Seemor
Kau Kau BBQ RestaurantB-Worth Trying
656 S King St, Seattle, WA 98104
· Cantonese restaurant, Barbecue restaurant, Restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (2207 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Classic Seattle Chinatown spot for roast pork, duck, and value lunch combos; great when on-form, but consistency and cleanliness complaints mean expectations should be calibrated.
Why it gets a B- for overall quality
Kau Kau BBQ delivers solid neighborhood dining anchored by strong food quality in its roast meats and fast service, with excellent value for money that keeps locals returning. However, inconsistent execution—dry pork, thin slicing, variable rice quality—prevents a higher grade, and cleanliness and odor concerns add friction to the experience. It's a worthwhile Chinatown stop for traditional Cantonese BBQ when you're in the area, but not a destination that transcends its casual, sometimes uneven execution.
Restaurant Summary
A longtime Chinatown stop where the vibe is old-school and bustling, Kau Kau draws locals, pre-game crowds, and takeout regulars. Guests describe servers as friendly and fast, with plates hitting the table quickly. One diner put it simply: "When it is on, the roast pork crackles and the duck stays juicy." The kitchen sticks to traditional Cantonese barbecue and familiar Chinese-American comforts. Char siu, roast pork, and duck lead the way, while wonton noodle soups and chow fun back them up. It suits diners who want classic flavors and big portions more than experimental cooking. Expect the occasional off day, but value is strong, especially at lunch. Families do fine here thanks to fried rice, noodles, and lunch combos that kids will recognize. The menu has simple chicken dishes and vegetable sides, plus tofu options, though vegan labeling is limited. Portions are generous, so sharing works well for younger eaters.
At a Glance
- Roast and BBQ pork can be excellent with crispy, juicy bites
- Strong value via $10-$12 lunch specials and large portions
- Consistency varies (dry cuts, thin slicing, old rice on some visits)
- Mixed cleanliness and odor reports in dining room
- Occasional hygiene and food safety complaints require caution
What Sets It Apart
- classic_cantonese_bbq_counter
- great_value_lunch_special
- group_friendly_family_style
What People Love
- Crispy roast pork skin that shatters
- Comforting wonton noodle soups
- Large, shareable platters
- Fast, friendly service when the room is busy
Points of Concern
- Quality can swing from stellar to dry or oversalted depending on visit
- Dining room cleanliness and odors noted by several guests
- Parking around the area is difficult; consider transit
- Review patterns show some extreme negative reports, but not templated or staff-orchestrated
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleHybrid
Average Cost$24-$34 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Leverage $10-$12 lunch special for maximum value
- For noodles, try Beef Chow Foon (Dry) at $14.99 for wok aroma
- Seafood above $14.99; choose Honey Walnut Prawns if you like sweet-creamy profiles
Perfect For
- A quick Chinatown meal before a Seahawks game
- Sharing roast meats and noodles with a small group
- Takeout BBQ meats to bring home
- A budget-friendly lunch special with classic flavors
Location Insights
Area: Historic Chinatown-International District with casual eateries, markets, and cultural venues; attracts locals and visitors.
Safety: Generally busy by day; mixed perceptions on cleanliness; some reviews note odors and maintenance concerns.
Nearby: Near stadiums, Link light rail, Uwajimaya, and Asian shops; pre-game foot traffic common.
International DistrictThe International District is Seattle's historic Asian neighborhood, known for its authentic Asian cuisine, markets, and cultural landmarks. The dining scene is lively and varied, featuring traditional and modern Asian restaurants alongside casual food stalls, attracting both locals and visitors seeking cultural and culinary experiences.
ChinatownChinatown is the heart of the International District, characterized by its dense concentration of Chinese restaurants, bakeries, and shops. It offers an immersive cultural atmosphere with a strong community presence and a focus on traditional Chinese dining and events.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday10:00–20:00
Tuesday
Wednesday10:00–20:00
Thursday10:00–20:00
Friday10:00–20:00
Saturday10:00–20:00
Sunday10:00–20:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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