Highlights
- Great tea selection
oChef » Empress by Boon – San Francisco
Empress by Boon - San Francisco
Photo from Empress by Boon
Empress by Boon at a glance
San Francisco Chinatown
- 🥡 Chinese Restaurant
$$$
Price per Person $101+
mentioned by 107 of the guests
#2030 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#213 Chinese Restaurant out of 276 in San Francisco
Good
6.4 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
913
Reviews
57.2%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Stunning Views
- Creative Presentation
- Professional Service
Frequently criticized
- High Price
- Inconsistent Flavor
- Loud Atmosphere
The restaurant Empress by Boon invites you to an unparalleled Chinese dining experience in the heart of San Francisco’s vibrant Chinatown. You’ll discover a truly upscale atmosphere, perfect for a romantic evening or a trendy gathering.
This renowned Chinese restaurant is celebrated for its great tea selection, offering you a sophisticated start or end to your meal. Prepare for an exquisite culinary journey where every detail is meticulously crafted for your enjoyment.
Overview: Introducting Empress by Boon
Empress by Boon offers a visually striking dining experience, often lauded for its beautiful decor and captivating views. Many guests appreciate the attentive, professional service and the unique presentation of its dishes, making for a memorable occasion.
However, some diners found the culinary journey to be a bit uneven, with certain dishes lacking impact. The overall value proposition also emerged as a point of contention for a number of patrons.
Good
6.4
out of 10
913
Reviews
57.2%
Satisfaction
306
negative
85
neutral
522
positive
Empress by Boon holds an overall restaurant score of 6.4 out of 10, placing it in the average category. Customer satisfaction stands at 57.2%, indicating a mixed reception among its patrons.
This assessment is drawn from 913 customer observations, with 522 positive remarks and 306 negative comments. The restaurant’s Ambience (7.8) is a clear standout, frequently praised for its stunning views and elegant decor.
While Food (6.6) receives an average rating, its presentation often impresses, though flavor consistency can vary. Service (6.0) is also rated as average, noted for professionalism despite some reports of slowness.
The Value (3.6) aspect, however, is a significant area for improvement, often cited as a concern.
What people like
- Stunning Views & Decor
- Creative Food Presentation
- Gracious, Professional Service
What people don't like
- High Price Point
- Inconsistent Food Flavor
- Loud Dining Atmosphere
With a recommendation score of 6.4, Empress by Boon presents a nuanced dining choice. If you’re seeking a visually impressive setting for a special occasion and prioritize atmosphere, it could be a compelling option.
However, be prepared for a substantial investment and manage expectations regarding food consistency. It’s a place where the grand setting often takes center stage, so consider if that aligns with your dining priorities.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Empress by Boon
Food (6.6 out of 10)
mentioned by 99% of the guests
Based on 476 comments, the food here earns an average score of 6.6 with mixed customer satisfaction at 58.2%. Many guests praise the delicious food, creative food design, and presentation, often highlighting excellent wine pairing. With 277 positive remarks, there's certainly a lot to enjoy.
However, 139 negative remarks indicate some areas for improvement. Some diners found dishes bland or salty, while others felt the portions were too small or the overall experience underwhelming. Consistency seems to be a challenge for certain menu items.
Food
476
Reviews
58%
Satisfaction
139
negative
60
neutral
277
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Creative food design
- Beautiful presentation
- Excellent wine pairing
What people don't like
- Bland or salty
- Small portions
- Overpriced food
Often praised
- foodThe great view and beautiful room were impressive. The delicious food was a highlight, and the restaurant was very accommodating regarding dietary restrictions and vegetarian options, which I highly recommend. Service was excellent, and there was no wait time.
- cocktailsThe cocktails were really, really great!
- dishesThe restaurant also offers amazing views of Cojt Tower and a great bar for pre-dinner drinks. Each dish was unique, and on my second visit, the dishes were different and just as well prepared, highlighting the excellent food quality and variety.
- presentationUnique flavors, food and presentation, excellent service.
- drinksThe magnificent setting, with its beautiful interior and stunning city view, immediately sets a grand stage. The modern bar is impressive, offering a commendable selection of drinks. I was thoroughly impressed by the attentive and friendly staff; the service was top-notch and significantly enhanced my dining experience.
- duckThe duck and short ribs were phenomenal
- menuSo I was delighted to see the place reopened, and I must add that, "Chef Boon, " has done a great service by reopening this SF Chinatown institution. We had 6 people in our party and the menu was price-fixed/chef's choice, which I must say, was an amazing display of artistic, as well as gastronomically pleasing, delights. I devoured everything presented and loved how each dish segued into the next.
