Step into history at Hang Ah Tea Room, a place that’s been dishing out delicious dim sum for over a hundred years. Located just off Sacramento Street in San Francisco’s bustling Chinatown, this unassuming spot is the oldest dim sum restaurant in America. It might not look like much from the outside, but once you walk through the door, you’re stepping into a piece of culinary history.

If you’re a food lover or someone curious about authentic Chinese cuisine in San Francisco, this place is a must-visit. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Hang Ah Tea Room offers a mix of tasty bites, cultural charm, and old-school vibes that make the experience feel special.

From savory dumplings to steaming baskets of buns, Hang Ah has a menu that’s stood the test of time. It’s not just about the food, though—it’s about the atmosphere, the stories, and the chance to enjoy a meal in a space that’s been welcoming diners since the 1920s. Read on to find out why this hidden gem continues to draw crowds and how you can make the most of your visit.

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Table of Contents

• A Look Back: The Story Behind Hang Ah Tea Room
• What’s on the Menu: Must-Try Dishes at Hang Ah
• How to Make the Most of Your Visit
• What Visitors Are Saying
• Frequently Asked Questions

A Look Back: The Story Behind Hang Ah Tea Room

Hang Ah Tea Room opened its doors way back in 1920, making it a rare survivor of San Francisco’s ever-changing restaurant scene. It’s tucked away on a quiet alley, just a short walk from the main drag of Chinatown. That’s part of what makes it feel like a secret hideout—once you find it, you feel like you’ve discovered something special.

Back in the day, tea rooms were common in China, serving as places where people could gather, sip tea, and snack on light bites. Hang Ah brought that tradition to the U.S., and over the decades, it’s become a go-to spot for dim sum lovers. It’s not just locals who stop by, either—travelers from all over the world make the trek to try the food and soak in the history.

Over the years, the restaurant has changed hands a few times, but the menu has stayed pretty much the same. That’s a big part of its charm. It’s not trying to be trendy or flashy—it’s just serving up the same kind of food people have been enjoying for generations.

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What’s on the Menu: Must-Try Dishes at Hang Ah

At Hang Ah Tea Room, the dim sum is the main event. You’ll find a mix of classic dishes, all made fresh and served steaming hot. Here are a few favorites that come highly recommended by regulars and first-timers alike:

• Shrimp Dumplings – These little pockets of joy are filled with tender shrimp and wrapped in a thin, delicate dough. They’re a staple on any dim sum menu, and Hang Ah’s version is hard to beat.
• BBQ Pork Buns – Soft, fluffy buns filled with sweet and savory barbecue pork. They’re the kind of dish that makes you want to order another round before you’re even done with the first.
• Steamed Spare Ribs – Marinated and steamed to perfection, these ribs are packed with flavor and practically fall off the bone.
• Shrimp Spring Rolls – Crispy on the outside and filled with fresh veggies and shrimp, these are a great way to start your meal.
• Curry Dishes – While dim sum is the star of the show, Hang Ah also serves up some surprisingly spicy and flavorful curry dishes. They’re a great option if you’re looking for something a bit heartier.

One thing to keep in mind: this place is pretty small, and it fills up fast, especially during lunch hours. If you’re planning to visit during peak times, it’s a good idea to get there early or be prepared to wait. But trust us—it’s worth it.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit

Hang Ah Tea Room is open daily, and while it’s not a huge space, it’s always buzzing with energy. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your time there:

1. Go early – Arriving before the lunch rush is your best bet for avoiding a long wait. The earlier you get there, the more time you’ll have to enjoy your meal without the crowd.
2. Be ready to share – Dim sum is meant to be enjoyed family-style. Don’t be shy about ordering a few different dishes and passing them around the table.
3. Check the menu online – While the physical menu is pretty straightforward, it’s a good idea to take a peek online before you go. That way, you’ll know what to look for and can make decisions quickly once you’re there.
4. Bring cash – While some places are moving toward card-only payments, it’s always a good idea to have cash on hand just in case. You can learn more about payment options and current hours .
5. Take a walk around Chinatown afterward – After your meal, there’s no better way to burn off some calories than by exploring the rest of Chinatown. There’s plenty to see and do nearby, from markets to historic landmarks.

And if you can’t make it in person, the good news is that you can order food online at Hang Ah Tea Room through platforms like TripAdvisor. It’s a great option if you’re craving dim sum but can’t make the trip to Chinatown.

What Visitors Are Saying

Hang Ah Tea Room has a solid reputation, with over 3,000 reviews from visitors who’ve shared their experiences. According to TripAdvisor, it’s ranked #418 out of 3,336 restaurants in San Francisco, which is no small feat for a place that’s been around for over a century.

On Restaurant Guru, it holds a 3.8 out of 5 rating based on over 3,000 reviews. People love the food, the history, and the fact that it’s a real slice of old San Francisco. Some reviews mention the tight space and long waits during busy hours, but most agree that the quality of the food makes it all worthwhile.

One visitor described it as “a true hidden gem tucked away in a quiet alley,” while another called it “a must-visit for anyone who loves dim sum and wants to experience a piece of San Francisco history.”

There are also a fair number of photos and videos shared by visitors, giving you a good idea of what to expect before you go. You can check those out on TripAdvisor or Google Maps if you want to get a feel for the place ahead of time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Hang Ah Tea Room open for takeout or delivery?

Yes, you can order food online at Hang Ah Tea Room through platforms like TripAdvisor. It’s a convenient option if you want to enjoy their dim sum from the comfort of your own home.

How long has Hang Ah Tea Room been around?

Hang Ah Tea Room was established in 1920, making it the oldest dim sum restaurant in America. It’s been serving up traditional Chinese dishes for over a hundred years.

What’s the best time to visit Hang Ah Tea Room?

The best time to visit is either early in the morning or just before closing. This helps you avoid the lunchtime rush, which can lead to long waits. Weekdays tend to be a bit quieter than weekends.