A Very Chinatown Christmas

While many will be enjoying a traditional Christmas celebration full of festive cheer and stockings hung by the chimney with care, others favor a different form of Holiday festivities. Whether it’s observing the Jewish tradition of Chinese and a movie on Christmas or creating your own version of Festivus, each of us celebrates in a special way. And many of us struggle with the conundrum of finding delicious restaurant options that are open on Christmas. Luckily for all of us, San Francisco’s Chinatown is very much open on Christmas Day, and we’ve compiled a list of our favorite spots for you to enjoy.

Of the more well-known yet still delicious options, you can’t go wrong with the delightfully spicy Szechuan cuisine at Z&Y Restaurant (after all, President Obama has eaten here).  Another of the heavy hitters is Danny Bowien’s Mission Chinese Food; the kitschy decorations and bold twists on classic Chinese menu items are sure to put you in a festive mood. Great Eastern offers an expansive array of dim sum. If you’re celebrating with a group, indulge in one of the Chef’s Selection to get a sampling of their delicious seafood dishes.

Chicken with Explosive Chili Pepper at Z&Y

Danny Bowien at Mission Chinese

For something a little more intimate, head to the House of Nanking. Ask to order from the Chinese menu for super authentic dishes (ask for recommendations, as well as for the vegetable dishes not listed on the menu). Hunan Home’s is another tucked away spot offering a menu of solid old-school Chinese favorites.

If you’re looking to venture outside of Chinatown, the dry-fried chicken wings at San Tung in the Sunset District are sure to hit the spot.

Dry-fried chicken wings at San Tung

If you have any room for dessert, satisfy your sweet tooth with some flaky, custardy egg tarts from Golden Gate Bakery.

Egg Tarts at Golden Gate Bakery

Whatever your traditions, here’s wishing you the Happiest of Holidays, and Happy Eating!