Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
oChef » Three Star – San Francisco
Three Star - San Francisco
Photo from Three Star
Three Star at a glance
San Francisco Sunset District
- 🍽️ Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $11–$20
mentioned by 15 of the guests
#1908 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#222 Restaurant out of 254 in San Francisco
Good
6.6 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
83
Reviews
60.2%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Delicious Dim Sum
- Affordable Pricing
- Efficient Packaging
Frequently criticized
- Inconsistent Service
- Long Waits
- Cash Only
The restaurant, a casual spot in San Francisco’s Sunset District, offers you a delightful dining experience. At Three Star, you can enjoy a variety of small plates perfect for sharing or a quick bite if you’re on the go.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxed lunch or a pleasant dinner, this welcoming establishment caters to your needs. It’s also a great choice if you’re dining with kids, ensuring a comfortable visit for the whole family.
Overview: Introducting Three Star
Three Star offers a culinary experience where the food often shines, with many patrons finding their offerings quite satisfying. You’ll discover a selection of items that are generally well-received, making it a place where the flavors tend to hit the mark.
The establishment also stands out for its value, providing options that are notably affordable for many. However, be prepared for some practical considerations.
The service can be a mixed bag, with some guests noting impatience, and you might encounter a considerable wait. Additionally, the dining setup is quite basic, and finding convenient parking can be a challenge.
Good
6.6
out of 10
83
Reviews
60.2%
Satisfaction
17
negative
16
neutral
50
positive
Overall, Three Star holds a Restaurant Score of 6.6, placing it in the average category. Customer feedback indicates a Customer Satisfaction of 60.2%, suggesting a mixed experience for many.
This assessment is drawn from 83 customer observations, with 50 positive remarks balancing 17 negative ones, painting a picture of a place with clear strengths and areas for improvement. Delving deeper, the Food (7.5) stands out as a strong point, generally well-received by patrons.
However, the Service (5.1) appears to be a notable area needing attention, often falling short of expectations. Value (6.6) is considered average, offering decent affordability, while the Ambience (6.2) also registers as average, indicating a functional rather than a particularly inviting setting.
What people like
- Delicious Dim Sum
- Affordable Pricing
- Efficient Food Packaging
What people don't like
- Inconsistent Service Quality
- Expect Long Waits
- Cash Only Payments
Ultimately, Three Star presents a compelling case for those prioritizing flavor and value, reflected in its Recommendation Score of 7.5. If you’re seeking well-prepared dim sum and other Chinese deli items at a reasonable cost, this spot is certainly worth considering for a casual meal or takeout.
However, be prepared for a no-frills experience, potential queues, and remember to bring cash. It’s best suited for a quick, satisfying bite rather than a leisurely dining occasion, especially if you can overlook the occasional service hiccup and practical limitations.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Three Star
Food (7.5 out of 10)
mentioned by 100% of the guests
The food here generally hits the mark, with a 7.5 score indicating a good culinary experience and a solid 76.2% customer satisfaction. Based on 32 positive remarks out of 42 total, many rave about the delicious dim sums, sticky rice, and shumai. Youll find a great variety, from "chicken bun" and "egg yolk bun" to "Ha Gow" and "Siu Mai, " all praised for being fresh and tasty.
However, its not entirely perfect. A few of the 3 negative comments point to the pork bun as a potential miss, with some finding it tiny, the meat dry, and the sauce overly sweet. While these are minor points compared to the overall positive feedback, its something to keep in mind if thats your go-to item.
Food
42
Reviews
76%
Satisfaction
3
negative
7
neutral
32
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Delicious dim sums
- Fresh, tasty variety
- Affordable food
What people don't like
- Sweet pork bun
- Dry pork bun meat
Often praised
- dim sumThey carry many Chinese deli style items including dim sum.
- foodMy experience at this restaurant was so so yummy! Although it's rated Three Stars, I believe it deserves Five Stars.
- dim sumsGood basic dim sums
- shumaitrying the shumai
- FoodFood:5
- Ha GowRecommended dishes:Ha Gow and Siu Mai
- Siu MaiGet their Siu Mai and fall in love!
- beef crepesKids really like their beef crepes
- chicken bunBought a chicken bun and egg yolk bun for a dollar each.
- chive dumplingthe chive dumpling
Frequently criticized
- pork bunthe meat was dry, and the sauce overly sweet
If you're looking for a place with generally good and affordable dim sum, this spot is definitely worth a try. While the pork bun might not be a highlight, the vast majority of other dishes, especially the dim sums and various buns, seem to be a hit. Go for the variety and fresh flavors!
Service (5.1 out of 10)
mentioned by 82% of the guests
When it comes to service, there's a bit of a mixed bag, with a score of 5.1, placing it squarely in the average category. However, customer satisfaction lags behind at a rather poor 31.8%. Based on 22 customer remarks, with 7 positive and 10 negative observations, some folks really appreciate the quick service and efficient packaging, especially when the staff are welcoming and well-trained.
