Nestled in the heart of London’s Southbank Centre, Ping Pong offers an immersive dining experience that fuses modern flair with the timeless traditions of Chinese tea houses. This year, the venue truly outdid itself with a celebratory menu for the Chinese New Year of the Snake, delighting diners with a bold selection of dim sum and drinks.
A Feast Fit for the Year of the Snake
With Chinese New Year officially falling on 29th January, Ping Pong launched its limited-edition menu early, on 14th January, to extend the festive cheer. The menu, priced at £57.70, offered a delectable array of dishes that paid homage to the elegance and mystique of the Snake zodiac sign:
- Wagyu Beef Dumplings: Braised wagyu beef infused with green and red peppers, black beans, and a hint of chilli, encased in striking red pastry.
- Char Sui Roast Pork: Juicy, tender, and glazed to perfection, delivering a sweet and savoury bite.
- Crispy Eel on Rice Cakes: A combination of rich eel atop a crispy yet delicate base.
- Cauliflower and Mushroom Dumplings: Vibrant yellow dumplings filled with sautéed enoki mushrooms, cauliflower, and wuxiang sauce, offering a flavourful vegan delight.
- Black Sesame Fluffy Buns: Light, pillowy buns filled with fragrant black sesame paste – a perfect ending to the meal.
To elevate the experience, diners could enjoy the Snake Vodka Yuzu Sherbet cocktail, a tangy and refreshing nod to the Snake’s transformative and bold nature. For £90, guests could also indulge in an additional set menu plus extras such as jasmine tea (featuring a blooming flower) and water.
The Year of the Snake: Symbolism and Traditions
In Chinese astrology, the Snake symbolises wisdom, transformation, and elegance. Those born under this sign are thought to be intuitive, enigmatic, and ambitious. Celebrations often include traditional foods symbolising prosperity, unity, and luck – elements reflected in Ping Pong’s curated menu. The Snake’s graceful qualities were evident in the restaurant’s carefully crafted dishes, where each bite celebrated bold flavours and intricate presentation.
Dining at Ping Pong Southbank
Beyond the New Year festivities, Ping Pong Southbank remains a standout spot for dim sum enthusiasts. Located just minutes from iconic landmarks such as the London Eye and Big Ben, the restaurant boasts a spacious dining area, an upstairs bar, and a lively atmosphere. Known for its sharing plates, Ping Pong offers an extensive menu featuring everything from classic har gau and bao buns to seasonal specials like black prawn dumplings.
The staff, particularly Aish, provided warm and attentive service, making the experience even more memorable. While portions may be on the smaller side, the dishes are rich in flavour and crafted with precision, ensuring diners leave satisfied.
Verdict
Ping Pong Southbank successfully captured the spirit of the Year of the Snake with its innovative and flavourful menu. Whether you’re looking to mark a special occasion or simply enjoy expertly crafted dim sum, this vibrant venue ticks all the boxes. While some diners may find it slightly pricey, the quality of the food and the atmosphere make it a worthwhile treat.
Gong Hei Fat Choi! Here’s to a year of transformation, fortune, and delicious discoveries.
Rating: 4/5
Address: Belvedere Rd, Festival Terrace, Southbank Centre, London SE1 8XX
Website: www.pingpongdimsum.com/chinesenewyear/