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We’re very fond of Min Jiang, not least for the superlative daytime views of Kensington Gardens from the tenth floor of the Royal Garden Hotel. There are many notable Chinese restaurants in London, but none with such a picture-perfect vista. The glassy main room is a serene space in which to dine, but also warm and welcoming, helped along by the emollient nature of the staff.
The restaurant does a roaring trade with its own version of beijing duck – a dish not to be missed by a first-time visitor. The menu also features Sichuan classics such as double-cooked pork with celery, and spicy clay pot venison, as well as luxury ingredients like lobster and abalone.
Although the main dim sum chef has departed, standards have not been greatly affected. Poached beijing dumplings filled with chicken, prawn, chives and dried shiitake had a marvellous waxy texture, and were kicked into life by a vinegar dip. Golden-brown deep-fried yam croquettes with seafood were light and tasty. Finish with flaky egg custard tarts – reassuring proof, if any were needed, that the cooking is not overshadowed by the view.