The best restaurants in London to celebrate Chinese New Year

Gong Xi Fa Cai! 🐍 Get ready to usher in the Year of the Snake with a feast for the ages! 

London is packed with endless stunning cultures and its vibrant Chinese culinary scene is truly something special. Whether you’re craving authentic Cantonese classics, spicy Sichuan delights or modern interpretations of traditional dishes, the capital has it all.

In this guide, we’ll be taking you on a delicious journey through some of the best restaurants to celebrate Chinese New Year in London. From bustling dim sum and cocktail parlours to elegant fine-dining establishments, we’ve got you covered.


1. Royal China

Harrow-on-the-Hill

Royal China LondonRoyal China is renowned for great tasting high-quality food worldwide, you can taste it for yourself in one of their restaurants dotted around the capital. For a truly authentic and special Chinese New Year experience, Royal China is a fantastic choice. Their elegant and sophisticated setting creates the perfect atmosphere for celebrating with friends and family.

You can expect an impeccable service, making your dining experience even more enjoyable. Whether it’s Dim Sum, Cantonese or some Hong Kong flavours you’re after, Royal China will have your Chinese New Year off to a great start.

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2. Bao London

Soho, Marylebone, Borough, Kings Cross, City, Shoreditch & Battersea
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For a delicious and contemporary celebration of Chinese New Year, look no further than Bao London! With seven locations scattered across the capital, you’re sure to find one conveniently close by. Indulge in their mouthwatering steamed buns filled with a variety of flavourful fillings, from fried chicken and confit pork to daikon and curry cheese. Beyond the iconic bao, their menu boasts a range of other delectable Taiwanese dishes, perfect for sharing with friends and family.

If you’re heading to Bao on a weekday, the BAO15 menu is your go-to! This £15 set menu is available from 12-6pm and includes one succulent bao, xiao chi (small plate) and a noodle or rice bowl depending on your location. Whether you’re seeking a casual bite or a more substantial meal, Bao London is home to a cosy and welcoming atmosphere to ring in the new year with good food and good company.


3. Park Chinois

Mayfair 

Dim sum at Park Chinois, LondonIf you’re dreaming of a truly luxurious Chinese New Year celebration, then Park Chinois is the place to be! This stunning restaurant is all about glitz and glamour and they know how to throw a party. Expect to be wowed by spectacular entertainment, from dazzling dancers to live music, while you feast on incredible food.

And don’t forget the special seasonal cocktails designed to celebrate the Year of the Snake – they’re as beautiful as they are delicious. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner for two or a big night out with friends, Park Chinois is the perfect spot for an unforgettable New Year’s treat.

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4. MamaLan

Brixton 
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Craving some authentic Chinese New Year cheer? Head down to MamaLan in Brixton! This family-run gem serves up delicious, handmade dumplings, noodle soups and other street food favourites with roots firmly planted in Beijing.

Get ready for a taste of the real deal – think juicy pork buns, spicy Sichuan noodles and fragrant vegetable dumplings. MamaLan is an excellent spot to celebrate the Year of the Snake with a feast of flavorful dishes that will transport you straight to the bustling streets of Beijing.

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5. Daddy Bao

Tooting

Brunch at Daddy BaoThis vibrant spot in London serves up incredible bao buns bursting with flavour. Think juicy pork belly, beef brisket and fragrant shiitake mushroom options all tucked inside fluffy steamed buns.

But it’s not just about the bao – their sharing plates are a feast for the senses too. Don’t miss out on the Szechuan cucumber, chicken dumplings and crispy squid. With its vibrant atmosphere, iconic bar and mouthwatering dishes, Daddy Bao is the perfect place to celebrate the New Year with friends and family.

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6. Sichuan Folk

Spitalfields

For an authentic taste of Sichuan cuisine, look no further than Sichuan Folk in London’s vibrant Spitalfields district. This faithful restaurant is a haven for spice lovers, offering a menu packed with fiery dishes that will tantalise your taste buds. The lively atmosphere and friendly service make Sichuan Folk the perfect spot to celebrate Chinese New Year with friends and family.

If you’re feeling adventurous, be sure to try the restaurant’s signature dishes or pair your meal with a refreshing pot of fragrant Chinese tea to cool down your palate. Whether you’re a seasoned Sichuan lover or simply looking to explore new culinary horizons, Sichuan Folk is a must-visit destination in Spitalfields.

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7. Bun House

Chinatown
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Bun House is a Chinatown favourite, known for its delicious and playful take on Cantonese-style steamed buns. Their menu features a variety of savoury and sweet fillings, but it’s their iconic squirting custard Baos that have earned them a cult following.

These pillowy buns are filled with a molten custard that oozes out when you bite in, making for a messy but oh-so-satisfying treat. Bun House’s vibrant atmosphere and innovative dishes are sure to create a memorable dining experience.

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8. Ping Pong

Southbank, Marylebone, Soho, City, St Katharine’s & Wapping

Food at Ping Pong LondonWant to celebrate Chinese New Year with a bang? Ping Pong is the place to be! Handmade Dim Sum and crafted cocktails await those who want to celebrate the Chinese New Year the Ping Pong way. For the Year of the Snake, Ping Pong will be offering a limited edition menu as their traditional Chinese favourites.

Celebrate the new year early and head over for a ‘Lazy Sumday’- unlimited Dim Sum all day on Sundays. Ping Pong’s vibrant and energetic atmosphere makes it perfect for a celebratory feast. With locations across London, it’s easy to find a Ping Pong near you to ring in the new year in style.


9. Pearl Liang

Paddington

Want to celebrate Chinese New Year with a bang? Ping Pong is the place to be! Handmade Dim Sum and crafted cocktails await those who want to celebrate the Chinese New Year the Ping Pong way. For the Year of the Snake, Ping Pong will be offering a limited edition menu as their traditional Chinese favourites.

Celebrate the new year early and head over for a ‘lazy Sumday’ – unlimited Dim Sum all day on Sundays. Ping Pong’s vibrant and energetic atmosphere makes it perfect for a celebratory feast. With locations across London, it’s easy to find a Ping Pong near you to ring in the new year in style.

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10. Opium Cocktail Bar

Chinatown

Opium cocktail bar in Chinatown, LondonLooking for a truly unique dining experience? Step through the whimsical jade-painted door hidden away in the heart of Chinatown and discover Opium! This dim sum cocktail bar isn’t just one spot, but three incredible secret bars with a Shanghai-inspired twist.

Indulge in a dazzling array of oriental-inspired cocktails and mocktails. For a truly unforgettable evening, book a seat at the Peony bartender table and let expert mixologists craft a show-stopping cocktail just for you.

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11. Hakkasan

Mayfair

For a truly memorable Chinese New Year celebration, Hakkasan is the epitome of fine dining in London. This Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant boasts an elegant and sophisticated ambience, perfect for a special occasion.

Indulge in exquisite dishes crafted with the finest ingredients, from delicate dim sum to succulent roasted duck. Hakkasan offers an unparalleled dining experience with impeccable service and a refined atmosphere.

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12. Barshu Restaurant

Soho

Barshu believes that dining should be an adventure and their dishes definitely live up to the hype! With some exciting new dishes alongside their classic favourites prepared for the Chinese New Year, traditional Sichuan cuisine is rooted in everything Barshu does.

This culinary journey is filled with unique and flavorful dishes, from mild and comforting to delightfully fiery.

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