Kirin Chinese Restaurant And Cocktail Bar

Located in the heart of Berkeley on Solano Avenue, Kirin Chinese Restaurant And Cocktail Bar is a distinguished gem for lovers of authentic Northern Chinese and broader Asian cuisine. This vibrant spot seamlessly blends traditional flavors with modern flair, delivering an exceptional dining experience that appeals to both casual diners and culinary enthusiasts.

Stepping inside Kirin, guests are welcomed by a warm and inviting atmosphere that balances simple, clean decor with a touch of understated elegance. It’s a space where attentive service and genuine hospitality make every visit feel special—whether you’re celebrating a birthday like Michelle Danzy-Hersey or enjoying a family meal that leaves you eager to return, as praised by Darryl K Jones.

The menu is an enticing journey through expertly crafted Chinese dishes, presenting a wide array of options that showcase the depth and richness of the cuisine. If you’re craving something iconic, the Xiaolong Bao offer a delicate burst of savory broth inside thin steamed dumplings, while the Shanghai Garlic Noodles captivate with their fragrant, garlicky goodness. Meat lovers can indulge in the Manchurian Beef or the Kirin Beef and Sesame Chicken, where tender cuts are perfectly balanced with bold, savory sauces.

Seafood options merit particular attention, especially the weekday lunch specials featuring dishes like Broccoli Prawns in garlic wine sauce and the fiery Chili Yu Shang Fish or scallops, which combine Sichuan chili heat with delicate textures and contrasting notes of rice vinegar and water chestnut. For soup enthusiasts, the Sizzling Rice Soup—brimming with shrimp, chicken, and spinach—is a standout, praised as “to die for” by longtime diners.

Vegetarian guests are also well catered for, with standout dishes like the MaPor Tofu, which delivers a delightful balance of spice and savory depth enhanced by a subtle hint of Sichuan peppercorn. The Family Braised Tofu and Red Curry Tofu provide hearty, flavorful options that feel both comforting and thoughtfully prepared.

No meal at Kirin would be complete without sampling their creative cocktail offerings. The Lychee Martini and the intriguingly named Emperor's Punch are crafted to complement the rich flavors of the food, adding a refreshing and sophisticated touch to your dining experience.

Regular patrons, like Mary Rendon, appreciate not just the delicious food but also the friendly, attentive service and fair pricing that make Kirin a beloved neighborhood favorite. The owners cultivate a welcoming environment where everyone is treated like family, enhancing the overall warmth and connection guests feel here.

While some may crave even bolder flavors, as noted by Raymond Carbonneau Robles, the subtlety and finesse of Kirin’s dishes offer a nuanced take on authentic Chinese cooking that honors tradition while inviting exploration. Each plate tells a story of carefully balanced ingredients and culinary craftsmanship, making every bite a discovery.

Whether you’re seeking a casual lunch, an intimate dinner, or a lively night out with expertly mixed cocktails, Kirin Chinese Restaurant And Cocktail Bar invites you to savor thoughtful, high-quality Asian cuisine in a friendly setting that makes every visit memorable.