Cantonese Chinatown Dining: Joy King Lau

Cantonese Chinatown dining lovers, listen up. Joy King Lau opens daily in Soho, serving dim sum, A La Carte, and Chef’s Special plates. The pavements warm up, the West End buzzes, and Chinatown pulls in crowds from every corner of London. That is where Joy King Lau steps in. Tucked at 3 Leicester Street, just off Leicester Square, this Cantonese institution has stood at the heart of Chinatown since 1977. It is the area’s longest-established Chinese restaurant, and almost 50 years on, it still draws three generations of regulars. The menu splits into three sections this summer: A La Carte, Dim Sum, and Chef’s Special. Below, we walk through what is on offer, why the restaurant has earned its name, and how to plan your visit.

So, What is on the Cantonese Chinatown Menu This Summer?

The menu sits in three clear parts, and each one shows off a different side of the kitchen. A La Carte brings the classic Cantonese plates the restaurant built its reputation on. Dim Sum, meanwhile, carries serious history, since Joy King Lau first introduced dim sum to London’s Chinatown. Chef’s Special rounds things off with bespoke dishes designed by the executive chef. Together, the three sections cover everything from a quick lunch to a proper celebration. Furthermore, the kitchen sticks closely to Cantonese tradition while welcoming modern tastes.

The A La Carte Heart of the Menu

A La Carte is where the breadth of Cantonese cuisine really shines. The chefs draw on decades of practice, and the dishes reflect that depth. You can download the full menu directly from the restaurant’s website, and many guests do exactly that before booking. Moreover, the menu balances familiar favourites with regional specialities. As a result, both first-timers and long-time regulars find something they love. The kitchen leans on quality, consistency, and the kind of attention you only get from a family-run heritage spot.

Dim Sum With Proper History

Cantonese Chinatown dining starts with dim sum that deserves its own spotlight. Joy King Lau introduced this art to London back in 1977. Joy King Lau was the first to introduce dim sum to London’s Chinatown the steamed baskets follow Cantonese tradition closely, and they still represent outstanding value. Therefore, the dim sum continues to pull in lunch crowds and dim sum lovers from across the city. If you have never tried proper Cantonese dim sum, this is the right place to start. Bring friends, share plenty of small plates, and take your time.

Chef’s Special for Something Different

The Chef’s Special menu showcases the kitchen’s flair. The executive chef curates these dishes personally, and they often highlight seasonal touches and refined techniques. Consequently, this section suits diners who want to go beyond the classics. Pair a few Chef’s Special plates with a couple of A La Carte favourites, and you have a brilliant feast. Above all, the team takes pride in every dish that leaves the kitchen.

Why Visit in June?

June is a brilliant month for a long Chinatown meal. The evenings stretch, the West End fills with theatre-goers, and the city has a particular kind of summer energy. The restaurant opens Monday to Saturday from noon to 10:30pm, and Sunday from 11:30am to 10pm. Therefore, lunch, dinner, and post-theatre visits all work nicely. Leicester Square station sits just round the corner, so getting there could not be easier. Alternatively, you can order through Deliveroo if you want the food at home.

A Chinatown Institution Worth Knowing

Joy King Lau is not just another Chinese restaurant. The founder, Norman Han, helped shape the wider Chinatown community in the 1970s. He was involved in the early formation of the Chinatown Chinese Association. Today, managing director Vince Gu carries that legacy forward with the same care. Three generations of customers have walked through these doors. In fact, Han has spoken about welcoming the children of his customers’ children. That kind of continuity is rare in London dining.

Perfect for Groups and Celebrations

The private dining area seats more than 50 guests, which makes it ideal for celebrations. Birthdays, anniversaries, work events, and family reunions all suit the space beautifully. Moreover, the team will design a bespoke menu around your occasion if you ask. Therefore, you can choose a set menu or work directly with the chefs. Either way, your guests leave happy and well fed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Joy King Lau?

You will find it at 3 Leicester Street, London WC2H 7BL. It is a short walk from Leicester Square station.

What are the Opening Hours?

Monday to Saturday: noon to 10:30pm. Sunday: 11:30am to 10pm. So you have plenty of windows to drop in.

How Long has the Restaurant Been Open?

Joy King Lau opened in 1977, making it nearly 50 years old. It is Chinatown’s longest-established Chinese restaurant.

What Kind of Chinese Food does the Kitchen Serve?

Authentic Cantonese cuisine. The menu splits into A La Carte, Dim Sum, and Chef’s Special sections.

Can I Order Delivery or Takeaway?

Yes, you can order through Deliveroo from the Leicester Square area. Alternatively, you can call 020 7437 1133 to enquire.

Does the Restaurant Offer Private Dining?

Yes, the private dining space holds more than 50 guests. The team designs bespoke menus for special occasions.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit

First, book ahead if you are coming on a Friday or Saturday night. Tables go quickly during the busy summer months. Second, start with a round of dim sum to share, then move into A La Carte mains. Third, ask the team about the Chef’s Special, since these dishes change and they know which to recommend. Fourth, bring a group if you can, because Cantonese food is built for sharing. Finally, take your time and soak in the heritage of the place.

Final Thoughts on Cantonese Chinatown Dining

Joy King Lau is a proper Chinatown landmark. Almost five decades of heritage sit behind every plate, yet the kitchen keeps evolving, with glowing customer reviews backing up the heritage. Three menu sections cover every kind of visit, from a quick dim sum lunch to a private dining celebration. The location works for theatre nights, family meals, and weekend gatherings alike. So this summer, book a table at 3 Leicester Street, order generously, and enjoy a meal that London has been enjoying for nearly 50 years.