If you are looking for the best Chinese restaurants in Southampton, you are in the right place. Whether you are craving authentic Cantonese dim sum, sizzling Szechuan dishes, traditional roast duck or modern Chinese fine dining, Southampton has an excellent selection of restaurants to explore.
This guide features the city’s top Chinese restaurants, from luxury dining destinations and authentic regional specialists to casual noodle bars and neighbourhood favourites. Every recommendation has earned an excellent reputation for quality ingredients, authentic flavours and consistently positive customer reviews.
How This Guide Was Put Together
This guide is based on extensive research across public reviews, local recommendations and the overall reputation of each restaurant. Rather than relying on a single opinion, I looked for Chinese restaurants that consistently receive positive feedback for food quality, authenticity, service, atmosphere and overall dining experience.
When selecting the best Chinese restaurants in Southampton, I considered:
- Food quality – Fresh ingredients, authentic recipes and consistently well-prepared dishes.
- Authenticity – Traditional regional cooking techniques and genuine Chinese flavours.
- Menu variety – Everything from dim sum and roast meats to hot pot and regional specialities.
- Value for money – Overall dining experience compared with the price.
- Overall reputation – Consistently positive customer reviews across multiple trusted platforms.
No restaurant has paid to be included in this guide.
10 Best Chinese Restaurants in Southampton
From luxury Cantonese restaurants and authentic dim sum specialists to neighbourhood favourites and modern Chinese dining, these are the best places to enjoy Chinese food in Southampton. Click on any restaurant name below for directions on Google Maps.
1. Shanghai 1814, High Street
Shanghai 1814 is widely regarded as Southampton’s premier Chinese restaurant. Set inside a beautifully restored Grade II listed building on the High Street, it combines luxurious surroundings with authentic Chinese cuisine, making it the city’s standout destination for celebrations, date nights and fine dining.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★★
4.9/5.0
Location: High Street
Price: £20 to £40
Best for: Luxury Chinese fine dining
Must try: Signature Peking Duck
Shanghai 1814 combines elegant surroundings, authentic regional Chinese cuisine and exceptional service, making it one of the finest dining experiences in Southampton.
Why Visit Shanghai 1814?
Shanghai 1814 specialises in premium Chinese cuisine inspired by Cantonese, Beijing and Sichuan traditions. Signature dishes include its famous carved Peking Duck, fresh seafood, dim sum and expertly prepared wok-fried specialities, all served within one of Southampton’s most impressive restaurant interiors.
If you are looking for the best Chinese restaurant in Southampton for a special occasion, Shanghai 1814 is difficult to beat.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Signature Peking Duck is the restaurant’s most famous dish.
- Excellent for celebrations and date nights.
- Beautiful Grade II listed building.
- Private dining rooms available.
- Booking in advance is recommended.
2. Shanghai Bay, Above Bar Street
Shanghai Bay is one of Southampton’s most authentic Cantonese restaurants, located on Above Bar Street. It has built an outstanding reputation for traditional dim sum, expertly roasted meats and regional Chinese specialities, attracting both local diners and members of the Chinese community.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★★
4.8/5.0
Location: Above Bar Street
Price: £15 to £30
Best for: Authentic Cantonese cuisine
Must try: Xiao Long Bao
Shanghai Bay serves authentic Cantonese cooking, freshly prepared dim sum and traditional roast meats, making it one of Southampton’s best Chinese restaurants.
Why Visit Shanghai Bay?
Shanghai Bay is particularly well known for its hand-made dim sum, roast duck, steamed dumplings and regional Chinese dishes prepared using traditional techniques. It is an excellent choice for anyone looking for an authentic Chinese dining experience.
For classic Cantonese cuisine and some of the city’s best dim sum, Shanghai Bay is an easy recommendation.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Xiao Long Bao are among the best in Southampton.
- Excellent traditional dim sum.
- Authentic Cantonese cooking.
- Popular with local Chinese diners.
- Ideal for sharing dishes.
