Empress by Boon

838 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA

★★★★4.1(519 Google reviews)

Crema's Take

Tucked away in Chinatown with sweeping views of North Beach, this hidden gem elevates the dining experience with refined casual elegance and a tasting menu of modernized Cantonese cuisine that feels like a masterclass. The intimate, cozy interior paired with impeccable service makes it an enchanting destination for special occasions, whether you're seeking a romantic date night or simply craving thoughtfully prepared, artfully presented food. Arrive with time to linger—this is the kind of place where every detail, from the atmosphere to the fresh, beautifully crafted dishes, invites you to slow down and savor.

What to expect

Specialty drinksLate nightsSignature drinksMeetingsSlow sitTraditional drinks

Google Reviews

Zhao Parks
★★★★★a month ago

Our date night at Empress was a truly enchanting experience from start to finish. The romantic and elegant atmosphere set the perfect tone for the evening. The cocktails felt like works of art. We like their wine list. Our server recommended a nice bottle of dry Riesling. When it came to the food, we were absolutely blown away. The chicken salad with papaya and mango was a delightful blend of flavors, each bite revealing intriguing layers of taste. The black cod, as always, was a pinnacle of delicacy and deliciousness. The wagyu beef was pure luxury . It simply melted in our mouths. The eggplant with meat, a nostalgic reminder of my grandmother's cooking that added a comforting touch to the meal. The rice with sea urchin was subtle yet packed a flavorful punch. The desert was delicious. Service was warm, attentive, and professional, with special mention to Boon, who greeted guests at each table. It felt very special to talk to him. Everything at Empress by Boon was exquisite and unforgettable. We can't wait to return for another exceptional dining experience.

Agustin Farias
★★★★★2 months ago

First time fine dining in China town. Entrance is a bit hidden but once you get up in the elevator to the restaurant the atmosphere changes. Nice vey of China town and North beach city lights and the bay. Set menu has a plethora of flavors and although a bit pricey its worth it. Expect at least 2 hrs to finish the experience. It goes fast if you have good company. Will def recommend but expect a large bill…

Kiko Em
★★★★★4 months ago

Very yummy! I recommend, our server Matt was so friendly and really caring for our experience. The food was yummy and fresh. I recommend eating here. The ambiance was really pretty as well and it’s easy to talk inside. The view from the windows is gorgeous as well.

Peter Mariman
★★★★★7 months ago

The interior is very cosy with different places to eat. The food was more than delicious. One of the best Chinese restaurants I visited. The service was more than perfect. With 2 minors we were not allowed to sit at the bar and nobody was sitting in the lounge so the waiter gave us a table where the full menu people were sitting. Very nice gesture. Having diner is not only about the food but it is a full experience.

Tom Vo
★★★★★8 months ago

Had a wonderful experience here. The food was Master Class. The atmosphere was refined casual. A tasting menu of a modernized Cantonese cuisine. Highly recommend it if you have the time. Dinner was 3 hours.

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