The globally acclaimed House of Ming restaurant opened its doors to diners in London at the end of May. House of Ming is housed within St. James’ Court, A Taj Hotel, and offers diners dishes inspired by regional Sichuan and Cantonese cooking, unique creations from the creative chef team and recognisable House of Ming favourites.
The intimate 56-seater House of Ming’s design by award-winning designers Atelier Wren is inspired by the famous House of Ming and incorporates elements of traditional Chinese design to create a rich and intimate dining space. Apart from the cuisine, the Ming nobility also brought botanicals from China, and the restaurant comes alive with intrinsically designed gingko leaves, a sacred concept of yin and yang symbolising longevity and vitality. The bespoke craftsmanship and artistry include canvas hand painted by Lara Fiorentino and large, embroidered silk panels by award winning artist Jacky Puzey. Finishing touches such as antique brass and handcrafted furniture give a sumptuous feel. It also features one of the most romantic dining experiences in London with two sets of bespoke love seats nestled around a table, with their own curtain to create a unique intimacy, a brass button that discreetly calls the kitchen for a unique surprise, #loveatHOM.
Chef, TV personality and superstar DJ Gok Wan has worked exclusively with House of Ming on a carefully curated playlist for the restaurant. The new opening has considered all of the senses, and when guests choose to dine at House of Ming sound is just as important as taste! Gok Wan’s playlist sets the mood for an unforgettable dining experience and will be updated seasonally to deliver a relaxed and stylish atmosphere.
The restaurant opened under the direction of an outstanding team who hold a wealth of experience travelling around and working in kitchens in Hong Kong, China and London. This has resulted in a creative and experimental menu that is designed to delight the palette. The menu is inspired by the leading elements and ingredients influenced from the original House of Ming restaurant in New Delhi, diners can discover food that has evolved over almost five decades of history and is authentically House of Ming. As well as regional Sichuan and Cantonese favourites, the chef has taken special inspiration from his travels and added a creative twist to popular dishes to deliver a unique and exciting menu.
The menu has been carefully curated with culinary additions specific to London including Yu Xian fresh black cod, diced chicken Tai chin kai and the BBQ lamb with cumin and chilli. In addition, there is an impressive selection of vegetarian and vegan options too such as the Stir-fried edamame beans with Sichuan sauce, Crystal pickled vegetables and the Tofu pouch which is filled with mushroom water chestnut, garlic and a chilli sauce.
Whilst the dishes are designed for sharing, House of Ming also provides a single diners menu which perfectly encapsulates a selection of dishes from the menu for solo-diners to enjoy. For those looking for a chic dining experience, there is an imperial dining option of the Chef’s Choice which consists of a stunning nine course menu, designed exclusively to be enjoyed in the private dining room.
In addition to the magnificent food menu, House of Ming has an excellent selection of beverages from around the world. The restaurant’s wine list has a selection of the finest wine from around the globe, focussing on small producers and upcoming Vineyards, with choices of excellent Chinese Chateau Wines. House of Ming has its own dedicated Tea Sommelier, as well as a unique tea trolley offering a wide variety of Chinese white tea, green tea, black tea and oolong tea.
Taj 51 Buckingham Gate, Suites and Residences
Five-star heritage hotel perfectly positioned close to Buckingham Palace and Mayfair and just a stroll from London’s greatest landmarks. Taj 51 Buckingham Gate, Suites and Residences is unlike any other 5-star luxury hotel in London. For regular and occasional visitors to the Capital of capitals, the hotel offers a wider choice of suites and residences than any other in London, providing guests with more space and flexibility to accommodate families, state delegations or executives travelling on business.
St. James’ Court London, A Taj Hotel
St. James’ Court, A Taj Hotel, London is a discreet Victorian masterpiece, typifying the concealed charm of one of Britain’s finest luxury hotels. Crisp and elegant, with the signature Taj warmth, St. James’ Court strives to make each visit more pleasurable and memorable. Located in central London SW1, the hotel is footsteps from Buckingham Palace and St. James’ Park, perfectly positioned to explore London, for business or pleasure. With four restaurants, including Michelin-starred Quilon, the award-winning afternoon tea restaurant Kona, The Hamptons Bar and TH@51 restaurant, Bar and Courtyard as well as conference rooms and banqueting suites, St. James’ Court Hotel is sure to be your favourite London hotel.
