China Tang at The Dorchester appoints Henry Lam as head chef and launches canapé menu for events

China Tang, the Cantonese restaurant at The Dorchester in Mayfair, has appointed a new head chef. Henry Lam joins the restaurant, which opened in 2005 under the late Sir David Tang, in an appointment the hotel says is intended to provide continuity, retaining the signature dishes and established style of service.

Lam has more than 25 years’ experience in Cantonese cooking and high-end hospitality. He worked at Shang Palace at the Shangri-La Singapore before moving into senior roles in London at The Colony Club in Mayfair, Hakkasan and Canton Blue at The Peninsula London. His cooking is grounded in traditional Cantonese technique, including wok hei (the smoky flavour produced by cooking over intense heat in a wok), carefully prepared stocks and precise knife work, with a focus on seasonal ingredients and consistency.

Lam said: “China Tang has a remarkable identity and a loyal following built over more than two decades. My priority is to honour that trust by preserving the Cantonese techniques, flavours and generosity guests return for, and ensuring every visit feels unmistakably China Tang.”

Alongside the new leadership, the restaurant is also introducing a new canapé menu for private and corporate events, available both at the restaurant and at private homes, offices and external venues. It comprises 11 special canapés, including Black Truffle Morel Spring Rolls, Sesame Prawn Toast, a Crispy Garlic & Seafood Cone, Iberico Pork Cha Siu Skewers and Crispy Skin Chicken with Ginger & Scallion Salsa. Among the plant-based options are Chinese Sour Plum Cherry Tomato, a Spicy Aubergine Cone, Crispy Ma Po Tofu and a Sweet & Sour King Oyster Mushroom Tart.

Hosts who order from the party menu can choose four, six, eight or ten canapés, priced at £32, £48, £60 and £70 per person respectively. For events held at the restaurant, there are private dining rooms or a spacious bar, depending on guest numbers and timings.

Nathalie Ford, vice-president for Europe and the Middle East at China Tang, said the menu would allow the restaurant’s cooking to be served away from its Mayfair dining room. “China Tang has always been about creating moments that stay with you,” she said. “Chef Henry shares our commitment to preserving the dishes, care and sense of occasion our guests know and love, and brings more than 25 years of Cantonese experience to our kitchen. With this new offering, our guests can now bring that same experience, the food, the care, the attention to every detail, to their own homes, celebrations and events.”

Food Desk

To book a table at China Tang at the Dorchester, 53 Park Lane, London W1K 1QA, visit the restaurant’s website here. Event enquiries can be made by emailing events@chinatanglondon.co.uk.