Lee's Deli

Welcome to Lee's Deli, a distinctive Chinese restaurant situated at 280 Battery St in the bustling downtown area of San Francisco. Unlike some other establishments sharing a similar name, this Lee's Deli caters to the hungry downtown breakfast and lunch crowds with a diverse offering that includes made-to-order sandwiches, a selection of delectable dim sum, and a convenient Chinese buffet sold by the pound. If you're seeking a quick, affordable, and satisfying meal in the heart of the Financial District, Lee's Deli presents a compelling option.

One of the unique features of Lee's Deli is its Chinese buffet, where you can select from a variety of dishes and pay based on the weight of your chosen food. This format is particularly appealing for those looking for a fast and customizable lunch, allowing you to sample different dishes and control your portion sizes. The buffet offers a range of Chinese culinary staples, providing a convenient way to enjoy a diverse meal without a long wait.

In addition to the buffet, Lee's Deli also serves made-to-order sandwiches. While the specific types of sandwiches are not detailed in the provided information, this offering suggests a broader appeal, catering to those who might prefer a more Western-style quick meal alongside their Chinese food options. This combination makes Lee's Deli a versatile spot for different tastes and preferences within a group.

For those craving the delicate and flavorful bites of dim sum, Lee's Deli offers a selection that has been noted for its freshness. Despite being described as "a little pricey," a customer review highlights that the dim sum "has never tasted stale," suggesting a commitment to quality and freshness in their preparation. While the specific dim sum items available are not listed, the inclusion of this popular Cantonese cuisine indicates that Lee's Deli provides an opportunity to enjoy these small, savory dishes, whether as part of a larger meal or as a quick snack.

A notable aspect of Lee's Deli is its affordability, particularly during its happy hour. According to a customer, the buffet goes on happy hour "after 3ish pm making it a steal for late lunch or early dinner." This promotional period offers an even more budget-friendly way to enjoy the variety of the Chinese buffet, making it an attractive option for those seeking a cost-effective and filling meal later in the day. This happy hour special could be a significant draw for downtown workers and residents looking for an early dinner option without breaking the bank.

The atmosphere and service at Lee's Deli are characterized as "humble but friendly." The restaurant is reportedly run by "Chinese ladies" who provide the service. One reviewer encourages patrons to "please tip kindly," suggesting a personal and perhaps smaller-scale operation where tips are likely appreciated. While the reviews do not elaborate on the ambiance or decor, the focus seems to be on providing good, fast, and affordable food with friendly service.

Lee's Deli's location at 280 Battery St in downtown San Francisco makes it a highly accessible option for those working or visiting the area. Its proximity to the Financial District suggests that it caters primarily to the weekday breakfast and lunch rushes of office workers seeking a convenient and quick meal. The fact that "This location still exists" while "Many other Lee’s Deli locations are not open right now" indicates the resilience and continued operation of this particular establishment, making it a reliable choice for those familiar with the name or looking for a Lee's Deli in the downtown area.

In summary, Lee's Deli offers a unique blend of dining options in downtown San Francisco, featuring a Chinese buffet sold by the pound, made-to-order sandwiches, and a selection of fresh dim sum. It is particularly noted for providing good, fast, and affordable Chinese food, especially during its happy hour buffet after 3 pm. The friendly service provided by the Chinese ladies running the establishment adds a personal touch to the dining experience. If you are in the downtown area and looking for a versatile and budget-friendly spot for breakfast, lunch, or an early dinner, Lee's Deli is worth considering for its convenient location and diverse menu offerings.