The best Chinese restaurants in London

A legendary name in London’s culinary history, Poon’s has found a permanent home in the neoclassical splendour of Somerset House. Chef Amy Poon has revived her family’s iconic brand with a menu that blends nostalgia with modern flair. The atmosphere is bustling and accessible, a stark contrast to the stuffy fine dining often associated with the area. Diners flock here for the signature wind-dried bacon clay pot rice and the delicate, handcrafted wontons in red chilli oil. It is a masterclass in soulful Cantonese comfort food, offering a taste of history in one of London’s most beautiful settings.

Fatt Pundit tells the unique story of the Chinese community in Kolkata, India, who created the fusion cuisine known as Tangra. This is the place to go if you want bold, punchy flavours that marry Chinese wok techniques with Indian spices. The menu is designed for sharing and features cult favourites like the momos (steamed dumplings) served with spicy chutney, the crackling spinach with sweet yoghurt, and the sticky, spicy lollipop chicken. With locations in both Soho and Covent Garden, it is a lively, high-energy spot perfect for a fun dinner with friends who love a bit of heat.

With a reputation forged in Asia, Imperial Treasure is synonymous with high-end, authentic Chinese fine dining. Located in a Grade II-listed building in St James’s, the restaurant exudes sophistication. The undisputed star of the show here is the Peking Duck, which is roasted to perfection and carved tableside by skilled chefs. The skin is crisp and glassy, while the meat remains succulent. Beyond the duck, the menu offers exquisite Cantonese dishes and premium seafood, making it a top choice for business lunches or special occasions where quality is paramount.

Perched on the 10th floor of the Royal Garden Hotel, Min Jiang offers one of the most spectacular dining backdrops in London, with sweeping views over Kensington Gardens and the city skyline. However, it is the legendary wood-fired Beijing duck that keeps diners coming back. Pre-ordered and served in two courses—first with pancakes, then minced in lettuce wraps or a soup—it is widely considered one of the best in the capital. The menu also features spicy Sichuan dishes and refined dim sum, all served in an elegant, red-hued dining room that feels timelessly chic.

Stepping into MiMi Mei Fair feels like entering the private residence of a glamorous, well-travelled empress. Spanning three floors of a Georgian townhouse, the restaurant is a maze of individually designed rooms, from the parlour to the library. The food matches the opulent setting, focusing on refined, contemporary Chinese dishes. Highlights include the apple wood roasted Peking duck and the delicate dim sum platters that are almost too beautiful to eat. It is a romantic and theatrical venue, perfect for a date night where the ambience is just as important as the cuisine.

A stalwart of the London dining scene, Kai Mayfair has held a MICHELIN star since 2009, a testament to its consistent excellence. The menu is defined by “liberated Nanyang cooking,” respecting the heritage of the southern seas of China while embracing modern innovation. The interior is plush and filled with light, offering a serene escape from the city. Signature dishes like the Little Tan’s Kitchen—braised abalone with corn-fed chicken—showcase the kitchen’s technical mastery. For dessert, their whimsical creations are a must-try. It remains a top destination for a luxurious, leisurely lunch or dinner.

Led by Chef Tong Chee Hwee, the former Executive Head Chef of the Hakkasan Group, Gouqi London is a serious player in the world of haute Chinese cuisine. Located just off Trafalgar Square, the restaurant is sleek and low-lit, designed for an exclusive dining experience. The menu highlights Chef Tong’s legendary handling of premium ingredients, from slow-cooked abalone to the signature Peking duck. The Legendary tasting menus offer a curated journey through his greatest hits. With superb service and a focus on culinary artistry, Gouqi is ideal for gastronomes seeking the highest level of Cantonese cooking.

Housed within the Four Seasons Hotel at Ten Trinity Square, Mei Ume offers a unique dual menu that celebrates both Chinese and Japanese cuisines. The room is breathtaking, adorned with intricate silk panels and a striking bar. It is the perfect spot for a group with diverse tastes; you can order exquisite dim sum and whole Peking duck alongside precision-cut sashimi and sushi. The Mei Ume whole Peking duck is a ceremonial affair, served with pancakes and a second course of your choice. The service is impeccable, delivering the luxury you would expect from the Four Seasons brand.

Since opening in 1968, MR CHOW has been an icon of London’s dining scene, attracting artists, celebrities, and fashion elites for decades. It is more than just a restaurant; it is a performance. Waiters glide through the room in white jackets, and the nightly noodle-pulling show is a tradition that never gets old. The menu features Beijing classics that have stood the test of time, including the famous chicken satay and the tender ma mignon. For a slice of glamorous, old-school London history with a side of theatre, MR CHOW is unmatched.

A favourite among locals and visitors alike, Good Earth in Knightsbridge has built a reputation for consistency and warmth over nearly 40 years. It captures the essence of a high-end neighbourhood restaurant, offering familiar dishes executed with high-quality ingredients. The menu is extensive, featuring comforting classics like aromatic crispy duck, dry shredded beef, and golden sands dover sole. The setting is polished yet relaxed, making it a versatile choice for a family Sunday lunch or a casual midweek dinner after shopping in Harrods.

Located in the heart of Gerrard Street, Plum Valley stands out from its traditional neighbours with a sleek, modern aesthetic featuring dark wood and neon accents. It offers a contemporary take on the Chinatown experience, blending classic Cantonese dishes with modern presentation. The dim sum here is excellent and widely varied, ranging from fluffy char siu bao to delicate scallop dumplings. It is a great spot for those who want the authenticity of Chinatown flavours but in a more spacious, design-led environment.

Shan Shui Social transports diners to the golden era of 1920s Shanghai. The decor is stunning, featuring cinema-style velvet seating and retro posters that evoke a sense of old-world glamour. The menu is a journey through Chinese culinary history, offering narrative-led dining with dishes from Shanghai and Sichuan. Expect comforting, hearty plates like slow-braised pork belly and dan dan noodles. It is a relaxed, all-day venue that works just as well for a quick solo lunch as it does for a lingering dinner with cocktails.

Peacock London offers a refined dining experience that caters to both the business crowd of Canary Wharf and discerning locals. The interior is elegant and spacious, providing a calm atmosphere for enjoying high-quality Cantonese cuisine. The kitchen excels in handcrafted dim sum, with the prawn and chive dumplings and cheung fun (rice noodle rolls) being particular highlights. In the evenings, the menu expands to include luxurious banquet-style dishes. It is a hidden gem for those seeking high-standard Chinese cooking away from the hustle of the West End.