Recently, local businesses and organizations have been making an effort to revitalize San Francisco’s Chinatown neighborhood, especially the night scene, in response to the effects of the pandemic. One of these efforts, by a group called BeChinatown, is the monthly night market on Grant Ave, featuring a vibrant selection of food and activities from over 30 vendors. The night market takes place from 5:30 to 9 pm on the second Friday of every month and has already begun for 2025. When I made the trip to San Francisco on Friday, October 11, 2024, there was also an adjacent Waverly Block Party offering more live music and activities like arts and crafts and mahjong.
The tent-lined streets bustled with people, still-open shops gave off welcoming glows, and the nostalgic smell of dim sum filled the air. Live music echoed down every block, ranging from DJs blasting pop hits to musicians playing traditional Chinese instruments. Under each tent, red lanterns illuminated stacks of Asian snacks and boba milk tea. Vendors served familiar dim sum dishes like fried sesame balls, crispy egg rolls, noodles, chicken and rice bowls, and jelly desserts. My sister and I tried snacks and drinks from four different vendors.
Creamy egg custard buns were a great deal for a pack of three, and fresh passion fruit-flavored sugarcane juice was tart and refreshing. Sweet mango sticky rice from an all-vegetarian vendor was the perfect size to share. One of the highlights was a Texas-style BBQ bao: a golden sesame-crusted milk bread filled with smoked brisket from Smokin D’s.
The vendor setup was a fun and affordable way to sample the local restaurant offerings, with most items priced around five dollars.
#SpoonTip: Bring cash—it’s easier and some vendors only take cash or Venmo.
The Chinatown night market is inspiring more night markets in SF, including the Waverly Block Party, which aims to bring the neighborhood together and support the night market vendors. Both celebrate culture and community through food, music, and art. The large crowds were uplifting, showing a promising sign of the revival of Chinatown’s pre-pandemic liveliness. Although tourism has declined in recent years, events like these night markets continue to draw visitors to the neighborhood and promote a quick post-COVID recovery for local businesses.
This was overall a delightful experience and would be the perfect way to wrap up a day in San Francisco. The neighborhood is easily accessible from Downtown Berkeley by BART and a short walk or MUNI bus ride. Mark your calendars for the next night market on February 14th—it’s a must-visit for food lovers or anyone looking for a fun Chinatown experience!