In the heart of London's bustling Chinatown, one restaurant has carved out a legendary status not just for its food, but for its uniquely brusque character. Wong Kei, a Cantonese canteen that first opened its doors in the 1980s, remains a quintessential and iconic dining experience for Londoners and tourists alike.
A Slice of Hong Kong Frozen in Time
Stepping into Wong Kei is like entering a time capsule of a classic Hong Kong cha chaan teng (diner). The decor is unapologetically minimalist, defined by white walls and simple pale blue table tops. This no-fuss aesthetic sets the stage for a dining experience that prioritises substance over style, where the focus is squarely on the food and the famously efficient, if notoriously blunt, service.
The Massive Menu and Legendary Value
The restaurant operates on a cash-only basis and boasts a famously extensive menu. For budget-conscious diners, it's a haven, with a wealth of options available for under £10, particularly if you explore its selection of soups and broths. A perennial favourite and mainstay is the wonton soup. This deep bowl delivers a flavourful broth packed with substantial pork and prawn wontons. Regulars know the secret is to add a generous ladle of the potent chilli sauce provided on each table to give the dish an extra kick.
Other standout soup options include the wonton noodle ho fun soup at £9.50, mixed vegetable soup for £4.50, and various ho fun soups with meat, also priced at £9.50.
The Wong Kei Experience: No Queues, Shared Tables
While other popular Chinatown spots often have lengthy queues, a key part of Wong Kei's appeal is that it's nearly always possible to find a seat in its vast dining area. The trade-off for this convenience, especially for solo diners, is that you may be asked to share a two-person table with a stranger. For many, this communal aspect is all part of the authentic, no-nonsense charm that has defined the restaurant for decades.
Wong Kei is located at 41-43 Wardour Street, Chinatown, W1D 6PY. It opens from 11.30am to 11pm, Monday to Saturday, and from 11.30am to 10.30pm on Sundays. For an authentic taste of old-school Chinatown without the wait and without breaking the bank, this iconic canteen continues to deliver.
