You can experience the rich culinary heritage of China in London’s vibrant food scene, where authentic Chinese restaurants cater to diverse tastes and budgets.
From high-end dining to casual street food, the city’s Chinese food offerings have evolved significantly, showcasing regional specialties from across China. You can savor Sichuan spice, delicate dim sum, and other local favorites, all prepared with traditional techniques and ingredients.
As you explore restaurants in London, you’ll find acclaimed eateries not only in Chinatown but also in neighborhoods like Pimlico and Camberwell. This guide will help you navigate the diverse culinary landscape and discover the best Chinese dining experiences.
Discovering Chinese Cuisine in London
The Chinese food scene in London has evolved dramatically, offering a wide range of regional specialties. You can now find authentic Chinese cuisine from various provinces, each with its unique flavors and cooking techniques.
The Evolution of Chinese Food in London
Chinese food in London has undergone a significant transformation over the years. Initially, it was dominated by Cantonese takeaways, but now it boasts a diverse culinary landscape representing multiple regions of China.
- The 1970s and 80s saw the establishment of London’s Chinatown, with restaurants serving adapted Cantonese dishes to British tastes.
- In recent years, there’s been an explosion of regional Chinese restaurants, offering authentic cuisine from Sichuan, Hunan, Xi’an, and Xinjiang.
- This evolution reflects changing British tastes and the growing Chinese population in London demanding authentic flavors.
Regional Diversity of Chinese Cuisine
Chinese cuisine is incredibly diverse, with different regions offering unique ingredients, cooking techniques, and flavor profiles.
| Region | Specialties |
|---|---|
| Northern China | Wheat-based dishes like dumplings and hand-pulled noodles |
| Southern China | Rice, seafood, and subtle flavors |
| Sichuan and Hunan | Bold, spicy dishes |
| Coastal areas | Delicate seafood preparations |
Today, you can enjoy everything from high-end dining experiences with tasting menus to casual noodle shops serving hand-pulled specialties, all offering authentic Chinese food experiences. Whether you’re dining with a large group or exploring solo, London’s Chinese restaurants have something for everyone.
Understanding Chinese Regional Cuisines
As you embark on a culinary journey through London’s Chinese restaurants, understanding the diverse regional Chinese cuisines will elevate your dining experience. Chinese cuisine is incredibly varied, with different regions offering unique flavors, ingredients, and cooking techniques.
Cantonese Cuisine: Subtle Flavors and Dim Sum
Cantonese cuisine, originating from Southern China, is known for its subtle flavors, fresh ingredients, and delicate cooking techniques. Dim sum is a hallmark of Cantonese cuisine, featuring a variety of small plates and dumplings perfect for sharing. Cantonese restaurants often excel at roasted meats like char siu pork and crispy duck.
Sichuan Cuisine: Bold and Spicy
Sichuan cuisine is renowned for its bold and spicy flavors, dominated by the combination of fiery chili and numbing Sichuan peppercorns, known as “ma la.” Popular Sichuan dishes include mapo tofu, kung pao chicken, and dan dan noodles in chili oil.
Northern Chinese Cuisine: Noodles and Dumplings
Northern Chinese cuisine focuses on wheat rather than rice, with specialties like hand-pulled biang biang noodles, delicate dumplings, and hearty beef soups. These dishes are perfect for cold weather and showcase the heartiness of Northern Chinese cuisine.
Xinjiang and Uyghur Cuisine: Halal Chinese Food
Xinjiang and Uyghur cuisine from Western China is influenced by Muslim traditions, featuring halal preparations. Popular dishes include lamb skewers seasoned with cumin, hand-pulled noodles, and “big plate chicken” with potatoes in a spicy sauce.
Here’s a summary of the regional cuisines and their specialties in a tabular format:
| Cuisine | Signature Dishes | Key Ingredients |
|---|---|---|
| Cantonese | Dim Sum, Char Siu Pork, Crispy Duck | Fresh ingredients, subtle flavors |
| Sichuan | Mapo Tofu, Kung Pao Chicken, Dan Dan Noodles | Chili, Sichuan peppercorns, chili oil |
| Northern Chinese | Biang Biang Noodles, Dumplings, Beef Soup | Wheat, beef, vegetables |
| Xinjiang and Uyghur | Lamb Skewers, Hand-pulled Noodles, Big Plate Chicken | Lamb, cumin, potatoes, spicy sauce |
London’s Acclaimed Chinese Restaurants: Chinatown Gems
When it comes to authentic Chinese cuisine in London, Chinatown stands out as a hub of excellence. You’ll discover a variety of acclaimed restaurants tucked away among the vibrant streets, each offering a unique taste of China.
