Duddell's London - the first offshoot of the two Michelin-starred Hong Kong restaurant founded in 2013 - has announced that it will open in November.
Set in St Thomas' Church, London Bridge, Duddell's will showcase a relaxed take on Cantonese dishes and hand-crafted dim sum, including Duddell's signature dim sum symphony, which is said to be more intricate than traditional dim sum.
Heading up the kitchen will be Daren Liew, previously executive sous chef with Hakkasan Group. The menu will highlight the skill behind steaming and stir-frying, with Liew's take on traditional dishes including Ying Yang prawn with citrus dressing; smoked black Angus ribs with red wine soy and baby peach; and truffle chargrilled black cod with Chinese aged vinegar, lily bulb and Nameko mushroom.
Dishes from the original Duddell's in Hong Kong will include Guandong crispy salted chicken; 12 hours XO beef shin with sea vegetables; and barbequed Iberico pork with honey-glazed soy bean. The London restaurant will also feature a bar with a wine list of old and new world wines, and classic and innovative craft cocktails with an oriental twist. A mezzanine level will offer a semi-private dining space overlooking the restaurant.
Designed by Michaelis Boyd, the restoration of the space aims to maximise daylight and the heritage elements of the Grade II-listed building. Original features, including the ground floor alter, will be retained, while the open dim sum kitchen and bar featuring a green-tiled front, terrazzo worktop and brass shelves will help to recreate the feel of a 1960s Hong Kong tea restaurant.
As with its Hong Kong counterpart, Duddell's London will also have a strong focus on its art programme.
The Duddell's brand is part of the Jia Group which owns and operates 11 restaurants in Hong Kong, founded by restaurateur Yenn Wong.
Two Michelin-starred Hong Kong restaurant Duddell's to make UK debut >>
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