Nestled in the heart of the West End, Chinatown London is one of the city’s most vibrant and bustling districts. A fusion of rich history, mouthwatering cuisine, and cultural charm, it’s the go-to destination for food lovers, tourists, and locals alike.
Whether you’re looking for authentic dim sum, late-night bubble tea, or a taste of East Asian street food, Chinatown offers an immersive experience that transports you straight to the bustling markets of Hong Kong, Shanghai, and beyond.
Key Takeaways
- Chinatown London is a lively cultural and culinary hotspot in the West End, rich in history and tradition.
- Savor iconic dishes like roast duck at Four Seasons and Taiwanese fried chicken at Good Friend Chicken.
- Don’t miss sweet treats from Mamasons’ ube ice cream to Bubblewrap’s egg waffles.
- Explore bubble tea shops, specialty Asian supermarkets, and vibrant cultural events like Chinese New Year.
A Brief History of Chinatown London
Photo: .c
Chinatown’s roots in London date back to the early 20th century, originally established in Limehouse before moving to its current location near Leicester Square in the 1970s. Over the years, it has evolved into a thriving community with a mix of long-standing institutions and modern eateries, serving everything from traditional Cantonese dishes to contemporary Asian fusion cuisine. Today, it remains a cultural landmark, celebrated for its vibrant red lanterns, ornate gates, and annual events like the Chinese New Year parade.
Getting to Chinatown London & When to Go
How to Get There
Chinatown is located in the heart of London’s West End, bordered by Shaftesbury Avenue, Leicester Square, and Soho. It’s easily accessible by public transport:
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Tube stations nearby: Leicester Square (2 mins), Piccadilly Circus (4 mins), Tottenham Court Road (7 mins)
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Bus routes: Multiple buses stop along Charing Cross Road and Shaftesbury Avenue.
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By foot: It’s a short walk from Covent Garden, Soho, and Oxford Street.
When to Visit
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Morning: Quieter streets, perfect for browsing supermarkets or enjoying a peaceful breakfast.
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Afternoon: Great time for lunch and dessert — you’ll see more foot traffic but avoid evening dinner crowds.
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Evening: Chinatown really comes alive — vibrant lights, queues outside restaurants, and full energy.
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Late Night: Several places stay open late, ideal for bubble tea or post-show dining.
Weekdays are less crowded than weekends. For festivals like Chinese New Year, arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.
Must-Try Restaurants in Chinatown London
Chinatown is a paradise for food lovers, offering an extensive variety of authentic and innovative dishes. Here are some must-visit spots:
Four Seasons
Photo: Four Seasons Restaurants
Famous for its legendary roast duck, considered one of the best in London.
Speed Boat Bar
Photo: Aleksandra Boruch
A trendy Thai-Chinese fusion spot offering bold flavors and a lively atmosphere.
Goldmine
Photo: Daniel Food Diary
Known for its expertly roasted meats and traditional Cantonese dishes.
Good Friend Chicken
Photo: Chinatown London
A must-visit for Taiwanese-style crispy fried chicken and street food.
Cafe TPT
Photo: Karolina Wiercigroch
A hidden gem serving up Hong Kong-style comfort food, including crispy pork belly and clay pot rice.
Rasa Sayang
Photo: Aleksandra Boruch
A fantastic choice for Singaporean and Malaysian cuisine, featuring classics like Hainanese chicken rice and laksa.
Indulge in Chinatown’s Best Desserts
No trip to Chinatown is complete without satisfying your sweet tooth. Here are some of the best dessert spots to check out:
Mamasons
Photo: Deliveroo
Specializing in Filipino-style desserts, including their famous ube ice cream and bilog (ice cream sandwich in a toasted bun).
Bubblewrap Dessert Shop Chinatown
Photo: Halalxplorer
Known for their iconic egg waffle wraps filled with ice cream and toppings of your choice.
Kova
Photo: Deliveroo
A must-visit for lovers of Japanese patisserie, offering matcha mille crepe cakes and delicate pastries.
Chinatown Bakery
Photo: Elaine Zhao
Famous for their freshly baked buns, egg tarts, and traditional Asian pastries.
Beyond Food: Things to Do in Chinatown
While Chinatown is best known for its food, it offers much more than just incredible dining experiences. Visitors can explore:
- Bubble Tea Shops – With a growing tea culture, Chinatown is home to some of the best bubble tea spots, including Happy Lemon, Heytea, and Gong Cha.
- Cultural Events – If you visit during Chinese New Year, you’ll witness breathtaking dragon and lion dances, street performances, and festive celebrations.