Four Seasons
Four Seasons is a must-visit destination in Chinatown, famous for its aromatic roast duck displayed in the window. The dish is a masterpiece, with crispy skin and tender meat that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Beyond the signature duck, the restaurant offers an excellent selection of barbecue meats, including char siu pork with a sweet glaze, alongside classics like steamed sea bass and garlicky stir-fried greens.
Dumplings’ Legend
At Dumplings’ Legend, you’ll witness skilled chefs expertly hand-making and folding dumplings in their glass-walled kitchen. The restaurant specializes in xiao long bao (soup dumplings) that burst with flavorful broth when bitten. To enjoy these dumplings, follow the three-step process: dunk in vinegar dipping sauce, place on your spoon, carefully pierce to release steam, then savor the explosion of flavors.
Cafe TPT
Cafe TPT is a standout among Hong Kong-style cafes on Wardour Street, offering a menu that excels in comfort food classics. Try their fatty brisket curry on rice and wok-smoky Singapore noodles. Don’t miss their signature pork chop Macau-style, topped with onions, cheesy bechamel, and generous spoonfuls of chilli oil—a decadent dish perfect for a late-night treat after exploring Soho.
Upscale Chinese Dining Experiences
Experience the pinnacle of Chinese fine dining in London’s upscale eateries. For special occasions or when you’re looking to experience Chinese cuisine at its most refined, London offers several top-tier dining establishments that elevate traditional dishes to new heights.
A. Wong
A. Wong in Victoria, led by chef Andrew Wong, has transformed perceptions of Chinese cuisine with creative interpretations of classic dishes, earning a coveted Michelin star for its innovative approach. You’ll be amazed by A. Wong’s artistic dim sum creations, such as the 63-degree tea egg with shredded filo and duck yolk custard buns disguised as tangerines.
Hunan
At Hunan in Belgravia, you won’t find a traditional menu—instead, you’ll share your dietary preferences and spice tolerance, then Chef Peng and his team will curate a personalized tasting menu of small plates spanning multiple regional cuisines. The restaurant serves dishes from across China’s culinary landscape, from Shanghainese soup dumplings to Cantonese steamed fish.
Min Jiang
Min Jiang, perched on the tenth floor of the Royal Garden Hotel in Kensington, offers one of London’s most spectacular dining rooms with panoramic views across Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park. The restaurant is renowned for its ceremonial Peking duck service, where skilled chefs carve the crispy-skinned bird tableside.
London, England: Acclaimed Chinese Restaurants for Dim Sum
For dim sum enthusiasts, London offers a diverse range of authentic Chinese dining experiences. The city’s Chinatown and various neighborhoods are home to numerous acclaimed restaurants that specialize in these delicate Cantonese small plates.
Pearl Liang
Pearl Liang in Paddington is a stunning example of Cantonese cuisine. Its elegant dining room, complete with rich pink tones and cherry blossom murals, sets the tone for a luxurious dining experience. The dim sum selection is particularly impressive during lunchtime, with standouts including har gau (prawn dumplings) and siu mai (pork and shrimp dumplings). The extensive Cantonese menu offers something for everyone.
Shikumen
Shikumen, located in Shepherd’s Bush within the Dorsett Hotel, offers a refined dim sum experience. The sophisticated atmosphere, adorned with rosewood furniture and red lacquered screens, makes it an ideal spot for a leisurely meal. Their dim sum menu balances traditional favorites with creative innovations, such as crispy eel and nori cheung fun and king crab dumpling consommé.
Dim Sum Duck
Dim Sum Duck in King’s Cross has earned a devoted following for its authentic dim sum. Be prepared to queue, as this popular spot is walk-in only. The reward is worth the wait, with exceptionally plump har gau and generously filled xiaolongbao (soup dumplings). The charismatic staff enhance the dining experience, making it a must-visit for dim sum lovers.
Sichuan Specialists in London
For those who crave the distinctive numbing-spicy flavors of Sichuan cuisine, London offers several top-notch options. When you’re looking for authentic Sichuan dishes, two restaurants stand out: My Old China and Barshu.
My Old China
My Old China in Acton is a versatile restaurant that excels in two distinct Chinese culinary traditions: the delicate art of dim sum and the fiery, complex flavors of Sichuan province. Their dim sum offerings include perfectly crafted har gao, siu mai, and Teochew fun guo dumplings.
Their Sichuan specialties feature authentic mapo tofu with its silky texture and complex bean paste sauce. Don’t miss their laziji—a mountain of crispy fried chicken pieces buried under dried red chillies, Sichuan peppercorns, and sesame.
