Harrods to open new Chinese concession Chai Wu

Chai Wu, a new Chinese restaurant concept, is set to open on the fifth floor of Knightsbridge store Harrods in January 2015.

Owner Eddie Lim already operates two concessions in Harrods, the Mango Tree, which is Thai, and the pan-Asian Pan Chai. He also runs a Mango Tree restaurant in Belgravia.

The menu for Chai Wu has been created by specialist Chinese chef Bihu Xie, overseen by Harrods' group executive chef Ian Pengelley.

Average spend in the 90-seat restaurant will be about £70 per head. Starters will include soups, dim sum and small dishes such as Chilean sea-bass dumplings with gold leaf, and a Wagyu and black pepper puff. Mains include á la carte dishes, or fresh meat, fish and vegetables grilled to order, such as poussin with spicy chilli-lime dressing. Signature plates and specialities will include Beijing duck, Alaskan king crab with soy glaze, and lotus root and lily bulb in a spicy toban sauce.

The restaurant design has been inspired by the five elements in Chinese philosophy: wood, fire, earth, metal and water. Finishes will be a mix of marble, leather and timber. A charcoal grill will take centre stage, surrounded by a dining bar so guests can watch the chefs at work.

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