10 Secrets Behind The Legend Of House Of Nanking: Must-Try Dishes And How To Skip The Infamous Line

The House of Nanking (HONK) in San Francisco remains one of the world's most talked-about and famously challenging Chinese dining experiences. As of December 15, 2025, this Chinatown institution continues to draw massive crowds, cementing its status as an iconic culinary landmark that has transcended a mere restaurant to become a true San Francisco rite of passage. If you’re planning a visit, understanding the unique history, the legendary owner, and the specific must-order dishes is crucial to navigating the queues and experiencing the true genius of their Shanghai-style cuisine.

This deep dive provides the most current information, from the latest menu highlights to insider tips on how to manage the infamous wait time, ensuring your visit to the legendary 919 Kearny Street location is a success. The restaurant’s enduring popularity, decades after its 1988 opening, proves that a focus on fresh, flavorful, and unique Chinese-American dishes can create a timeless global sensation. Navigating the experience, however, requires a strategy.

The Fang Family Legacy: Biography and History of a Culinary Empire

The story of House of Nanking is inseparable from the biography of its founders, Peter and Lily Fang, and their daughter, Kathy Fang, who has become a culinary star in her own right. Their journey from Shanghai to San Francisco in 1980 laid the foundation for one of the city's most enduring restaurant success stories.

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• Peter Fang (Chef-Owner): The visionary chef who opened House of Nanking in 1988. Known for his intense, hands-on approach, Peter is famous for often "ordering for you," steering customers away from standard Chinese-American fare toward his unique, often Szechuan and Shanghai-influenced creations. His philosophy centers on fresh ingredients and a dynamic kitchen, often leading to a chaotic but highly rewarding dining experience.
• Lily Fang (Co-Owner): Peter’s wife and co-owner. Lily has been instrumental in managing the restaurant's operations and customer experience alongside Peter since their immigration to San Francisco in 1980.
• Kathy Fang (Daughter/Chef): A celebrated chef and culinary personality who grew up in the restaurant. Kathy has expanded the family's culinary influence, notably appearing on the Food Network. She is the chef and owner of Fang, another popular San Francisco restaurant, and continues to champion the family's innovative approach to Chinese cuisine.
• Establishment: House of Nanking opened in 1988 with modest seating and a short-order counter.
• Location: Located in the heart of San Francisco's historic Chinatown community.
• Cuisine Style: A unique blend of traditional Shanghai cuisine with a modern, Americanized, and often spicy Szechuan twist.

The Fang family's dedication to their craft, despite the small space and often long waits, has solidified HONK as a veritable San Francisco landmark.

The 5 Legendary Dishes You Must Order at House of Nanking

While the menu is extensive, the true HONK experience involves the dishes that have become legendary. These are the items that define the restaurant’s unique flavor profile and are often the reason for the long lines. When the server asks what you want, these are the names you should know.

1. The Famous Nanking Sesame Chicken

This is arguably the most famous dish on the menu and a non-negotiable order for first-timers. Unlike the overly sweet, breaded versions found elsewhere, the Famous Nanking Sesame Chicken is known for its crispy texture, a balanced savory-sweet glaze, and a fresh, bright flavor. It is a perfect example of Peter Fang's ability to elevate a Chinese-American staple.

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2. Fried Onion Cakes (with HONK Peanut Sauce)

These are not your average scallion pancakes. The Fried Onion Cakes are perfectly crisp, flaky, and served with the "World Famous HONK Peanut Sauce." This signature appetizer is a textural delight and the peanut dipping sauce is so beloved it has its own cult following.

3. Fried Pork Potstickers or Shrimp Packets

Another classic starter, the Fried Pork Potstickers are generously filled and pan-fried to a perfect crisp. Alternatively, the Fried Shrimpackets offer a delightful seafood twist. Both are served with the essential HONK Peanut Sauce, making them a must-try appetizer.

4. Spicy Szechuan Sauteed Chicken (or Beef)

For those who love heat, the Spicy Szechuan Sauteed Chicken with peppers is an intense, flavorful choice. This dish showcases the Szechuan influence on the menu, delivering a spicy kick balanced by fresh vegetables and high-quality protein. It's a deep dive into the more authentic, fiery side of the menu.

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5. Umami Garlic Long Beans

Often overlooked, the vegetable dishes at HONK are exceptional. The Umami Garlic Long Beans are a standout, tossed with a savory, garlicky sauce that makes them incredibly addictive. They offer a fresh, crunchy counterpoint to the richer, fried main courses.

Insider Tips: How to Conquer the House of Nanking Wait Time

The biggest challenge for any visitor is the legendary, often hours-long, wait. House of Nanking does not take reservations, making strategic timing essential.

1. The Golden Hour Strategy (Weekday Sweet Spot)

The most effective way to minimize your wait is to arrive early on a weekday. The consensus among regulars is that showing up before 6:00 PM is key. If you arrive around 5:30 PM, you will often find open tables and can be seated immediately, avoiding the dinner rush that starts closer to 6:30 PM.

2. The "Trust Peter" Ordering Method

A classic HONK experience involves the owner, Peter Fang, suggesting or even dictating your order. While this can be intimidating, it often leads to the best food. If you are open to it, let the server or Peter guide you. He is famous for knowing what is fresh and what will delight you, often customizing dishes based on your preferences. Trying to stick rigidly to the menu or making specific substitutions can sometimes slow down the process.

3. Be Ready to Share

The portions at House of Nanking are generous, and the best way to experience the menu's breadth is to order family-style. Plan to share 3–4 dishes among a party of two to fully appreciate the variety, from the spicy Szechuan dishes to the famous Sesame Chicken and the essential Fried Onion Cakes. This approach also helps the kitchen turn tables faster, which is always appreciated.

4. Consider Delivery or Takeout (The Modern Solution)

In the post-2020 era, many iconic restaurants, including HONK, have streamlined their delivery and takeout operations. If the line is simply too long, ordering delivery via services like Seamless, Grubhub, or UberEats is a viable option to enjoy the food without the wait. This is a great alternative for locals or those staying nearby.

5. Don't Forget the Vegan/Vegetarian Options

While famous for its chicken and pork dishes, House of Nanking is also accommodating to plant-based diets. The menu includes a dedicated vegetarian section, and the kitchen can often adjust dishes. Make sure to ask about the Umami Garlic Long Beans and other vegetable-forward specialties.

Ultimately, House of Nanking is more than just a meal—it is a piece of San Francisco history and a testament to the bold, uncompromising vision of the Fang family. Whether you brave the line or order in, the unique flavors and the legendary atmosphere make it a culinary destination that continues to thrive and evolve, remaining a vibrant cornerstone of the Chinatown dining scene.