# China Live: xiaolongbao in Chinatown, then Cold Drinks Bar upstairs

> China Live review, San Francisco Chinatown: xiaolongbao and dim sum in a big hall for groups. Cold Drinks Bar upstairs; Eight Tables is its own tasting menu.

- **Restaurant:** China Live
- **City:** San Francisco
- **Neighborhood:** Chinatown
- **Cuisine:** Chinese
- **Rating:** 4/5
- **Price:** $$
- **Must order:** Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings)
- **Ideal for:** Groups exploring diverse Chinese regional cuisines
- **Address:** 644 Broadway, San Francisco, CA 94133
- **Phone:** +1-415-788-8188
- **Website:** https://www.chinalivesf.com
- **Instagram:** https://instagram.com/chinalivesf
- **Map:** https://www.google.com/maps?q=China+Live+San+Francisco+Chinatown
- **Reviewed:** 2025-01-27
- **Author:** Christian Van Der Henst (Cvander)
- **Canonical URL:** https://www.cookfoodie.com/reviews/china-live
- **City guide:** San Francisco: https://www.cookfoodie.com/wishlist/san-francisco

## Review

China Live on Broadway in Chinatown is the big Chinese food hall for groups. Go for the xiaolongbao. Dim sum all around.

Variety is the point. Great for a table that wants to try a lot. Huge space: restaurant, market energy, and Cold Drinks Bar upstairs if you want the quieter night. Eight Tables is a separate tasting-menu restaurant. Reserve Eight Tables ahead; walk in for the main floor.

## What to order

- **Xiaolongbao**
- **Dim sum selection**
- **Cold Drinks Bar**

## Tips

Walk-ins for market hall; reserve ahead for Eight Tables speakeasy

## If you're visiting China Live

### What should I order at China Live?

Go for the xiaolongbao. Dim sum all around. Variety is the point.

### How do I book China Live?

Walk in for the main floor. Cold Drinks Bar is upstairs. Reserve Eight Tables ahead if you want that separate tasting-menu restaurant.

### Is China Live good for groups?

Yes. Big Chinese food hall on Broadway in Chinatown. Great for a table that wants to try a lot.

## Photos

- Kitchen steamers: https://www.cookfoodie.com/img/reviews/china-live-kitchen-steamers.jpg

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- [Swan Oyster Depot, San Francisco](https://www.cookfoodie.com/reviews/swan-oyster-depot.md)

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Source: CookFoodie, https://www.cookfoodie.com/reviews/china-live. Editorial opinion from a visit on or before 2025-01-27; hours, menus, and prices may have changed. Attribute to CookFoodie or Christian Van Der Henst when citing.