- wine pairingWe did the wine pairing with our menu and it was special.
- dessertdelicious food, dessert
- dietary restrictionsvery good substitutions for my dietary restrictions
Frequently criticized
- foodIt felt less like a place to eat and more like a museum. The food was unbelievably overpriced and the entire experience was not sustainable in any way. The atmosphere was rated a 4, but the food received a 1.
- dishesWhile the dishes were wonderfully designed and visually appealing, the flavors were mostly bland, and the texture was surprisingly terrible, often served lukewarm. It was shocking how tasteless or hard to swallow most of the dishes on the prix fixe menu were. The only dish that showed promise was the duck skin, but it arrived lukewarm and only slightly warmer after being sent back.
- chickenThe chicken was white cubes of tasteless moist meat.
- cocktailsserver couldn’t tell us anything about the the cocktails
- food qualityThe food quality did not meet expectations
- dessertThe only things that need to improve are that this is a Chinese / Cantonese restaurant but only has one Chinese wine, and it’s $700 😂😂. I agree with others that having to add on dessert doesn’t make sense; I’d rather pay more per person and have dessert included. Everything else was perfect, and I can’t wait to go back!
- duckThe duck (that you pay extra for) was fatty and left a film on our tongues.
- flavoursthe flavours are very one-dimensional
- noodlesWhile the course meal was decent, it was significantly improved by adding the Pekin duck at an extra charge. The short rib was exquisite, but the noodles lacked flavor and the eggplant was just okay. The presentation was excellent, but after enjoying a glass of wine and two desserts, the total bill with tip came to about $460.
- tasteThey were way too salty. It's like the only ingredient they added was soy sauce. No layers of taste, just bland salt, and more salt.
If youre seeking creative dishes and dont mind potentially smaller portions, this place might offer an interesting culinary adventure. Just be aware that experiences can be a bit of a mixed bag, with some finding it exceptional and others less impressed.
Service (6 out of 10)
mentioned by 72% of the guests
The service here presents a bit of a mixed picture, with a score of 6, placing it squarely in the average range, and customer satisfaction at a rather mixed 51.4%. Out of 173 comments, 89 were positive, frequently highlighting fantastic service, accommodating staff, and friendly and knowledgeable servers who provided individual attention and handled dietary restrictions with care. However, 76 negative remarks indicate areas for improvement.
Guests occasionally encountered slow service and a lack of attention, with some describing servers as robotic or unhelpful. Concerns about poor organization and long wait times between courses also surfaced, suggesting an inconsistent experience for some diners.
Service
173
Reviews
51%
Satisfaction
76
negative
8
neutral
89
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Attentive, friendly staff
- Accommodating dietary needs
- Knowledgeable servers
What people don't like
- Slow service
- Lack of attention
- Poor organization
Often praised
- serviceFinally, the Thick Noodles with Lobster, Scallop, and Whitebait was a luxurious way to end the meal—generous seafood, chewy noodles, and a deeply satisfying broth. The service was just as impressive as the food: gracious, knowledgeable, and perfectly paced. Empress by Boon isn’t just a dinner—it’s a curated culinary journey through modern Cantonese cuisine, and one I’d return for in a heartbeat.
- ServiceTheir cocktails were less consistent; we really liked the Grail Chamber and Nanjing Cocktail, but the Look at the Flowers and Upside Down were forgettable. Service was great, and the restaurant has one of the most beautiful decors and views in San Francisco. The only weird part is their prix fixe menu — while reasonably priced at $98pp — does not include the dessert, which comes a la carte.
- staffEach member of the staff handled their jobs professionally
- excellent serviceThe amazing views and gorgeous decor created a stunning atmosphere, making it feel like a place in Hong Kong. The excellent service was a standout, and it's a great place for a special occasion. While the food was decent, the overall experience was elevated by the ambiance and service.
- serverOne nice and friendly server called Natalie (Nat).
- waiterour waiter... wished us a happy anniversary.
- Chef BoonThe chef, Boon, came out to greet his patrons
- Chef Ho Chee Boonthe highlight of our meal was definitely speaking to Chef Ho Chee Boon himself who often stops by table side
- ColinColin who was knowledgeable, funny and charming
- CollinCollin, our server did an amazing job
Frequently criticized
- serviceWhile the dumplings, cod, and New England lobster were tasty and well-presented, the passion fruit cheesecake was more like a mousse or an underbaked cheese lump. The service was slow with little attention. The menu stated a 22% gratuity would be added for parties of 5 or more, but it was added to our bill for a party of 4.
