Are you craving authentic Chinese cuisine in the heart of London? The city's diverse culinary landscape is home to a myriad of Chinese restaurants, offering everything from traditional dim sum to modern fusion dishes. In our guide to the Best Chinese Restaurants in London, you'll discover top spots that not only tantalize your taste buds but also provide a genuine cultural experience.
Key Takeaways
- Variety of Flavors: Explore a range of regional cuisines, from Sichuan spicy dishes to Cantonese classics.
- Ambiance and Authenticity: Understand how atmosphere and authenticity play a crucial role in enhancing the dining experience.
- Innovation in Cuisine: Discover establishments that are innovating while maintaining traditional flavors.
Whether you're a local foodie or a visitor seeking an authentic Chinese meal, London's culinary scene will not disappoint. Continue reading to explore our top picks for the best Chinese dining experiences in London.
The 10 Best Chinese Restaurants in London
From sizzling Sichuan spices to classic Cantonese dim sum, our curated list presents the 10 best Chinese restaurants in London.
Each establishment offers a unique dining experience, capturing the essence and diversity of Chinese culinary traditions.
Whether you're in the mood for a luxurious banquet or a quick noodle fix, these restaurants promise an unforgettable gastronomic journey.
Eager to taste the best of Chinese cuisine in London? Continue reading for our top recommendations!
1. A.Wong chinese Restaurant in London
Credit: awong.co.uk
Nestled in Pimlico, London, A.Wong stands as a beacon of culinary excellence, having earned a Michelin Star for its innovative approach to Chinese cuisine.
This restaurant is renowned for transforming traditional Chinese dishes into modern culinary masterpieces.
Special Dishes to Try: When visiting A.Wong, the char siu is a must-try, offering a unique twist on the classic barbecue pork. The Isle of Mull seared scallop paired with iberico pork showcases the restaurant's creative flair. For an exquisite taste of luxury, the shark fin soup is a standout choice, and to conclude your meal on a refreshing note, the coconut water ice dessert is highly recommended.
Pricing: Reflecting its Michelin Star quality, the prices at A.Wong are on the higher end, indicative of the exceptional culinary experience it provides. The cost is a testament to the quality and creativity of the dishes, making it a worthwhile indulgence for those seeking a top-tier dining experience.
Location Accessibility: A.Wong's location in Pimlico is easily accessible, and the restaurant is well-known, making it straightforward for diners to find.
Before Your Visit: To ensure a spot in this popular restaurant, it's advisable to make a reservation well in advance, especially for dinner. The tasting menu is a great choice for first-time visitors, offering a comprehensive experience of the restaurant's diverse flavors and culinary expertise. The upscale dining atmosphere is part of the charm, adding to the overall experience.
2. Kaki Chinese Restaurant
Kaki is a notable destination in London for those seeking to delve into Chinese cuisine with a modern twist.
Situated conveniently on Caledonian Road, this restaurant merges a clean, pleasant atmosphere with a menu that's sure to intrigue and satisfy.
Ambiance and Cleanliness: The restaurant prides itself on maintaining a clean and welcoming dining environment. Guests often commend the pleasant setting, which enhances the dining experience. The wash basins, in particular, are a highlight for their unique design and cleanliness.
Service Experience: While the service is generally efficient, some guests have noted that it could be more attentive. Kaki is continually working to elevate the overall customer service experience.
Pricing: With an average price range of £20–30 per person, Kaki offers an affordable entry into high-quality Chinese cuisine. This price range makes it an accessible option for a range of diners looking for a mix of quality and value.
Recommended Dishes: The MA PO Tofu Vegan is a standout dish for vegans and non-vegans alike, offering a flavorful and satisfying experience. For seafood lovers, the crispy calamari is a must-try, known for its perfect balance of texture and flavor. Additionally, the morning glory and pork belly dishes come highly recommended for their authenticity and taste.
Note on Facilities: While the main dining area is well-kept, there have been remarks about the toilets needing more attention, particularly regarding stains that have accumulated over time. This aspect, while minor, is noted for those who value comprehensive cleanliness.
3. Pearl Liang Restaurant in London
Credit: pearlliang.co.uk
Located in the heart of Sheldon Square, Pearl Liang offers a delightful blend of traditional Chinese cuisine in a setting that's well-suited for both intimate dinners and larger group gatherings.
