Loon Fung Supermarket Review - london Food shops & markets | Christoff

Loon Fung: Chinatown's Multi-Level Institution Where Groceries Meet Proper Dim Sum

A bustling two-story experience that's been feeding London's Asian community since 1965

My Honest Review

Atmosphere & Ambiance

The moment you step through the doors at 42-44 Gerrard Street, you're hit with that authentic oriental market experience—exotic aromas wafting up from the ground floor supermarket while the vibrant colours of thousands of Asian products create a sensory overload in the best possible way. The bustling energy here scores an impressive 8.5 out of 10, and you feel it immediately. Downstairs, narrow aisles packed with everything from Chinese herbal remedies to frozen dim sum create that authentic wholesale market vibe, whilst upstairs transforms into a family-style restaurant where the atmosphere shifts to something more social and conversation-friendly. The venue's sophistication sits comfortably at 4.5 out of 10—this isn't about fancy fixtures, it's about authenticity. The multi-level layout works brilliantly, allowing you to shop for rare Asian snacks and ingredients, then head upstairs for a proper meal. It's genuinely family-friendly, with that relaxed flexibility that makes it equally welcoming whether you're a regular customer the staff know by name or a curious first-timer.

Food & Drink

The upstairs restaurant serves traditional Hong Kong cuisine with proper dim sum that's earned chef approval—no mean feat in London's competitive dining scene. The steamed whelks in Malay curry sauce and egg tarts with laminated pastry are standout dishes that showcase the kitchen's commitment to authenticity. What sets this place apart is the combination of traditional dim sum alongside a comprehensive menu of Hong Kong cuisine, all served in that family-style setting that feels genuinely Chinese rather than adapted for Western palates. The supermarket downstairs stocks an impressive range of fresh ingredients—meat, seafood, vegetables, and fruits—alongside thousands of products from China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, Korea, Thailand, and Malaysia. The frozen dim sum selection is particularly noteworthy, allowing you to take the experience home. With rice, noodles, sauces, spices, and snacks covering virtually every Asian cuisine, the quality and variety here is what you'd expect from London's premier destination for authentic Asian groceries.

Service & Experience

The staff upstairs know their regular customers, which speaks volumes about the kind of personal service you can expect once you become a familiar face. The family-friendly approach extends to the service style, where the focus is on genuine hospitality rather than polished formality. Booking is available through the World of Mouth platform for the restaurant, though the supermarket operates on a walk-in basis. The venue maintains daily hours from 9am to 8pm, though this varies by location across their multiple branches. With wholesale services offered alongside retail, the staff clearly understand both serious food professionals and casual shoppers, adapting their approach accordingly.

Value for Money

At price level 1 out of 4, Loon Fung delivers exceptional value that's particularly appealing to students and budget-conscious diners. The wholesale deals and bulk discounts make it a practical choice for stocking up on Asian ingredients, while the restaurant offers authentic dim sum without the premium pricing you'd find at more refined establishments. The combination of supermarket and restaurant means you can have a complete Asian food experience—shopping and dining—in one visit, which adds considerable value. Given the authenticity, variety, and the prime Chinatown location near Leicester Square, Piccadilly Circus, and Covent Garden tube stations, the pricing feels remarkably fair. The fact that they also offer online shopping with delivery adds modern convenience to traditional value.

Insider Tips

Best Time to Visit

Hit the restaurant before 2pm when the good dim sum is still available—the best items sell out quickly. Avoid peak weekends if possible, as the crowds make navigation challenging through those narrow aisles in the supermarket section.

What to Focus On

Focus on the steamed whelks in Malay curry sauce and egg tarts with laminated pastry upstairs. In the supermarket, hunt down the rare Asian snacks and check out the frozen dim sum selection for taking the experience home.

Christoff's Insider Tips

Do the supermarket first to grab rare snacks and ingredients, then head upstairs for dim sum while you're still hungryThe staff upstairs remember regular customers, so don't be surprised if service improves significantly on return visitsCheck out their other branches in Tottenham, Colindale, Park Royal, Alperton and Stratford if the Chinatown location is too busy

The Final Verdict

Loon Fung succeeds brilliantly at being both a serious Asian supermarket and a legitimate dim sum destination, earning its status as a historic Chinatown institution. The multi-level concept works remarkably well, offering that rare combination of practical grocery shopping and authentic dining in one bustling venue. Yes, the weekend crowds can be overwhelming, and the narrow aisles aren't for everyone, but the authenticity, value, and sheer variety on offer make it worth the occasional jostle. This isn't a polished, Instagram-ready experience—it's the real deal, complete with exotic aromas, vibrant chaos, and genuine Hong Kong flavours.

Christoff's Rating:

7.8/10

Perfect For:

Asian food enthusiasts seeking authentic ingredients and flavoursBudget-conscious diners and students wanting quality dim sum without premium pricingFamilies looking for a genuine Chinatown experience that combines shopping and dining

Loon Fung Supermarket

Loon Fung Supermarket

Christoff's Take

Loon Fung: Chinatown's Multi-Level Institution Where Groceries Meet Proper Dim Sum

My Honest Review

Atmosphere & Ambiance

Food & Drink

Service & Experience

Value for Money

Insider Tips

Best Time to Visit

What to Focus On

Christoff's Insider Tips

The Final Verdict

Perfect For:

Quick Details

Loon Fung Supermarket

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