Worth it for bold Northeastern/Sichuan dishes and huge portions if you can tolerate inconsistent service and the occasional long wait; not ideal for picky eaters or people in a rush.
My Old Place delivers solid food quality with standout dishes like lamb skewers and seabass, but inconsistent execution across visits prevents a higher grade. Service varies sharply from attentive to abrupt, and the functional setting lacks polish. Strong value and loyal following support the grade, though reliability issues hold it back from grade A territory.
My Old Place feels like one of those stubbornly busy London spots that survives on personality, portion size, and a real regional identity. The best reviews describe it as a place that “takes you somewhere in China,” while the grumpier ones warn that the mood can be more canteen chaos than polished hospitality. Either way, it is clearly a destination for people who want bold Chinese flavors rather than a glossy, softened version. The cooking leans into Northeastern Chinese and Sichuan territory: spicy pots, braised meats, skewers, sea bass, duck, noodles, and plenty of sharing plates. When it is good, it sounds genuinely satisfying and deeply comforting; when it slips, the issues are usually texture, seasoning, or timing rather than lack of ambition. This is a strong fit for groups, regulars, and anyone chasing authentic regional Chinese food with big portions and a little attitude. For families, it can work better than the rough edges suggest because there are familiar items like egg fried rice, tomato-and-egg, spring rolls, noodles, and milder rice dishes, plus some reviewers mention kids being given lollipops or customized lower-salt food. Still, it is not a picky-eater paradise: the menu is broad but very regional, and adventurous dishes dominate. If your children want safe comfort food, they will find a few options; if they expect chicken nuggets and bland pasta, this is not the room.
Area vibe: Vibrant market and dining district with a mix of historic and modern commercial activity.
Safety: Generally busy and well-lit in evenings though some quieter streets can feel isolated after late hours.
What's nearby: Close to Spitalfields Market, Brick Lane, Liverpool Street Station and Shoreditch dining corridors.