Where to check out in London’s Chinatown

With over 70 authentic East Asian restaurants, shops, bars and cafés – Chinatown is a bucket list stop during your time in London. 

Read on to learn the rich history of London’s Chinatown and tips for some of the must-visit spots along the way.

Today, more than 17.4 million people visit each year, with the busiest period during the Chinese New Year (mid-January and February, depending on the Chinese lunar calendar).

As you wander around Chinatown, you’ll notice different monuments, sights and attractions. Including four stunning Paifangs (Chinese archways) that stand at the different Chinatown entry points, two lion statues on Gerrard Street (donated by the People’s Republic of China), as well as the incredible 1888 Mural in Horse and Dolphin Yard.

Stop by the super tasty, super affordable Wan Chai Corner – said to have some of the best dim sum in Chinatown. Or experience Hong Kong-style dining at The Eight. Got a sweet tooth? Enjoy a delicious bubble waffle at Bubblewrap – try a classic favourite, get creative and build your own, or look out for limited-edition flavours. 

You’ll also find restaurants serving Korean, Malaysian, Taiwanese and Japanese cuisine, too.

From artisan bubble tea at Woo Tea to matcha-infused sundaes at TSUJIRI. Or stop for a classic cocktail at The Blue Posts – an original Georgian Pub on the edges of Chinatown and Soho that dates back to 1839.

Stop by Loon Fung Supermarket, the forefront of Chinatown’s Asian food scene for over 50 years. 

Whilst you’re in the shopping mood, we recommend visiting POP MART for its famous collectible toys and Guanghwa Bookshop for everything from beautiful coffee-table worthy art books to Chinese language learning aids.

Catch a karaoke-style Sing-A-Long-A-Cinema screening at The Prince Charles Cinema, enter gamer-heaven at Razer or step into the wizarding world at House of Spells. 

Visit Lo’s Noodle Factory on Dansey Place, open since 1978, for authentic noodles, buns and desserts at factory price. Lo’s even supply their Ho Fun and Cheung Fun Noodles to 95% of Chinatown’s restaurants – as well as to the Michelin-starred Hakkasan.

We recommend visiting the Experimental Cocktail Club (ECC). If you can find this 1920s-inspired cocktail bar hidden behind a black door on Gerrard Street, you have to try their experimental signature cocktails that change with the seasons. 

Book a spot on a free walking tour through Soho, Piccadilly Circus and Chinatown with Free Tours By Foot (Thursdays at 11am). Or skip straight to Chinatown with Chinatown Stories: The Community-Led Walking Tour (paid experience). Looking for a more immersive experience? Try London’s Chinatown Food Experience or similar tours (paid).

However, you can easily find yourself spending an entire afternoon here – so comfortable shoes are recommended.  Whilst the majority of restaurants open at 12pm and close at 12am, some stay open as late as 4am. To make the most out of your trip, we recommend planning some stops and checking out their opening hours to avoid disappointment.

Your visit to London’s Chinatown is guaranteed to be filled with incredible experiences and (lots of) delicious food and drinks. Soak in the vibrant district and create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re a London local, a visitor, or have just moved – this new adventure awaits you. Make sure to explore every corner and embrace the unique and diverse offerings that Chinatown has to offer.