Great Eastern - Reviews

My experience at this restaurant was overwhelmingly positive, centered around its authentic Cantonese food. I initially visited for dim sum during lunch and was so impressed that I returned for dinner. If you're seeking a truly authentic Cantonese dining experience, this is the place to go. I tried the salt and pepper octopus, which was described as similar to sweet and sour dough but lighter and crisper – excellent, earning a 5-star rating. Another dish, the beef tenderloin with scallops and cashew nuts, offered an interesting and unique flavor combination that, while not strictly Cantonese, was very well cooked. What truly surprised me was the exceptional quality of the white rice; I would give it 5+ stars. The service, atmosphere, and food were all rated a perfect 5 by the reviewer.

My experience at this restaurant was that of authentic Cantonese dim sum. The food was fresh & steamy hot. Locals love to talk loud over good food, so expect a lively atmosphere. Enjoy! Regarding vegetarian options, there were some available with tofu & leeks, but it's worth noting that Chinese cuisine often features pork. The vegetarian dishes were clearly labeled. The price per person is estimated at $20–30, and I would somewhat recommend it for vegetarians. The restaurant is suitable for all group sizes. Service received a rating of 4, and the atmosphere a 5. Parking can be difficult to find, with paid street parking available, and it's advisable to go early to get a quick table as people fill up fast around meal times. There was no wait time for a table. The meal type was lunch, and the food itself was rated a 5.

For Korean diners, I highly recommend trying the Pork & Shrimp Bean Curd Roll with the Ma Po Tofu. Be sure to add steamed rice! The bean curd roll, which seems to be made with tofu skin, is incredibly tasty. It can be a bit salty, so adding rice is essential!

My experience at this restaurant was disappointing. While the food was decent, the service was far from the best. The person at the front was rude. We were denied an item, and at precisely 8: 00 PM, our request for Dim sum was also declined, even though a different demographic was served it. This inconsistency in service was baffling. To add to the frustration, we were pre-charged for a tip, which felt unfair given my desire not to tip due to the poor experience. As someone working in the service industry, I understand good service, and this was certainly not it. I will be going to a different spot.

My wife and I needed a place for a quick bite. This place seemed to be ok, and it is. It's not spectacular in the least; rather, it's just a large room with many tables, reminding me of a buffet-type place. We ordered two plates to share: the mixed vegetables and sesame chicken, and it was fine. If you want decent food, you should find it here.

My experience at this restaurant was marked by it being overpriced. A peculiar aspect of the bill was the inclusion of a tip, which was unexpected as it wasn't mentioned on the menu or in person.

I frequently visit this restaurant when I'm in San Francisco, and I'm glad I finally decided to share my experience. The food and atmosphere have consistently been satisfying, making each visit feel familiar and comforting. I truly appreciate that they've maintained their quality over time. It's definitely a spot I recommend.

As someone from Texas, I can confidently say that the Chinese food here is unparalleled! We ordered the Mandarin Beef, chicken, egg rolls, and dumplings, and it was the best Chinese food I have EVER had. Everything, from the hot tea to the food itself, was fresh, hot, and good. Do not pass this place up; do not sleep on it. It is truly wonderful. The service was great as well.

My dining experience with a party of 4 was disappointing. The food was just OK, with nothing standing out as particularly good. The restaurant was also pretty expensive, with the overall cost feeling too high for the quality of food served. We spent $180 for just hot tea, which included a hidden 18% gratuity for our party of 4. This gratuity was not printed on the menu and, based on my research, appears to be illegal the way it was added. The attempt to hide it, likely in hopes of receiving a double gratuity, felt super shady. Other reviews have also mentioned this practice, with 'TIPS' being hand-written on a hand-written check. While I would have likely left a 20% tip anyway, being charged a gratuity without prior notification felt like an attempt to steal. The restaurant is clearly hoping for a double tip by not informing customers. Considering the prices, the mediocre food, and these questionable gratuity practices, I would not recommend this restaurant. It was notably empty on a Friday night, while the neighboring establishment had a long line, which we would have chosen had we known about these issues.

My experience at the restaurant was very positive. I found the service to be delicious and fast, and the prices were great as well. The steamed bao buns were very flavorful; we tried both the chicken and pork options. We also enjoyed the beef fried rice and the egg rolls.