Tai Pan

With a rather unprepossessing warehouse setting (above a Chinese supermarket & overlooking Liverpool docks) & an interior that can seat 250, this is one of Liverpool’s largest Chinese restaurants, but don’t be put off. Tai Pan serves some of the best, most authentic Chinese food in the North. Seafood is a particular strength, while the dim sum first rate – & is especially popular on Sundays when you can expect to queue. There are anglicised set menus, which range from £16 to £26, & offer the likes of skewered lamb with satay sauce, chicken with cashew nuts, & sizzling fillet steak Cantonese style; the more adventurous should try the Chinese-only menu. Also in Manchester (81-87 Upper Brook Street, 0161 273 2798).