In the heart of Chinatown, a much-above average Chinese newcomer (with some Sichuan specialities), of particular note for its exceptional-value set lunch.
It’s sometimes suggested that this is really a Sichuan restaurant, but many of the dishes are of fairly standard, if quite diverse, oriental inspiration. To us, it’s the sheer quality of the cooking – not the rarity of the menu – which makes this place of interest. Even an old fave like prawn-toast, for example. A truly delicious dish, it comes elegantly presented on a sort of boat-shaped plate which would not look out of place in a fancy Japanese joint.
There’s also a Japanese element to the presentation of some other dishes – lunchtime peppered beef for example, was presented Bento-style with rice (no surprise in a Chinese restaurant) and a fresh green salad (which is). But the real unifying feature is everything here just tastes great.
If you’re having the lunchtime set menu (2 courses for £8) – which we’d heartily recommend – it’s worth spicing it up with a Szechuan soup on the side. In a good way, it offers a taste and texture you’re likely to remember for a long time.
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