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Chinatown is one of London's most atmospheric quarters, a few vibrant streets between Soho and Leicester Square strung with red lanterns and ceremonial gates, and packed with restaurants, bakeries and supermarkets. It is the place to come for great-value Asian food in the heart of the West End. Here is how to enjoy it.
What to see
The ornate paifang gates, the lantern-lined Gerrard Street and the bustling shopfronts make Chinatown a feast for the senses and a brilliant wander, especially when lit at night. It is liveliest, and most spectacular, around Chinese New Year.
Where to eat
Chinatown is wall-to-wall with options, from dim sum and roast-meat counters to hand-pulled noodles, hotpot, bubble tea and the famous bubble-waffle and bakery windows. It is some of the best-value eating in central London; see our cheap eats guide.
Good to know
It sits between Leicester Square and Soho, perfect before a show; pair it with our West End shows and Soho guides. Most places are walk-in, but the best book up at weekends.