3. Chopstix, Westquay
Chopstix is one of the most popular places for a quick Chinese meal in Southampton. Located inside Westquay Shopping Centre, it serves freshly prepared noodle boxes, crispy chicken and a variety of Chinese-inspired dishes that are ideal for shoppers, students and anyone looking for a fast, filling meal.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.7/5.0
Location: Westquay Shopping Centre
Price: £7 to £10
Best for: Quick Chinese meals
Must try: Caramel Drizzle Chicken
Chopstix offers freshly cooked noodle boxes, generous portions and excellent value, making it one of Southampton’s best choices for fast Chinese food.
Why Visit Chopstix?
Chopstix specialises in customisable noodle boxes with a choice of freshly cooked noodles or rice, paired with favourites such as caramel drizzle chicken, teriyaki beef and crispy vegetable spring rolls. Fast service and consistently generous portions make it a reliable stop for lunch or dinner while shopping in the city centre.
If you are looking for a quick, affordable Chinese meal without compromising on flavour, Chopstix is an excellent choice.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Caramel Drizzle Chicken is the restaurant’s most popular topping.
- Excellent value for money.
- Fast service.
- Customisable noodle boxes.
- Perfect for a quick meal while shopping.
4. Edo Asia, High Street
Edo Asia is one of Southampton’s most popular Asian restaurants, combining authentic Chinese cuisine with Japanese favourites in a stylish setting on the High Street. Renowned for its freshly prepared dishes, generous portions and friendly service, it is an excellent choice whether you are dining with family, friends or celebrating a special occasion.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★★
4.7/5.0
Location: High Street
Price: £9 to £15
Best for: Authentic Chinese stir-fries
Must try: Crispy Shredded Chilli Beef
Edo Asia serves consistently excellent Chinese favourites alongside fresh Asian specialities, making it one of Southampton’s best all-round Chinese restaurants.
Why Visit Edo Asia?
Edo Asia offers an extensive menu featuring traditional Chinese wok-fried dishes, noodle specialities, seafood and rice dishes, all prepared using fresh ingredients and authentic flavours. The welcoming atmosphere and varied menu make it a great option for both casual meals and special occasions.
If you are looking for delicious Chinese food in the heart of Southampton, Edo Asia is an excellent choice.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Crispy Shredded Chilli Beef is one of the restaurant’s signature dishes.
- Excellent selection of traditional Chinese favourites.
- Freshly prepared wok-fried dishes.
- Great central High Street location.
- Ideal for families and groups.
Why Southampton is Great for Chinese Food
Southampton has one of the South Coast’s strongest Chinese food scenes, with everything from luxury Cantonese restaurants and authentic dim sum to traditional Sichuan cooking and interactive hot pot experiences. Whether you are looking for an elegant evening meal, a family gathering or a quick lunch in the city centre, there is a Chinese restaurant to suit every taste and budget.
5. Dao, Above Bar Street
Dao is a highly regarded independent restaurant on Above Bar Street, offering authentic Chinese comfort food in a relaxed and welcoming setting. Popular with locals, students and visitors alike, it has built an excellent reputation for fresh ingredients, traditional recipes and consistently friendly service.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.7/5.0
Location: Above Bar Street
Price: £9 to £14
Best for: Authentic Chinese comfort food
Must try: Special Wok-fried Rice Noodles
Dao combines authentic regional flavours with generous portions and excellent value, making it one of Southampton’s best independent Chinese restaurants.
Why Visit Dao?
Dao specialises in freshly prepared noodle dishes, traditional stir-fries, spring rolls and authentic Chinese comfort food. The welcoming atmosphere and carefully prepared dishes have made it a favourite for those looking beyond the typical takeaway menu.
If you are looking for authentic Chinese cuisine served in a relaxed neighbourhood setting, Dao is an excellent choice.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Special Wok-fried Rice Noodles are a customer favourite.
- Fresh ingredients cooked to order.
- Friendly neighbourhood atmosphere.
- Excellent value for money.
- Ideal for lunch or dinner.