On the flip side, many customers found themselves frustrated by long lines and significant wait times, sometimes up to 30 minutes. There are also reports of impatient or even rude staff, particularly when taking orders, which definitely contributes to the low satisfaction. Plus, the phone number for takeout often goes unanswered, adding to the hassle.
Service
22
Reviews
31%
Satisfaction
10
negative
5
neutral
7
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Quick service
- Welcoming staff
- Efficient packaging
What people don't like
- Long wait times
- Impatient staff
- Rude service
Often praised
- serviceThe service is very quick.
- staffstaffs here are very welcoming, well trained and understanding
- ServiceService:4
- linethere is a line (because it's fresh, delicious and affordable)
- packagingThe service was very quick, though there might be some language barriers, but pointing works. They package the food efficiently, ensuring a quick exit. The main drawbacks were that it's CASH ONLY and parking is very limited, with no seating available as it's set up cafeteria-style.
Frequently criticized
- serviceThe service, however, was not great. The person who helped us was extremely impatient
- waitaverage wait is about 20-30mins
- lineAlso, you must try their spicy fried chicken wings. The place only takes cash, and the line is usually pretty long, with an average wait of about 20-30 minutes. The place opens pretty early at 7 am, and usually, there are 1 or 2 people in line before 8 am.
- phone numberThere’s a phone number posted for takeout. I tried the number several times on a Saturday but no answer. So if you are planning to get food from this place, be prepared to wait in-line.
- sell out fastThey sell out fast
- stand in lineMy experience at the restaurant was centered around their delicious dim sum. However, it's important to note that they are cash only and you should be prepared to stand in line, especially on weekends.
- wait in-lineI tried the number several times on a Saturday but no answer. So if you are planning to get food from this place, be prepared to wait in-line.
- woman taking orderthe woman taking my order was rude
If youre after quick, efficient service and dont mind a potential wait, you might find the staff welcoming. However, be prepared for long lines and potentially impatient service, especially if you're in a hurry or trying to call ahead.
Ambience (6.2 out of 10)
mentioned by 24% of the guests
Based on 5 observations, the ambience here generally receives a 6.2 score, indicating an average experience, with customer satisfaction sitting at a 60% mixed bag. Many guests appreciate the overall Atmosphere, often describing it as wonderful. Plus, finding street parking seems to be a breeze, which is always a bonus when dining out.
However, its not all sunshine and rainbows. A couple of observations point out that parking can be quite limited, which might be a hassle. More significantly, the lack of seating' available is a recurring concern, suggesting this spot might be better suited for a quick grab-and-go rather than a sit-down meal.
Ambience
5
Reviews
60%
Satisfaction
2
negative
0
neutral
3
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Wonderful atmosphere
- Easy street parking
What people don't like
- Limited parking
- No seating available
Often praised
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:4
- atmospherethe atmosphere was wonderful
- street parkingThey carry many Chinese deli-style items, including dim sum. The staff were wearing masks, and there is lots of street parking.
Frequently criticized
- parkingParking is very limited
- seatingthere is no seating available
If youre looking for a quick bite with a pleasant vibe and dont mind taking your food to go, this place could be a good fit. However, if a comfortable sit-down experience with ample parking is what you seek, you might find it a bit disappointing.
Value (6.6 out of 10)
mentioned by 65% of the guests
When it comes to value, this spot is a bit of a mixed bag, landing an average score of 6.6. Many folks noted the affordability, with 8 positive remarks out of 14 total, highlighting things like dollar each buns, reasonably priced items, and a fair cost for generous portions. Youll find that the prices are super reasonable for the size, making it a solid choice if youre looking to stretch your dollar.
However, customer satisfaction sits at a mixed 57.1%, largely due to one recurring issue: the cash only policy. Several people pointed out this inconvenience, with 2 negative comments specifically mentioning the need for cash. While the food might be super affordable, remember to hit the ATM before you go, as plastic won't get you far here.
Value
14
Reviews
57%
Satisfaction
2
negative
4
neutral
8
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Super affordable food
- Reasonably priced items
- Good size portions
What people don't like
- Cash only policy
Often praised
- pricesThe foods and the prices were pretty decent
- Price per personPrice per person:$10–20
- dollar eachI hadn't been to this Chinese deli in years. I bought a chicken bun and an egg yolk bun for a dollar each. These buns are a good size.
- fair costThey also have a variety of steamed or baked buns, like the famous pork bun. For those really hungry, there's a rice plate special where you can choose 3 entrees with steamed white rice for a fair cost. Next to their steamed table, they have fried goods such as egg rolls, fried shrimp puffs, and Chinese doughnuts.
- priceThe staff member assisting us was extremely impatient, rushing our order and displaying a short temper. The only reason I didn't give it a lower rating is because their food is super affordable. Overall, it felt like a three-star experience at a three-star restaurant.
- reasonably pricedVery reasonably priced
Frequently criticized
- CASH ONLYCASH ONLY!
- cash onlyThe place only take cash
If youre on a budget and dont mind paying with cash, this place offers some seriously good deals for your money. It's definitely worth checking out for affordable eats, but be prepared for the cash-only policy to avoid any surprises.
