Discover the Best Places to Eat in Chinatown London: Hidden Gems and Local Favourites
- comedyinyoureye
- Oct 10
- 12 min read
If you’re hungry and wandering through London’s Chinatown, you’ll quickly realise there’s a lot more to try than just the usual sweet and sour chicken. This neighbourhood is packed with places that locals love and a few hidden spots you might miss if you don’t know where to look. Whether you’re after fluffy bao buns, spicy noodles, or something sweet, Chinatown has it all. Here’s a quick guide to the best places to eat in Chinatown London, with a mix of old favourites and a few surprises.
Key Takeaways
Chinatown London offers more than just Chinese food – you’ll find Thai, Taiwanese, and even Japanese treats.
Bun House is a must-visit for soft bao buns with both savoury and sweet fillings.
For late-night snacks or a quick lunch, try Good Friend Chicken or Lanzhou Lamian Noodle Bar.
Chinatown Bakery and Kova Patisserie are perfect if you’ve got a sweet tooth.
Don’t be afraid to explore – some of the best places to eat in Chinatown London are tucked away off the main streets.
1. Bun House
Most people wander through the bustle of Chinatown looking for something quick, easy, and full of flavour. Bun House nails it with its pillowy steamed buns, each one packed with distinct fillings that go way beyond your average grab-and-go snack. Tucked on Lisle Street, this place feels both cosy and unfussy, drawing a mix of locals and tourists who know a good thing when they taste it.
Here’s what makes Bun House stand out for many:
Six kinds of fillings for buns, including a stand-out peppery lamb and slow-cooked beef
A sweet custard lava bun that people rave about (honestly, it’s a must)
Homemade dim sum and small plates with real character
Cheung fun (rice noodle rolls) with peanut sauce, made even better with their chilli oil
Crunchy ‘hot and sour’ waffles if you want something nobody else is serving
Steamed buns are the main draw, but Bun House isn’t just about what’s inside the buns. People find themselves returning for dishes they didn’t expect to love, like their triple-layered kaya French toast or juicy mushroom-heavy veggie buns.
If you want some basic figures before deciding, here’s a quick rundown:
Dish | Price Range |
|---|---|
Steamed buns | £3.80 |
Snacks/small plates | £5–£9 |
Sharing dishes | £7–£15 |
There’s always something new popping up on the menu at Bun House. Even during busy evenings, grabbing a seat and biting into a warm, soft bao feels oddly comforting.
Looking for soft, flavoursome buns right in the heart of the city? Discover why so many rate Bun House in Chinatown as one of London’s top bun spots.
2. Speedboat Bar
If you want something a little different in Chinatown, Speedboat Bar has you covered. This place brings the bustling energy of Bangkok’s street food scene into the heart of London, without losing any of its fun or flavour. You walk in and straight away, it’s bright, noisy and alive – the ideal setting whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch or hunting for an after-hours bite.
Here’s what to know before you go:
The menu takes inspiration from Bangkok’s Chinatown and delivers heat. Expect bold flavours, serious spice and colourful plating – nothing bland here.
Their tom yam mama noodles, filled with squid, pork and prawns in creamy, spicy broth, are kind of legendary among regulars. The crispy pork with curry and the black pepper sea bream generally get rave reviews.
Party vibes are real, especially upstairs where you’ll find a bustling bar, pool table, and some wild cocktails (try anything with green mango tequila and makrut lime, just trust me).
Price Range (2025):
Dish Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
Snacks/Starters | £5 - £13 |
Specials | £13 - £29 |
Curries | £15 - £22 |
Cocktails | £10 - £14 |
There aren’t many places in central London where you can nosh on spicy noodles at midnight, play some pool and people watch – but that’s what makes Speedboat Bar such a favourite.
If you want a seat, especially on weekends, it makes sense to book ahead because things get busy fast. Whether you’re in for the food, the drinks or the crowd, Speedboat Bar offers a Chinatown staple that’s a bit more offbeat – and all the more memorable for it.
3. Lanzhou Lamian Noodle Bar
Lanzhou Lamian Noodle Bar sits just on the edge of Chinatown and could be easy to pass without noticing, but anyone who steps inside quickly realises why it’s such a local staple. If you’re in the mood for truly fresh, hand-pulled noodles—this is the spot. The chefs in the open kitchen stretch out springy dough into thick ribbons with a speed that’s hard not to watch. The setup is basic—small tables, sticky floors, and little space in between—but the food doesn’t leave room for complaint.
