Ping Pong

Ping Pong offers diners its signature range of little parcels of deliciousness with a range of over 40 dim sum dishes, from the finest translucent dumplings that melt in your mouth to the king of dumplings: the prawn Hai Gau, known for its shell like appearance and delicate crest of nine to eleven pleats, considered the ultimate test of a dim sum chef's skill. Whether a dim sum novice or junkie, diners will welcome new pan-Asian dishes and specials including vegetarian tom yam soup; straw mushroom and salmon rolls; spring buns with sesame seeds; lamb chops with lemon grass; and duck in sweet sauce. Dim sum started with the humble bun, but Ping Pong are taking this simple staple to new levels with the introduction of their deliciously decadent dark chocolate and whisky bun ? ideal for those with a sweet tooth. When launched in 2005, Ping Pong made a commitment to never charge exorbitant prices, unlike so many London restaurants, and today that commitment to accessibility and affordability still stands with most dishes priced at ?2.99 for three parcels. Ordering couldn?t be easier: simply mark your dishes on the tally sheet and hand to your waiter. Tea drinking is an integral part of the Chinese dim sum experience and it is said that it was in the tea houses of Canton (now Guandong) that the tradition of snacking on small sweet and savoury delicacies began. Ping Pong acknowledges the age-old art of Chinese tea-drinking by offering a range of infusions including the light and fragrant Jasmine ? simply add hot water and this exotic blossom theatrically opens in the glass, offering a delicate, floral aroma and sweet taste. The first floor lounge bar, unique to Ping Pong Southbank Centre, is a stunning subterranean space ideal for pre and post-theatre drinks or grazing on dim sum before a concert at the Royal Festival Hall. Low black onyx tables geometric lattice screens, exposed brickwork and olive green leather stools and banquettes create a sexy and sophisticated environment.