Walk into the basement of The Dorchester on Park Lane, and you’re basically time-traveling. It isn’t just a restaurant. It's a vibe.
Sir David Tang, the late, legendary entrepreneur, opened China Tang at The Dorchester back in 2005. He wanted a "love letter" to 1930s Shanghai. Honestly, he nailed it. While other Mayfair spots lean into sterile, modern minimalism, China Tang feels like a movie set. It’s loud, it’s colorful, and it’s unashamedly opulent. You’ve got Chinoiserie everywhere—hand-painted wallpaper, intricate wood carvings, and deep red lacquer that makes you feel like a character in an old noir film.
The Duck That Everyone Talks About
If you go to China Tang and don’t order the Peking Duck, did you even go? Seriously.
The Classic Peking Duck is the undisputed heavy hitter here. At roughly £128 per bird, it isn't exactly a budget lunch, but the theater is worth it. They bring the whole "mahogany" bird to your table on a trolley. A chef carves it right there. The skin is lacquered and crispy, while the meat stays ridiculously juicy. You get the traditional pancakes, the hoisin, the scallions—it’s a ritual.
Some people get confused by the options. You can do the duck in three stages:
- The Classic: Skin and meat with pancakes.
- The Second Course: Shredded meat stir-fried with beansprouts.
- The Third Course: A rich, warming duck soup.
Pro tip: If you're with a small group, just sticking to the pancakes is plenty. The soup is great, but it’s a lot of food.
Beyond the Roast: Dim Sum and Hidden Gems
Most people think China Tang is only for late-night glitz. Wrong.
The Dim Sum here is served all day in the bar, which is actually one of London's best-kept secrets for a "casual" (well, Mayfair-casual) bite. The Iberico Pork Xiao Long Bao is a standout. The broth inside is rich, and the skin is thin enough to be delicate but strong enough not to burst when you lift it. You’ve also got the Har Kau (shrimp dumplings) for about £14–£17 depending on the season, and the Wagyu Puff with Caviar if you’re feeling particularly "extra."
What to Order if You’re Bored of the Classics
- Golden King Prawns with Salted Egg Yolk: It's savory, sandy in texture (in a good way), and totally addictive.
- Ma Po Tofu: They do a version that actually has some kick. It’s comforting and earthy.
- Lobster Noodles: A staple for the high-rollers, usually featuring ginger and spring onion.
The menu is surprisingly massive. It’s not just Cantonese; there are nods to Sichuan and Beijing throughout.
The 20-Year Refresh
China Tang just hit its 20th anniversary, and they didn’t just rest on their laurels. They’ve been busy. They recently updated the interiors—new carpets, refreshed upholstery—but they kept the 1930s Shanghai soul intact.
They even brought in designer Huishan Zhang to redo the staff uniforms. It’s that "East-meets-West" aesthetic that Sir David Tang pioneered. It keeps the place from feeling like a museum. It feels alive. In February 2026, for the Year of the Horse, the place went full-tilt with Lion Dances and a special 10-course "Auspicious" menu.
The Bar: A Destination on Its Own
You don't actually have to book a full table to experience the magic. The bar at China Tang is legendary. It’s dark, moody, and filled with vintage decanters.
The "Tang Negroni" is a fan favorite, using Sakura vermouth to give it an Asian twist. Most cocktails hover around the £18–£22 mark. It’s the kind of place where you might see a supermodel at one table and a business mogul at the next. Kate Moss and Naomi Campbell were regulars for a reason. It’s private. It’s glamorous. It’s quintessentially London.
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Is it Worth the Hype?
Look, China Tang isn't cheap. A meal for two can easily clear £250 if you’re hitting the wine list and the duck. But you aren't just paying for the calories. You’re paying for the service, which is some of the most polished in the city, and the sheer audacity of the decor.
There are plenty of "authentic" Cantonese spots in Chinatown that are delicious and a quarter of the price. But they don't have the Dorchester's pedigree. They don't have the hand-carved screens.
Wait times and booking:
Honestly, weekends are a nightmare. Book at least two weeks out if you want a prime-time dinner slot. If you're spontaneous, try the bar for lunch. The "Yum Cha" menu (basically tea and dim sum) is available from 12 pm to 4 pm and offers sets for three, six, or eight baskets. It's a much more manageable way to experience the kitchen without committing to a three-hour feast.
Practical Steps for Your Visit
- Check the Dress Code: It's The Dorchester. While they say "smart casual," most people are dressed to the nines. Leave the flip-flops at home.
- The Private Rooms: If you’re planning a birthday, look into the Ping, Pang, and Pong rooms. They are arguably the most beautiful private dining spaces in Mayfair.
- Order the Tea: Don't just get water. Their JADE Tea selection is curated to cut through the richness of the roast meats. The Iron Goddess Oolong is a solid choice.
- Explore the Hallways: Even the walk to the restroom is an experience in China Tang. The artwork and artifacts on the walls are mostly from Sir David’s personal collection.
For a true London experience, start with a cocktail in the bar, move to the dining room for the Peking Duck, and finish with the ginger crème brûlée. It’s a classic for a reason.
To plan your visit, check the current seasonal menu on the official Dorchester website, as they frequently update their specials for events like the Chelsea Flower Show or Lunar New Year. If you're looking for a slightly more accessible version of the brand, they also have a "Dim Sum by China Tang" outlet in the Harrods Dining Hall.