- customer serviceIt was so loud that conversation was impossible, forcing us to sit in silence. This ties into my second major complaint: extremely poor customer service. We faced long waits between courses, approximately 30 minutes, and the loud music made conversation during these waits unbearable.
- food descriptionsevery one was very soft-spoken, and they all felt like they had to get through their memorized spiel
- waiterwaiter were barely audibles and understandable
- waiting timeWaited like 20mins before we decided to flag down a server
- OpenTableNowhere on OpenTable does it say that only reservations booked at least a month in advance have access
- ServiceThe pricing is high, and the food quality is average. Service is very lacking. We were celebrating a once-in-a-lifetime event and thought it would be a majestic venue, but upon entry, it felt like a regular dining area with little to no ambiance.
- allergiesThe service is what left the most to be desired: coursing was rushed, plates were withdrawn while our party was still eating, and our server couldn’t tell us anything about the cocktails or make recommendations. Worse, we had two allergies at our table, and while the kitchen accommodated beautifully, our server stumbled to keep them straight and made the interactions awkward by referencing them repeatedly. I expect much better for this price point.
- apologynot satisfactory though compared with other fine dining restaurants
- arduous journeyafter the arduous journey to get to the restaurant
If you're seeking a dining experience where service can truly impress with attentive and knowledgeable staff, this spot is worth considering. Just be aware that there might be some inconsistencies, as occasional slow service or organizational hiccups have been noted.
Ambience (7.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 75% of the guests
When it comes to ambience, this spot really shines! With a good score of 7.8 and a good customer satisfaction of 79.4%, its clear many love the vibe. Out of 180 comments, 143 rave about the stunning views, atmosphere and decor, and overall ambiance.
Guests consistently praise the beautiful interior design and the feeling of a special, luxurious experience. However, not everyone is completely swept away. There were 30 negative comments, often pointing to issues like the noise level and music being too loud, or the lighting being too dim.
Some guests also felt disappointed by less elegant back room' seating, which lacked the grand views and decor of the main areas.
Ambience
180
Reviews
79%
Satisfaction
30
negative
7
neutral
143
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Stunning city views
- Beautiful decor
- Great atmosphere
What people don't like
- Loud music
- Dim lighting
- Less elegant back room
Often praised
- atmosphereEach of the 5 courses were inventive and delicious. While we didn't try the cocktails as we don't drink, if you're looking for a yummy dinner in a great atmosphere, I definitely recommend Empress by Boon!
- viewOur wedding anniversary was marked by an epic meal at this restaurant. The setting on the 6th floor offered a stunning view of the city and was complemented by bold decor. While the music was a bit loud upon entering the 6th floor, it was not an issue once seated, allowing for easy conversation.
- ambianceUpon entering this swanky setting, we were immediately greeted by Sean Niles in the warmest, most charismatic way! He really set the tone for what was to be a memorable prix fixe menu.
- decorOur wedding anniversary was marked by an epic meal at this restaurant. The setting on the 6th floor offered a stunning view of the city and was complemented by bold decor. While the music was a bit loud upon entering the 6th floor, it was not an issue once seated, allowing for easy conversation.
- interiorIt was one of the best meals I've ever had, perhaps THE best. The overall experience was fun, and most of the interior was fantastic. However, we did sit in the back area, which did not possess the same elegance as the front.
- viewsTheir cocktails were less consistent; we really liked the Grail Chamber and Nanjing Cocktail, but the Look at the Flowers and Upside Down were forgettable. Service was great, and the restaurant has one of the most beautiful decors and views in San Francisco. The only weird part is their prix fixe menu — while reasonably priced at $98pp — does not include the dessert, which comes a la carte.
- ambiencethe ambience was promising with low lit interiors, modern furniture, nice bar area and good views
- experienceI also suggest adding dessert to the prix fixe menu. Outside of that, I really enjoyed the experience and would recommend it.
- spacethe space? Probably the most beautiful restaurant in SF
- barChef Boon's approach to fine cuisine is a 100% mind/palette blowing adventure. We sat at the bar with our bartender Pat, who rocked, and were able to order à la carte. Normally, reservations are required for the dining area, and you can't order off the pre-fixe menu, so be forewarned.
