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TASTE OF CHONGQINGB+Worth Trying

Name: TASTE OF CHONGQING
Address: 40-42 Woburn Pl, London WC1H 0JR, London, United Kingdom
Rating: 4.4

40-42 Woburn Pl, London WC1H 0JR · Chinese restaurant, Restaurant · 4.4/5 Google (1499 reviews)

Reservations · Delivery · Takeout

A destination for authentic, fiery Chongqing cuisine with bold flavors and a lively atmosphere, but service can be inconsistent and prices are on the higher side for London Chinese dining.

Why it gets a B+ for overall quality

Taste of Chongqing delivers authentic, bold Sichuan flavors that draw diners across London, earning solid marks for culinary authenticity and destination appeal. However, inconsistent service attentiveness, occasional quality variation, and isolated food safety concerns prevent a higher grade. Best suited for adventurous diners comfortable with spice and willing to overlook service gaps for exceptional regional Chinese cuisine.

Restaurant Summary

TASTE OF CHONGQING brings the fiery, numbing flavors of Sichuan to the heart of Bloomsbury, drawing in students, locals, and adventurous food lovers alike. The menu is a celebration of Chongqing specialties—from bubbling hotpot and dry pot squid to grilled fish and mapo tofu—delivered with a punch of chili and Sichuan peppercorn that keeps regulars coming back for more. The atmosphere is lively and casual, perfect for group dinners or a post-class feast, though the energy can tip into chaos during peak hours. Culinarily, this is a destination for those who crave bold, authentic regional Chinese food. The kitchen doesn't shy away from spice, and the menu offers both classic and creative takes on Sichuan favorites. While some dishes can be customized for heat, the overall approach is unapologetically adventurous—best suited for diners who embrace strong flavors and a bit of culinary risk. Portions are generally generous, and the dry pot series is a must-try for sharing. For families with kids, the reality check is clear: this is not a kid-focused restaurant. While there are a few milder noodle and rice dishes, the menu leans heavily toward spicy, complex flavors and less familiar ingredients. Picky eaters or those averse to heat may struggle to find suitable options, and reviews suggest that even requests for milder preparations are not always honored. If your little ones are adventurous, they might enjoy the spectacle, but most families will find better fits elsewhere.

At a Glance

Authentic Chongqing and Sichuan flavors rarely found in London.
Lively, group-friendly atmosphere with private rooms and karaoke.
Service is inconsistent—attentiveness and problem resolution are weak points.
Prices are higher than Chinatown competitors, with extra charges for rice and service.
Menu is spicy and adventurous—limited options for kids or conservative eaters.

What Sets It Apart

authentic_chongqing_flavors
dry_pot_specialties
karaoke_private_rooms

What People Love

The thrill of true Chongqing spice and mala flavor
Generous portions and dishes perfect for sharing
A menu packed with regional specialties and dry pot options
A lively, communal vibe that makes group meals memorable
Repeat visits rewarded with consistently bold flavors

Points of Concern

Service can be inattentive or even rude, especially during busy times
Problem resolution is weak—complaints are often dismissed or handled poorly
Prices are high for the area, with extra charges for rice and service
Menu is not kid-friendly and may overwhelm conservative eaters

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost£35-45 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

Try the dry pot series and grilled fish for the most authentic experience.
Order rice and sides to balance the heat—expect extra charges.
If you need milder options, sweet and sour chicken or simple noodles are safest bets.

Perfect For

Spicy food lovers seeking authentic Sichuan cuisine
Groups of friends or students celebrating together
Adventurous diners eager to try regional Chinese specialties
Regulars looking for a lively, casual spot near UCL

Location Insights

Area: Bustling, academic and business-focused area near Russell Square and UCL, with a mix of students, professionals, and tourists.

Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, and busy with high foot traffic, especially during the day and early evening.

Nearby: Close to University College London, British Museum, hotels, and other restaurants; attracts both locals and visitors.

BloomsburyA scholarly and culturally rich neighborhood characterized by elegant Georgian townhouses, academic institutions, and a sophisticated dining scene that caters to intellectual and professional crowds.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday11:30–22:30 Tuesday11:30–22:00 Wednesday11:00–22:30 Thursday11:30–22:30 Friday11:30–23:00 Saturday11:30–22:00 Sunday11:00–22:00

Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout

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