Dining Atmosphere: The restaurant boasts a spacious interior, featuring big tables that are perfect for larger groups or special occasions. The expansive layout provides a comfortable dining experience, making it an excellent choice for both family dinners and group outings.
Culinary Experience: While some diners note that the food isn't out of the ordinary, it's consistently described as delicious. A standout dish is the sweet and sour shrimp, which comes highly recommended for its flavor and quality. Other recommended items include their dim sum and Peking duck, both of which are staples of the restaurant and a hit among guests.
Service: Guests should be prepared for a bit of a wait, both for meals and condiments, as well as for the bill after the meal. The wait times, particularly for the bill, can extend up to 15 minutes after the table has been cleared. Despite this, the overall dining experience is considered good.
Pricing: The average cost per person ranges from £30 to £40, positioning Pearl Liang in the mid-to-upper price range. This reflects the quality of the food and the ambiance of the restaurant.
Ideal for Groups: Given its size and layout, Pearl Liang is particularly well-suited for bigger groups. The restaurant's ability to accommodate more diners comfortably makes it a favorable option for celebrations, business dinners, or group gatherings.
Pearl Liang offers a solid Chinese dining experience in London, combining tasty food with a spacious and accommodating environment, making it especially appealing for larger parties or those seeking a comfortable spot for a delicious Chinese meal.
4. Etles Uyghur Restaurant
Etles Uyghur Restaurant in London is a unique culinary destination offering an authentic taste of Uyghur cuisine, a blend of Chinese and Middle Eastern flavors. This family-owned restaurant is celebrated for its homemade dishes, friendly service, and distinctive culinary style.
Culinary Highlights: The traditional beef laghman is a must-try, widely praised as one of the best dishes offered. Other notable dishes include the manta dumplings, which are generously portioned, and the stir-fried lamb leghmen, known for its amazing taste. The cuisine is a unique blend of Indian and Chinese flavors, offering a distinctive dining experience.
Service and Atmosphere: Staff at Etles are known for their friendliness and the warm, welcoming atmosphere they create. The restaurant's homemade approach to cooking and its Muslim influence add to the authenticity of the dining experience.
Pricing: The price per person ranges from £40 to £50, reflecting the quality of the ingredients and the authenticity of the dishes.
Payment Convenience: The restaurant accepts card payments, adding to the convenience for diners.
Wait Times: One aspect to note is the longer wait time for certain dishes, particularly the lamb skewers. Guests may experience a wait of 20-30 minutes for this dish, which can sometimes arrive after other dishes like noodles and dumplings have been served.
Authenticity: Etles stands out for its authentic Uyghur and Turkic cuisine, making it a rare find in London's culinary scene. The family-owned aspect of the restaurant further contributes to the authenticity and traditional feel of the dining experience.
Etles Uyghur Restaurant offers a rare opportunity to explore the flavors of Uyghur cuisine in a friendly and authentic setting. It's a place where adventurous foodies and those interested in culinary diversity can enjoy a blend of flavors that are both unique and deeply satisfying.
5. Four Seasons in london
Credit: fs-restaurants.co.uk
Four Seasons, nestled in West London, has garnered a reputation for its exceptional Cantonese cuisine, particularly its roasted duck, which has become a must-try for locals and visitors alike.
Culinary Offerings: The menu at Four Seasons is a testament to authentic Cantonese flavors. The roasted duck is highly recommended, known for its succulent taste and crispy skin. Other noteworthy dishes include the prawns with salted egg yolk, offering a unique and savory flavor, though noted for being a bit pricey. For starters, the Hot and Sour Soup and Prawn Crackers are great choices, and the Sweet and Sour King Prawn is a delightful main course option.
Dining Experience: The restaurant prides itself on maintaining a clean and inviting atmosphere, which enhances the overall dining experience. Guests can enjoy their meal in a setting that is both comfortable and authentically Chinese.
Pricing: The average cost per person ranges from £30 to £40. This price range is reflective of the quality of the food and the portion sizes, which are suitable for sharing.
Beverage Pairing: A meal at Four Seasons is best accompanied by a Tsing Tao Beer, which complements the rich flavors of Cantonese cuisine perfectly.
Quality and Portion Size: Consistency in food quality is a hallmark of Four Seasons. The restaurant ensures that each dish is prepared with care, offering portions that are ideal for individual enjoyment or for sharing among a small group.
