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San Francisco, California / Food and drink

Hang Ah Tea Room

Step into history at the Hang Ah Tea Room, the oldest dim sum restaurant in the United States, serving traditional Cantonese delicacies in the heart of San Francisco since 1920.

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Hang Ah Tea Room
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What is Hang Ah Tea Room known for?

It is known as America's first and oldest dim sum restaurant, having opened in 1920. Its name translates to 'fragrance' in Cantonese.

What are the hours?

The restaurant is open daily from 10:30 AM to 8:30 PM.

What food do they serve?

They serve a variety of dim sum, including crispy potstickers, char siu bao, shu mai, chicken feet in black bean sauce, and pan-fried pork baos. They also offer sweet dumplings filled with egg custard or red bean paste, and wontons in chili oil.

Is there anything special I can buy to take home?

Yes, they sell a house-made garlicky chili oil that is a favorite among regulars.

Where is it located?

It is located at 1 Pagoda Place, San Francisco, CA, USA.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Hang Ah Tea Room holds a prestigious place in American culinary history as the first dim sum parlor in the United States. Established in 1920, the restaurant's name translates to 'fragrance' in Cantonese, setting a sensory tone for a dining experience that has spanned over a century. This historic establishment continues to be a cornerstone of the community, now managed by co-owners Frank Chui and Billy Lai, who took over the business in 2014. Visitors can indulge in a menu that balances timeless classics with modern experimentation. Traditional favorites include shu mai, char siu bao, and chicken feet simmered in a savory black bean sauce. For those seeking a specific texture, the har gow shrimp dumplings are praised for their bouncy consistency, while pan-fried pork baos offer a contrast between a juicy interior and a crispy bottom. The kitchen also introduces new items every four to six months, such as recent sweet dumplings filled with red bean paste or egg custard. Beyond the steamed baskets, the tea room is renowned for its bold flavors. Wontons in chili oil provide a balanced heat that avoids overpowering the palate. One of the most sought-after items is the house-made garlicky chili oil, which is so popular among regulars that it is sold in jars to take home. Whether you are visiting for a full meal or a quick snack, the establishment maintains a daily schedule from 10:30 AM to 8:30 PM at 1 Pagoda Place.

Visitor tips

  • Plan your visit between 10:30 AM and 8:30 PM to ensure the kitchen is open.
  • Pick up a jar of the house-made garlicky chili oil as a unique edible souvenir.
  • Try the pan-fried pork baos while they are piping hot for the best crispy texture.
  • Allow extra time to navigate the narrow walkways of Pagoda Place.

Nearby context

Located at 1 Pagoda Place, the Hang Ah Tea Room is nestled within the dense, atmospheric corridors of San Francisco's Chinatown, where historic architecture meets vibrant street commerce.

Sources

Evidence and links