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Betty Marmalade's avatar

This article brought back lots of memories of my time working in Soho in the late 80s. I worked on Dean St, at the Groucho club. Down times between shifts or after long nights were often spent in Chinatown, Wong Kei being a favourite place for price and swiftness of service. It's renowned for the rudeness of its waiters but I don't remember that at all - it was super efficient and no time for chat but I think that only seems rude if you're expecting a leisurely dining experience. China Town was a place of ease and familiarity in a Soho that seemed to change weekly - i loved it. I haven't been back for years but hold it in my affection as an English person who simply passed through. Having read this I would love to know more about its evolution and the people who built it (as opposed to this who 'designed' it later on) - if you are still doing your walking tours I will sign up next visit!

jackycooksherbooks's avatar

My memory of being taken to eat Chinese food in 1970s London centred round Limehouse/ Docklands .. I guess there are historic roots there too .

Mark Bergfeld's avatar

Just passed through Chinatown last week after not having been there in more than ten years. Your article really resonates with me and what I felt walking through there. For some reason I ended up eating at Old Town 97 and realised that the place next door is a Brazilian Churasco place. I wished I could have read this article before :)

Trisha's avatar

I recommend going to see Shen Yun. There’s lots in there website. Through Shen Yun I learned about many different Chinese Dynasties showing the beauty and a tale that makes you laugh or teaches you a lesson. Shen Yun gives you the opportunity to hear the traditional Chinese music and dance that occurred in ancient times along with colour and classical chinese dance, Shen Yun is amazing 🤩 We have Chinatown in Melbourne it was built a long time ago, it has the charm of China and Australia, the arches are beautiful and the restaurant are unique. Like being in a different city! I hope you get to see Shen Yun as it’s like stepping back into ancient China! Have a wonderful day!

https://www.shenyunperformingarts.org/

Damianrbrown@gmail.com's avatar

Have a look at Brick Lane now. No longer the Bangla castle but several quality regional Chinese and some trendy ones. Maybe it’s a rental thing.

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Feb 20
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Kieran's avatar

Pro Nazi?!

That may just be your newsfeed.