6. M Dim Sum, Above Bar Street
M Dim Sum is one of Southampton’s premier destinations for authentic Cantonese dim sum. Situated on Above Bar Street, the restaurant combines contemporary surroundings with beautifully crafted handmade dumplings, steamed buns and traditional Cantonese favourites.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.6/5.0
Location: Above Bar Street
Price: £10 to £18
Best for: Handmade dim sum
Must try: Black Truffle Siu Mai
M Dim Sum delivers beautifully prepared Cantonese favourites using premium ingredients, making it one of Southampton’s finest restaurants for authentic dim sum.
Why Visit M Dim Sum?
M Dim Sum serves an extensive menu of handmade dumplings, steamed buns, roast meats and classic Cantonese dishes. Beautiful presentation, quality ingredients and traditional cooking techniques make every visit feel like a special occasion.
If you enjoy authentic Cantonese cuisine and freshly prepared dim sum, M Dim Sum is one of Southampton’s best choices.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Black Truffle Siu Mai is one of the restaurant’s signature dishes.
- Excellent handmade dim sum.
- Beautiful modern dining room.
- Premium Cantonese cuisine.
- Perfect for sharing.
7. Garden Restaurant, High Road
Garden Restaurant is a long-established favourite on High Road, Swaythling, known for serving authentic Sichuan cuisine in a relaxed neighbourhood setting. Popular with local families and students, it has built an excellent reputation for generous portions, bold flavours and traditional Chinese recipes.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.5/5.0
Location: High Road, Swaythling
Price: £11 to £16
Best for: Authentic Sichuan cuisine
Must try: Sichuan Special Grilled Fish
Garden Restaurant delivers authentic regional Chinese cooking, generous portions and consistently excellent quality, making it one of Southampton’s favourite independent Chinese restaurants.
Why Visit Garden Restaurant?
Garden Restaurant serves an extensive menu of traditional Sichuan dishes, seafood specialities and classic Chinese favourites, all freshly prepared using authentic ingredients and cooking techniques. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly service make it a popular choice for both casual meals and family gatherings.
If you are looking for authentic Chinese cuisine away from the city centre, Garden Restaurant is well worth visiting.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Sichuan Special Grilled Fish is the restaurant’s signature dish.
- Excellent authentic Sichuan cooking.
- Generous portion sizes.
- Friendly neighbourhood atmosphere.
- Ideal for sharing with family and friends.
8. Szechuan Kitchen, High Street
Szechuan Kitchen brings one of the most authentic hot pot experiences to Southampton. Located on the High Street, it specialises in traditional Sichuan cuisine, interactive hot pot dining and bold regional flavours that are popular with both local diners and the city’s Chinese community.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.5/5.0
Location: High Street
Price: £20 per person
Best for: Authentic Chinese hot pot
Must try: Traditional Hot Pot
Szechuan Kitchen offers an authentic hot pot experience with fresh ingredients, rich broths and traditional Sichuan flavours, making it one of Southampton’s most unique Chinese restaurants.
Why Visit Szechuan Kitchen?
Szechuan Kitchen specialises in traditional hot pot dining, allowing guests to cook premium meats, seafood and vegetables at the table in flavour-packed broths. Alongside its hot pot menu, the restaurant also serves a selection of authentic Sichuan favourites prepared with traditional spices and techniques.
If you enjoy interactive dining and bold regional Chinese flavours, Szechuan Kitchen is an excellent choice.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Traditional Hot Pot is the restaurant’s signature experience.
- Authentic Sichuan broths.
- Interactive table-side cooking.
- Fresh ingredients prepared daily.
- Perfect for groups.
9. Pan Asian Plaza Buffet, Marlands
Pan Asian Plaza Buffet, located inside The Marlands Shopping Centre, is one of Southampton’s most popular buffet restaurants, offering an extensive selection of Chinese and Asian favourites at excellent value. With a constantly replenished buffet and relaxed family-friendly atmosphere, it is a great choice for diners who enjoy variety.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.4/5.0
Location: The Marlands Shopping Centre
Price: Fixed-price buffet
Best for: All-you-can-eat Chinese buffet
Must try: Crispy Duck Wraps
Pan Asian Plaza Buffet offers excellent variety, generous portions and great value, making it one of Southampton’s best buffet restaurants for Chinese cuisine.
Why Visit Pan Asian Plaza Buffet?
