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oChef » Tian Fu – Seattle
Tian Fu - Seattle
Photo from Tian Fu
Tian Fu at a glance
Seattle Northgate
- π₯‘ Chinese Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $31β$40
mentioned by 79 of the guests
#775 out of 858 places to eat in Seattle
#46 Chinese Restaurant out of 53 in Seattle
Average
5.5 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
433
Reviews
48.7%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Authentic Cuisine
- Generous Portions
- QR Ordering
Frequently criticized
- Mandatory Tipping
- Inconsistent Service
- Ambience Issues
The Chinese restaurant Tian Fu in Seattle’s Northgate neighborhood offers a truly inviting experience. You’ll find a casual and quiet atmosphere perfect for a relaxed meal.
Whether you’re looking for delicious vegetarian options or small plates to share, this spot has you covered. With convenient service options like no-contact delivery, takeout, and dine-in, enjoying their authentic flavors is always easy.
You can also count on usually plenty of free parking.
Overview: Introducting Tian Fu
Tian Fu offers a culinary journey, particularly for those seeking authentic flavors and generous portions. Many appreciate the efficient QR code ordering and the generally friendly staff, contributing to a pleasant dining experience.
However, some diners have noted inconsistencies, particularly with service attentiveness and concerns regarding value, including mandatory tips. The atmosphere can also be a mixed bag, with occasional comments on the music choice or crowded periods.
Average
5.5
out of 10
433
Reviews
48.7%
Satisfaction
200
negative
22
neutral
211
positive
Tian Fu holds an overall restaurant score of 5.5, placing it in the average category. This is reflected in a customer satisfaction rate of 48.7%, indicating a mixed reception among diners.
Based on 433 customer observations, with 211 positive and 200 negative remarks, it’s clear there are areas of both appreciation and concern. The Food (6.3) is generally considered its strongest aspect, often praised for its authenticity and generous portions.
However, Service (4.2) and Ambience (5.8) hover in the average range, while Value (3.7) appears to be a significant point of contention for some patrons, pulling down the overall sentiment.
What people like
- Authentic Sichuan cuisine
- Generous food portions
- Convenient QR ordering
What people don't like
- Mandatory tipping policy
- Inconsistent service
- Ambience concerns
Tian Fu, with a recommendation score of 5.5, presents a mixed experience. If you prioritize authentic Sichuan flavors and substantial portions, it could be a worthwhile visit.
Be prepared for a potentially average service experience and consider the value proposition, especially regarding tipping policies. Ultimately, Tian Fu might appeal to those specifically seeking bold, spicy dishes and don’t mind a casual, sometimes bustling atmosphere.
However, if consistent service and clear pricing are top priorities, you might find aspects of your visit less satisfying.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Tian Fu
Food (6.3 out of 10)
mentioned by 90% of the guests
When it comes to the food, there's a lot to appreciate! Many diners, with 147 positive remarks out of 252 total, rave about the authentic and delicious food, often highlighting generous portions and a true flavor explosion. The overall score of 6.3 and customer satisfaction of 58.3% suggest a generally positive, if somewhat mixed, experience.
However, not everyone leaves completely satisfied. With 93 negative remarks, some found the flavor lacking or felt there was a focus on quantity over quality, leading to concerns about food quality deteriorated or dishes being overly oily. There were also mentions of food not being fresh or too salty.
Food
252
Reviews
58%
Satisfaction
93
negative
12
neutral
147
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Authentic Sichuan food
- Generous portions
- Flavor explosion
What people don't like
- Flavor often lacking
- Quality can deteriorate
- Dishes overly oily
Often praised
- foodPeople have finally figured out that Northgate has a great Chinese restaurant! Wait times can be long on busier nights, but the food is worth it. It's the best Shrimp fried rice north of the International District.
- FoodFood:4
- portionsI absolutely loved their Dan Dan Noodles, Hot and Spicy Fish with Tofu, Shredded Pork, Lamb Skewers, Chicken with Chili Peppers, and String Beans. The service is prompt, the portions are generous, and the food is delicious!
- Szechuan foodDonβt listen to anyone who rated this place low; they clearly know nothing about Chinese food. This is probably the best Szechuan food in Seattle, and if you didnβt like it, you clearly donβt know how to order, or taste. As a Chinese American whose family is from Hunan (the other spicy capital of China) and has been eating Szechuan food all my life, Tian Fu deserves more than 5 stars.
- portionthe portion was generous
- Sichuan foodMy experience at this restaurant was fantastic! I had SUPER AUTHENTIC SICHUAN FOOD. The food was VERY SPICY AND VERY GOOD.
