Long known as a specialist in northern Chinese cuisine, Princess Garden also has a range of dim sum that stands comparison with London’s best. As you would expect from the Mayfair address, the menu offers plenty of opportunities to splash out. Peking duck, lobster, shark’s fin and abalone are all available in a range of northern, Cantonese and inventive fusion dishes.
On a recent visit, the dim sum menu lived up to the restaurant’s name: these little dumplings are fit for royalty. Enoki and beef cheung fun featured a perfectly steamed, cloud-light giant noodle wrapped around springy little mushrooms, tender beef and just enough water-chestnuts to create an interesting textural play. Chicken and mushroom steamed buns (baozi) were similarly light in texture, yet deep and rich in flavour.
Popular for business lunches, the venue has an air of formality: light from two window-lined walls is carefully controlled; tables are discreetly distanced from one another; waiting staff are elegantly dressed and helpful. The fully stocked bar, above-average French wine list, fancy address, minimalist decor (dotted with Chinese antiques) and seamless service combine to make this an ideal place to impress your guests.