Barshu
Barshu in Soho was one of London’s first restaurants to specialize exclusively in authentic Sichuan cuisine. You’ll find their menu packed with traditional Sichuan dishes like fish-fragrant eggplant (yu xiang qie zi), twice-cooked pork belly with chilli oil, and water-boiled beef (shui zhu niu rou) swimming in a deceptively fiery broth.
For the adventurous eater, Barshu also offers authentic specialties like spicy beef tendons, duck tongues in chili oil, and pork ribs with black bean sauce. Both My Old China and Barshu use genuine Sichuan peppercorns and doubanjiang (fermented broad bean paste) to create the authentic numbing-spicy sensation that defines this regional cuisine.
Xi’an and Northern Chinese Cuisine
Xi’an and Northern Chinese cuisine bring a unique twist to London’s dining landscape, characterized by wheat-based dishes and handmade noodles. This regional cuisine offers a delicious departure from the more commonly found Cantonese and Sichuan styles, with a focus on distinctive spice blends and hearty flavors.
Xi’an Impression
Xi’an Impression, located near Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium, has developed a cult following for its authentic recreation of dishes from Xi’an, known for being the starting point of the Silk Road. You can try their signature biang biang noodles—wide, belt-like noodles served with chili oil and various toppings. Don’t miss their “Chinese burgers” (rou jia mo), flatbreads stuffed with slow-cooked, spiced pork or beef.
Murger Han
Murger Han offers a stylish, contemporary take on Xi’an cuisine in sleek surroundings, making Northern Chinese food accessible to a wider audience. Their menu features the eponymous “murger” filled with slow-cooked pork, spicy beef, or roasted duck, alongside their excellent hand-pulled biang biang noodles. Try their warming soups, such as the clay pot flat glass noodle broth.
Both Xi’an Impression and Murger Han demonstrate how Xi’an’s position at the start of the ancient Silk Road influenced its cuisine, incorporating Middle Eastern spices like cumin and coriander. This blend of flavors is a hallmark of Northern Chinese cuisine, setting it apart from other regional Chinese cooking styles.
Xinjiang and Uyghur Restaurants
Discover the flavors of Xinjiang and Uyghur cuisine in London’s vibrant culinary scene. This unique cuisine, originating from China’s northwestern region, offers a fascinating fusion of Chinese and Central Asian influences, with halal preparations showcasing lamb, hand-pulled noodles, and distinctive spice blends.
Silk Road
Silk Road in Camberwell has achieved cult status as one of London’s first restaurants to specialize in authentic Xinjiang cuisine. You’ll enjoy a no-frills dining experience where the focus is squarely on the food. Be sure to try their famous cumin-spiced lamb skewers and “big plate chicken” (da pan ji), a hearty stew of chicken, potatoes, and bell peppers in a spicy sauce.
Etles
Etles in Walthamstow, run by a Uyghur family, offers an authentic deep dive into this unique cuisine. Their menu reflects the cultural crossroads of the ancient Silk Road trading route. Don’t miss their leghmen noodles and samsa, baked pastries filled with spiced lamb and onions, showcasing the Middle Eastern influences in Uyghur cooking.
Both Silk Road and Etles offer excellent value for money, with generous portions of flavorful dishes that introduce Londoners to a regional Chinese cuisine that’s still relatively uncommon outside of China.
Hidden Gems in East London
The unassuming streets of East London hide some of London’s most authentic Chinese eateries. You can discover regional specialties and bold flavors that often surpass their more centrally located counterparts.
Kaki
Kaki, located off Caledonian Road by the canal, is one of London’s newest Chinese restaurant openings. You can experience some of London’s most exciting Sichuan cooking, including their face-numbing seabass in chili oil that perfectly demonstrates the “ma la” sensation. The chef’s affinity for seafood is evident in dishes like cold, sliced tofu with pickled chilli, soy dressing, and fresh oysters.
Yipin China
Yipin China in Holloway serves some of London’s most authentic Hunan cuisine, characterized by intense spiciness, preserved ingredients, and smoking techniques. You can try their signature dishes like Chairman Mao’s red-braised pork and spicy fish head with chopped chili and spring onion. The restaurant offers excellent value, with a special pre-5pm menu featuring rice dishes for just £5.50.
Both Kaki and Yipin China demonstrate the diversity of regional Chinese cuisine, offering you a culinary experience that goes beyond familiar char siu and sweet and sour dishes.
West London’s Chinese Culinary Scene
West London is home to a thriving Chinese culinary scene, with several exceptional restaurants worth exploring. You can experience authentic Chinese cuisine in comfortable settings perfect for group dining.
