fat' Chow Mein Pork, Shrimp, Chicken & Seasonal Vegetables

'Dan Dan' Style Hot Dry Noodles 'ReGanMian'

Taiwan "Most Loved" Lu Rou Fan Braised Minced Pork Rice Bowl, Bok Choy

Yangzhou Fried Rice

Taiwan Best Braised Beef Noodle Soup

Steamed Jasmine Rice (Vg, Gf)

Sesame Soft Serve, Mango Shaved Ice (Vt, Gf)

Macha Lava Cake with Matcha Ice Cream (Vt)

Peking Duck Fat Popcorn

Cindy's Pineapple Walnut Spice Carrot Cake (Vt)

Mandarin Chocolate Brownie with Lychee Ice Cream (Vt)

Broken Fortune Cookies & Dark Chocolate (Vt)

Ice Cream : Lychee, Sesame or Mixed (Vt, Gf)

Peking Duck Fat Popcorn Over Soft Serve Ice Cream

China Live Menu

Discover the vibrant culinary world of China Live, a modern marketplace and dining destination nestled in San Francisco's North Beach. This expansive venue offers an immersive experience featuring multi-course Chinese fare, casual snacks, and artisan teas. The extensive menu blends traditional Chinese flavors with contemporary California fusion, serving up a range of dishes that appeal to both classic and adventurous palates.

Begin your meal with the irresistible Sheng Jian Bao Dumplings, pan-fried pork dumplings boasting a perfectly crisp exterior and juicy, savory filling that sets the tone for an authentic Chinese dining experience. These dumplings are a beloved staple, adored by vegetarians and meat lovers alike for their satisfying texture and bold flavors.

The main course menu highlights a variety of dishes crafted with seasonal and sustainable ingredients. Savor the Stone Oven Roasted Duck Peking Style glazed with seasonal fruits, delivering a harmonious balance of tender meat and fruity sweetness. The Taipei Braised Beef Noodle Soup offers comfort in a bowl with its rich broth, tender beef, and perfectly cooked noodles. For rice lovers, the Three Treasure Bao Zai Fan features a savory claypot rice with lap cheong, la rou, and cured duck. Those seeking a lighter, refreshing option can enjoy the Chrysanthemum Salad enhanced by starfruit vinegar, a vibrant dish showcasing fresh vegetables and floral notes.

End your meal on a sweet note with the Sesame Soft Serve and Mango Shaved Ice. The sesame ice cream offers a creamy, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the refreshing mango shaved ice, creating a delightful contrast of textures and tastes that perfectly cap off your dining experience.

China Live complements its flavorful menu with a curated selection of artisan teas, cocktails, beer, and wine, catering to diverse tastes and enhancing your meal. The lively modern atmosphere and open kitchen stations offer a unique backdrop where you can watch skilled chefs craft each dish. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample their house-made sauces, available for purchase, allowing you to take a piece of China Live’s culinary magic home.

 blending traditional and California fusion flavors.

 including vegetarian and meat dishes suitable for groups and families.

 providing an engaging atmosphere with live cooking stations.

 available for purchase to extend your experience beyond the restaurant.

Experience the vibrant flavors of China Live in North Beach, San Francisco. Indulge in authentic Chinese cuisine today!

China Live: Authentic Dining in North Beach, SF

San Francisco County

The heart of China Live, featuring a diverse array of dishes crafted by talented chefs using sustainable, farm-to-table practices.

Main Dining Hall

An award-winning bar inspired by Shanghai’s historic French Concession, offering curated cocktails and an extensive whiskey selection.

Cold Drinks Bar

An exclusive dining experience offering a hyper-seasonal, omakase-style menu in an intimate setting.

Eight Tables by George Chen

China Live San Francisco Dining Experience at 644 Broadway North Beach CA USA 94133 US United States California SF San Francisco County SF CA 94133 Broadway 644 North Beach 644 Broadway China Live Eight Tables by George Chen Cold Drinks Bar modern marketplace culinary stop multi-course Chinese fare casual snacks artisan teas vegetarian food cocktails bar restaurant food point of interest establishment modern upscale Chinese restaurant open kitchen stations family-style dining pan-fried pork dumplings Cantonese fragrant garlic chicken sesame soft serve mango shaved ice sauces Sichuan Dongbei Cantonese Indochine Singaporean styles California fusion delightful dining experience flavorful Chinese cuisine excellent service spacious venue linen napkin table service vibrant atmosphere intimate zones singles bar large parties big tables reservation recommended parking lot 20 dollars vibrant atmosphere young people open kitchen stations specialty cooking interactive dining experience large menu vegetarian dumplings impossible dumplings crispy crunchy dishes spicy food fresh food fresh and hot giant dishes baos duck dumplings kung pao chicken tasty dishes spicy ambiance beautiful interior North Beach culinary destination unique dining atmosphere vibrant nightlife foodies digital nomads trend-conscious travelers

California

Experience innovative Chinese cuisine, vibrant atmosphere, and signature dishes at China Live in San Francisco's North Beach. Reserve now!

china live menu overview

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why dine at china live

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