Park Chinois (atmospheric Chinese)
Supremely elegant Chinese food set in a 1930s jazz lounge
Another best-in-show contender originally from Alan Yau (who is now no longer associated with the restaurant), this hugely atmospheric Mayfair rendezvous channels 1930s Shanghai with its slinky velvet-toned restaurant. The PC carbonara – a Chinese take on the Italian classic that replaces pasta with udon noodles – is a must-order, as are the all-too-sinkable signature cocktails. Pricy, but perfect date territory.
Park Chinois is so atmospheric, I wasn’t sure if I was in Mayfair, or if I’d travelled through time and space to 1930s Shanghai. If its fancy Berkeley Street neighbours are the Joneses, then this beautiful restaurant is more than keeping up.
Impressions were spotless from the off. As you walk up the stairs to the entrance you’ll be greeted by a bright pink cherry blossom tree and a wonderfully enigmatic doorman. Entering the lobby, you’re disarmed by a wall of heat from the roaring fire and a host of charming, well, hosts. Led into the restaurant proper, covered in rich red velvet and with an abundance of fringing, heavy swathes of taffeta draped over the curtains, with lounge style tables and curved chairs. It’s the perfect location for a date.
And whether you decide to live out some sort of ‘Lady and the Tramp’ fantasy or not, order the park carbonara – slinky udon, rich orange yolk, umami-packed sea urchin, pansies and nori dust. It was a brilliant, Asian ode to the classic Italian dish. Elsewhere, the famous duck, though incredibly full-flavoured, was cut into chunky pieces rather than being shredded – best reserved for dinner with friends as it’s not particularly conducive to ladylike eating. The same goes for the delicious smoky ribs.
With a theatrical setting, clever cocktails, thoroughly charming staff and a relaxed atmosphere, especially given how high-end it is – Park Chinois, I get a kick out of you.
Park Chinois says
Park Chinois is back: 7 nights and weekend lunches
Behind the red doors in Mayfair is the iconic Park Chinois. An opulent dining venue that pays homage to the glamour and decadence of 1930s Shanghai.
Park Chinois offers two distinct dining experiences, on the ground floor you will find, Salon de Chine, serving bold Chinese cuisine and exquisite drinks 7 days a week with the in-house band and live songstresses creating a unique supper club atmosphere. Downstairs is Club Chinois, the ambiance is taken up a notch with the unique live show, DJs and Chinese dining - every Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening.
Park Chinois also benefits from two beautiful cocktail bars, perfect if you are after a drink and some dim sum.
Park Chinois at Home is here to ensure Londoners are well fed whatever the government guidelines. Redefining the traditional “Chinese Takeaway” and elevating food delivery to new (very delicious) heights, we bring exceptional Asian dining from our plush Mayfair abode straight to your home. Available 7 days a week from 12pm – 10pm to Central London addresses, our most-celebrated dishes and signature favourites are on the agenda for lunch, dinner and everything in between.
Address: 17 Berkeley St, London W1J 8EA
Phone: +44 20 3327 8888
Tube: Green Park
Price: Dinner for two with drinks and service: around £200
Email: reservations@parkchinois.com
Contact: https://parkchinois.com/
