Seemor
Chinese Cricket ClubBWorth Trying
19 New Bridge St, London EC4V 6DB
· Chinese restaurant, Cantonese restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (472 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout
Polished hotel Chinese with creative tasting sets, standout duck, caring service, and premium prices; food quality ranges from excellent to average, so go for the experience, not a bargain.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Chinese Cricket Club delivers exceptional service attentiveness and signature dishes like Peking duck that impress, but inconsistent execution across mains and small portions relative to premium pricing prevent a higher grade. The polished hotel setting and knowledgeable staff create a refined experience suited for business meals and occasions, though it lacks the culinary distinction or value proposition of top-tier neighborhood restaurants.
Restaurant Summary
Tucked inside the Hyatt by Blackfriars, the room feels quiet and polished with staff who remember names and guide you through sets and teas. One diner noted, "Service went above and beyond," while another called the space cozy and intimate. Expect calm hotel energy rather than a buzzy Chinatown vibe. The cooking leans contemporary Chinese with modern presentation, tasting-style sets, and a playful mahjong afternoon tea. The duck often shines, dim sum looks sharp, and mains vary from elegant to a bit plain. This suits business meals, relaxed date nights, or an occasion-focused treat where service and plating matter as much as fireworks on the palate. For families, the atmosphere is welcoming and low-key. Kids who enjoy duck pancakes, fried rice, or mild dim sum should be fine, though there is no clear kids menu and portions skew refined. If your crew wants simple big plates, nearby casual spots may fit better, but for a gentle introduction to Chinese flavors in a comfortable setting, it works.
At a Glance
- Exceptionally attentive service with named staff guiding the experience
- Signature duck and elegant dim sum presentation impress many
- Portions run small relative to premium pricing
- Quality variance across mains on set menus
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- mahjong_afternoon_tea
- signature_duck_preparation
- attentive_named_service_team
- central_blackfriars_location
What People Love
- Warm, proactive servers who explain menus and teas
- Smoked or aromatic duck that anchors the meal
- Beautiful plating and calm, modern room
- Mahjong afternoon tea that feels thoughtful and fun
Points of Concern
- Portions often feel small for the price, especially dim sum and duck slices
- Some mains read as bland or heavy versus the presentation promise
- Past confusion around business lunch inclusions and charges
- Creative/fusion-leaning sets may not suit conservative palates
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£75-£95 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Lean into the duck and a dim sum selection for best satisfaction at £58pp sets
- Limit add-ons if watching spend; desserts may already be included depending on set
Perfect For
- A quiet business dinner near Blackfriars
- An elegant date night with polished service
- Afternoon tea lovers seeking a dim sum twist
- Special occasions where staff coordination matters
Location Insights
Area: Central business district by the Thames, hotel-heavy and office crowds; polished, corporate-friendly vibe.
Safety: Well-lit, high footfall near Blackfriars; generally safe and well-maintained.
Nearby: Opposite Blackfriars Station; close to City offices, Thames walkway, and St Paul’s area.
BlackfriarsBlackfriars is a dynamic area within the City of London, characterized by a blend of historic sites and contemporary office buildings. The dining scene caters largely to business professionals seeking upscale lunch and dinner options, with a mix of traditional British pubs, modern restaurants, and trendy bars. The atmosphere is typically busy during weekdays with a quieter, more relaxed vibe in the evenings and weekends.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday12:00–22:00
Thursday12:00–22:00
Friday12:00–22:00
Saturday12:30–22:00
Sunday12:30–22:00
Available: Reservations, Takeout
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