Young Cheng Buffet

£8 - £20 / Chinese

39 Wardour St, London

Opening hours

12PM-11PM

Sunday 12PM-10PM
Monday 12PM-10PM
Tuesday 12PM-10PM
Wednesday 12PM-10PM
Thursday 12PM-10PM
Friday 12PM-11PM
Saturday 12PM-11PM

In the heart of bustling Chinatown, this Chinese buffet offers an intriguing, if somewhat unconventional, dining experience. Step in to uncover a selection of approximately 25 dishes, showcasing both vegetarian and non-vegetarian flair. The food stays perpetually warm and inviting, frequently replenished—serving up familiar staples like chicken wings and sweet and sour chicken. Certain savory offerings like the delicate Chili Shrimp and dynamic chicken in black bean sauce provide glimpses of authenticity amidst a generally broad array.

Upon dining here, patrons quickly realize this establishment is cash-only—a curious practice that requires pre-payment at entry, tracing back to simpler, bygone business models. You might find yourself navigating narrow passageways and closely nested tables as you wander towards your downstairs seat. The ambiance is decidedly energetic, with a lively flurry of refill requests and table turnovers.

Although desserts are limited to simple selections like oranges and jelly, they provide a refreshing palate cleanser after indulging in the hearty buffet. The venue's three-tiered layout accommodates crowds comfortably, though may become slightly cramped during peak times. While service can be abrupt, it remains quintessentially no-nonsense, complementing the straightforward allure of communal dining and self-service exploration.