Chinese street food giant to make West End debut

Chinese hot pot concept Yangguofo Malatang (YGF Malatang) is set to open its first restaurant in London’s West End at 47-49 Charing Cross Road in Chinatown.

The concept operates nearly 7,000 restaurants worldwide, making it the largest malatang brand globally. The new Chinatown location will span over 3,200 sq ft and be the operator’s first London flagship.

Originating from China’s Sichuan street food stalls, YGF Malatang looks to deliver a twist on the traditional hot pot by allowing diners to customise their own bowls. Guests will be able to choose from a selection of meat, fish, and vegetable toppings, with further choices in noodle type and broth flavour.

Emma Matus, head of restaurant leasing at Shaftesbury Capital, said: “Chinatown London is a hub for standout concepts from across the ESEA, and YGF Malatang is a great example of a proven concept in China choosing Chinatown at an early stage of its UK journey. Malatang is a staple for so many across China and beyond, with Yangguofu Malatang set to bring an authentic taste of North East China for the thousands of discerning diners that come to Chinatown London every day.”

Neil Ping, Europe general manager of Yangguofu Malatang, added: “Whilst Yangguofu Malatang has already proved to be a hugely successful concept, the chance to weave Yangguofu Malatang into the fabric of Chinatown London marks a deeply significant moment for us. Considering the location’s reputation as a hub of ESEA culture, we are confident that our grounding in such a popular Sichuanese culinary trend means we can deliver an offer that aligns with the destination’s globally renowned and authentic lineup.”

This announcement follows the recent arrival of Songhelou in Chinatown London, a 250-year-old Suzhou noodle institution, which launched its first international site at 22 Wardour Street.