San Francisco’s dining scene is always evolving, and this year one of the standout additions is Go Duck Yourself. Located at 439 Cortland Avenue in Bernal Heights, this Cantonese barbecue spot has quickly gained recognition—not just from local residents but from the San Francisco Chronicle, which named it one of the 10 Best New Bay Area Restaurants of 2024. It’s a fresh chapter for a family-run business with deep roots in the city, now thriving in a new neighborhood.
Go Duck Yourself is run by Eric and Simon Cheung, brothers who grew up helping their family operate Hing Lung, a beloved Cantonese barbecue shop in Chinatown. After nearly five decades on Stockton Street, the business faced challenges with its aging building, prompting the Cheungs to make a bold move. They left Chinatown behind and reimagined their family’s legacy as Go Duck Yourself, bringing their expertise in roast meats to Bernal Heights.
The restaurant specializes in Cantonese roast duck, prepared with meticulous care to achieve crispy skin and deeply aromatic meat. The menu also features standout dishes like char siu (barbecued pork collar) and crispy pork belly, which many diners claim steals the show. Whether you’re dining in or picking up takeout, this is comfort food elevated to something truly special.
When deciding where to relocate, the Cheungs analyzed delivery data and found that many of their customers were already coming from neighborhoods like Bernal Heights and the Peninsula. Cortland Avenue offered an ideal location—easily accessible yet still rooted in a strong community vibe. For those unfamiliar with Bernal Heights, it’s a charming neighborhood known for its mix of small businesses, scenic views, and welcoming atmosphere. If you’re curious about what makes this area so unique, check out our San Francisco Neighborhoods page for more insights.
As San Francisco Realtors who work across the city—including Bernal Heights—we love seeing local businesses like Go Duck Yourself thrive. Restaurants like this not only add character to their neighborhoods but also remind us why so many people choose to call San Francisco home. If you’re thinking about buying or selling property here, we’re always happy to help. For sellers looking to maximize their home’s value, our resources for sellers offer expert guidance. And if you’re considering making San Francisco your home, our buyer resources can help you navigate the process.
Go Duck Yourself is open Wednesday through Sunday (11 a.m.–2:30 p.m., 5–8:30 p.m.), and it’s perfect for both casual dinners and stocking up on roast meats for the week. You can even order online through Toast for added convenience. Whether you’re craving their signature duck or curious about their crispy pork belly (trust us, it’s worth it), this is one spot that lives up to the hype.
For more updates on San Francisco’s best neighborhoods and local highlights, visit our About page or explore our blog at DanielleLazier.com. And if you’re ready to make your move—or just want to chat about real estate—reach out through our contact page. We’d love to help you find your place in this amazing city!