- Specialty Supermarkets – Pick up authentic Asian ingredients, snacks, and spices from well-stocked grocery stores like SeeWoo and New Loon Moon.
Tips for Visiting Chinatown London
- Visit During Off-Peak Hours – Lunchtime and dinner hours can get extremely busy, so aim to visit in the late afternoon for a more relaxed experience.
- Bring Cash – While most places accept cards, smaller shops and bakeries often prefer cash payments.
- Explore Side Streets – Some of the best hidden gems are tucked away from the main roads, so don’t be afraid to wander off the beaten path.
Best Photo Spots in Chinatown London
Looking to capture the charm of Chinatown? Don’t miss these Instagram-worthy locations:
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The Chinatown Gate (Gerrard Street) – The ornate paifang (Chinese gateway) is one of the largest in the UK.
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Lantern-lined streets – Gerrard Street and Newport Court are especially photogenic at night.
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Neon signs – Some restaurants feature classic neon lights perfect for vibrant night shots.
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Bubblewrap Dessert – Their waffle cones are not just delicious, they’re made for the ’Gram.
Photo Tips:
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Visit at dusk for glowing lanterns and great lighting.
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Early morning = empty streets and clean frames.
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Avoid tripods during peak hours; handheld or phone shots work best.
Chinatown Through the Seasons
Chinatown is magical year-round, but some seasons bring unique charm:
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Chinese New Year (late Jan/Feb) – Expect parades, lion dances, live performances, and special menus. Arrive early!
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Mid-Autumn Festival (Sept) – Look out for mooncakes and lantern decorations.
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Summer evenings – Outdoor dining buzzes with energy and music.
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Winter holidays – Warm food, festive lights, and cozy dessert cafés.
Tip: Always check local event calendars or the official Chinatown London website before you go.
Where to Stay Near Chinatown London
If you’re visiting from out of town, staying near Chinatown makes exploring central London a breeze. Here are some nearby neighbourhoods and hotel tips:
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Leicester Square & Soho – Steps from Chinatown, ideal for nightlife, theatres, and dining.
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Covent Garden – A slightly quieter stay but still very walkable.
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Bloomsbury – Great for families or those wanting a more residential feel.
Hotel Types Nearby
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Luxury: The Londoner, W London
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Mid-range: Premier Inn Leicester Square, Z Hotel Soho
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Budget: hub by Premier Inn, YHA Oxford Street
Most are within 5–10 minutes walking distance. Bonus: many offer great views or quick access to West End shows.
Conclusion
Chinatown London is more than just a dining hotspot, it’s a cultural and culinary landmark that embodies the rich diversity of Asian heritage in the UK. Whether you’re indulging in world-class dim sum, exploring bustling supermarkets, or soaking in the festive atmosphere during Chinese New Year, every visit offers something new and exciting. Next time you’re in London, make sure to immerse yourself in the flavors, sights, and traditions that make Chinatown London truly special.
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FAQ
Absolutely! Chinatown London is a must-visit destination for food lovers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone looking to experience a unique part of the city. It offers an incredible selection of authentic East Asian restaurants, vibrant street decor, and specialty shops selling everything from traditional pastries to rare ingredients. Whether you’re indulging in dim sum, exploring the lively atmosphere during Chinese New Year, or simply strolling through the lantern-lit streets, Chinatown provides an unforgettable experience.
Chinatown London is famous for its diverse and authentic Asian cuisine, cultural significance, and lively atmosphere. It is home to some of the best Chinese, Japanese, Malaysian, and Thai restaurants in the city, offering everything from roast duck to bubble tea. The area is also known for its traditional Chinese architecture, red lanterns, and iconic Chinatown gate. Events such as Chinese New Year celebrations further cement its reputation as a cultural hotspot, attracting visitors from all over the world.
Chinatown is located in the heart of London’s West End, near Leicester Square and Soho. The main entrance is marked by a grand Chinese gate on Wardour Street, and the area stretches around Gerrard Street and the surrounding roads. It is easily accessible via public transport, with Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus stations just a short walk away.
Chinatown is right next to Soho, making it an easy walk between the two areas. The distance between the heart of Soho and Chinatown is roughly 2-5 minutes on foot, depending on where you are. Both areas are vibrant nightlife and dining hubs, making it easy to explore both in a single visit.
Yes – you’ll find facilities at Leicester Square or inside some larger restaurants (for customers). Public restrooms are also available nearby in Soho.
Yes! Many restaurants offer tofu, vegetable, and plant-based dishes. Try vegetarian dim sum or meatless bao buns.
Yes, it’s well-lit and typically busy even late into the evening. As with any tourist area, be mindful of belongings and avoid overly secluded lanes.
