Master Chef Helene An Honored by City as New Crustacean San Francisco Opens Downtown

San Francisco’s culinary landscape gained a spectacular new jewel on July 17 as Olympic champions and civic leaders gathered for the exclusive VIP opening of Crustacean San Francisco’s stunning downtown location. Figure skating gold medalists Kristi Yamaguchi and Brian Boitano mingled with dignitaries including State Senator Scott Wiener in the restaurant’s striking rose gold bar area, while savoring Caviar and Crispy Langoustine Rolls and Spicy Butter Chicken Dumplings, elegant bites that showcase the An family’s masterful blend of Vietnamese heritage and cutting-edge technique.

A 2024 California Hall of Fame inductee, Master Chef Helene An, whose five-decade San Francisco legacy has redefined Vietnamese fine dining, received heartfelt recognition from city officials who presented certificates of honor. The celebration highlighted the restaurant’s extraordinary design elements, from JH2’s architectural vision to Elizabeth An’s and Mercan Studio’s interior expertise, which create intimate spaces through sleek movable panels with luxe Arte fabric contrasting bamboo wall coverings. Former Chronicle restaurant critic Michael Bauer’s presence added special significance to the evening, as guests toured the House of AN Secret Kitchen, where the family’s most cherished recipes, including the famous Roasted Dungeness Crab, are preserved alongside culinary secrets that have captivated San Francisco for generations.