Best Chinese Restaurants in Nob Hill

Went to China Live for the first time. Food was generous and delicious. The venue had a great vibe. Definitely go again when in San Francisco.

What a fantastic spot! We chose Mr. Tipple’s mostly for its proximity to the Bill Graham Auditorium, but almost immediately upon entering wondered “how did we not know about this place?” The space is very intimate and inviting, and from the front desk to everyone who served us, the staff was friendly and efficient. The dim sum format was perfect for the venue and delicious. Oh right… and wow: the quartet playing that evening was five star.

This was a really great experience, a place to dine rather than just eat. I was somehow recognized upon check-in at the host stand, called by name before I could even say hello. The manager who greeted me out of the elevator up said "welcome Chef", which made it very clear they had at least googled my name or my profile. The level of detail was excellent. I wish the space was more full, 8 pm on a Friday the bar had two patrons at it, no one in the front lounge area, and 1/3 of the tables were empty... this was an experience that deserved to have more people enjoying it! (not sure how people are supposed to do a bar / lounge though if the only menu is price fix, but I digress). Standout dishes were the Prawn with Crispy Nori "Taco", the Dumpling Trio (especially loved the texture of the pumpkin dumpling), and the Noodles on the main course. The steamed Halibut was a bit over and flavors were meh. The added Crispy Skin Peking Duck supplement ($50) was room temperature / slightly cool to the bite, and it would have 1000X better if it had been at least warm. The Duck supplement was also an added dish to the "main course" consisting of 4 family style dishes, and I think as a diner, and out of respect to the work to make such a delicious and labor intensive dish, it could be and should be celebrated as a course on its own. The lotus root that came with the main family style dishes was tasty as hell but unfortunately got lost in the mix, and I'm disappointed I never circled back on it before being a bit too full to endeavor more of it. As a veteran of very fine dining cooking, I was surprised a sweet bite wasn't part of the 6 course meal to finish, and that all deserts were a la carte priced in addition to the price fix. We declined desert, and again was surprised there was not any mignardise served with the check, as a touch of sugar out the door. None of these faults would stop me from booking this experience for a special night out at all. Great Night!

It was a challenge to flag our waiter to request condiments and spoons/forks

Delicious as always. It was a busy Valentine’s and the staff worked hard to accommodate my last minute change jn plans and late arrivals.