Exploring the Best Restaurants in London’s Chinatown
With a network of alleys branching off from Gerrard Street, London Chinatown is larger than many might assume. Moreover, it is a vibrant hub where new restaurants constantly emerge. This dynamic quality makes it an ideal place for culinary discoveries, whether you are visiting for the first time or returning after a while. While Chinese restaurants still dominate the scene, there is an impressive representation of regional cuisines and flavors from other parts of Asia. Keeping that in mind, here are some of the standout restaurants in Chinatown right now.
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Kung Fu Noodle
Best for Chinese noodles
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Tao Tao Ju
Best for Cantonese food
A Chinatown stalwart, Tao Tao Ju specializes in Cantonese cuisine and has expanded to include other regional Chinese dishes. This is the go-to spot for upscale fare reminiscent of Hong Kong, including preserved egg congee and scallops with king prawns in XO sauce. Dim sum lovers will appreciate the variety, featuring various styles of custard buns and juicy har gau.
Address: 15 Lisle Street, London WC2H 7BE
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Speedboat Bar
Best for Thai-inspired dishes
At Speedboat Bar, you won’t necessarily find authentic Thai dishes, but rather a delightful fusion reflective of Southeast Asian cuisine infused with Chinese flavors. The menu features snacks like sweetcorn fritters and crispy chicken skin, along with shareable portions of curries, noodles, and stir fry dishes.
Address: 30 Rupert Street, London W1D 6DL
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Gerrard’s Corner (好年華)
Best for dim sum
Gerrard’s Corner is a dim sum destination known for its budget-friendly options. Many shareable dishes come in under £5, and visitors will find a diverse menu, including steamed dumplings and deep-fried delicacies like the turnip puff, each bursting with flavor and texture.
Address: 30 Wardour Street, London W1D 6QW
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Old Tree Daiwan Bee (老樹台灣味)
Best for Taiwanese cuisine
Often overlooked, Old Tree Daiwan Bee presents a casual dining experience with fantastic Taiwanese flavors. Famous for its crispy spring onion cakes and comforting beef noodle soup, this spot is a must-visit for those looking to explore Taiwanese culinary delights.
Address: 26 Rupert Street, London W1D 6DH
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Shu Xiang Ge (蜀香格)
Best for hot pot
Located in the heart of Chinatown, Shu Xiang Ge offers a unique hot pot experience inspired by Sichuan flavors. Diners choose from various broths and pick ingredients for dipping, making it an enjoyable meal for both novices and enthusiasts alike.
Address: 10 Gerrard Street, London W1D 5PW
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Dumplings’ Legend (小籠皇)
Best for dumplings
Dumplings’ Legend impresses with its xiao long bao, expertly crafted steamed dumplings filled with broth. With a menu that reflects the richness of both southern and northern Chinese cuisines, it is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Address: 15-16 Gerrard Street, London W1D 6JE
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Four Seasons (文興酒家)
Best for roast duck
Four Seasons is known for its delectable roast duck, sourced from renowned farms and prepared to perfection. The crispy skin and tender meat are complemented by a secret dipping sauce, making this a must-try dish when in Chinatown.
Address: 12 Gerrard Street, London W1D 5PR
