Hakkasan, Mayfair

Chinese cuisine was never a stranger on English shores, but Hakkasan made a loud proclamation when it opened over a decade ago—placing Chinese right up there next to French and Japanese cuisine, as sophisticated nosh, worthy of fine-dining—and earned a coveted Michelin star in doing so. A second branch opened in the posh lanes of Mayfair in 2010 (this too, earned a Michelin star less than a year after its inception), and became one of central London’s most stylish places to dine at. Occupying two levels—ground and basement—the interiors are nothing short of romantic, and the food will match (if not surpass) your lofty expectations. Try their steamed New Zealand lobster and black truffle duck (both new additions on the menu, and only available at this branch), along with some of the well-established favourites including the dim sum platter, silver cod roasted in champagne, grilled Wagyu beef and Peking duck, paired with one of the Asian-inspired cocktails from the bar. The service is impeccable, the food will leave you lusting for more, and the entire experience will stay with you long after you leave.