- authentic Sichuan foodif you crave authentic Sichuan, their food will delight you
- dry hot potThe dry hot pot... are very well done
- noodlesThe noodles had there own thing going to as well
- portion sizeseach dish is sooooo big! 5 dishes are too much for 6 person and that's really awesome
Frequently criticized
- foodWhile the portion sizes were impressively large, the flavor of the food was severely lacking. Every bite felt bland, suggesting a focus on quantity over quality. For those who prioritize taste and attention to detail, this might not be the ideal place.
- food qualitythe food quality actually deteriorated
- food tasteI just wish the food taste better
- food temperaturefood had an off putting flavor and was room temperature
- pork intestineHowever, my recent orders, especially the takeout today, have significantly reduced in portion size compared to the past. For instance, the small pork intestine dry pot was mostly potatoes, mushrooms, and cauliflowers with very little pork intestine. The overall portion is now at most 2/3 of what it used to be, and the pork intestine is even less, to the point where I could easily count it.
- American-style ChineseIf you're looking for American-style Chinese, this is not the place
- Bellevue branchit tastes way better than this one
- Big Plate ChickenThe Big Plate Chicken lacked flavor entirely
- Black Pepper BeefBlack Pepper Beef had extremely poor meat quality
- Cumin Curried ChickenCumin Curried Chicken... to be so unpalatable
If you're seeking authentic, flavorful dishes with generous portions, this spot could be a great find, especially for spicy food lovers. However, be mindful that consistency in flavor and quality might vary, so manage your expectations regarding every dish.
Service (4.2 out of 10)
mentioned by 63% of the guests
The service here presents a bit of a mixed bag, with a score of 4.2 indicating an average performance, yet customer satisfaction sits at a poor 31.7%. Some guests have truly appreciated the friendly servers and fast service, often highlighting the ease of the online ordering system and QR code ordering among 33 positive remarks. However, a significant 65 negative remarks point to considerable challenges.
Many encountered poor service, frustrating wait times, and even rude staff. Issues like staffing shortages and order mistakes frequently marred the dining experience for others.
Service
104
Reviews
31%
Satisfaction
65
negative
6
neutral
33
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly servers
- Fast service
- Easy QR ordering
What people don't like
- Poor service
- Long wait times
- Rude staff
Often praised
- serviceMy experience at the restaurant was absolutely delightful. Ordering using the QR code was easy, and the service was fast. I especially loved the red chilies, which had a great aroma with a bit of sourness/acidity.
- ServiceService:5
- staffstaffs who works there are very friendly
- Friendly serversFriendly servers
- Ordering through a QR codeOrdering through a QR code was convenient
- QR code orderingOrdering using QR code was easy
- Wait timeNo wait
- best servicebest service in gourmet cuisine
- fast servicefast service
- fast servingfast serving
Frequently criticized
- serviceMy experience at this restaurant was marked by terrible service. Despite open tables, customers were kept waiting, seemingly because all waiting groups consisted of only 2-3 people, preventing the tables from being filled.
- waitersupon asking waiters whether the meat is NOT fresh, they told me that is how they cook it
- waiting timethe waiting time is long
- experienceBad and unpleasant experience
- physical menuasked for physical menu and the server told us we need to use our phone
- attention to detailattention to detail, this might not be the place
- check outwaited about 20min just to ask for check out
- communicationthe communication just isn't there
- customer serviceworst customer service!!!
- customersThis restaurant treats its customers differently.
Given the average score but poor satisfaction, service at this spot is quite inconsistent. While ordering can be easy, be prepared for potential long waits or staff issues. If attentive, smooth service is a top priority, you might want to consider other options.
Ambience (5.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 33% of the guests
When it comes to ambience, this spot offers a mixed bag, with many guests appreciating the overall vibe. Patrons frequently praise the great atmosphere, spacious interior, and convenient parking options. With 24 positive remarks out of 42 total, it seems many find the environment comfortable and even enjoy the unique Chinese-style decor and pleasant smells upon entering.
However, the experience isnt always smooth sailing, as reflected by a score of 5.8 (average) and customer satisfaction at 57.1% (mixed). Some visitors have encountered a chaotic environment, crowded conditions during busy hours, and concerns about cleanliness, including a dirty and shabby interior and a smokey dining room. ' There are also mentions of odd music choices and facilities needing repair, with 17 negative observations.
Ambience
42
Reviews
57%
Satisfaction
17
negative
1
neutral
24
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Spacious interior
- Great atmosphere
- Easy parking
What people don't like
- Chaotic environment
- Crowded conditions
- Cleanliness issues
Often praised
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:4
- atmosphereatmosphere were also highly rated
- parkingEasy parking and very authentic Sichuan food.
