The Ultimate Guide to the Best Chinese Restaurants in Liverpool
Liverpool, famed for its rich heritage, the Beatles, and an accent that’s often misunderstood even by the locals, also boasts a food scene that can make your taste buds sing. Among the various culinary delights is a phenomenal array of Chinese restaurants. Whether you’re a tourist hoping to digest more than just culture or a local ready for a new favorite dumpling spot, here’s your go-to guide for the best Chinese restaurants in Liverpool.
Lu Ban – A Taste of Tianjin in Liverpool
Fancy a trip to Tianjin without splashing out on a plane ticket? Lu Ban could be the answer. This modern culinary marvel is situated in the Baltic Triangle, Liverpool’s trendiest district. The vibe here is as cool as a cucumber in an ice bucket. Head Chef Dave Critchley, a Liverpudlian with a serious passion for Chinese cuisine, brings the most authentic dishes from Tianjin to your plate—think stunning arrays of dim sum and heavenly roasted meats. Reservations are recommended, lest you find yourself swept into a lover’s tiff over who gets the last dumpling!
Chamber 36 – A Quirky Culinary Delight
If your quest for the best Chinese food takes you to Liverpool’s bohemian quarter on Berry Street, you’ll stumble upon Chamber 36, an innovative and contemporary spot serving “small plates,” the sophisticated cousin of good old-fashioned snacks. Perfect for those who enjoy a little variety, the menu mixes traditional Chinese flavours with a modern twist. Dine on crispy duck or indulge in honey-glazed ribs, all while surrounded by the eclectic decor that gives Chamber 36 its unique character.
Yuet Ben – Tradition and Flavor in Every Bite
Yuet Ben is a long-standing staple in Liverpool’s Chinese restaurant scene. Located conveniently close to the waterfront, it’s perfect for combining your dining experience with nearby attractions in Liverpool. The restaurant exudes an old-world charm, not unlike receiving a cherished letter from a more elegant time. Known for its Northern Chinese style, Yuet Ben serves some of the best dishes you could hope to find, like sizzling beef in satay sauce or their legendary lamb hotpot.
Chung Ku – Riverside Dining with a View
If aesthetic appeal could be served alongside a hot meal, Chung Ku would have a Michelin star. Nestled along the banks of the River Mersey, this restaurant offers stunning river views with equally fantastic dishes. Known for their sizzling platters and authentic hotpots, the menu teems with options for carnivores and vegetarians alike. It’s the sort of place where you might start with a simple spring roll and end up planning weekend trips to the Great Wall of China.
Yee Rah – Where East Meets West
Located in the heart of Liverpool, Yee Rah offers a diverse menu that blends Asian with Western influences. It’s the culinary equivalent of a Beatles and Wang Chung mash-up—unexpected yet sensational. An equally good choice for families or first dates, the menu ranges from freshly made sushi to classic fish and chips. Yee Rah proves that harmonious relationships can indeed exist across continents, at least when covered in soy sauce.
Matou – Pan Asian with a Chinese Twist
Finally, for those who fancy enjoying panoramic views of the city while sipping on a cocktail (or three), Matou is where you’ll want to be. Situated on the Pier Head, this dining haven features a stunning rooftop terrace that overlooks the city’s iconic skyline. Matou offers an extensive Pan-Asian menu, but its Chinese dishes, like the Kung Pao chicken, are showstoppers. Perfect for when you want to impress someone, including yourself with your excellent taste. After dinner, head to one of the eclectic bars in Liverpool to cap off your evening with a nightcap.