Renowned for its steamed buns, Bun House has been delighting London’s food lovers with authentic Cantonese cuisine since its establishment in 2017. Recently, we had the opportunity to speak with the restaurant’s head chef, Z, about his perspective on the current Chinese gastronomy scene in the capital and the future of Chinese food in London.
While discussing the significance of the Year of the Dragon, Z highlighted how this mythical creature holds a special place in Chinese folklore. Drawing inspiration from this auspicious year, Bun House created unique dishes that pay homage to the dragon’s grandeur.
We were particularly intrigued by Bun House’s special lantern bun set. Z revealed that it was inspired by the tradition of the snack platter, a customary offering during Chinese New Year. As a symbol of good fortune for the upcoming lunar year, each item on the platter represents prosperity. Bun House’s innovative twist on this tradition led them to craft an afternoon tea set, celebrating the Year of the Dragon in their own distinctive style.
When asked about the state of Chinese food in London, Z acknowledged the challenges faced by family-run Chinese restaurants, but also expressed optimism about the emergence of new dining concepts. He believes that London’s diverse customer base allows the new generation of chefs and restaurateurs to experiment and thrive, creating exciting new dishes that cater to a wider audience.
For those seeking the best Chinese food in London, Z recommended exploring Chinatown, which he considers one of the best in the world. However, he personally has a soft spot for a small eatery called Lucky Dog in Spitalfields, where he enjoys the authentic flavors of northeastern Chinese cuisine.
To encourage home cooking, we asked Z to suggest an easy-to-make Chinese dish. His recommendation was nin gou, a delectable glutinous rice cake made with just three simple ingredients: glutinous rice flour, sugar, and water (or coconut milk for those who want to add a twist).
As London’s culinary scene continues to evolve, Bun House and other innovative Chinese establishments are leading the way in showcasing the rich and diverse flavors of Cantonese cuisine. From creative interpretations of traditional dishes to a growing appreciation for authentic flavors, London’s Chinese food scene is poised for an exciting future.
FAQ:
1. What is Bun House known for?
– Bun House is renowned for its steamed buns and authentic Cantonese cuisine.
2. What is the significance of the Year of the Dragon?
– The Year of the Dragon holds a special place in Chinese folklore and is considered auspicious.
3. What is Bun House’s special lantern bun set inspired by?
– The special lantern bun set is inspired by the tradition of the snack platter offered during Chinese New Year.
4. How does Bun House celebrate the Year of the Dragon?
– Bun House crafts an afternoon tea set that pays homage to the dragon’s grandeur in their own distinctive style.
5. What opportunities are emerging for Chinese food in London?
– London’s diverse customer base allows the new generation of chefs and restaurateurs to experiment and create exciting new dishes that cater to a wider audience.
6. Where does the head chef of Bun House recommend seeking the best Chinese food in London?
– The head chef recommends exploring Chinatown in London, which is considered one of the best in the world. He also has a soft spot for a small eatery called Lucky Dog in Spitalfields.
7. What easy-to-make Chinese dish does the head chef suggest?
– The head chef suggests making nin gou, a glutinous rice cake made with just three simple ingredients: glutinous rice flour, sugar, and water (or coconut milk for a twist).
Definitions:
– Cantonese cuisine: A style of Chinese cuisine originating from the region of Guangdong (Canton) in southern China.
– Chinese New Year: The Chinese festival that celebrates the beginning of a new lunar year, typically in late January or early February.
– Glutinous rice flour: A type of flour made from glutinous or sticky rice, commonly used in Asian desserts.
– Chinatown: A district or neighborhood in a city, typically characterized by a concentration of Chinese businesses, restaurants, and cultural landmarks.
Suggested Related Links:
– Chinatown London
– Lucky Dog