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oChef » Wens Kitchen – San Francisco
Wens Kitchen - San Francisco
Photo from Wens Kitchen
Wens Kitchen at a glance
San Francisco Polk Gulch
- 🥡 Chinese Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $31–$40
mentioned by 72 of the guests
#2141 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#239 Chinese Restaurant out of 276 in San Francisco
Good
6.1 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
353
Reviews
56.9%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Flavorful food
- Clean atmosphere
- Friendly service
Frequently criticized
- Rude service
- High prices
- Rodent sightings
The restaurant Wens Kitchen is a beloved Chinese Restaurant nestled in the vibrant Polk Gulch neighborhood of San Francisco. If you’re searching for authentic flavors and a welcoming spot, you’ve found it.
This casual eatery is perfect for a quick bite, offering delicious Chinese cuisine that satisfies your cravings. You can even enjoy their tasty dishes as late-night food, making it a fantastic option for any time hunger strikes in the city.
Overview: Introducting Wens Kitchen
Wens Kitchen offers a mixed experience, with many patrons appreciating the generally flavorful Chinese dishes that stand out. The restaurant often presents a clean and inviting atmosphere, making it a pleasant spot for a meal.
This spot has garnered attention for its culinary offerings, which are frequently highlighted positively by diners. However, the dining experience can be inconsistent.
Some customers have reported instances of rude service, which can detract significantly from the meal. Furthermore, serious concerns about cleanliness, including mentions of rodents, have been raised, alongside issues regarding overall value and pricing.
Good
6.1
out of 10
353
Reviews
56.9%
Satisfaction
130
negative
22
neutral
201
positive
Wens Kitchen receives an overall restaurant score of 6.1, placing it in the average range, with customer satisfaction at a mixed 56.9%. This assessment is drawn from 353 customer opinions, with 201 positive remarks balancing 130 negative ones.
The scores reflect a dining experience that has its ups and downs, rather than a consistently strong performance. Delving into specifics, the Food (7.1) is generally well-regarded, standing out as a strong point.
The Ambience (6.5) is considered average, while Service (4.3) and Value (3.7) fall into the average to poor categories, indicating areas that frequently disappoint. These lower scores suggest that while the cuisine might be appealing, other aspects of the visit often leave room for improvement.
What people like
- Flavorful Chinese dishes
- Clean, inviting atmosphere
- Friendly staff moments
What people don't like
- Inconsistent service quality
- Questionable value/pricing
- Significant cleanliness issues
Wens Kitchen presents a classic case of good food battling against other significant challenges. If you prioritize flavorful Chinese cuisine and are willing to overlook potential inconsistencies in service and value, you might find dishes to enjoy here.
With a recommendation score of 6.3, this establishment is a mixed bag. It could be worth a try if you manage your expectations regarding service and pricing, but if a seamless dining experience and clear value are paramount, you might consider other options.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Wens Kitchen
Food (7.1 out of 10)
mentioned by 90% of the guests
When it comes to the food, this place generally hits the mark, earning a good score of 7.1. While customer satisfaction sits at a mixed 68.1%, many diners rave about the exceptional flavor, fresh ingredients, and generous portions. Out of 204 comments, 139 were positive, highlighting delicious food quality and dishes that arrive piping hot.
However, 50 negative comments suggest some areas for improvement. Concerns include simple presentation, an unpleasant aftertaste, or a limited menu, particularly for vegetarian options. Some found portions small for the price, or noted a lack of flavor and even rubbery chicken, indicating quality isn't always consistent across the board.
Food
204
Reviews
68%
Satisfaction
50
negative
15
neutral
139
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Exceptional flavor
- Generous portions
- Fresh, hot food
What people don't like
- Inconsistent food quality
- Limited vegetarian options
- Small portions sometimes
Often praised
- foodMy experience at this restaurant was fantastic! All the food was very flavorful, and I have to say it was the best Chinese I’ve had in San Francisco! I would definitely recommend this place.
- Chinese foodI came to eat in this place because I love to eat Chinese food, but I was surprised by the person who takes the orders and works as a very rude waitress. She doesn't know how to talk and speaks disrespectfully.
- dishesyou can't go wrong with any of the dishes.
- honey walnut shrimpThe honey walnut shrimp was fantastic.
