Standing at 309.6 metres tall, The Shard is the tallest building in the UK and the sixth tallest building in Europe. The eye-catching building is not only known for its breathtaking views of London’s skyline, but for the calibre of restaurants housed within it.
You may have heard of Aqua Shard and Oblix, but did you know there are restaurants even higher? I present to you Hutong; an ode to Northern Chinese cuisine nestled neatly in the sky. Hutong is the Shard’s second-highest restaurant, blending authentic Northern Chinese cuisine with flawless service and breathtaking views.
If this sounds like your kind of thing, here’s everything you need to know about Hutong at The Shard.
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What floor is Hutong on?
Hutong spreads across the 33rd floor of The Shard. You’ll take the express lift up to the 32nd floor, home to Oblix, and walk up a metal stairway into the opulent realm of Hutong. Lanterns, wooden dividers and a Chinese wishing tree make the visuals inside almost as impressive as the building itself.
Is Hutong a Michelin Star Restaurant?
Recently dubbed “one of the best Chinese restaurants in London” by The Standard, Hutong hasn’t claimed the coveted Michelin Star – yet. But it’s absolutely imminent.
Hutong London is the younger sister of the celebrated Hutong restaurant in Hong Kong – a worthy recipient of 1 Michelin star. Seating 130 diners, The Shard’s Hutong is reminiscent of the original. The décor transports you straight to the East with a menu designed to match its spectacular views.
Since opening Hutong has been honoured with several other rewards for cuisine and overall experience. In 2014 it received one of the top three Legacy of Taste Pagoda awards alongside HKK and Kai Mayfair. It has been included in Time Out’s Top 100 Best restaurants in London. The restaurant also took the top spot at 2015’s Restaurant Design Awards for their lighting, a testament to the truly gorgeous ambience.
Who is the Head Chef at Hutong?
In 2017 Sifu Fei Wang was appointed at the new Head Chef at Hutong. Sifu, meaning “master” in traditional Chinese, is a title earned by Fei over the years. His vast experience across China and the UK can be seen in every dish he develops.
Originally from Chengdu, the capital of China’s Sichuan province, Wang has introduced a refined and contemporary take on authentic dishes. He’s added a variety of sophisticated tastes and techniques, elevating every dish to new heights. His recipes are reminiscent of Sichuan’s seven primary flavours: sour, pungent, hot, sweet, bitter, aromatic and salty. A complex combination that requires balance and boldness, something Fei has in spades.
To really get a taste for Fei Wang’s contemporary take on authentic Szechuan dishes, I recommend Hutong’s Signature Lunch Menu. It’s got five courses of starters, mains, sides and desserts, making sure you get a taste for everything.
What should I Eat at Hutong?
I recommend starting your meal with a selection of steamed dim sum. The shrimp dumplings are given a luxurious twist of rosé champagne, because, why not? The scallop and pumpkin and crystal crab meat are also some of my favourites; each dumpling is carefully constructed and cooked to perfection. There’s an individual taste of quality from the dough to the filling. And the dipping sauce is pure heaven.
Hutong is known for it’s Peking duck so it would be silly not to give it a try. If you’re with a group, I suggest creating a tapas-style main by ordering a few options. If you fancy some authentic meat dishes, stick to the barbecue with the Pecking duck and the Mongolian-style rack of lamb.
Lest I forget about glorious Sichuan-style seafood. The Red Lantern soft-shell crab with Sichuan dried chilli is flawless, and the Sichuan-style deep fried lobster with chilli, black beans and dried garlic, perfection. If you’re a vegetarian, the tofu options are equally thrilling. The golden jade tofu is a feast for the eyes.
Even the side dishes boast a careful consideration of hearty and humble. The fried rice is riddled with prawn, fennel seeds and chilli oil – packing a punch with every mouthful. And what would a Chinese dinner-date be without dan dan noodles? Served with minced pork and peanut sauce in chilli soup, Hutong’s are dang dang good!
A trip to Hutong wouldn’t be the same without one of the signature cocktails from the Shanghai Bar. The Old Peking Fashioned is undoubtedly one of our favourites. Featuring Peking duck infused Hennessy cognac, roasted sesame syrup and a chocolate sesame seed pancake – it’s almost a meal in itself.
What is the dress code at Hutong?
The dress code is smart-casual with no sportswear, shorts or flip-flops. Make it an occasion and dress to impress if you’re going to dine at Hutong. The elegant lighting, authentic ambience and breathtaking views are worthy of your Sunday best.
What are the prices at Hutong?
You’re looking at an average food spend of £70 for two people. Restaurants at The Shard come with a hefty price tag, but it’s not your average Friday night grub.
Most main dishes range between £30 and £40 with dim sum coming in at around £14 a plate. If you treat yourself to a cocktail from the Shanghai Bar, you’re looking to spend about £16. Though indeed no bargain, Hutong, unlike many fine-dining restaurants, delivers food worthy of its price tag.
Is the food at Hutong halal?
Hutong does not serve halal meat, but the menu has plenty of other options to accommodate these dietary requirements. From vegetable spring rolls to seafood dim sum platters and Ma La chilli prawns, the menu has plenty of options.
It’s Time for Szechuan in the Sky
Hopefully, I’ve covered all your questions when it comes to dining at Hutong. But if there’s anything I’ve missed, feel free to drop a question in the comments below.
At the end of the day, I can lay down all the information on this restaurant in the sky. But to really appreciate it, you’ve got to experience it for yourself.
Dinner at Hutong at The Shard is perfect for a special occasion or if you’re simply wanting to spoil someone (or yourself). The combination of exquisite Chinese cuisine with dramatic views from London’s tallest building is simply magical.
Written By Emma Dittmer