Gouqi Restaurant London Review: A Culinary Ode to Contemporary Chinese Cuisine

Gouqi Restaurant London Review: A Culinary Ode to Contemporary Chinese Cuisine

Gouqi restaurant in London is an artistic homage to contemporary Chinese cuisine by Chef Tong Chee Hwee. Having opened its doors in February 2023, this fine dining establishment sits opposite Trafalgar Square. It marks Chef Tong’s much-anticipated return to the London dining scene since his departure from the Hakkasan Group in 2019. Chef Tong, known for his pivotal role in earning multiple Michelin stars across the Hakkasan brand, brings to Gouqi the same innovative spirit and culinary excellence that have become his hallmark.

The name ‘Gouqi’ is inspired by the goji berry, synonymous with health and vitality. It mirrors the restaurant’s commitment to using premium, seasonal ingredients to craft flavours and dishes across China. The menu reflects Chef Tong’s culinary philosophy, blending traditional Chinese cooking techniques with contemporary innovation. It promises an exciting selection of dishes, including an extensive dim sum menu introduced in March, showcasing this traditional fare’s intricate beauty​.

Gouqi’s interior design creates a refined and understated elegance. Low lighting, exquisite finishes, art from award-winning artists, and flower arrangements by Botanique Workshop characterize it. The restaurant features banquette seating and views of the kitchen. This helps elevate the dining experience into an intimate interaction with the culinary process. It also offers private dining options, boasting two rooms, The Ruby and The Crimson, for those seeking a more secluded ambience​.

Gouqi Restaurant London Menu

The dining experience is meticulously curated, from the ice frozen to the bottom of cocktail glasses to prevent it from hitting guests in the face to duck-shaped chopstick rests and individually designed tableware. These thoughtful touches come from Gouqi’s philosophy where “the details are not the details. They make the design,” creating a setting that is as much an art installation as a dining venue.

Chef Tong Chee Hwee’s Gouqi celebrates Chinese culinary traditions reimagined for a contemporary audience. With its luxurious setting just off Trafalgar Square and a menu that promises to captivate and delight, Gouqi is poised to redefine fine dining in London and cement its place as one of the city’s most exciting new restaurants​​.

Gouqi Restaurant London Bookings

Capital A List members can make bookings for Gouqi below.

Gouqi Restaurant London Cuisine, Dress Code & Address

Cuisine: Chinese

Dress Code: Casual

Area: Covent Garden

Address: 25-34 Cockspur St, St. James’s, London SW1Y 5BN

Website: https://gouqi-restaurants.co.uk/

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