How are the prices at Three Star?
You’re looking at roughly 15 per person – reported by 15 diners. That puts it in the $11–$20 category. For a Restaurant, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
Most diners seem to stick to the $11–$20 sweet spot, though a few found options in the $1–$10 range. Interestingly, there was one diner who went for a much pricier experience in the $41–$50 category, showing a bit of variety in what’s on offer!
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 15 reviews.
See how this spot stacks up against similar restaurants in San Francisco when it comes to value for your money.
Overall, we think the pricing here feels quite fair for a restaurant in San Francisco. It offers a good balance without breaking the bank for most diners.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Three Star
Service Type
- Dine-in
10
Excellent Food, Service, and Atmosphere!
I had an excellent experience at this restaurant. The food was outstanding, the service was impeccable, and the atmosphere was wonderful. I would highly recommend this place.
- food10
- service10
- atmosphere10
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Takeout
Meal Type
- Breakfast
Wait Time
- Long (31+ min.)
9
Delicious Dim Sum and Welcoming Staff
I was in the area with a hungry stomach needing breakfast. I've passed by this place many times, both when it was the old establishment and now. Upon arrival, there was a line out the door, but as a patient person, this did not bother me.
They offer many different delicious dim sum dishes, including siu mai, ha gow, steamed chicken feet, and steamed spareribs, among others. They also have a variety of steamed or baked buns, like the famous pork bun. For those really hungry, there's a rice plate special where you can choose 3 entrees with steamed white rice for a fair cost.
Next to their steamed table, they have fried goods such as egg rolls, fried shrimp puffs, and Chinese doughnuts. Lastly, they offer frozen foods to cook at home. The staff here are very welcoming, well-trained, and understanding, which made my visit a satisfying one.
This place is cash and takeout only, so please plan accordingly. I highly recommend this place to anyone on a limited time, to all Chinese food enthusiasts, and if you just happen to be in the area. I will definitely be back to try out the other delicious options they have to offer.
- dim sum dishes9
- steamed or bake buns8
- rice plate special8
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Delivery
Service Type
- Takeout
Meal Type
- Lunch
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
8
Solid Dim Sum Takeout Option
My experience at this restaurant was for a takeout dim sum. The food was quite good, with the sticky rice and shumai being particular highlights. The prices were reasonable for the size of the dim sum pieces.
The service was very quick, though there might be some language barriers, but pointing works. They package the food efficiently, ensuring a quick exit. The main drawbacks were that it's CASH ONLY and parking is very limited, with no seating available as it's set up cafeteria-style.
Overall, if you have cash and are looking for a dim sum takeout place, this is a solid option!
- dim sum8
- sticky rice9
- shumai9
- CASH ONLY3
- parking3
- seating3
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Delivery
Service Type
- Takeout
Wait Time
- Moderate (16–30 min.)
8
Great Dim Sum To Go
My experience at this restaurant was great for getting dim sum to go. Pretty much everything there is good. My kids really like their beef crepes.
Also, you must try their spicy fried chicken wings. The place only takes cash, and the line is usually pretty long, with an average wait of about 20-30 minutes. The place opens pretty early at 7 am, and usually, there are 1 or 2 people in line before 8 am.
- dim sum to go9
- beef crepes8
- spicy fried chicken wings9
- line4
- wait4
- cash only4
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Long (31+ min.)
5
Good Dim Sum, Long Wait
My experience at the restaurant was mixed. The dim sums were good, but not good enough to justify a 30-minute wait in line. The service was very slow.
- dim sums7
- wait2
- service2
What Three Star offers
Crowd
- Family-friendly
Children
- Good for kids
Popular for
- Dinner
- Lunch
- Solo dining
Offerings
- Small plates
- Quick bite
Dining options
- Dinner
- Lunch
Service Options
- Dine-in
- Takeout
Atmosphere
- Casual
FAQs
What dining options are available at Three Star Restaurant?
At Three Star Restaurant, you can enjoy both lunch and dinner. They also offer a selection of small plates, perfect for a quick bite or sharing with your group. You have the flexibility of choosing between dine-in and takeout service options.
Is Three Star Restaurant suitable for families and accessible?
Yes, Three Star Restaurant is good for kids, making it a family-friendly choice for your outing. Additionally, the restaurant features a wheelchair accessible entrance, ensuring comfort and ease of access for all guests.
What is the overall assessment of Three Star?
Three Star has an overall Restaurant Score of 6.6 and Customer Satisfaction of 60.2%. While its Food (7.5) is generally well-regarded, Service (5.1) is an area for improvement, with Value (6.6) and Ambience (6.2) being average.
What kind of food can I expect at Three Star?
You can expect a variety of Chinese deli-style items, including dim sum like Ha Gow and Siu Mai, beef crepes, and various buns. Many customers find the food to be quite satisfying and delicious.
Are there any important practical considerations for visiting Three Star?
Yes, it’s important to note that Three Star is CASH ONLY. Be prepared for potentially long lines and wait times, especially during peak hours, and parking can be limited with no seating available.