The roast duck and meat were succulent, and the LSE fried rice was a interesting twist. Love that they serve Malaysian dishes too - great variety. A cozy spot for a satisfying meal!
We went into this restaurant after a night out and they were incredibly still open at 0300… Nevertheless, almost the whole menu was available and I was served a massive bowl of delicious fried noodles and they did not skimp on the ingredients at all, which is always appreciated. Without alcohol, you can have a hearty meal for less than £15 and leave very satisfied indeed. It is true that the staff can sometimes seem a little impatient but look at it from their perspective, I.e. having to handle drunken, uncooperative patrons at that time of the morning. If you behave, you should have a great experience.
Old Town 97 has earned its near-30-year reputation, and one visit makes it clear why. This Cantonese institution remains a Thursday after-school ritual for me and my friends, and it never disappoints.The signature BBQ duo roast duck and char siu is non-negotiable. The skin shatters with crispness, the meat stays succulent, and every plate arrives piping hot thanks to traditional air-drying and high-heat roasting. Fat renders perfectly, leaving behind pure flavor and texture. It’s flawless every time.The stir-fried beef ho fun is another standout: silky, chewy rice noodles infused with unmistakable wok hei. You can almost picture the flames leaping as the chef works the pan. We also sampled the new rotating egg-wrapped fried rice available 12 p.m.–5 p.m. in tomato sauce, curry, or black pepper with your choice of protein and had the curry baked pork chop rice and LSE fried rice. I went with tomato sauce and beef generous, hearty, and deeply satisfying. Timing matters; arrive within the window to catch it fresh.Verdict: Old Town 97 isn’t just surviving—it’s thriving on authenticity, consistency, and soul. A true Chinatown essential.
The LSE fried rice is super popular among students, so I had to try it and it really is good! Perfect for a hangover fix since the place stays open quite late. I came around 5 PM and didn’t need a reservation or have to queue
Delicious Cantonese food! The 3 kind of BBQ roasted meat was so flavorful and tender, with just the right sweetness. The beef with egg sauce on rice was tasty and came in a big portion that’s definitely filling. I loved the roast duck noodle soup — the broth is light and the duck was juicy and well-seasoned. Great flavors and generous portions. Will definitely come back!
Wow! This is one of the best, most authentic and real Chinese restaurants I have found in recent times. I am not fan of Chinese food - UK Chinese food - and this place provides a more authentic flavour and menu which would have my husband and I as regular customers if we lived close enough. A vibrant, very busy yet intimate restaurant where the waiting staff take a great interest in ensuring that you order food you will enjoy, don't over-order and that everything is to your satisfaction. This restaurant deserves 5 stars on all fronts.
Lse fried rice was very nice but room for improvement as egg was not fresh and rice was a bit too hard you can sort of tell they been siting there all day waiting But overall a nice dish and quite creative. Pork is really nice tho
It's a 4-star for the roast duck. Bones were taken off. Sauce drenched over that tasted flavorful without too much saltiness. And the meat just so tender. Would have loved crispier skin and a bit more duck fat. The other dishes of sweet sour pork, veges in soup and spicy beef brisket were not satisfying for a Cantonese foodie in me.
Was looking for someplace to eat in London at 1am and this place was a blessing! The food wasn't expensive at all, the service was great and I especially enjoyed the Hong Kong style iced tea and coffee. Would definitely recommend, especially if you're on a night out and are craving some delicious food.
Visit 1 - Delicious roast duck with egg noodles in soup. Duck was crispy and fresh, noodles boiled just right and soup was nourishing. Good pricing and quick service during a weekend afternoon. Visit 2 - had their classic off menu special, the LSE fried rice - a combination of crunchy fried rice, pork stir fry and a perfectly fried egg. The fried rice is not for those with sensitive teeth. The pork was fatty (but has enough meet for those who don’t like fat) and delicious.
Old Town 97 is located at 19 Wardour St, London W1D 6PL, UK
You can contact Old Town 97 at +44 20 7734 2868
You can find directions to Old Town 97 by following this map link
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