Maxim
Maxim in Ealing is a West London institution since the 1970s, still run by 92-year-old Mrs. Chow. You’ll enjoy authentic old-school Pekingese dishes that aren’t found anywhere else in central London. Gather a big group of friends and dig into their extensive menu spanning over 100 items, featuring classics like duck, lobster, rice, and noodles. Standout dishes include fried king prawns with egg whites and signature barbecue ribs.
Hua Imperial Palace
Hua Imperial Palace near Park Royal rewards those who make the journey with excellent cooking from chef Kang Dong. You’ll discover regional specialties like numbing dan dan noodles, Fujian pork soup, and hand-pulled Lanzhou lamian. Don’t miss their excellent rendition of hong shao rou (red-braised pork belly) or their Peking duck, which rivals more famous central London establishments at a fraction of the price.
Best Chinese Noodle Houses in London
London’s culinary landscape is enriched by the presence of authentic Chinese noodle houses, offering a diverse range of regional specialties. For noodle enthusiasts, these establishments are a treasure trove, showcasing the incredible variety of Chinese noodle traditions.
Dr. Noodle
Dr. Noodle, a family-run gem in Lewisham, has quickly gained a devoted following since its opening in May 2023. This unassuming noodle house offers a no-fuss, quick bite experience with dishes that highlight regional Chinese noodle traditions. Their beef soup noodles are particularly satisfying, featuring a rich, flavorful broth and perfectly chewy handmade noodles. Other highlights include wanza noodles from Chongqing, known for their spicy mixture of fiery chickpeas and a tahini-like peanut sauce, and zhajiangmian, a Beijing specialty celebrating pork mince, noodles, and fresh vegetables in a thick, salty coating.
Ye Ye Noodle & Dumpling
Ye Ye Noodle & Dumpling in the City is renowned for its Sichuanese beef soup with handmade noodles, simmered in a rich bone marrow broth. Their pan-fried pork dumplings (shengjianbao) are a rare find in London, featuring a crispy bottom and a soupy, fragrant pork filling. Both Dr. Noodle and Ye Ye Noodle & Dumpling excel at biang biang noodles, wide, belt-like noodles from Xi’an that are hand-pulled and served with chili oil and various toppings.
These noodle houses demonstrate the diversity of Chinese noodle traditions, from the wheat-based noodles of the north to the rice noodles of the south, each with distinctive shapes, textures, and accompanying sauces.
Authentic Chinese BBQ and Roast Meats
For those craving authentic Chinese BBQ and roast meats, London offers a diverse range of exceptional dining experiences. You can indulge in the rich flavors and aromas of traditional Chinese cuisine, with many restaurants specializing in these beloved dishes.
Three Uncles
Three Uncles has expanded its reach across London, bringing authentic Cantonese roast meats to a wider audience. You can enjoy their signature char siu roast pork, which is caramelized on the outside and tender within, served with steamed rice or lo mein noodles. Their roast duck and pork belly are also highly recommended, offering a delicious contrast of textures and flavors.
Charcoal Champ Chinese BBQ
Charcoal Champ Chinese BBQ in East London offers a different style of Chinese barbecue, specializing in northern Chinese-style grilled skewers. You can savor their cumin-soaked lamb skewers, which perfectly capture the essence of northern China’s street food. Don’t miss their seafood options, such as scallops served with garlic, spring onion, and vermicelli, or their roasted aubergine with pork mince.
Affordable Chinese Dining Options
You can enjoy delicious Chinese cuisine without breaking the bank in London. Chinese cuisine offers some of London’s best value dining options, with several establishments providing authentic flavors at affordable prices.
Chew Fun
Chew Fun is a hidden gem in the City, perfect for a quick lunchtime meal. This casual eatery specializes in Guilin rice noodles from Southern China, serving large, steaming bowls of flavorful noodles topped with your choice of beef (shin, flank, or tripe), peanuts, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs.
Their focus on doing a few dishes extremely well ensures consistent quality and authentic flavors. With a straightforward, interactive menu, you can choose your preferred meat, making it a great spot for a regular lunch.
Rice Brother
Rice Brother in Spitalfields Market offers a different take on affordable Chinese dining with their specialty of stuffed sticky rice rolls—a traditional street food from Eastern China. Their signature dish features glutinous rice wrapped around crispy fried dough sticks and pork floss, with fillings like crispy pork or chicken that create a satisfying meal for under £10.
Both Chew Fun and Rice Brother demonstrate how Chinese street food traditions can be successfully translated to London, offering quick, affordable options that don’t compromise on authentic flavors. These affordable spots are perfect for solo diners, casual meetups, or introducing people in your group to Chinese cuisine beyond the familiar takeaway classics.