Here’s what makes a quick stop at Lanzhou Lamian Noodle Bar worth your time:
Noodles are made right in front of you for real freshness
They’re open until late, so it’s ideal for late-night cravings
Generous portions at prices that are rare in central London
Popular Dishes | Price (£) |
|---|---|
Hand-pulled beef noodles | 10 |
Knife-cut noodles with egg | 9 |
Disanxian (three vegetables) | 8.5 |
If you’re someone who chooses atmosphere over looks, you’ll appreciate the bustling, no-nonsense vibe. The room fills up fast, sometimes with people you don’t know sharing your table. Service is quick and straight to the point.
There’s something comforting about sitting in a cramped room late at night, slurping noodles alongside strangers—all of you just after something honest and filling. Lanzhou Noodle Bar brings a touch of Asia’s street-side dining to London without any pretence. For a truly authentic experience and rich, savoury broths, flavourful noodles that hit the spot are just steps away from Chinatown’s lanterns.
4. Chinatown Bakery
Chinatown Bakery is one of those places that always smells amazing, even before you walk in. It's hard to pass by the display without picking up at least a pineapple bun or a few taiyaki. The bakery covers all the classics and throws in a handful of surprises too, so there’s something for anyone craving a sweet or savoury snack.
Pineapple buns (bolobao): Fluffy, lightly sweet, and with that signature crunchy top—even though there’s no pineapple in sight, don't let the name fool you.
BBQ pork buns: Properly filled and just the right balance of savoury-sweet.
Taiyaki: These fish-shaped pastries come filled with things like red bean or custard and get baked right in the window for all to watch.
Black sesame and red bean buns: Softer than you’d think, and not too sweet. A nice choice if you want something a bit different.
Savoury buns: Spring onion and pork floss or curry chicken buns—great for a quick lunch on the go.
If you’re in the mood for something cooler, there’s fresh soy milk or milk tea in the fridge.
Popular Item | Typical Price (GBP) |
|---|---|
Pineapple Bun | £2.20 |
BBQ Pork Bun | £2.50 |
Taiyaki | £2.00 |
Black Sesame Bun | £2.20 |
Soy Milk (carton) | £1.80 |
The best part about Chinatown Bakery is you never really leave empty handed—something always ends up coming home with you, whether you planned it or not. If you’re heading there late afternoon, expect a bit of a wait, but it’s worth it for that just-baked smell and the sheer variety. Sit outside if the sun’s out; it’s a rare treat in London.
5. Chinese Tapas House
Tucked away on Little Newport Street, Chinese Tapas House is a tiny spot with a big reputation for street food, especially if you’re after something quick and a bit different to most of Chinatown’s other options. Their star dish—jianbing—is like a Chinese breakfast crêpe, packed with egg, fresh herbs, crunchy crackers and a handful of extra fillings if you fancy. They make each one right in front of you, slapping the batter down on a sizzling hot plate, flipping it with enviable skill, while the aroma of sauce and chilli fills the small space.
Here’s what makes Chinese Tapas House stand out:
Jianbing are fully customisable. You pick your extra fillings, like savoury pork belly, spicy pickles or just stick to classic coriander and chilli.
It’s takeaway only and the service is fast, but expect a short queue late afternoon or at lunchtime.
Prices are reasonable for central London: you can usually get a classic jianbing for around £5, with extras pushing it up a bit.
Popular Fillings | Description | Add-on Price (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
Pork belly | Savoury, melt-in-the-mouth | £2 |
Pickles | Sharp, gives a tangy punch | £1 |
Extra crispy crackers | For maximum crunch | £0.50 |
For a snack before a West End show or just a warm hand-held bite as you wander, Chinese Tapas House is a trusted stop—simple, quick and it always hits the spot, even if you have to wait a few minutes in line.
Bubble waffles are another option if you’ve got a sweet tooth, and you can get them plain or with ice-cream if you’re feeling indulgent. Just don’t arrive expecting a sit-down meal—every bite here is grab-and-go, but that’s part of the charm.