- Mongolian beefThe people are very polite and curious. I called to let them know I didn’t like hot spicy too much, and my Mongolian beef was so perfect. I really love this restaurant; I will be ordering from now on.
- fried ricethe fried rice and sweet and sour chicken are delicious
- sesame chickenThe sesame chicken was crispy and very good
- flavorsThey are packed with flavor, loaded with goodies, and generous with the meat! I especially appreciate when the flavors are so on point that I don't even need to think about adding soy sauce.
- riceThe rice is great too.
- American Chinese foodif you’re looking for American Chinese this place is great
Frequently criticized
- foodMy experience with this restaurant was through DoorDash, and the food was absolutely awful. I immediately got a refund and ordered from somewhere else.
- chickenMy chicken was rubbery
- flavorI immediately got a refund and ordered from somewhere else. The food had no flavor, lacked salt and spice. For example, the orange chicken bread was very soft and had bits of cartilage.
- food poisoninghad severe food poisoning a couple hours later
- orange chickenthe orange chicken bread was very soft and had bits of cartilage
- riceThe egg drop soup was also less than mediocre. Additionally, they do not include rice with the dish and charged extra. This was our first time here, and while we haven't tasted their other dishes, we probably will never visit again.
- Chicken Corn Chowder souppint of Chicken Corn Chowder soup.. Horrible!
- Chow meinshe cannot make a simple Chow mein with no onions
- General TsosGeneral Tsos was dried chicken bites with a Barbecue tasting sauce
- Singapore noodlesSingapore noodles for $18, and they put only one pawn!
If youre looking for flavorful, fresh Chinese food with generous portions, this spot could be a great pick. Just be aware that some dishes might fall short in presentation or consistency, especially if you have specific dietary needs like vegetarian options. Its worth a try, but manage your expectations for every single dish.
Service (4.3 out of 10)
mentioned by 69% of the guests
When it comes to service, there's a bit of a mixed bag here, though the overall sentiment leans towards needing improvement. Many customers have highlighted the presence of friendly service and staff, with some appreciating the kindness of the lady at the front or the owner. The convenience of ordering via QR code or phone, and the speed at which food arrives, also garnered positive remarks among the 32 positive opinions.
However, the experience is often overshadowed by significant drawbacks, reflected in an average score of 4.3 and a poor customer satisfaction of just 35.2%. With 55 negative opinions, many reported instances of rude service from various staff members, including the lady at the front and servers. Issues like long waiting times, unhelpful customer service, and even unprofessional behavior were frequently cited, indicating a need for more consistent and attentive interactions.
Service
91
Reviews
35%
Satisfaction
55
negative
4
neutral
32
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly staff moments
- Efficient phone ordering
- Quick food delivery
What people don't like
- Rude, unhelpful staff
- Excessive waiting times
- Inconsistent service quality
Often praised
- servicethe atmosphere and service were also rated highly
- ServiceService was really friendly.
- staffMy experience at this restaurant was marked by very nice staff and really good food. They are also open late, until 1am.
- FoodFood comes out quickly
- QR codescan a QR code and pay right away which is nice
- chefThe chef that makes it does a very good job
- employeesThe employees are extremely friendly and inviting
- friendly servicevery friendly service
- lady at the frontThe lady at the front was very nice though 💕
- order from tableliked that you can just order from your table
Frequently criticized
- serviceHowever, the walnut shrimp was truly outstanding. It was a very busy night, which meant that service took a while, but the food was well worth the wait. I will definitely go again next time I'm in SF!
- customer servicecustomer service will never admit they made a mistake!
- foodHowever, the only thing I didn't like was the hot and sour soup, which was sweet and not hearty at all. The service was good, but the food took a while and came out at different times.
- rude servicethe lady is very rude and so accommodating
- waitressvery rude waitress. She doesn't know how to talk and speak disrespectfully
- admit you're wrongIt was super annoying. At least admit you're wrong and say you can't fix your mistake. Instead, she tried to make me feel like I'm dumb, all to save their business a few dollars.
- annoyed toneAfter asking to place a takeout order for my mother and myself, the lady I spoke with was very curt. She answered my simple question in an annoyed tone and then abruptly hung up on me. I hope they are plagued with one thousand storms!