Chinese Restaurants with Spectacular Views
London’s skyline is the perfect backdrop for a sophisticated dining experience at one of its top Chinese restaurants with spectacular views. For special occasions or when you want to impress visitors, these high-end establishments elevate the dining experience to new heights.
Hutong at The Shard
Hutong, located on the 33rd floor of The Shard, combines breathtaking panoramic views of London with sophisticated Northern Chinese cuisine inspired by the imperial palaces of Peking. You’ll be impressed from the moment you enter, with a dramatic elevator ride leading to a stunning dining room decorated with traditional red lanterns and antique wooden doorways.
Ting at Shangri-La
Ting at the Shangri-La Hotel, also in The Shard but on the 35th floor, offers a different perspective with its Asian-inspired menu that incorporates Chinese influences alongside other culinary traditions. Their dishes feature favorites like Shanghai noodles, Hainanese chicken rice, and wok-fried shredded beef fillet, all served in an elegant dining room with floor-to-ceiling windows.
Both Hutong and Ting offer tasting menus that allow you to sample their signature dishes while enjoying the changing views as day turns to night over London. Highlights include Hutong’s signature Peking duck and Ting’s variety of seafood dishes.
What to Order at Chinese Restaurants
Navigating the vast menu at Chinese restaurants in London can be daunting, but knowing what to order can significantly enhance your dining experience. With a plethora of options available, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. However, by focusing on certain dishes and understanding the regional specialties, you can make the most of your meal.
Popular Dim Sum Dishes
Dim sum is a quintessential part of Chinese cuisine, especially in London’s Chinatown. When ordering dim sum, you can’t go wrong with classics like har gau (translucent prawn dumplings) and siu mai (open-topped pork and shrimp dumplings). Other favorites include char siu bao (fluffy buns filled with barbecued pork) and cheung fun (silky rice noodle rolls filled with prawns, beef, or char siu). For a more adventurous palate, options like xiao long bao (soup dumplings) and crispy turnip cakes are a must-try.
Signature Main Courses
For main courses, certain dishes stand out for their flavor and authenticity. Peking duck is a signature dish that you should experience at least once, with its crispy skin, tender meat, and traditional accompaniments. Other popular options include kung pao chicken, known for its balance of spicy, sweet, and sour flavors, and mapo tofu, which boasts a numbing-spicy sauce made with chili oil and Sichuan peppercorns. Beef in black bean sauce is another favorite, offering a rich umami depth that’s hard to resist.
Must-Try Regional Specialties
China’s diverse regions offer a wide range of culinary specialties. For Sichuan cuisine, look for dishes like dan dan noodles and twice-cooked pork belly. Xi’an specialties such as biang biang noodles and rou jia mo (Chinese “burgers”) are also worth trying. If you’re in the mood for something different, Xinjiang dishes like cumin lamb skewers and big plate chicken offer a flavorful change of pace. Don’t be afraid to ask your server for recommendations, especially at restaurants that specialize in regional cuisines.
Conclusion
As you explore London, you’ll discover that its Chinese food landscape is as vast as China itself. The city’s Chinese restaurant scene has evolved into one of the most diverse and exciting culinary landscapes in Europe, offering you authentic experiences from virtually every region of China.
Whether you’re seeking the subtle flavors of Cantonese cuisine, the fiery heat of Sichuan dishes, the wheat-based specialties of Northern China, or the aromatic grilled meats of Xinjiang, you’ll find exceptional restaurants throughout the city. The diversity of Chinese food available in London reflects both the city’s multicultural character and the growing appreciation for regional Chinese cuisines beyond the familiar Cantonese-inspired dishes that dominated for decades.
From high-end dining establishments with panoramic views to humble noodle shops and street food stalls, Chinese cuisine in London spans every price point and dining style. Many of the most acclaimed Chinese restaurants are found outside the traditional Chinatown area, with East London, North London, and the suburbs often offering more authentic and specialized regional cuisine.
The next time you’re craving Chinese food, consider venturing beyond your usual order to explore the incredible diversity of regional dishes available across London’s Chinese restaurant scene. With new restaurants continuing to open and established places evolving their menu, London’s Chinese food scene promises to remain dynamic and exciting for years to come.
In conclusion, London offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the breadth and depth of one of the world’s most sophisticated culinary traditions. Whether you’re a longtime enthusiast or new to exploring Chinese cuisine, you’ll find a place that suits your taste in this vibrant culinary landscape.
The above is subject to change.
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