Aqua Restaurant Group brings its acclaimed Hong Kong concept to London with the launch of Dim Sum Library in Covent Garden. Designed to evolve throughout the day, Dim Sum Library caters to quick lunches, leisurely afternoon teas, after-work dim sum and cocktails, and elegant pre-theatre dinners. The interiors balance cosy and refined, with Chinoiserie-inspired details, vintage Chinese posters, and an immersive dim sum station offering guests a glimpse of the craft behind the menu.
In the kitchen, Chef Jian Jia and Dim Sum Master Chef Leung Kwok Wah combine traditional Hong Kong training with contemporary creativity. Expect inventive takes on classics, such as Wagyu Beef Puff with Black Pepper, Dan Dan Xiao Long Bao infused with Sichuan broth, and Black Garlic Siu Mai. Beyond dim sum, signature plates include Black Truffle Crispy Chicken, Steamed Alaskan Black Cod with Sichuan Pepper, and Sweet & Sour Pork, while desserts like Oolong Crème Brûlée and Truffle Chocolate Mochi add a refined finish.
Dim Sum Library also serves a unique dim sum afternoon tea - one of only a few restaurants in London to do so - with an assortment of savoury and sweet treats accompanied by fine teas and fizz. The experience extends beyond dim sum too, with classic Cantonese dishes reinvented - think Black Truffle Crispy Chicken, Steamed Alaskan Black Cod with Sichuan Pepper, and Sweet and Sour Pork. Those with a sweet tooth would be well advised to save room for slick desserts, including Oolong Crème Brûlée and Truffle Chocolate Mochi.
At the heart of the restaurant, a striking cocktail bar serves timeless favourites alongside tea-infused creations. Highlights include the Chinese Whisper – a bold blend of Fenjiu baijiu, Kahlua, shiitake bitters and five-spice – alongside an elegant wine list.