- attendant ladyattendant lady could improve her service by being more attentive and polite
- clarificationshe was frustrated. I don’t want to go into a restaurant that treats a customer like this
- closing soonshe told us they are closing soon
If you're considering a visit, be prepared for a potentially inconsistent service experience. While some find the ordering process efficient, many encounters with staff have been less than ideal. It might be a hit-or-miss situation, so manage your expectations regarding staff interactions and wait times.
Ambience (6.5 out of 10)
mentioned by 34% of the guests
The ambience here receives an average score of 6.5, with customer satisfaction landing at a mixed 67.6%. Many guests, in 25 positive remarks, appreciated the clean restrooms, kid-friendly atmosphere, and spacious location. The music and lighting were often highlighted as perfect, contributing to an easy-going and inviting environment suitable for various group sizes.
However, 9 negative comments point to some notable drawbacks. Concerns included difficult parking and a lack of wheelchair accessibility. More seriously, several reports mentioned rodents, with mice running around the restaurant and even in the kitchen, which understandably messed up the overall vibe for some patrons.
Ambience
37
Reviews
67%
Satisfaction
9
negative
3
neutral
25
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Clean restrooms
- Kid-friendly
- Good environment
What people don't like
- Rodents in kitchen
- Poor accessibility
- Difficult parking
Often praised
- atmosphereI highly recommend the Mongolian beef and a side of jasmine rice, which will definitely get you right. The restaurant itself is clean and inviting, contributing to a great atmosphere.
- placeI regret not giving a bigger tip because I had it to-go and had no idea it would be so delicious. It's also a lovely small place to dine at with friends/family, offering a good environment. 💕🥰🦐🦐🥂🥂
- restaurantThe restaurant was clean
- CrowdCrowd was low.
- RestroomsRestrooms were very clean.
- ambienceit feels even more spacious
- easy going atmosphereeasy going atmosphere
- environmentGood environment
- glassesI even love the glasses they serve water with
- group sizeSuitable for all group sizes
Frequently criticized
- Parking spaceSomewhat difficult to find parking
- atmosphereatmosphere were rated a 1
- mice running aroundmice running around when we were looking to order
- parkingSomewhat difficult to find parking
- placeIf you are looking for a place that feels welcoming this is not the best option
- rodentsrodents running around the restaurant
- rodents in kitchenrodents running around the restaurant, Including IN THE KITCHEN
- vibemessed up the Vibe
- wheelchair accessibilityNot wheelchair accessable. Stairs to the main dining
If you're seeking a clean, kid-friendly spot with good music and lighting, this place could be a decent option. However, be prepared for potential parking issues and, more critically, the serious rodent concerns that could significantly impact your visit.
Value (3.7 out of 10)
mentioned by 24% of the guests
When it comes to value, a small number of customers (5 out of 21 opinions) did find some positives. They mentioned the prices were what they expected or even decent, feeling that the food made it worth a visit for the quality. However, the overwhelming majority of feedback (16 out of 21 opinions) paints a different picture, contributing to a low 3.7 score and a poor 23.8% customer satisfaction.
Many felt the experience was expensive or pricey, citing issues like being charged extra for items or unexpected surcharges.
Value
21
Reviews
23%
Satisfaction
16
negative
0
neutral
5
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Decent prices
- Worth a visit
What people don't like
- Unexpected extra charges
- Overpriced items
- High surcharges
Often praised
- pricewhen you taste the food it’s every bit worth the price
- pricesprices were what I expected for dim sum
- visitWorth a visit for sure
Frequently criticized
- pricethe price is outrageous compare to before
- pricesFor the prices you charge..
- 15% surchargeI need to pay 15% more
- bill amountalmost swiped for and $87 order when my order was only $50
- cashit should be cash
- charged extraThe egg drop soup was also less than mediocre. Additionally, they do not include rice with the dish and charged extra. This was our first time here, and while we haven't tasted their other dishes, we probably will never visit again.
- expensivea bit expensive for what you get
- extra $2 per persondemanded an extra $2 per person be paid
- gratuityadded some gratuity in the bill by default
- order chargecharged for it but never recieved it
If youre considering this spot, be aware that value is a mixed bag, leaning towards the pricier side for many. While some found it acceptable, prepare for potentially higher costs and unexpected charges. It might not be the best choice if youre on a strict budget.