Frequently criticized
- atmosphereNo romantic at all
- musicturn down your music and maybe change your playlist. The music turned a high-end dining place into a cheap sports bar
- noise levelThe decor was very nice, though the first floor and outside of the building weren't as appealing as the main floor. It was also a bit too loud due to other customers talking and laughing loudly, making conversation difficult.
- ambiancelittle or no ambiance.
- ambienceThat is what you’re paying for. Don’t go for the food experience and the ambience because one of them is sure to be lacking. Definitely not worth $120+ per person.
- back areasit in the back area which did not have the same elegance
- back roomescorted to the back room and seated at a table with no view
- bathroomthe only downside was the bathroom wasn't on the same floor
- elegancedid not have the same elegance as the front
- elevatorAs part of the Healthcare Heroes dinners, the food was truly sensational, and the service made us feel like royalty. A small note for future visitors: the elevator does not run late, so plan your evening accordingly. Thank you so much, Team Empress by Boon!
If you're seeking a restaurant with breathtaking views and a truly special atmosphere, this place is definitely worth a visit. Just be mindful of potential noise levels and try to secure a table in the main dining area to fully experience its grandeur.
Value (3.6 out of 10)
mentioned by 46% of the guests
While the overall sentiment around value is quite low, with a score of 3.6 and customer satisfaction at just 15.5%, a small group of 13 patrons did find some redeeming qualities. They felt the overall experience was worth it for the price, offering great value for special events, and some even described it as affordable for fine dining. However, the overwhelming sentiment, reflected in 61 negative comments, points to significant concerns.
Many found the restaurant to be overpriced and expensive, with patrons feeling the prices were too high for the quality or portion size. This led to a common feeling that it was simply not worth the price and carried a high price tag.
Value
84
Reviews
15%
Satisfaction
61
negative
10
neutral
13
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Experience worth price
- Great for special events
What people don't like
- Significantly overpriced
- Not worth money
- Poor price-quality ratio
Often praised
- priceHaving dined at all ranks of Michelin star restaurants across the country, I believe this place could be deserving in coming years. It also won’t break the bank, as it’s only just over $100 per person for a hefty 5-course meal. The cocktails are fantastic and the wine list is curated expertly.
- affordablepretty affordable at $99pp
- asking priceMy experience at Empress by Boon this summer has been exceptional. The menu has exceeded every expectation, and the overall experience is well worth the asking price.
- experienceAnything other than a 5-star review would be absurd. It is pricy, so expect to swipe that card, but the experience is well worth the value. The only shame is that their dessert is not part of their prefix, because the coconut sago was the best thing on their menu – you don't want to miss it.
- great valueit is still great value because of the whole experience.
- mealsThe only better meals we’ve had have cost 2-3 times as much
- refundchance of getting a refund, I would gladly take it
- special eventgood for special event, birthdays, anniversaries
- take out Chinesefind take out Chinese for 10$ that is better
- valuerecommend this place for value
Frequently criticized
- priceThe atmosphere and decor were a vibe, and the views were gorgeous. However, the food was just fine but not worth the price. The service is what left the most to be desired: coursing was rushed, plates were withdrawn while our party was still eating, and our server couldn’t tell us anything about the cocktails or make recommendations.
- billwhen I realized I spent $400 on what was closer to a $50 cold, mediocre door dash delivery.
- pricesWhile the prices are on the higher side, I was not that empressed
- prix fixe menuService was great, and the restaurant has one of the most beautiful decors and views in San Francisco. The only weird part is their prix fixe menu — while reasonably priced at $98pp — does not include the dessert, which comes a la carte.
- $18and $18
- $320Worst 320$ we’ve ever spent for just two people
- 4% fee4% "we don't like being told to insure our employees" fee
- Significantly overpricedSignificantly overpriced to eat items
- automatic tipAutomatic 20% tip included.
- birthday dessertThey even charge extra for a birthday dessert
If youre considering this spot, be prepared for a potentially steep bill. While a few find the experience worth the splurge for special occasions, many feel its significantly overpriced for what you get. Go in with clear expectations about the cost, or you might leave disappointed.
How are the prices at Empress by Boon?
On average, you’ll spend around 105 per person – from 107 guests. That puts the restaurant squarely in the $101+ category. For a Chinese Restaurant in San Francisco, that’s definitely on the higher-end.
Looking at the price distribution, almost all guests are spending in this top bracket, confirming it’s a premium experience rather than a budget-friendly option.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 107 reviews.
