Seemor

Chinatown BakeryB-Worth Trying

Name: Chinatown Bakery
Address: 7-9 Newport Pl, London WC2H 7JR, London, United Kingdom
Rating: 4.4

7-9 Newport Pl, London WC2H 7JR · Bakery, Chinese bakery · 4.4/5 Google (2195 reviews)

Takeout

A bustling Chinatown bakery offering a wide range of sweet and savory Asian pastries at wallet-friendly prices, but expect cramped quarters and inconsistent service.

Why it gets a B- for overall quality

Chinatown Bakery delivers solid quality through strong food quality and exceptional speed, making it a reliable destination for authentic Asian pastries at budget prices. However, inconsistent service, variable consistency, and cramped no-seating conditions prevent a higher grade. The lively Chinatown location attracts crowds but doesn't compensate for operational limitations that affect the core experience.

Restaurant Summary

Chinatown Bakery is a lively, always-busy spot in the heart of London's Chinatown, drawing crowds with its affordable and authentic Asian pastries. The bakery is famous for its iconic taiyaki—fish-shaped waffles filled with custard or Nutella, sometimes served with ice cream in a crispy cone. Expect a bustling, fast-paced environment with queues that move quickly, a dizzying array of sweet and savory buns, and a distinctly no-frills, takeaway-only setup. The culinary approach here is rooted in classic Chinese bakery traditions, with a few creative twists like bamboo charcoal salted egg bao and pandan-flavored treats. This is a paradise for carb-lovers and adventurous snackers, but those seeking a sit-down meal or refined ambiance should look elsewhere. The menu is broad, with both familiar and unique flavors, making it a great stop for a quick bite or a sweet treat while exploring the city. For families with kids, Chinatown Bakery offers plenty of kid-friendly options—from animal-topped cakes to fluffy sweet buns and mild-flavored pastries. However, the space is extremely tight, and there is no indoor seating, so be prepared to eat on the go or find a spot outside. While most children will find something to enjoy, picky eaters or those with dietary restrictions may have limited choices, as the menu lacks clear allergen or vegetarian labeling.

At a Glance

Huge variety of sweet and savory Asian pastries at budget-friendly prices
Iconic taiyaki ice cream and fresh buns are crowd favorites
Service can be rushed or unfriendly, especially during busy times
Cramped space with no indoor seating—strictly takeaway
High tourist traffic; locals may prefer quieter alternatives

What Sets It Apart

iconic_taiyaki_ice_cream
wide_variety_of_asian_pastries
central_chinatown_location

What People Love

The excitement of choosing from dozens of unique buns and pastries
The signature taiyaki—crispy, creamy, and Instagram-worthy
Affordable prices that make it easy to try multiple items
The nostalgic flavors that remind some visitors of home
Quick-moving queues even when the shop is packed

Points of Concern

Service can be abrupt or even rude, with multiple reports of unfriendly staff
Some customers report overcharging or unclear pricing—double-check your bill
Cramped quarters make it uncomfortable during peak times
Occasional food safety complaints (e.g., hair or eggshell in pastries), though most find hygiene acceptable

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleCounter With Seating Average Cost£6-10 per person ReservationsNot required

What to Order

Try the taiyaki with custard or Nutella for a signature experience.
BBQ pork buns and custard buns are consistently praised and affordable.
For kids, animal-topped cakes and sweet buns are safe bets.

Perfect For

Grabbing a quick snack while exploring Chinatown
Tourists seeking a famous London food experience
Families looking for fun, affordable treats for kids
Solo adventurers wanting to sample Asian bakery classics

Location Insights

Area: Bustling, tourist-friendly Chinatown district with a vibrant, multicultural atmosphere. Heavy foot traffic, especially on weekends and evenings.

Safety: Generally safe and well-patrolled, though reviewers note occasional pickpocketing risk typical of busy tourist zones.

Nearby: Surrounded by Asian restaurants, bubble tea shops, and souvenir stores. Close to Leicester Square and Soho attractions.

ChinatownA bustling multicultural neighborhood featuring authentic Asian cuisine, compact streets, and a lively atmosphere with numerous restaurants, shops, and cultural landmarks.

Leicester SquareA highly animated entertainment hub with proximity to major theaters, cinemas, and tourist attractions, characterized by high foot traffic and diverse dining options.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday10:30–21:00 Tuesday10:30–21:00 Wednesday10:30–21:00 Thursday10:30–21:00 Friday10:30–21:00 Saturday10:30–21:00 Sunday10:30–21:00

Available: Takeout

View full analysis on Seemor →