The Blurb
Located on Harrods fifth floor, Chai Wu serves up haute pan-Asian cuisine for Knightsbridge’s well-heeled, hungry shoppers. The restaurant’s inventive menu showcases a delectable melding of cherished and unconventional dishes, from delicately steamed dim sum to all manner of black truffle-infused, gold leaf-adorned fare, crafted in an open kitchen and served up with the kind of spotless service you’d expect from a home like Harrods.
Brought to life by Malaysian restaurateur Eddie Lim, whose other eateries most notably include Belgravia’s Mango Tree, Chai Wu might offer a quick shopping pit stop for some, but don’t be surprised if a meal here turns into the main event. Expect full flavour, hefty portions (and price tags) and a moody atmosphere that might have you wanting to sit back for a while .
The Style
Despite its department store location, Chai Wu feels sophisticated, sexy and successfully separated from the shopping bustle. Inspired by the five elements of Chinese philosophy – wood, metal, water, earth and fire – it’s all low lighting, dark tones, and natural materials here. The result – an intimate, attractive escape from the bright lights of the shop floor. Whether you prefer a cosy banquette corner for a lunch catchup, a full private dining room, or a seat overlooking the action at the open kitchen counter, Chai Wu will meet the brief and some.
The Crowd
As one might expect, Chai Wu’s high-end, pan-Asian seeking patrons are a diverse and international bunch. Think diners on shopping dates, families with kids, girlfriends gossiping over sushi and everything in between. Come as you are, casual or fully Cartier-clad – with or without green shopping bags – ready to enjoy a kaleidoscope of Asian fare.
The Food
Chai Wu’s menu has plenty to choose from, albeit a little light on the vegetarian options. And as you might expect from a pan-Asian spot, most of its dishes are great for sharing. Standout starters include buttery wagyu puffs dusted with gold leaf and juicy seafood dim sum ft. caviar and black truffle. As for mains, you’ll find everything from Korean lobster and Miyazakigyu steak to king crab California rolls. But Chai Wu’s signature dish is their Beijing duck, which comes with both traditional pancakes and bao buns, plus a variety of accompaniments beyond the classic hoisin and greens. Think Szechuan sauce for those who like it spicy; vanilla sugar that’s a match made in heaven with crispy duck skin; and garlic truffle oil, because… why not? We’re not sure that Beijing duck needed to be reimagined, but the variety keeps things playful and delicious.
As far as the food goes, it’s mostly very tasty and nicely innovative. However, it’s worth noting that while some dishes will indeed delight, others like the sweet and sour chicken might feel a little underwhelming for the price. After all, garnishing with gold leaf (or dragon fruit, for that matter) might add some glamour, but it won’t work magic on the taste buds.
The Drink
You probably won’t be coming to Chai Wu for drinks alone, but nonetheless, the menu is surprisingly lovely. You can look forward to a curated wine and sake list, plus a compelling collection of Asian-inspired cocktails and mocktails, where lychee features heavily and iced teas are made with silver needle.
In a Nutshell
You’ll leave Chai Wu full and almost certainly satisfied if you’re prepared to spend £100+pp. No doubt, it’s a nice spot to recharge mid-shopping spree, and you won’t go too far wrong with a selection of small dishes and sushi to share with the table. You’ll get variety, flavour and plenty of aesthetic food pics.
Visit between 21st and 25th May, 2024 to enjoy a menu of specials inspired by RHS Chelsea Flower Show, including floral dumplings filled with lily bulbs, and a candy floss chocolate-cherry dessert that resembles a sakura tree and is reminiscent of Vimto. It’s unexpectedly moreish.
The Details
Harrods Fifth Floor, access via street level Door 10 on Hans Road
+44 (0)20 7225 6800
