Chinatown Food Guide – Your Go‑To List for London's Best Chinese Eats

If you’re roaming around the West End and hear the scent of sizzling garlic and star‑anise, you’re probably near Chinatown. This tiny pocket of the city packs more flavor than most whole neighborhoods. Whether you’re a first‑timer or a local looking for new bites, this guide cuts the fluff and points you straight to the dishes and spots you’ll actually love.

Top Picks for Dim Sum and Noodles

Dim sum is the ultimate way to sample a thousand flavors in one sitting. Head to Golden Dragon on Gerrard Street – the steamer is always buzzing, and the pork buns are soft enough to melt in your mouth. If you prefer a quieter vibe, China Tang serves delicate shrimp har gow and silky siu mai without the tourist crowd.

For noodle lovers, nothing beats a hot bowl of beef brisket noodle soup at Four Seasons. The broth simmers for hours, giving it a deep, comforting taste. If you’re after something spicy, try the Dan Dan noodles at Mr. Wong; the peanut‑chili sauce hits the sweet spot between heat and nutty richness.

Street Snacks and Late‑Night Cravings

When the sun sets, Chinatown turns into a night market of street food. Grab a pork belly bao from the stall behind the Chinatown gate – the meat is crispy on the outside, juicy inside, and the bao is pillowy fresh. Another must‑try is the scallion pancake from Yum Cha; it’s thin, crunchy, and perfect for sharing.

Late‑night eaters will love Hong Kong Café on Newport Place. Open until 2 am, they serve a massive plate of crispy duck pancakes with hoisin sauce that will keep you going after a night out. Pair it with a cold tin of Singha for the full experience.

Don’t forget the sweet side. A warm egg tart from Leong’s Bakery is the ideal finish – the crust is buttery, the custard silky, and it’s cheap enough to snag a couple for the road.

All these spots are within walking distance, so you can hop from dim sum to noodles to street snacks without hopping on a bus. Bring cash for the smaller stalls, but most places now accept contactless cards.

Need a quick map? The main stretch runs along Gerrard Street, with side lanes like Lisle Street and Newport Place hosting the hidden gems. Stick to the main road if you want the classic spots; wander into the side alleys for the real local feel.

Bottom line: Chinatown isn’t just a tourist postcard, it’s a food playground. Follow this guide, try the dishes mentioned, and you’ll leave with a belly full of flavor and a list of new favorites. Happy eating!