A Crisp Guide to Find the Best Chinese Restaurants in London

It's impossible to go too far in London without running into Chinese food. From ordering fast food to eating in fancy restaurants, the city provides really a wide, wide range of food that serves Chinese taste buds. When given an array of options, how would one decide which among them is the best Chinese restaurant in London? This guide will assist you in orienting around the city and selecting the best places to taste actual Chinese food. No matter whether you fancy a luxurious family dinner party or a simple meal with friends, London has the Chinese restaurant of your choice.

What Makes a Great Chinese Restaurant?

 

When looking for top-notch Chinese restaurants in London, keep these markers of quality in mind:

• Authenticity - The flavors should be true to regional Chinese cuisine, not Westernized. Look for restaurants that employ Chinese chefs and source ingredients from China.

• Specialization - Many of the best Chinese restaurants focus on specific regional cuisines, like Sichuan, Cantonese, etc. A dedicated cuisine often means excellent execution.

• Ambiance - The setting and service should match the quality of the food. A lively, friendly environment also enhances the dining experience.

• Attention to Detail - Markers like house-made sauces, roasted meats, and sophisticated presentation demonstrate a dedication to excellence.

• Quality Ingredients - Fresh, high-quality ingredients are key, especially produce, seafood, and meats.

Where to Find the Best Chinese Restaurants in London?

 

• Central London

 Central London is home to a wealth of exceptional Chinese restaurants. For fine dining, Central London Chinese restaurant like Min Jiang, A. Wong, and Hakkasan Hanway Place offer creative takes on Chinese cuisine with an upscale ambiance. For classic Dim Sum, visit Yauatcha Soho. And for regional Chinese fare, try Xi'an Impression for northwest Chinese cuisine or Sichuan Folk for the mala fire of Sichuan province.

• Chinatown

 No list of top Chinese restaurants in London would be complete without mentioning Chinatown. This lively neighborhood in the West End has an abundance of Chinese eateries, from casual to formal. Standouts include Joy King Lau for Cantonese cuisine, Baozi Inn for soup dumplings, and Dumplings' Legend for a massive variety of dumplings. For an afternoon tea with an Asian flair, visit Opium Chinatown.

• The Suburbs

Venture outside central London and discover exceptional Chinese restaurants in the suburbs. Royal China Club transports diners to 1930s Shanghai with creative, upscale Shanghainese dishes. Tendonism pays homage to hand-pulled noodles and tantalizing broths. Lotus Leaf prides itself on regional Cantonese cuisine and yum cha dining. And Thames Luxury Chinese Restaurant excels at Peking Duck and decadent banquet menus. A bit further afield, but worth the trek.

The Best Chinese Restaurants in London for Groups

 Large parties and special events call for Chinese restaurants in London good for groups with private dining rooms. These top options provide intimate spaces and bespoke menus perfect for groups:

• Nanyang Blossom - This restaurant is very popular in all type of foodies. This contemporary Chinese restaurant provides three private rooms. The Jasmine and Hibiscus rooms welcome groups of 18-30.

• Min Jiang - This Michelin-starred Sichuanese restaurant offers two private rooms for 10-16 guests. Enjoy customized menus and spectacular views over Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

• Yauatcha City - Book the Oriental Private Room for afternoon tea or dinner for up to 22 guests. The MO BAR cocktail lounge is also available for private hire.

• Royal China Club - Transport your party back to 1930s Shanghai. The exclusive Chairman Mao Library hosts events for up to 14 guests.

• Park Chinois - The private dining room at this upscale Chinese destination accommodates 14-20 guests for customized dining experiences.

Expert Tips for Finding the Best Chinese Cuisine in London

• Go beyond central London - Branch out to Chinatown, Bayswater, Mill Hill and farther neighborhoods for under-the-radar finds.

• Book ahead - For destination Chinese restaurants, reserve well in advance, especially for Friday/Saturday nights.

• Try weekday lunches - You can sample top restaurants for less by going for weekday lunch services.

• Peruse Chinese apps - Apps like WeiChat and BonApp direct you to local spots favored by Chinese residents.

• Ask foodie friends - Personal recommendations from food-focused friends often lead to outstanding discoveries.

Final Verdict - The Options Are Endless

 

London is a global dining capital, and the scene of Chinese cuisine in London reflects the diversity of this cuisine. From street-style bites to Michelin-starred destination dining, the city offers Chinese restaurants, like my favourite Nanyang Blossom, for every taste, budget and occasion. Use this guide to pinpoint the eateries that best suit your preferences. And don't be afraid to experiment - part of the fun is exploring all the varied flavors Chinese restaurants in London have to offer. Just bring your appetite and prepare to enjoy London's vibrant Chinese food landscape.