KCR XMAS WINTER FINAL print adjusted Dec 28. lower res - Flipbook - Page 33
Din Tai Fung
Chai Wu
A Bao for the Soul
at Harrods
Xiao Long Bao is a Chinese steamed hot bun prepared in a xiaolong, a
small bamboo woven basket ubiquitous in every Chinese restaurant.
Xiao Long Baos are not to be confused with dumplings, however: the
best way to describe them would be soup dumplings. When it comes to
Din Tai Fung9s version, the soup is a divine ooze that 昀ows out of its
delicate 昀our-construct like a nectar that nourishes the gastronomic
soul. If the description sounds OTT and 昀owery, then this is because
it9s the best way to de昀ne the joy of dining at Din Tai Fung, the famous
Taiwanese chain that also specialises in Huaiyang cuisine. To
complement the delectable fare, try a signature cocktail, as these
symbolically represent Din, Tai and Fung (rich heritage, peace and
tranquillity, and bountiful harvests or good fortune respectively).
Nestled within the iconic Harrods department store, Chai Wu emerges
as a culinary gem, o昀ering an extraordinary dining experience. This upscale Chinese restaurant combines a luxurious setting with an inventive
menu, delighting the senses with a fusion of traditional and modern
昀avours.
With three locations - now including the imposing 昀rst and second
昀oors of One at Centre Point - Din Tai Fung seems to have taken over
London just like it has taken over the world, with locations ranging from
its home in Taipei to Singapore and New York.
The set menu we thoroughly enjoyed at Chai Wu is a testament to the
kitchen9s creativity and mastery of Chinese cuisine. Each dish is not only
a feast for the palate but also a visual spectacle.
Ranked as one of the world9s Top 10 Best Restaurants by The New York
Times, Din Tai Fung has its roots, in Taiwan, dating back more than
60 years. Its famous signature dish remains Xiao Long Bao, but other
classic dishes include Prawn & Pork Wontons in Spicy Sauce, Vegetable
Jiao Zi and Pork Chop and Egg Fried Rice. The third chapter, located
close to Tottenham Court Road station, is also the only one in the world
within the DTF pantheon to boast a dedicated bar. To top it all o昀, this
top-quality fare is reasonably priced.
A festive trip to Din Tai Fung should be experienced. Go and enjoy the
chain9s meticulous craftmanship at any one of its three branches and
indulge in an impressive end-quality 3 the result of sourcing native
ingredients from Taiwan. All three restaurants have the brand9s
signature open plan kitchen and, as aforementioned, the Centre Point
chapter includes the wonderful bar area. It9s Christmas and there9s a lot
of cheer to be had.
11 St Giles Square, Centre Point, London, WC2H 8AP plus COVENT
GARDEN and SELFRIDGES locations
www.dintaifung-uk.com
Sid Raghava
Christmas Special At Din Tai Fung Selfridges, an exclusive set menu
is already available and tailored for Christmas shoppers to enjoy an
ingredient-led experience. Priced at £100 per two diners and available
for groups of two and four, menu highlights include the Crispy Golden
Prawn Pancakes and the Mushroom & Tru٠恬e Xiao Long Bao handmade
with Shiitake, Shimeji, Enoki and Eryngii mushroom 昀lling, enriched
with white tru٠恬e oil. The set menu also marks the majestic return of the
Selfridges exclusive wok fried Prawn and Egg Fried Rice tossed in an
umami XO sauce, made with rice directly sourced from Taiwan.
https://dintaifung-uk.com/reservations/.
Upon entering Chai Wu, guests are enveloped in an atmosphere of
understated elegance. The decor, a harmonious blend of contemporary
design and oriental accents, sets the stage for an exquisite dining journey. The restaurant9s intimate setting, with its subdued lighting and soft
music, creates a tranquil backdrop, perfect for savouring the culinary
delights that await.
The Dim Sum Platter starts the culinary journey, featuring an array of
delicate and 昀avour-packed bites. Each piece is a work of art, showcasing the skill and precision of the chefs. The Wagyu Pu昀 is a standout,
with its 昀aky pastry enveloping the rich, tender wagyu beef 3 a perfect
blend of textures and 昀avours. Popcorn Shrimp is a playful yet sophisticated dish, o昀ering a crispy, succulent bite, enhanced by a subtle spicy
kick that tantalises the taste buds. The Half Duck is a masterclass in
cooking, with its crispy skin and succulent meat, accompanied by traditional accompaniments that elevate the dish to new heights. Sweet and
Sour Chicken reinvents a classic, balancing the tangy and sweet notes
perfectly, while the chicken remains impeccably crispy.
The Coconut Prawn is a delightful surprise, with the sweetness of
coconut adding an exotic twist to the succulent prawns. Chai Wu Fried
Rice is far from a mere side dish; it9s a star in its own right, with each
grain of rice perfectly seasoned and complemented by an assortment
of fresh ingredients. The indulgence continues with Lobster Noodles,
featuring tender lobster pieces amidst a bed of perfectly cooked noodles,
all enveloped in a rich, 昀avourful sauce. Baby Pak Choi adds a refreshing
and healthy touch to the meal, cooked to a tender-crisp perfection, its
natural 昀avours shining through. Finally, although rather full, thanks
to the very generous portions, we managed to still 昀nd room for a little
dessert.
The service at Chai Wu matches the high standards of its cuisine. The
sta昀 are knowledgeable, attentive, and discreet, ensuring a seamless
dining experience. From the moment guests are seated to the last sip
of tea, the service is impeccable, adding to the overall excellence of the
restaurant.
Chai Wu in Harrods is more than just a restaurant; it9s a destination for
those seeking a culinary experience that transcends the ordinary. The
set menu is a journey through the best of Chinese cuisine, each dish
crafted with care and expertise. For those seeking a luxurious dining
experience in the heart of London, Chai Wu is a must-visit.
Instagram @dintaifunguk TikTok @dintaifunguk
https://www.chaiwu.co.uk/
Lisa Curtiss