Chai Wu

chai wu by pan chai, a new modern chinese restaurant, will open on the fifth floor of harrods, the world famous luxury department store in knightsbridge, london. located adjacent to the shoe heaven department, the restaurant will be an opulent enclosed space seating up to 90 guests. launching on 19th january 2015, chai wu is set to be one of the first and most anticipated restaurant openings of the year. the menu at chai wu by pan chai has been devised by a speciality chinese chef bixu and overseen by ian pengelley, group executive chef, who is considered to be one of the uk’s leading experts in oriental cuisine. together they have created a diverse menu of exquisite chinese cuisine, incorporating speciality and luxury ingredients throughout. to start, a selection of soups, dim sum and small dishes will be available such as chilean seabass dumpling with gold leaf; and wagyu and black pepper puff. for mains, diners have the option of a la carte dishes, or a charcoal grill menu offering fresh meat, fish and vegetables grilled to order, such as baby poussin with sauce spicy chilli lime dressing. signature plates and specialities will include beijing duck; alaskan king crab with soy glaze; and lotus root and lily bulb in a spicy toban sauce. the restaurant concept, and interior design, will be inspired by the five elements in chinese philosophy; wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. harrison, the restaurant’s designers, have researched the contrast that exists between traditional and contemporary chinese culture and are integrating it into the design of the space, incorporating the natural elements throughout. finishes will be a luxurious mix of marbles, leather and timbers, all characterising the element of wood. fire will be present in a theatrical charcoal grill in the centre of the restaurant; a dining bar surrounding this will offer a prime view of the chefs at work and a glimpse into the excitement of the kitchen.