Princess Garden

“Regular for dim sum in Mayfair”

Ever since the advent of London as a food capital probably over a decade ago now, it almost seemed Chinese food / restaurants had been forgotten as one of the possible choice of many dining venues in London. However dim sum at the weekends was something that sustained throughout, and still is a great focal point for gathering families and friends. The Princess Garden certainly provides this.

A well appointed corner location in Mayfair, with large glass screen windows which allow much light through during lunchtimes, Princess Garden is unusual amongst Chinese restaurants in having a clean modern interior. This is adorned in the odd corner or wall with appropriate Chinese carvings and art. The light marble flooring which also helps to complement this fairly slick interior, brings you from the entrance right through to the 2 dining areas, one in a smaller conservatory area, the other a much larger main dining room.

Large groups are catered for at typical round tables for a dozen or so, but there are also sufficient numbers of smaller “tete-a-tete” or tables for four, scattered around. The service is efficient and if anything a touch perfunctory, however it tends to be quite busy and “free flow”, and the staff manage well given this. It is noteworthy that one can actually book a table here for dim sum, which is not always the case for dim sum at other restaurants during weekends.

Though Princess Garden is a full fledged dinner and lunch venue, dim sum at the weekends remains my pick. They provide the usual fare with hot steamed dishes in the little bamboo baskets, all done to near perfection I might add. The usual “har gau” prawn dumplings, “cheung fun” ravioli and “char siu bao” pork buns are staple tests which Princess Garden passes with flying colours. One can still order from the main menu and I usually add some Chinese vegetables as well as some noodles to complement the other dishes.

It has become quite a regular for us, and one that I would think will stay that way.

As with Simon i have eaten at Princess Garden many times and have enjoyed them all. A well designed interior space, tables spaced well apart and comfortable seating make for an enjoyable experience. Service is consistently good as well as quick, menu is varied considering that this is an upmarket affair and not a China Town establishment with a menu a mile long.

Time and time again, a visit here is always enjoyable. The food is fresh, the service is good, and it doesn't hurt the wallet too much. One of the best Chinese restaurants in town.