The Best Way To Ring In The Chinese New Year

[UPDATE: This story was originally published on July 3, 2013.] Fun fact: Did you know S.F. houses the largest and oldest Chinatown in the whole U.S.? That's right San Franciscans, be proud, because that’s a pretty big deal. And, while the expansive neighborhood is about as authentic as they come, we'll admit that we don’t wander around the lantern-laden hills as much as we’d like.

With such a wealth of cultural offerings, we’d be there every day if we knew exactly where to go — it’s the best kind of sensory overload. So, from quirky kite stores to dim sum that will blow your mind, this curated list of must-hit spots are the next best thing to hopping a plane east. Have at it, pocket that airfare money, and rest assured that these picks will bring you more than enough good fortune. Time to get lucky!