Hakkasan’s distinctive cuisine combines authentic Cantonese recipes with modern influences. The culinary teams create innovative dishes using traditional techniques and the highest quality ingredients.

Last week, I had the opportunity to dine at one of my bucket list restaurants, Hakkasan in Mayfair, to try out their new Taste of Hakkasan lunchtime set menu. If you’re from London, you’ll know that when asked what your top 5 favourite restaurants are, Hakkasan is always up there, and I wanted to see if it was worth the hype.

As you walk toward the venue, it feels concealed from everyday life, blending seamlessly into the streets of Mayfair. You are immediately immersed in a dark, moody corridor that evokes a particular atmosphere while engaging your senses. The strong scent of incense is hard to ignore, instantly setting the tone for a luxurious experience. From your first impression, this restaurant feels exclusive, mysterious, and full of surprises!

As we sat down, the lovely Yuliia greeted us and explained how the menu works, offering her expert recommendations. As we reviewed the menu, we decided to order the Lychee and Rose martini. Not only did they look beautiful for photos, but they were also surprisingly easy to drink. I don’t usually feel this way about cocktails, but the expert mixologist knows how to craft a great drink!

We began with a selection of their trio of steamed dim sum and some morel mushroom and vegetable spring rolls. These were a hit; the spring rolls were filled with edamame and had a delightful crunch. The Dim Sum, which I had never tried before, was a favourite of mine; the texture was very balanced and had a subtle spice and freshness with every bite. For the main course, we had the stir-fried black pepper beef fillet with Merlot; it was one of the most delicious dishes I have ever tasted. The beef melted in your mouth with each bite, perfectly seared and boasting an almost caramelised edge. The sauce had a velvety richness; the warmth of black pepper combined with the depth of the Merlot was incredible. I was left speechless! To accompany the star of the show, we served spicy prawns with jasmine rice; this was one of the most flavourful dishes, leaving each mouthful craving for more! The two mains truly spoiled us with flavour, each distinct and impactful in its unique way! As if we weren’t full enough, Yuliia recommended we try the Hakkasan signature dessert, which resembles a huge Ferrero Rocher chocolate, a huge chocolate bomb filled with half salted caramel ice cream and half chocolate, smothered with a sweet chocolate drizzle over the top with hazelnut crumbs, absolutely delicious.

I am thrilled to finally check this restaurant off my bucket list; it exceeded my expectations and has become one of my favourite dining spots in Mayfair! This menu is the perfect business lunch, day or night date, or special occasion place, starting from £29 per person for three courses!

W: Hakkasan Mayfair
A: 7 Bruton Street, London, W1J 6QB

Written by Danielle Tobin for Luxuria Lifestyle London and International