6. Good Friend Chicken
If you’ve walked down Shaftesbury Avenue on a weekend, you’ve probably seen the queue snaking outside Good Friend Chicken. This bright yellow Taiwanese chicken spot has a kind of magnetism. Their fried popcorn chicken is the main event, golden and crispy, packed in a paper bag with any seasoning you can think of. I always end up going for the chilli and plum – seaweed is another favourite – though you can mix toppings as you fancy.
There’s something about the speed at which they work, too. The queue looks long but moves lightning-fast, so you’ve barely got time to choose your spice level before it’s your turn to order. If you’re not in the mood for chicken, the sweet potato fries are crunchy and piping hot, and you can grab fried chicken skin or crispy squid for a break from the usual. It’s all handheld, on-the-go food, so don’t expect to sit down – but that’s part of the charm.
Popular Orders at Good Friend Chicken:
Item | Price Range | Recommended Seasonings |
|---|---|---|
Popcorn Chicken | £6-7 | Chilli, plum, seaweed |
Fried Chicken Steak | £6-8 | Black pepper, curry, cheese |
Sweet Potato Fries | £4-5 | Plum or BBQ |
Crispy Squid | £7-8 | Seaweed, five spice |
The queue is almost always worth it.
Let them know your preferred seasoning – don’t be shy.
If you don’t love heat, ask for less spice or stick to plum.
Sometimes, grabbing a bag of popcorn chicken from Good Friend is all you need after a long day – hot, salty, a little messy, and ridiculously comforting.
7. Real Beijing Food House
If you’re the kind of person who likes a bit of spice and something different from the usual Cantonese fare in Chinatown, Real Beijing Food House should be top of your list. This is the go-to for hearty northern Chinese dishes and all-you-can-eat hotpot right in the thick of Soho. The whole place feels welcoming from the moment you step in, whether you’re rolling deep with friends or just after a quiet meal.
Here’s why you’ll want to stop by:
Big, flavourful portions – no one is leaving hungry here.
Two distinct dining experiences: downstairs for classic sharing plates and upstairs for a more atmospheric, all-you-can-eat hotpot.
Menu highlights like dry-fried green beans, salty barbecue chives, and the show-stopping whole roast sea bass in sizzling chilli oil.
Dish | Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Whole Roast Sea Bass | £25–£35 | Served on a bubbling hot platter |
Dry-fried Green Beans | £9–£12 | Great as a shared starter |
All-you-can-eat Hotpot | £30–£35 | Includes a variety of add-ins |
For anyone tired of the same old noodle soups, this spot offers real northern Chinese comfort food with plenty of heat and generous servings. The flavours are bold, and the prices won’t leave a dent in your wallet, making it a bit of a great value spot within Chinatown London.
You might just find a new favourite dish after a visit here.
8. Xu
Xu stands out in Chinatown as a spot that feels both classic and new at the same time. This isn’t your average bustling dim sum joint — here, the atmosphere is calm and the decor leans more towards old-world Shanghai, with polished wood, low lighting, and leather banquettes. It’s the sort of place you’d take someone you want to really impress, whether that’s a partner, parents, or colleagues.
A meal at Xu isn’t rushed. The menu is small but intentional, focusing on dishes that don’t show up on every high street Chinese restaurant. Here are a few highlights:
The Taiwanese-style xiao long bao — soup dumplings with that perfect hit of rich broth
Char siu Iberico pork, sticky and moreish
Three-cup chicken, intensely savoury and packed with fresh basil
And let's talk about the tea bar: you can order some serious single-origin teas, brewed at your table. It adds a bit of theatre to your meal, which is a nice touch if you want to linger.
Even during busier evenings, the staff somehow keep things relaxed, almost like you’re a regular after just one visit.
This is a place best enjoyed unhurried. So if you’re after proper Taiwanese flavours in a quieter corner of Chinatown, Xu is a gem I’d tell all my friends about.
9. Palomar
Tucked into Rupert Street, Palomar has become a favourite spot for anyone after something a bit different in Chinatown. The menu spins around the fresh, lively flavours of Jerusalem, but that's only half the story. Most people want one of the seats up at the counter, where you can banter with the chefs and watch them work. It's loud, fast, and you never really know what's coming next, which is half the fun.
Here’s what stands out about the Palomar experience:
Warm kubaneh bread hits the table first and never disappoints
Staff make everyone feel at home, no matter if you eat meat, fish, or stick to veggies
Expect a menu that changes with the seasons, featuring both comforting classics and dishes that challenge your taste buds in the best way
If you’re curious about standout restaurants in the city, Condé Nast Traveller’s list of London’s top restaurants includes Palomar, so you know it isn’t just hype.
