Yank Sing

Those new to the dim sum experience would do well starting off at this SF institution. The original location opened in 1958, so the owners have had decades to perfect their recipes. Some may grumble about the western-influenced menu, but the dim sum is expertly folded and delicious: pork dumplings (siu mai), shrimp dumplings (har gow), and more are served from carts out of steaming bamboo baskets. Say yes to everything and wear stretchy pants. Reservations can be made via OpenTable. If you can’t stomach the wait, pop next door to their take out counter – same dumplings just in a box. Skip over to the Embarcadero for water views while you eat.