Four Seasons stands out as a destination for those seeking high-quality, authentic Cantonese cuisine in West London. Its combination of delicious food, a pleasant dining environment, and consistent quality makes it a favorite among many who appreciate the nuances of Cantonese culinary traditions.
6. Hakkasan Restaurant
Hakkasan in London, with its Michelin Star status, sets a high standard for Chinese cuisine, delivering an exquisite dining experience that combines impeccable taste with refined presentation.
Culinary Excellence: At Hakkasan, every dish is a work of art, with the dim sum standing out as delicate parcels of flavor. The perfectly roasted duck is another highlight, featuring crispy skin and tender, melt-in-the-mouth meat. The dessert options at Hakkasan are also noteworthy, providing a well-rounded end to the meal.
First Michelin Star Experience: For many, Hakkasan serves as an introduction to Michelin Star dining, and it consistently surpasses expectations with its culinary expertise and creativity.
Pricing: Reflective of its Michelin Star quality and the exceptional dining experience it offers, the price per person is upwards of £100. This pricing is in line with the high standards of food and service that Hakkasan is known for.
Service Quality: The staff at Hakkasan are both pleasant and professional, contributing to the overall high-end dining experience. The restaurant boasts a large team in the kitchen, which ensures that dishes are prepared promptly without compromising on taste.
Portion Sizes: Unlike some fine dining establishments where portion sizes can be underwhelming, Hakkasan is noted for offering dishes that are both tastefully satisfying and generously portioned.
Transformative Dishes: The restaurant has a reputation for transforming perceptions of certain dishes. For instance, guests who have previously found duck to be rubbery have had their views altered by the exceptional duck served at Hakkasan.
Hakkasan is more than just a restaurant; it's a culinary destination where every dish is an expression of refined taste and culinary mastery. For those seeking a high-end Chinese dining experience in London, Hakkasan stands out as a memorable and satisfying choice.
7. Mei Ume In London
Credit: meiume.com
Mei Ume, located in the prestigious area of Trinity Square, offers a unique culinary experience that blends the rich flavors of Asian cuisine, with a particular focus on both Chinese and Japanese dishes.
Culinary Delights: The restaurant is celebrated for its Wagyu beef, known for retaining the tenderness of the steak while enhancing the umami flavor of the beef. For seafood enthusiasts, Mei Ume's sushi and fish dishes come highly recommended, showcasing the freshness and quality of their ingredients.
Vegan Options: Mei Ume also impresses with its vegan offerings, particularly the vegan duck, which has been praised for its enjoyable taste and uniqueness. This dish is a testament to the restaurant's versatility and its ability to cater to a diverse range of dietary preferences.
Pricing: Reflective of its high-end location and the quality of the cuisine, the price per person at Mei Ume is upwards of £100. While the restaurant is on the pricier side, the exceptional food quality and the overall dining experience justify the cost.
Dining Experience: Mei Ume provides an experience that goes beyond just dining. The ambiance and the welcome from the staff make each visit feel like a special event. However, guests should be prepared for potential wait times, as service can occasionally be slower than expected.
Overall Impression: Despite the higher price point and the occasional wait, diners generally find the experience at Mei Ume to be fantastic. The combination of excellent food, a welcoming atmosphere, and a prestigious location make it more than just a meal out – it's a culinary event.
Mei Ume stands out in London's culinary scene as a destination that offers not just a meal, but an indulgent experience, blending the best of Chinese and Japanese cuisines in an elegant and inviting setting.
8. Gold Mine Chinese Restaurant
Gold Mine, a renowned restaurant in London, is a go-to destination for those craving authentic Cantonese cuisine, particularly famous for its roast duck and other barbecued delicacies.
Signature Dishes: The Special Roast Duck Cantonese Style at Gold Mine is a highly recommended dish, known for its perfect balance of lean meat and full flavors, without being too tough. Another crowd-pleaser is the BBQ honey roast pork on rice, celebrated for its succulent taste and delightful honey glaze.
Seafood Offerings: For seafood lovers, the restaurant excels with dishes like fried king prawns with salted egg yolks, a dish beloved for its unique flavor and texture. The seafood and fish dishes at Gold Mine are also noteworthy, offering fresh and tasty options for a diverse dining experience.
