Dive Bars and Hidden Gems in Chinatown

Chinatown has a few obvious draws, but the places locals actually return to tend to be smaller, cheaper, and easier to miss. Here is a short list of the no-frills bars and under-the-radar spots worth knowing about.

Melody Lounge (939 N Hill St) is a red-lit neighborhood bar with Chinese lanterns overhead and a menu of craft beers and cocktails. It is unassuming from the outside, but easier to settle into once you're in. A solid option if you want a low-key drink without much fuss.

Lollicup (988 N Hill St) is a Taiwanese bubble tea chain on N Hill Street serving boba drinks and snacks like fried popcorn chicken at prices that won't hurt. It is straightforward fast-casual, good for a quick takeout order when you want something cold and cheap.

My Dung Sandwich Shop (314 Ord St) is a takeout sandwich spot on Ord Street with very affordable prices and a loyal following. The ratings here are among the highest in the neighborhood, which tells you something.

Caveman Vintage Music (North Spring St) deals in vintage instruments, records, and gear, and also does repairs and lessons. The kind of place where you can drop off a beat-up guitar and flip through old vinyl while you wait. Ratings are exceptional across a solid number of reviews.

Now Serving (727 N Broadway) is a cookbook and food-writing bookstore that has built a real reputation in a short time. If you care about food literature, it is worth going out of your way for.

Scoops Chinatown (727 N Broadway) shares the N Broadway address and has built up a loyal following since opening. One of the more warmly rated spots on the block, with takeout and delivery available if you can't make it in.

The Courtyard Cafe at The California Endowment (1000 N Alameda St) is tucked inside the Endowment building and is one of the more quietly beloved spots in the area. Strong and consistent ratings across a large number of reviews. Worth knowing about if you're anywhere nearby.