Favourite Dishes | Why Try It |
|---|---|
Kubaneh & tahini | Perfect start, always fresh |
Octo-hummus (veg spin) | Smoky, rich, surprisingly bold |
Daily fish special | Fresh from Looe Harbour |
The counter at Palomar feels like its own world—plates sliding across, chefs singing and joking, and a knot of hungry people all waiting for that first taste. You keep coming back because you can't really get this anywhere else in Chinatown.
10. Kova Patisserie
Kova Patisserie sits upstairs on Macclesfield Street and honestly, if you don’t know what you’re looking for, you might miss it. The feel inside is calm, low-key. People chat over tea or huddle around their laptops, all here for one thing — knockout desserts.
What makes Kova stand out in Chinatown is its clever spin on Japanese-French cakes and delicate Asian-style sweets. Here, you’ll see slices of pillowy mille crêpes in flavours like matcha and taro, not to mention Swiss rolls and tarts that actually taste as good as they look.
Here's what you’ll find on the menu most days:
Matcha mille crêpes: layer after layer of thin pancake with light cream, a pleasant bitterness from the tea.
Hojicha roll cakes: soft, just the right amount of sweetness.
Bubble teas (properly made, nice range of toppings and sugar levels).
More unusual treats, like black sesame or durian pastries, for the adventurous.
If you’re not sure what to order, the staff handle endless questions with real patience and will happily give recommendations. Pricing is what you’d expect for central London — not cheap, but you’re paying for care and quality.
Item | Price Range |
|---|---|
Mille Crêpe Slice | £6.50–£8.50 |
Whole Cakes | £45–£58 |
Bubble Tea | £4.00–£6.00 |
Hot Noodle Bowls | £8–£11 |
There’s a reason Kova always seems busy: even on a grey weekday, it’s a little corner of excitement for anyone with a sweet tooth or craving something cosy and different.
Opening hours run late on Fridays and Saturdays — perfect if you’re after something sweet after an evening in Soho. This is the place for when you want a cake break without the fuss, just genuine flavour and a comfy chair.
Conclusion
So, that’s my round-up of the best places to eat in Chinatown London. Whether you’re after a quick bite, a proper sit-down meal, or just something sweet to finish off your day, there’s honestly something for everyone. The area is always buzzing, and you never know what you’ll stumble across – maybe a new bakery, or a tiny noodle shop tucked away down a side street. It’s not just about Chinese food either; you’ll find all sorts of Asian flavours, plus a few surprises from elsewhere. Every visit feels a bit different, and that’s half the fun. If you’ve got a favourite spot I missed, let me know – I’m always up for trying somewhere new. Happy eating!
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of food can I find in Chinatown London?
Chinatown London is known for its Chinese food, but you’ll also find dishes from all over Asia, including Thai, Japanese, and Malaysian meals. There are also some places with British and European flavours. It’s a great spot for anyone who loves trying different foods.
Do I need to book a table at these restaurants?
Some of the popular restaurants, like Xu or Palomar, can get busy, especially in the evenings or on weekends. It’s a good idea to book ahead if you can. But many places, like Chinatown Bakery or Good Friend Chicken, are casual and don’t need a booking.
Is Chinatown London expensive to eat in?
There’s a big range of prices in Chinatown. You can grab a cheap snack from a bakery or noodle bar, or sit down for a fancier meal at one of the top restaurants. There’s something for every budget, from quick bites to special dinners.
How do I get to Chinatown London?
Chinatown is in central London, close to Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus. The nearest tube stations are Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus, both just a few minutes’ walk away. It’s easy to reach by bus or on foot from nearby areas like Soho and Covent Garden.
Are there vegetarian or vegan options in Chinatown?
Yes, many restaurants in Chinatown offer vegetarian and sometimes vegan dishes. Places like Lanzhou Lamian Noodle Bar and Xu have veggie options. It’s always good to ask staff if you’re not sure.
What are some must-try foods in Chinatown London?
Don’t miss the steamed bao buns at Bun House, hand-pulled noodles at Lanzhou Lamian Noodle Bar, and the sweet treats at Chinatown Bakery or Kova Patisserie. For something different, try the Taiwanese dishes at Xu or the crispy chicken at Good Friend Chicken.