Songhelou restaurant is opening a branch in London over 250 years after being founded in Suzhou, China.
Founded in the early years of the Qing Dynasty, the first record of Songhelou dates back to 1757. It was claimed that Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty would dine at the restaurant whenever he visited Suzhou.
Now preparing to open in London, the restaurant will be located at 22 Wardour Street in Chinatown.
In a post on Chinese social media Xiao Hongshu, Songhelou restaurant London said: “In 1757 Songhelou was founded in Suzhou, in 2025 Songhelou comes to London.”
However, the exact opening time has not yet been confirmed.
In the comments, it was added that the restaurant is currently recruiting full-time staff.
Popular food in the Suzhou based restaurant include ‘Squirrel Fish’, a fish in sweet and sour sauce that has been cut in a way that supposedly resembles a squirrel. Also popular is Suzhou-style noodles. Long and thin noodles in a clear or dark broth with various toppings.
Located close to Taihu lake, Suzhou is also renowned for its sea food including small shrimp and the famous hairy crab.
There is not likely to be an Emperor dinging in the London branch but Songhelou should be a welcome addition to London’s Chinese restaurant scene, adding a taste of Jiangnan to the capital.
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