Long before the capital went dim sum crazy, Royal China drew people from far and wide to its unselfconsciously '80s-style chinoiserie.

The Venue
The jewel in the Queensway crown, it’s an ornate, black-lacquered restaurant that’s low-ceilinged, vast and windowless yet utterly atmospheric. Staff can be abrasive, but that just adds to the charm.

The Atmosphere
Popular with large groups as well as couples, Royal China has a fair few big name fans of its trad-style luxe - the kind of place you’d find in the moneyed enclaves of colonial Hong Kong.

The clientele complement this, being largely comprised of a well-groomed international set spanning the generations, who’ve been visiting for years.

The Food
The pricier main menu is lengthy with a strong fish offering, highlights of which include the abalone, scallops and Dover sole. However, the real draw is the great-value dim sum, which is amongst the finest in London. Royal China serves better fare than most of the capital's trendiest Asian restaurants within a similar price range: you just can’t argue with their quality dim sum at minimal prices.

The Last Word
Those straying from the more standard dishes won’t be disappointed. Busy every day (in fact all the time) you may have to queue through the door for a table but the food will more than compensate.

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