A Soho dining guide for Chinese food lovers
Soho is a strong place to start when you want authentic Chinese food London diners return to for dumplings, roast duck, and polished Cantonese cooking. This guide brings together a considered mix of dining rooms, from relaxed dim sum counters near Centre Point and Covent Garden to more refined tables in Mayfair. You’ll find spots for a quick lunch, a pre-theatre meal near Carnaby, or a longer evening with cocktails and skyline views. Each recommendation has been chosen for its distinct style, whether you’re after xiao long bao, modern presentation, or a lively room that works well for sharing. Use it to narrow down where to eat Chinese in Soho, with clear options for different occasions and appetites.
Din Tai Fung Centre Point
Image / Din Tai Fung
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What to expect
A busy but orderly restaurant with an open kitchen and simple décor. Staff move quickly and dishes arrive in stages for sharing. The menu centres on steamed dumplings, hand-rolled noodles and classic sides. Noise levels rise at peak meal times, but tables turn reasonably fast.
Plan your visit
If you have a group, plan to share several small plates so everyone can taste different items. Check for a queue at peak times, or ask staff about wait options. Order signature dumplings first, then add noodles or vegetables to round out the meal. Bring cashless payment; menus and staff are used to quick turnover.
Tattu London
Image / Tattu London
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What to expect
A theatrical fine-dining experience that still feels lively. Dishes come as carefully plated courses and there are set menus designed for sharing. The interior is dim and moody, with rooms that each have a distinct look, while the terrace provides open-air space and city views. Service aims to be attentive and professional, and staff often add thoughtful touches for special occasions.
Plan your visit
Book ahead, especially for weekend evenings and larger groups. Mention any dietary needs when you reserve and flag if you are celebrating so staff can note it. If you want skyline views, request a window or terrace table when you book. Arrive a little early to enjoy the bar and terrace, and be aware that busy nights can mean a short wait at the cloakroom or entrance.
Hakkasan Mayfair
Image / Hakkasan
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What to expect
A sophisticated, dimly lit dining room with contemporary décor and a bustling atmosphere, Hakkasan Mayfair serves polished Cantonese cuisine alongside imaginative drinks. Service is professional and attentive, staff are well organised, and bar seating offers a good alternative to a table. The venue can be lively and noisy at peak times, but the high standard of food and presentation remains consistent.
Plan your visit
Book ahead to secure preferred seating, especially for weekend evenings, and mention any accessibility needs when reserving. Arrive early to enjoy the bar for pre-dinner drinks, or request a quieter corner if a more intimate conversation is required. Dress smart-casual to match the elegant setting, and expect attentive, professional service throughout the visit.
The Duck and Rice
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What to expect
A busy, informal room with bar seating and table service. Food comes in small and medium plates designed for sharing, including roast duck and dim sum-style dishes. Drinks range from beers to short cocktails, and the pace is sociable rather than formal. Staff are used to groups and quick turns.
Plan your visit
Book a table if you have a group, especially on weekends. Arrive a little early if you want a seat at the bar or a window table. Order a mix of small plates to share, and mention any dietary needs when you order. If you prefer a quieter meal, pick a weekday afternoon.
Yauatcha Soho
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What to expect
Tables for groups and couples in a bright, compact dining room. Expect a mix of classic and inventive dim sum, neat presentation and a separate pastry counter. Service has improved in recent years, though some visits note occasional slow moments or uneven attention. Portions suit sharing, and many diners order several plates to try a range of flavours.
Plan your visit
Book ahead, especially for weekends or special occasions. Ask the host for recommendations if you want to try signature plates. Share dishes so you can sample more of the menu. Check the bill and ask staff about any optional service additions if you have questions.
Din Tai Fung Covent Garden
Image / Din Tai Fung
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What to expect
Expect an efficient, no-fuss experience focused on dumplings and small plates. The kitchen is visible at times, with staff moving through a set menu of popular items. Seating is practical rather than plush, and service aims to be quick and helpful. The menu includes dumplings, noodles, steamed buns and a few vegetable and side dishes.
Plan your visit
If you can, reserve a table to avoid queues at peak times. Order a few different dumplings to share so everyone can taste several varieties. Ask staff which items are freshly made that day. Bring a small group to try more dishes, and expect a steady, rather than leisurely, dining pace.
Kai Mayfair
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What to expect
Expect a multi-course tasting format with precise presentation and restrained flavours rather than loud spice. Service is formal and attentive, staff can guide wine or tea pairings, and the atmosphere suits quiet conversation. Menus use seasonal produce with Chinese techniques applied to British ingredients.
Plan your visit
Book in advance, especially for evenings and weekends. Mention dietary needs when you reserve so the kitchen can adapt courses. Dress smart-casual for dinner and allow time for a relaxed meal. If you want privacy, ask about quieter seating or private options when you book.