House of Ming's Bottomless Dim Sum Brunch: A Luxurious Escape in London
In the heart of Victoria, London, a culinary adventure awaits at House of Ming, nestled within the Taj Hotel's St. James's Court. This restaurant has recently launched a bottomless dim sum brunch, priced at £45 per person, offering an indulgent experience that transcends everyday dining. My mission was to explore this feast and discover if there truly is a limit to the delights on offer.
An Opulent Setting Inspired by History
Stepping into 54 Buckingham Gate, you leave behind the bustling tourist crowds near Buckingham Palace and enter a world of refined elegance. House of Ming boasts hand-painted ceilings, rich red lacquer, velvet booths, and exquisite porcelain, all designed by Atelier Wren to reflect the grandeur of China's Ming Dynasty. The atmosphere is one of hushed luxury, with chic interiors that feel more suited to a sophisticated evening out than a casual weekend brunch. Adding a modern touch, TV personality Gok Wan has curated the playlist, blending historical inspiration with contemporary vibes.
The Bottomless Dim Sum Experience
The brunch features a parade of dim sum served in continuous waves, each dish crafted with precision and flavor. Highlights include the Mushroom & Truffle Dumpling, rich and earthy, and the Crystal Pickled Vegetable Dumpling, packed with beetroot, purple potato, and snow peas for a delicate, colorful bite. The Pan-Fried Asparagus & Corn Dumpling offers a crisp edge and satisfying texture, while the Steamed Mushroom Bun provides pillowy comfort with an earthy shiitake and enoki filling.
As the dim sum keeps coming, the warm and unflustered staff ensure a seamless experience. The meal progresses to a vegetarian hot and sour soup, loaded with wood fungus and tofu, which is sharp and restorative. For the main course, options like the Lotus Root and Water Chestnut with Asian chilli and celery deliver a fresh kick without being overly aggressive. Dessert, such as a date pancake, concludes the feast, leaving you in a state of blissful stillness—having truly found the bottom of this bottomless offering.
Practical Details and Considerations
House of Ming is open for lunch from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm and dinner from 6:30 pm to 11:00 pm, Monday through Sunday. The bottomless dim sum brunch is available on weekends, with drinks packages ranging from £24 for non-alcoholic options to £34 for signature cocktails. The nearest tube stations are St. James's Park or Victoria, making it easily accessible. While the opulent setting leans towards a more formal vibe, it is ideal for special occasions, leisurely catch-ups, or simply indulging in an unreasonable quantity of dim sum in beautiful surroundings. Booking ahead is highly recommended, and coming very hungry is essential to fully appreciate this culinary journey.
In summary, House of Ming's bottomless dim sum brunch is a genuinely lovely experience, combining luxurious ambiance with exceptional food. It may not be for everyday dining, but for those seeking something special in London, it offers a memorable escape into taste and elegance.