- Chinese style interiorI really like the Chinese style interior
- Parking optionsFree parking lot
- environmentVery comfortable environment.
- hygiene practicesThe food was super fast and delicious, and truly authentic. I also appreciated that they still wear masks and place hand sanitizer on the tables, which is another plus. We will definitely be back!
- locationthe location is pretty strategic
- placethe place is also good
- restaurantRestaurant is cute
Frequently criticized
- 90s country musicThey play 90s country music from the speakers π€¨.
- air smellthe air smells greasy
- atmosphereAtmosphere:2
- busy hoursduring busy hours this place can be very crowded
- crowdedthis place can be very crowded
- elder-friendly restaurantThis is not a elder-friendly restaurant
- environmentExtremely chaotic environment
- fire alarmMy dine-in experience was terrible. The restaurantβs fire alarm rang for almost 15 minutes. After the alarm stopped, all the dishes were cold.
- flies and rodentsEvidence of flies and rodents
- handwash sinkInoperable handwash sink
If youre looking for a spacious place with good parking and dont mind a potentially bustling atmosphere, it might be worth a visit. However, be prepared for the possibility of a crowded or less-than-pristine environment, especially during peak times.
Value (3.7 out of 10)
mentioned by 29% of the guests
While a few guests found the experience worth it and appreciated affordable prices for generous portions and authentic food, these positive sentiments are relatively few, with only 7 favorable remarks. They occasionally noted good price and decent prices for what they received. However, a significant number of patrons, 25 out of 35 total, expressed strong dissatisfaction, frequently calling items pricey or overpriced.
Many felt it was a waste of money due to drastic price increases and unexpected extra tips, leading to a poor customer satisfaction of just 20% and an overall score of 3.7.
Value
35
Reviews
20%
Satisfaction
25
negative
3
neutral
7
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Worthwhile experience
- Affordable pricing
- Good price points
What people don't like
- Drastic price increases
- Overpriced items
- Unexpected/mandatory tips
Often praised
- priceMy experience at this restaurant was truly amazing. The food was exceptional, complemented by great service and an exceptional price. The atmosphere was both clean and comfortable.
- worth itMy experience at the restaurant was a little expensive, but absolutely worth it. If you like REALLY spicy food, I highly recommend ordering the Chongqing chicken; it was incredible!
- affordable pricedelicious food with affordable price
- chargeThey are reasonable enough to waive the charge of the two dishes
- pricesDecent prices for authentic food, especially for recent inflation
Frequently criticized
- priceThe rice did not seem freshly cooked, appearing to be mixed with older rice, and was served in a bowl with a noticeable stain. While we appreciated the potato dish, the rest of the meal was a letdown and definitely not worth the price.
- priceyfood portion was okay but too salty and a pricey
- Price per personIt's hard to believe that classic Sichuan dishes like Da Pan Ji (Big Plate Chicken), Hui Guo Rou (Twice Cooked Pork), and Shou Si Bao Cai (Hand Pulled Cabbages) could be so unpalatable. I can only say that making money in Seattle is too easy. Food: 1 Service: 3 Atmosphere: 3
- billWas not worth the $150 bill. They did add their own tip
- charge more tipsI was fraudulently charged extra tips without my permission. The service was absolutely terrible, and to top it off, they had the audacity to charge more tips in the back. I strongly advise against visiting this restaurant if you do not want to be scammed.
- discountthe group (native) in front of us got a 20% discount but the restaurant didn't offer anything to us
- drinks they sellthe drinks they sell are really expensive
- extra tipsMy experience at this restaurant was extremely negative. I was fraudulently charged extra tips without my permission. The service was absolutely terrible, and to top it off, they had the audacity to charge more tips in the back.
- making moneyζ³ζ£ι±δΉδΈθ³δΊθΏδΈͺζ ·εε§
- mandatory 20% tipUnfortunately, this time the restaurant has changed a lot β and not for the better. We were a family of five (two adults and three older kids), and a mandatory 20% tip was added without any prior notice or explanation. When I asked about it, the waiter said it was mandatory for parties of five or more and βthe restaurantβs rule.
Given the overwhelming negative feedback on pricing and hidden charges, this restaurant seems to struggle significantly with value. While a few found it worthwhile, most felt it was overpriced and not worth the money. Proceed with caution, as you might find the bill surprisingly high.
How are the prices at Tian Fu?
Youβre looking at roughly 36 per person β reported by 79 diners. That puts it in the $31β$40 category. For a Chinese Restaurant in Seattle, itβs comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
Interestingly, while the average is 36, a good number of guests actually spend a bit less, often in the $21β$30 range. This tells us there’s a nice variety on the menu, offering both more budget-friendly options and some pricier treats.
