Lung Fung Bakery, Chinese

1823 Clement St, San Francisco CA 94121
(415) 386-3775

Parking: Street parking

Hours: Tues-Sun 7am-6pm, Closed Mondays

Last Visited: December 21, 2021

Food: 4 star egg tarts

Atmosphere: 2 stars

Service: 3 stars

Price: $

The Bay Area Eats Facebook group had a debate on where the best egg tarts in the Bay Area could be found. Repeatedly, Lung Fung bakery kept coming up in conversation.  So of course, I had to bring my mom to try it because if anyone can spot a good egg tart, it's my mom.  My mom and I once had a conversation about how many egg tarts she has probably eaten in her lifetime and we're talking hundreds. 

- Egg tart - With one bite, my mom was hooked.  She said it's the closest pastry shell to what you can find in Hong Kong and that's no small feat.  We've gone to many bakeries, and even Golden Gate Bakery doesn't meet her standards. With a flaky pastry shell (certainly containing lard), and a delicate egg custard that isn't too sweet, this is definitely a 4 or dare I even mention, a potential 5 star egg tart.  You definitely need to try this.  Prices keep changing.  

We think it was about $2.20

Other items they're well known for are BBQ pork buns, curry pie, and chicken pie, so of course we had to try these out.

- BBQ Pork Buns - These pork buns are quite ample in size and meaty with a gorgeous brown top and fluffy texture.  However, there is a slight tinge of sourness to it (maybe they have a SF starter that leans sour).  If you don't mind this slight aftertaste, you'll enjoy this bun.  $1.80

- Curry Pie - This is often called a curry beef turnover at other shops.  Similar to the flaky crust of the egg tart, this is equally light and flaky.  One bite and shards of flaky goodness fly all over.  This is filled well (sometimes you bite into a half empty turnover at other shops), and there is a good ratio of crust to filling.  Not too salty and nice yellow curry flavor - spiced, but not spicy. Beautifully golden brown.  One tip - the salesperson told us that curry pie is often not available until after noon, so don't be surprised if you don't find it in the morning.  I had to go twice in order to try it.  $2.80

- Chicken Pie - Similar to the curry pie, this is another pastry with a flaky crust.  This is also filled well with a good ratio of crust to filling.  It's also seasoned well - no complaints. Beautifully golden brown also and filled with chicken.  $2.80

If it's a major Chinese holiday or getting close to the end of the day, you'll want to call ahead to reserve your egg tarts because they often sell out.  Note that they will give you individual plastic bags if you buy less than six items.  More than or equal to six items will get you a box, otherwise, you need to purchase the box.  Also note that it's cash only.  

Parking is relatively easy.