There’s something rather reassuring about visiting a restaurant that has been able to stand the test of time. Royal China’s reputation precedes it, particularly for the dim sum. There’s a sense of nostalgia in the Queensway branch, with the distinct, black and gold lacquered décor. It may look modest from the outside but it’s rather deceiving. The restaurant is huge, which is fortunate, as it seems to be just as popular on a weekday lunchtime, as it is the weekend.
The dim sum experience is as authentic as it get’s in London. It’s popular amongst the Chinese community, and that in itself, says it all. The extensive dim sum menu includes classic Cantonese dim sum, amongst seasonal specials created by the chef. Muddling over the menu, it’s very much like being in Hong Kong. Much of the menu is pictorial and the actual ingredients are a bit of a surprise, for when the bamboo baskets arrive. Everything is so tempting on the menu, that’s it’s easy to get carried away.
The Shanghai Dumplings ooze a soupy centre and are just perfect.
The char siu bao are light, fluffy and cloud like with a sweet barbecue pork centre. Each parcel is packed full of flavour, served piping hot and a mouthful of deliciousness.
There’s something rather exciting about unwrapping a lotus leaf parcel in anticipation of what’s inside. As the gentle aromas diffuse and linger, the sticky glutinous rice encases egg, chicken and prawns.
March is Noodle month at Royal China and it’s a perfect excuse to savour the delicious assortment of noodles.
Royal China is great for any celebration, with branches all over London from Canary Wharf, Fulham, Baker’s Street, and Harrow. Whether it’s a small birthday, or a large event, the flagship in Baker’s Street has private dining spaces and can even accommodate a banquet of up to 200. Royal China boasts authentic cuisine, and it really is as good today as it was twenty years ago!
Royal China, 13 Queensway, London W2 4QJ
*Disclaimer: Concierge Angel were complimentary guests. However, all opinions and photos belong to Concierge Angel, unless otherwise stated and remain a trademark of Concierge Angel.