Hereβs a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 79 reviews.
A look at how this restaurant’s value compares to similar spots in Seattle.
Considering it’s a Chinese Restaurant in Seattle, we think the pricing feels pretty fair. It offers a good balance, allowing for both more casual meals and special occasions without breaking the bank.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Tian Fu
Price per Person
- $41β$50
Visit Type
- Family Dinner
Group Type
- Family
Group Size
- Small Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Noise Level
- Moderate
2
Disappointing Decline in Food and Service
Iβm especially disappointed because Iβve been here twice in previous years and had decent experiences before. Unfortunately, this time the restaurant has changed a lot β and not for the better. We were a family of five (two adults and three older kids), and a mandatory 20% tip was added without any prior notice or explanation.
When I asked about it, the waiter said it was mandatory for parties of five or more and βthe restaurantβs rule. β This was never mentioned beforehand and felt unreasonable, particularly given the minimal service. The food was just okay overall.
The grilled fish was a waste of money β it did not taste fresh, was overly oily, and poorly prepared. Itβs disappointing to see a place that used to be acceptable decline this much. I would not return.
- food5
- mandatory 20% tip2
- minimal service2
- grilled fish2
Visit Type
- Delivery
Service Type
- Takeout
3
Poor Packaging, Hot Food
I ordered takeout, but the experience was disappointing. The packaging was done poorly, resulting in all the sauce spilling onto my car seat. Additionally, the food was excessively hot.
While they provide cardboard to mitigate the heat, it still burned my hands. Food π₯ 3 points.
- Food5
- packaging2
- sauce2
- food temperature3
Price per Person
- $11β$20
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Colleagues
Group Size
- Small Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
9
Authentic Sichuan Food Highly Recommended
As someone who eats and cooks a lot of Chinese food, I found their Sichuan cuisine to be really good, especially the Mapo Tofu. It's pretty authentic Chinese food. My coworkers from China also love this restaurant, and I recommend it.
- Sichuan food9
- Mapo Tofu9
- authentic Chinese food9
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Long (31+ min.)
1
Terrible Szechuan Experience
My experience at this restaurant was incredibly disappointing. I ordered the Szechuan fish fillet and tofu, which took over 30 minutes to arrive. To my surprise, there was no tofu; instead, it was filled with bamboo shoots and bean sprouts.
The fish itself had a strong, unpleasant fishy taste, suggesting it wasn't properly washed, and it contained sharp bones and skin. It was more like fish trimmings than a fillet. I've had this dish at many Szechuan restaurants, and this was by far the worst.
Adding to the disappointment, the dish cost over $40, making it more expensive than most other places. Beyond the food, the interior was also unpleasant, with a cold draft coming from the door directly into the dining area.
- Szechuan fish fillet and tofu1
- fish fillet1
- fish trimmings1
Price per Person
- $21β$30
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
9
Worth the Price for Spicy Food
My experience at the restaurant was a little expensive, but absolutely worth it. If you like REALLY spicy food, I highly recommend ordering the Chongqing chicken; it was incredible!
- Chongqing chicken10
- worth it9
- price4
What Tian Fu offers
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Groups
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Popular for
- Dinner
- Lunch
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Restroom
Offerings
- Vegetarian options
- Small plates
Dining options
- Catering
- Brunch
- Table service
- Dessert
- Dinner
- Seating
- Lunch
Service Options
- No-contact delivery
- Takeout
- Delivery
- Dine-in
Parking
- Free street parking
- Free parking lot
- Usually plenty of parking
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Quiet
FAQs
What parking options are available at Tian Fu Seattle?
Tian Fu Seattle provides convenient parking solutions for you. You’ll find both free street parking and a free parking lot, ensuring there’s usually plenty of space available when you visit.
Is Tian Fu Seattle accessible for guests with mobility needs?
Absolutely. Tian Fu Seattle is fully wheelchair accessible, offering a wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, seating, and restroom to ensure a comfortable experience for all guests.
How does Tian Fu generally rate among customers?
Tian Fu holds an overall restaurant score of 5.5, indicating an average experience. While Food (6.3) is often praised, Service (4.2), Ambience (5.8), and particularly Value (3.7) receive more mixed or critical feedback.
What kind of food can I expect at Tian Fu?
Customers frequently highlight Tian Fu for its authentic Sichuan cuisine and generous portion sizes. Many find the dishes to be very spicy and flavorful, offering a genuine taste of the region.
Are there any common concerns about dining at Tian Fu?
Some diners have expressed concerns regarding the restaurant’s value, specifically mentioning mandatory tipping policies and perceived high prices. Service consistency and occasional long wait times have also been noted.