Nestled in the beating heart of The Peninsula, London, discover a culinary masterpiece that transcends the ordinary – Canton Blue. This gastronomic haven, the inaugural London venture from the esteemed Hong Kong brand, is a symphony of opulence and subtlety, a culinary journey that dances on the edge of enchantment making for the ultimate date night hot-spot.
The air is thick with the promise of an extraordinary dining experience, reminiscent of the glamorous nostalgia of Shanghai and the electric energy of Hong Kong with an ambiance that is spellbinding and acts as a canvas that showcases the essence of Asia with a touch of rarefied neutrality.
Every detail is meticulously curated and each moment is a crescendo of flavour and finesse. The elegant offerings on the menu mirror the grandeur of the setting, weaving a tapestry of culinary delights that beckon you into a world of unparalleled taste. Date night here isn’t to ‘a restaurant’; it’s an immersive experience that transports you to the golden era of Asian culinary mastery. From the first tantalising bite to the last lingering sip, every nuance is a celebration of the extraordinary. Prepare for a dining affair that goes beyond the ordinary, leaving you with a taste of the extraordinary.
Designed by Cap Atelier’s Henry Leung, the restaurant boasts a low-lit, lushly Oriental space inspired by the 19th-century trading ship, the Keying junk. Bright walls adorned with china plates and delicate cups set the stage for the culinary symphony orchestrated by Peninsula veteran chef Dicky To. His creations seamlessly blend Cantonese techniques with the finest British ingredients, delivering a culinary journey that transcends boundaries against tactile-luxe designs.
Start your date night with cocktails at the alluring Little Blue bar. Themed after the Keying junk’s journey from Hong Kong to London, director of mixologist Florian Thireau, formerly of Cheval Blanc, crafts an exquisite cocktail list. We suggest you opt for the smooth ‘Gentleman’ whisky sour, a delightful twist on the classic with bourbon, cherry, and cinnamon.
Then it is onto the main restaurant where refinement is not limited to the décor and cuisine but extends seamlessly to the service. Many dishes are expertly finished table-side, enhancing the dining experience with a touch of theatricality. As you revel in the fusion of Cantonese traditions and British ingredients, Canton Blue stands as a testament to culinary excellence, seamlessly blending history, culture, and gastronomy in every exquisite dish served – and you quickly find this is a restaurant designed to make its diners feel indulged.
At the heart of the menu are iconic dishes like xiao long bao and Peking duck, elevated to new heights by Chef Dicky To’s mastery. Alongside these classics, you can indulge in fusion delights such as a dry-aged Highland ribeye with black bean sauce or Atlantic king prawns sautéed with XO sauce and served with salted egg yolks.
Canton Blue not only tantalises the taste buds but also captivates with its opulent vibe and sumptuous interiors. The low-lit, intimate setting, adorned with a rich tapestry of Cantonese porcelain and celestial navigation maps, exudes an air of refinement and exclusivity. As you indulge in the culinary symphony orchestrated by Chef Dicky To, surrounded by the maritime-inspired décor. It is also important to really highlight that the service is exceptional, with attentive staff dressed fabulously with shiny shoes whom act as a knowledgeable brigade to impart advice, adding to the delightful experience that is date night at Canton Blue.
To book go to: https://www.peninsula.com/en/london/hotel-fine-dining/canton-blue
