About

Since opening our doors in 2008, Z&Y Restaurant has been San Francisco’s premier destination for authentic Szechuan cuisine, bringing the bold, complex flavors of China’s Sichuan province to the heart of historic Chinatown. Under the masterful direction of Owner and Executive Chef Lijun Han—whose distinguished career includes serving two Chinese presidents and working as Executive Chef at the Chinese Consulate-General in San Francisco—we’ve elevated traditional Szechuan cooking to an art form that has earned us a coveted Michelin Bib Gourmand distinction every year since 2012.

Our commitment to authenticity and excellence has garnered recognition from the nation’s most respected food critics and publications, including Forbes, SF Chronicle, SF Eater, and Thrillist. Beyond the accolades, what truly defines Z&Y Restaurant is our unwavering dedication to preserving and sharing the genuine flavors of Sichuan. From our signature Fish Filet with Flaming Chili Oil to our Tea Smoked Duck and Chicken with Explosive Chili Pepper, every dish showcases the characteristic heat, aromatic complexity, and numbing sensation of authentic Sichuan peppercorns that make this regional cuisine so captivating.

Whether you’re a local seeking an exceptional dining experience or a visitor exploring San Francisco’s culinary landscape, Z&Y Restaurant invites you to discover why we’ve become one of the city’s most beloved Chinese restaurants—where centuries-old culinary traditions meet passionate craftsmanship in every unforgettable bite.

Distinguished Guests

Our chef’s cuisine has impressed prestigious guests such as Presidents,

Vice Presidents and several Foreign Ministers of People’s Republic of China. We are sure you will enjoy our food as much as they did!

Deng Xiaoping and Yang Shangkun, Presidents of the People's Republic of China

Pres. Deng Xiaoping & Yang Shangkun

Hu Jintao, President of the People's Republic of China

President Hu Jintao

Foreign Minister Qian Qichen

Foreign Minister Tang Jiaxuan

Vice President Wu Yi

Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing

Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi

Consulate General Wang Yunxiang

Vice Minister Wang Guangya

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Chef Lijun Han?

Chef Lijun Han is our Owner and Executive Chef. He previously served as Executive Chef at the Chinese Consulate-General in San Francisco and has cooked for two Chinese presidents—Deng Xiaoping and Hu Jintao, as well as multiple Vice Presidents and Foreign Ministers of the People’s Republic of China.

When was Z&Y Restaurant founded?

Z&Y Restaurant was founded in 2008 in San Francisco’s historic Chinatown.

What awards has Z&Y Restaurant received?

We’ve held a Michelin Bib Gourmand distinction since 2012. We’ve also been featured in Forbes, SF Chronicle, SF Eater, Thrillist, and named one of San Francisco’s top restaurants by multiple publications including SF Chronicle’s Top 100, The Infatuation, Modern Luxury, Lonely Planet, and many others.

What is Chef Han's culinary background?

Chef Han has used his extensive experience and skillful culinary techniques to showcase compelling Szechuan dishes. His distinguished career includes serving heads of state and bringing authentic Sichuan flavors to San Francisco.

What distinguished guests have dined on Chef Han's cuisine?

Our chef has served Presidents Deng Xiaoping and Hu Jintao, Vice President Wu Yi, and Foreign Ministers Qian Qichen, Tang Jiaxuan, Li Zhaoxing, Yang Jiechi, and many other high-ranking Chinese officials.

What is Z&Y Restaurant's cooking philosophy?

We’re committed to authentic Szechuan cuisine, utilizing traditional techniques to create bold, complex flavors that honor the culinary heritage of China’s Sichuan province.

Can I host a private event at Z&Y Restaurant?

Yes, we accommodate family dinners, birthday parties, weddings, rehearsal dinners, cocktail receptions, corporate events, and social gatherings of various sizes.

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