Crispy Duck Delight: A unique twist on the traditional Peking duck is their crispy duck, which is served fried with popiah skin and the usual condiments, offering a delicious variation on a classic dish.
Pricing: The price range per person at Gold Mine falls between £30 and £40, which is reflective of the quality of the dishes and the overall dining experience offered by the restaurant.
Dining Experience: Gold Mine provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere, ideal for both casual meals and special occasions. The restaurant is known for its consistent quality in both food and service, making it a reliable choice for Cantonese cuisine enthusiasts.
9. Chojo Restaurant
Credit: chojo.co.uk
Chojo, nestled in the heart of London, offers a delightful fusion of flavors, making it a standout destination for those looking to explore a blend of Asian culinary delights.
Unique Flavor Combinations: A standout dish at Chojo is the Tom Yum Pineapple rice, which is celebrated for its unique zing and flavor fusion. This dish exemplifies the restaurant's ability to combine traditional Asian flavors in novel ways.
Vegetarian Delights: Chojo is also noted for its extensive vegetarian options, making it a great choice for diners with various dietary preferences. The Pan Fried Asparagus and Vegetable Dumplings come highly recommended and are a testament to the restaurant's commitment to offering a diverse menu.
Dessert Options: For a sweet end to the meal, the Matcha Doriyaki – Green Tea Pancakes with Red Bean – is a must-try, offering a delightful blend of sweet and subtle flavors.
Seafood Specialties: The salted egg yolk prawn is a favorite among many guests, known for its rich flavor that leaves diners savoring every last bite. Additionally, the sea bass is praised for its tenderness, with the skin melting in the mouth and every bite offering a perfect blend of taste and texture.
Pricing: With a price range of £30 to £40 per person, Chojo offers an excellent value for the quality and uniqueness of its dishes.
Atmosphere: The restaurant itself is described as very cute, providing a warm and welcoming ambiance that enhances the overall dining experience. This makes Chojo not just a place to eat, but a destination to enjoy a relaxed and pleasant meal.
Chojo stands out in London's culinary scene for its fusion of flavors, excellent vegetarian options, and delightful ambiance, making it a must-visit for those seeking to experience a variety of Asian dishes in a cozy and inviting setting.
10. Hunan Chinese Restaurant in London
Hunan, located in the heart of London, offers a luxurious dining experience, renowned for its exquisite variety of dishes and exceptional service, making it an ideal destination for special occasions.
Culinary Excellence: The food at Hunan is consistently praised for its incredible quality and variety. From the soup to the Peking duck, each dish is superbly crafted. The menu features an array of options including scallops, monkfish, steak, duck, and lamb, all of which are noted for their consistently good flavors. Many dishes have a hint of spice, adding an exciting dimension to the meal.
Menu Flexibility: One of the unique aspects of Hunan is the flexibility of its menu. The restaurant accommodates special requests, often adding a couple of extra items free of charge, which enhances the personalized dining experience.
Staff and Service: The staff at Hunan are incredibly nice and helpful, contributing significantly to the overall dining experience. Servers are knowledgeable and friendly, offering insights into the menu and making diners feel welcome and well-cared-for.
Atmosphere: The overall vibe of Hunan is perfect for a special occasion, with an ambiance that is both elegant and inviting.
Pricing: The price per person at Hunan is over £100, reflective of the high-quality ingredients and the level of service provided. The restaurant also includes a service charge of 15%, attributed to the extensive knowledge required from staff and the number of courses served.
Considerations: While most of the dishes at Hunan are exceptional, some diners have found the duck main to be less impressive compared to other courses. Additionally, guests should be aware of charges for certain complimentary offerings, like anniversary celebration drinks.
Hunan stands out as a high-end dining establishment in London, offering a blend of culinary excellence, top-notch service, and a welcoming atmosphere. It's a place where every meal is an event, ideal for those looking to celebrate a special occasion or enjoy an indulgent culinary experience.
Conclusion
As we conclude our exploration of the Best Chinese Restaurants in London, we hope your taste buds have been tantalized by the diverse flavors and culinary artistry showcased in these establishments.
From the comforting warmth of dim sum to the fiery excitement of Sichuan cuisine, London's Chinese dining scene offers a captivating journey for food enthusiasts.
So, go forth and indulge in the delectable dishes, immerse yourself in the vibrant ambiance, and savor the rich cultural heritage that these restaurants bring to the table.
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