Pan Asian Plaza Buffet serves a wide selection of freshly prepared Chinese favourites, including noodle dishes, stir-fries, crispy starters and classic rice dishes. The self-service buffet is regularly replenished, allowing diners to sample a wide variety of dishes in one visit.
If you are looking for excellent value and plenty of choice, Pan Asian Plaza Buffet is an ideal option.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Crispy Duck Wraps are one of the buffet’s most popular dishes.
- Large selection of Chinese favourites.
- Excellent value for families.
- Dishes are regularly replenished.
- Convenient city centre location.
10. COSMO, Westquay South
COSMO at Westquay South is one of Southampton’s largest world buffet restaurants, offering an extensive selection of freshly prepared Chinese dishes alongside cuisine from around the world. Live cooking stations and a huge variety of options make it particularly popular with families, large groups and celebrations.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.3/5.0
Location: Westquay South
Price: £22+ buffet
Best for: World buffet and Chinese favourites
Must try: Char Siu Bao
COSMO combines live cooking stations, an extensive buffet and consistently fresh dishes, making it one of Southampton’s best destinations for diners who enjoy variety.
Why Visit COSMO?
COSMO features a huge range of Chinese dishes including freshly steamed dim sum, wok-fried noodles, roast meats and classic favourites, alongside cuisines from across the world. The spacious restaurant and live cooking stations make it an excellent choice for birthdays, family meals and group dining.
If you enjoy sampling a wide variety of dishes in one sitting, COSMO is one of the best buffet restaurants in Southampton.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Char Siu Bao is one of the standout Chinese dishes.
- Live cooking stations.
- Huge buffet selection.
- Ideal for families and large groups.
- Located next to Westquay Shopping Centre.
Where Can You Find the Best Chinese Restaurants in Southampton?
If you are looking for the best Chinese restaurants in Southampton, the city offers everything from elegant fine dining and authentic Cantonese cuisine to traditional Sichuan specialities, handmade dim sum and interactive hot pot experiences. Whether you are planning a special celebration, a relaxed family meal or a quick lunch, Southampton has an excellent selection of Chinese restaurants to suit every occasion.
Shanghai 1814 is the city’s leading destination for luxury Chinese dining, while Shanghai Bay is renowned for authentic Cantonese cooking and traditional dim sum. Edo Asia impresses with its extensive Chinese menu, Dao delivers authentic comfort food, and M Dim Sum is perfect for freshly made Cantonese favourites. Restaurants such as Garden Restaurant, Szechuan Kitchen, Pan Asian Plaza Buffet and COSMO complete a diverse dining scene that caters for every taste and budget.
Whether you are craving premium Peking duck, handmade dumplings, fiery Sichuan dishes or an all-you-can-eat buffet, these restaurants represent some of the very best Chinese dining experiences Southampton has to offer.
Love Asian Cuisine?
If you enjoy authentic Asian food, explore our guide to the best Japanese restaurants in Southampton, featuring the city’s top spots for sushi, ramen and traditional Japanese cuisine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the best Chinese restaurant in Southampton?
Shanghai 1814 is widely regarded as Southampton’s best Chinese restaurant thanks to its luxurious setting, premium Cantonese cuisine and exceptional service.
Where can I find authentic dim sum in Southampton?
Shanghai Bay and M Dim Sum are among the best places in Southampton for freshly prepared Cantonese dim sum and handmade dumplings.
Which restaurant is best for authentic Sichuan food?
Szechuan Kitchen and Garden Restaurant are excellent choices for authentic Sichuan cuisine, serving traditional regional dishes packed with bold flavours.
Where can I enjoy a Chinese buffet in Southampton?
Pan Asian Plaza Buffet and COSMO both offer buffet dining with a wide selection of Chinese favourites, making them ideal for families and larger groups.
How much does a Chinese meal cost in Southampton?
Most Chinese restaurants in Southampton charge between £10 and £20 for a main course, while buffet restaurants and premium dining experiences may cost slightly more.
Do these Chinese restaurants offer takeaway?
Yes. Most of the restaurants featured in this guide offer takeaway services, and many are also available through popular food delivery platforms.
