Seemor
Thanh Long RestaurantB+Worth Trying
4101 Judah St, San Francisco, CA 94122
· Vietnamese restaurant, Asian fusion restaurant, Restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (1648 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Destination for garlic roasted Dungeness crab and garlic noodles with polished service, strong flavors, and high prices plus automatic service charges—great if you want the signature crab experience, less compelling for value seekers.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Thanh Long delivers solid neighborhood dining through exceptional food quality—particularly its iconic garlic roasted Dungeness crab—and attentive, coordinated service. However, inconsistent execution and occasional food safety lapses prevent a higher grade, while modest interior design and steep pricing limit broader appeal despite its loyal two-decade following.
Restaurant Summary
A long-standing Outer Sunset favorite where the room feels cozy and classic and the service runs like a well-coordinated team. Diners rave about the signature crab, with one guest remarking, "the roasted crab and noodles were worth the trip." Expect busy peak hours and book ahead. The kitchen leans elevated traditional Vietnamese seafood with bold garlic-butter flavors rather than showy modernism. Think Dungeness crab, shaken beef, and sea bass with ginger-scallion accents—more comfort-forward than experimental. Fans celebrate the rich sauces; critics sometimes find dishes heavy or portioned modestly for the price. Families do fine here thanks to approachable staples like garlic noodles, fried rice, and lemongrass chicken. There is no kids menu, but simple carb and protein options suit most children. If your crew avoids shellfish or butter, plan around sides and clear allergy notes with the staff.
At a Glance
- Iconic garlic roasted Dungeness crab and famous garlic noodles
- Coordinated, attentive service and smooth reservations
- High prices with automatic service charges and surcharges
- Parking is tough; rideshare advised
What Sets It Apart
- signature_garlic_roasted_crab
- destination_status_for_dungeness
- coordinated_team_service
What People Love
- Rich, garlicky crab that defines the meal
- Nostalgic, cozy setting with smooth hospitality
- Reliable shaken beef and shareable starters
- Making a night of a signature SF experience
Points of Concern
- Market-priced crab and 18-20% service charge increase totals noticeably
- Some reports of overcooked or room-temperature plates on busy nights
- A few safety lapses reported (hair in dish, off-smelling crab) amid many clean visits
- Parking is difficult; plan extra time or use rideshare
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$65-95 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- If crab is your target, budget $80-100 for the crab plus sides
- Pair one crab with two noodle orders and a bright starter to balance richness
Perfect For
- Celebrating with signature crab and noodles
- Out-of-town visitors seeking a San Francisco classic
- Seafood-focused date night
- Group dinners with reservations
Location Insights
Area: Quiet, residential beachside district attracting locals and destination diners; relaxed and low-key compared with downtown.
Safety: Generally safe with steady foot traffic; typical urban concerns. Lighting moderate; no major safety issues reported.
Nearby: Near Judah St transit, Ocean Beach, small shops and cafes; mostly residential blocks with limited private parking.
Outer SunsetOuter Sunset offers a laid-back dining scene with a mix of casual eateries, coffee shops, and some trendy spots catering to locals. The area is known for its relaxed vibe, outdoor-oriented lifestyle, and a growing interest in diverse, affordable dining options. It is less touristy and more neighborhood-centric, attracting those who prefer a calm atmosphere away from the city center.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday16:30–20:00
Thursday16:30–20:00
Friday16:30–20:30
Saturday16:30–21:00
Sunday16:30–20:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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