How are the prices at Wens Kitchen?
You’re looking at roughly 32 per person – reported by 72 diners. That puts it in the $31–$40 category. For a Chinese Restaurant, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
Interestingly, while the average is 32, a good chunk of diners actually spend less, with many falling into the $11–$20 and $21–$30 ranges. This suggests a nice mix of options, from more budget-friendly bites to slightly more premium choices.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 72 reviews.
See how this restaurant’s value stacks up against similar spots in San Francisco.
Overall, we think the pricing here feels quite fair for a Chinese Restaurant in San Francisco. The variety in spending options means theres likely something for everyone, whether youre looking for a quick, affordable meal or something a bit more substantial.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Wens Kitchen
Price per Person
- $21–$30
Visit Type
- Casual Outing
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
2
Rude Service, Avoid This Place
Do not come to this restaurant! Go somewhere else. The front lady is super rude and cold for no reason.
She performs like you owe her money. The food was rated a 2 and the service and atmosphere were rated a 1.
- front lady1
- food2
- service1
Service Type
- Dine-in
2
Rude Service, Not Worth Your Money
My experience at this restaurant was marred by the rude front desk staff. I believe there are other establishments that offer more respectful service. I would advise against spending your money here if you value being treated with respect.
- front desk staff1
- respectful service1
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Regular Visit
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
Noise Level
- Quiet
8
Wen's: Back to Go-To Spot
My experience at Wen's has been a journey. While it's been hit or miss over the years, the food quality has improved a lot as of late. I really enjoyed the Singapore noodles and Pot Stickers.
Wen's has made it back into my current go-to for classic American Chinese in the neighborhood, proving to be better than Wok Shop or Bamboo.
- food quality9
- Singapore noodles9
- Pot Stickers9
Price per Person
- $91–$100
Visit Type
- Delivery
Service Type
- Delivery
1
Awful Food, No Flavor
My experience with this restaurant was through DoorDash, and the food was absolutely awful. I immediately got a refund and ordered from somewhere else. The food had no flavor, lacked salt and spice.
For example, the orange chicken bread was very soft and had bits of cartilage.
- food1
- flavor1
- salt and spice1
Price per Person
- $31–$40
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Moderate (16–30 min.)
2
Rude waitress ruined Chinese food experience
I came to eat in this place because I love to eat Chinese food, but I was surprised by the person who takes the orders and works as a very rude waitress. She doesn't know how to talk and speaks disrespectfully. I won't come back there again.
- Chinese food7
- waitress1
What Wens Kitchen offers
Crowd
- Groups
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Popular for
- Dinner
- Lunch
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Restroom
Offerings
- Late-night food
- Quick bite
- Beer
- Happy hour food
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Dinner
- Seating
- Lunch
- Table service
Service Options
- Dine-in
- Takeout
- Delivery
Parking
- Usually somewhat difficult to find a space
- Paid street parking
Atmosphere
- Cozy
- Casual
FAQs
What dining options and atmosphere can you expect at Wen's Kitchen?
Wen’s Kitchen offers a cozy and casual atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed meal. You can enjoy dine-in with seating and table service for lunch or dinner. For your convenience, takeout and delivery options are also available, ensuring you can savor their Chinese cuisine wherever you are.
Is Wen's Kitchen family-friendly, and what payment methods are accepted?
Wen’s Kitchen is good for kids, providing high chairs for younger guests. When it comes to payments, you can use credit cards, debit cards, or NFC mobile payments. They also accept reservations, allowing you to plan your lunch or dinner visit with ease.
What is the overall assessment of Wens Kitchen?
Wens Kitchen holds an overall score of 6.1 with 56.9% customer satisfaction. While the Food (7.1) is generally well-regarded, Ambience (6.5) is average, and Service (4.3) and Value (3.7) present notable concerns.
What are some popular dishes at Wens Kitchen?
Customers frequently praise the honey walnut shrimp, Mongolian beef, and sesame chicken for their rich flavors. Many find the fried rice and sweet and sour chicken also delicious.
Are there any common issues customers experience at Wens Kitchen?
Some patrons report inconsistent service, with instances of staff being perceived as rude or unaccommodating. Concerns about value and pricing, including unexpected charges, are also mentioned, alongside serious cleanliness issues like rodents.