How this restaurant’s value stacks up against similar spots in San Francisco.
Considering the price point, wed say this Chinese restaurant is positioned as a premium dining experience in San Francisco. If youre looking for an upscale meal, this could be a great fit, but it’s certainly not for a casual, budget-conscious outing.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Empress by Boon
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Size
- Solo
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
Noise Level
- Quiet
9
Wonderful View, Delicious Food, Quiet Atmosphere
My experience at this restaurant was wonderful! We were the only customers, which made for a very quiet and easy-to-talk atmosphere. The great view and beautiful room were impressive.
The delicious food was a highlight, and the restaurant was very accommodating regarding dietary restrictions and vegetarian options, which I highly recommend. Service was excellent, and there was no wait time. Parking on the street requires some care, but free street parking is available.
- view9
- room9
- food10
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
9
Amazing Interior, Outstanding Beef, Great Service
My experience at this restaurant was largely positive. The interior was amazing, offering nice views of the bay. The food was fresh and delicious, with the beef being the outstanding star of the show for me.
The service was also great; they were organized and accommodated my dietary restrictions. The entire dinner lasted about 2. 5 hours.
- interior9
- views of the bay8
- food8
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
9
Exceptional Michelin-Starred Experience
After experiencing several Michelin-starred restaurants in Northern Spain, I finally encountered a truly Michelin-starred experience at Boon's The Empress restaurant. The atmosphere was beautiful, and the food was exceptional. The course presentation was delightful, varied, and very filling – we couldn't finish it all.
The service was flawless. The pressed duck is a MUST. It is very expensive, but it is really worth it as a special experience.
- atmosphere10
- food10
- course presentation10
- expensive3
Price per Person
- $71–$80
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
Noise Level
- Quiet
9
Cozy Chinese Gem with Perfect Service
My experience at this restaurant was truly exceptional. The interior is very cozy, offering different seating areas. The food was more than delicious, making it one of the best Chinese restaurants I've visited.
The service was more than perfect; even with two minors, we were accommodated at a table with full menu access, which was a very nice gesture. Dining here is a full experience, not just about the food.
- interior9
- food10
- Chinese restaurants9
Price per Person
- $101+
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Friends
Group Size
- Small Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
Noise Level
- Quiet
9
Master Class Cantonese Cuisine Experience
I had a wonderful experience here. The food was Master Class. The atmosphere was refined casual.
It's a tasting menu of modernized Cantonese cuisine. I highly recommend it if you have the time, as dinner was 3 hours.
- food10
- atmosphere9
- modernized Cantonese cuisine9
What Empress by Boon offers
Planning
- Lunch reservations recommended
- Reservations required
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- Tourists
- Groups
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Popular for
- Dinner
- Lunch
Amenities
- Restroom
- Bar onsite
Offerings
- Hard liquor
- Wine
- Coffee
- Beer
- Small plates
- Cocktails
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Dinner
- Table service
- Lunch
- Dessert
Service Options
- Dine-in
Parking
- Usually difficult to find a space
- Paid parking garage
- Paid street parking
Atmosphere
- Upscale
- Romantic
- Trendy
FAQs
Do you need reservations to dine at Empress by Boon?
Yes, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner. You should plan to make reservations for lunch as well, as Empress by Boon accepts and encourages them to ensure you secure your table for an exceptional dining experience.
What kind of dining experience can you expect at Empress by Boon?
At Empress by Boon, you can expect an upscale, romantic, and trendy dining experience perfect for dinner or lunch. The restaurant offers table service, small plates, and a full bar with hard liquor, wine, beer, and cocktails, all within a wheelchair-accessible setting.
How does Empress by Boon generally score with diners?
Empress by Boon has an overall restaurant score of **6.4** out of 10, indicating an average dining experience. Customer satisfaction is **57.2%**, suggesting a mixed reception. The **Ambience** (7.8) is highly rated, while **Food** (6.6) and **Service** (6.0) are average, and **Value** (3.6) is a notable concern.
What do customers appreciate most about Empress by Boon?
Diners frequently praise the restaurant’s stunning views and elegant decor, contributing to a memorable atmosphere. Many also highlight the creative presentation of the dishes and the professional, gracious service provided by the staff.
What are common concerns regarding Empress by Boon?
The primary concern for many guests is the high price point, with some finding the overall experience not matching the cost. Inconsistent food flavors and occasional issues with a loud dining atmosphere are also mentioned by patrons.