Kirin has staying power: they've been in this same spot on Castro Street for over 5 decades! Yes, they have fare that caters to most American's impressions of what Chinese food is supposed to be (most items on a typical menu are often modified from what you would actually find in China or Taiwan). However, they are very well prepared and if you're fortunate to dine with someone who speaks Mandarin, they can negotiate with the wait staff and get you more authentic (and more tasty!) items. Downtown Mountain View has evolved dramatically throughout the years and Kirin has been a mainstay throughout all of it.

The most convenient aspect of Kirin is that as a Chinese place, they are open to midnight! In Silicon Valley, this aspect can't be overrated. Better Chinese food exists, but if it's not open. ... Don't get me wrong, Kirin isn't bad for a Chinese restaurant, but this is a dimension which is very important in many ways.

Maybe it was what we ordered because this place was crowded. We had the sizzling chicken and the sizzling pepper steak. So greasy it could have slid off the table unaided! So, just stay away from those two dishes and you should be okay.

I golf regularly with three Chinese guys who introduced me to the restaurant. They originally described it as the restaurant for the blue collar crowd to distinguish it from some more toney Chinese restaurants in the area where they also eat. The clientele is predominately Asian testifying to their other comment about authenticity. I have been there many times with them and with others and have always been satisfied with the food.

This is not a restaurant to visit for ambiance or decor - it is very functional and somewhat worn, but not objectionable by any means. The service is very efficient and having tried many dishes have found the food is consistently very good. The meats are tender and free of fat and gristle. Vegetables are fresh and not overly cooked. Serving sizes are quite generous and prices are very reasonable.

All in all, it's a place to have a very good, inexpensive Chinese meal, but don't think of it as that place to go for a special occassion.

To a Chinese, this restaurant offers great quality authentic Chinese food. My family has gone there a few times a year for many years. It never disappoint. The price per dish is surprisingly low for the quality and quantity of food they bring out. That is probably why it is always packed. Make reservation if you have more than six persons in your party.

For people not familiar with Chinese food, you would enjoy more if you bring someone who is. For example,
A whole Roast Duck is $14 but a Peking Duck is $24 (the additional $10 buys you some buns, shredded green onion, and plum sauce)
The Sizzling Pepper Beef Steak offers better beef quality, better taste, and interesting presentation for $1 more than any other beef dish.

However, don't be afraid to explore if you don't have a guide. It is perfectly fine for you to quickly look at what other tables had ordered, if it looks good, ask the waiter to get you one. This is perfectly acceptable practice there.

I believe that this restaurant is slightly underrated because it is too crowded and it offers too many choices for those who aren't familiar with Chinese food. Hope your next trip there will bring you big smile.