Where to Catch Up with Friends in Chinatown

One of London’s most distinct and dynamic destinations, Chinatown is the perfect meet-in-the-middle hub to catch up with friends from across the city. The abundance of unique cafes, restaurants and bars means there’s always somewhere new to try. 

If it’s cheap, chilled and cheerful you’re looking for or somewhere extravagant and eclectic, Chinatown has the full works. Here’s a round up of some of the greatest hang-out spots to try.

Refreshing lunch-time munch at Five Friends

This local laid-back hangout is known for their healthy and natural, authentic Chinese desserts. Explore the bright and spacious funky downstairs seating area and take in the cartoon Chinese city décor. Try out the traditional, homey, Cantonese desserts such as Sago, Sweet Soup and Tofu pudding or enjoy a refreshing bubble tea.

Five Friends, 12 Little Newport St, WC2H 7JJ

Afternoon Snack at Chinatown bakery

Colourful tables and benches have taken over Newport place, ideal for a super chilled, low budget catch up with the pals. Grab your eats from one of Chinatown’s finest bakeries and settle in the sun with an infamous bbq pork belly filled bun. 

Chinatown Bakery: 7 Newport Pl, London WC2H 7JR

Early Evening BBQ and Beers at Rasa Sayang

Nothing says summer quite like bbq’s and beers. You can get your hands on both in abundance at Singaporean/ Malaysian eatery Rasa Sayang, plus other Malaysian classics like Laksa and Nasi Lemak, or Singaporean street food staples like their crispy and indulgent prawn paste fried chicken.

Rasa Sayang, 15 Frith St, W1D 4RE

Evening Drinks at Opium

Tucked behind an emerald door, Opium is a hidden gem of the city. Navigate your way up the dark and winding stairway until you find yourself in a Shanghai themed, candle lit bar. Open till late, this atmospheric dim sum and cocktail spot is a mysterious secret sensation and a cool place to try out new cocktails whilst you chat.

Opium, 15-16 Gerrard St, W1D 6JE

Follow @chinatownlondon and share your hangout pics. Tell us where you like to catch up with your mates using the hashtag #LoveChinatown.