Food

Hakkasan Mayfair, London

There are restaurants that impress, and then there are those that exude a quiet confidence—places that don’t need to prove anything because they’ve long since established their position. Hakkasan Mayfair is firmly in the latter category. From its discreet entrance on Bruton Street to the impeccably designed interior, this is a restaurant that offers not just a meal, but a consistently refined experience.

The atmosphere is one of composed sophistication. The interiors blend contemporary elegance with traditional Chinese motifs—dark wood lattices, ambient lighting, and a sense of privacy that feels both intimate and exclusive. It’s the kind of setting where conversation slows, and each detail invites closer attention.

Service is faultless. Professional, unobtrusive, and assured. Each course is presented with care, each glass refilled without a breath. There’s an unmistakable confidence here that comes not from showmanship, but from quiet precision and refined elegance.

The set menu we chose provided a considered selection of Hakkasan’s signature dishes, beginning with the famous Duck Salad. Crisp-skinned and tender, the duck was paired with microgreens and citrus fruits—each element balanced to create a dish that was both vibrant and composed.

The Supreme Dim Sum selection followed—a real visual showstopper. Each piece was exquisitely formed, with translucent wrappers and delicately seasoned fillings including langoustine, scallop, and truffle. Alongside came the Black Truffle Prawn Toast, offering richness and depth, topped with deliciously thin slices of black truffle that elevated each bite.

The highlight of the main course was the Stone Grilled Wagyu Beef, served in a modest 60g portion. Modest in size perhaps, but not in flavour. Cooked at the table on a sizzling hot stone, each slice was beautifully marbled and remarkably tender—its richness offset by the light char of the stone grill. Condiments are offered, but a sprinkle of top-grade sea salt is all that’s needed.

A miniature dessert platter provided a well-judged conclusion. Rather than a single heavy course, this was a selection of refined tastes—delicate, well-balanced, and aesthetically composed. Each element stood on its own, yet together they made for a pleasingly complete finale—our favourite a zingy pear sorbet with a panna cotta-style base.

The wine, a bottle of the house selection, paired confidently throughout the meal, offering clarity and structure without ever overwhelming the flavours. A standout, however, was the Lychee and Rose Martini—a beautifully balanced cocktail that was as elegant in profile as it was aromatic.

For those seeking a refined midday experience also, the newly launched Taste of Hakkasan lunch menu offers exceptional value. Available from £29.00 for two courses, £34.00 for three, or £42.00 for three courses including a cocktail, this set menu presents a curated showcase of Hakkasan’s most celebrated dishes. It’s a bold yet refined exploration of Cantonese flavours, ideal for both business lunches and leisurely indulgence.

Also, taking place every Wednesday, Hakkasan Uncorked invites guests to enjoy an exclusive wine offering, featuring a selection of rare, celebrated, and iconic bottles available at specially reduced prices. It’s yet another example of the restaurant’s commitment to offering premium experiences in an accessible and inviting format—perfect for wine lovers seeking something exceptional.

Hakkasan Mayfair remains a benchmark for contemporary Chinese fine dining in London. Polished yet never ostentatious, it delivers an experience defined by detail, finesse, and consistency. For those seeking a dining room that embodies discretion, luxury, and timeless style, it continues to set the standard.

Find out more > www.taogroup.com/venues/hakkasan