Urumchi: A Must-Visit Uyghur Restaurant in London for Authentic Xinjiang Cuisine

Mar 18

4 min read

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The first time I tasted Uyghur cuisine, I was deep in the heart of Xinjiang, a vast and rugged region in China’s far west. I was in Karamay, a city known for its oil reserves and the haunting “Ghost City,” where the wind carves eerie sounds through the rock formations. It was there that I fell in love with the rich, aromatic flavours of Uyghur food—a beautiful fusion of Asian and Middle Eastern influences.

Finding an authentic taste of this cuisine outside of China is rare, but London’s incredible diversity never fails to surprise me. Tucked away near Russell Square, I stumbled upon Urumchi, a hidden gem bringing Xinjiang’s bold and hearty dishes to the city. From the moment I stepped inside, I knew I was in for a treat. This restaurant has quickly become my go-to for an authentic Uyghur feast, and here’s why you need to check it out.

Why Urumchi Stands Out Among Uyghur Restaurants in London

As a dedicated foodie who spent years eating my way through China, I developed a deep appreciation for authentic regional dishes. However, one of the biggest struggles of eating out in London is the price gap—food that costs a few pounds in China is often marked up significantly in the UK, sometimes absurdly so.

This was particularly true when researching Uyghur restaurants for my Chinese New Year mini-series. Some places charged as much as £17 for a bowl of laghman noodles—several times what I paid in China. Then I found Urumchi, where the pricing is refreshingly fair, especially given the generous portions. Even notoriously expensive dishes, like Da Pan Ji (Big Plate Chicken), are available in smaller, individual portions, making it an excellent option for both solo diners and groups.

Another major draw? Their near-perfect 4.9 Google rating. With a relatively low number of reviews, I assumed it was a newer restaurant. But its stellar reputation spoke volumes, and I knew I had to give it a try.

Signature Dishes to Try at Urumchi

From the moment my Chinese girlfriend and I opened the menu, we knew we were in for something special. The lineup of classic Uyghur dishes immediately took me back to my travels in Xinjiang, with each dish carrying a deep sense of nostalgia.

To start, the Uyghur Samsa (烤包子) is a must. These golden, flaky pastries encase a juicy, spice-infused lamb and onion filling, baked in a tandoor-style oven until perfectly crisp and fragrant. Each bite delivers a rich, savoury filling encased in a satisfyingly crisp shell.

No Uyghur meal is complete without Lamb Shish Kebabs, and Urumchi does them exceptionally well. The skewers arrive sizzling, resting on a slice of traditional bread that eagerly soaks up the lamb’s rich, smoky juices. Tender, fragrant, and perfectly charred, each bite delivers a satisfying depth of flavour. If you like a bit of heat, ask for the house seasoning blend—it takes the flavour to another level.

For something hearty, the Da Pan Ji (大盘鸡, Big Plate Chicken) is an absolute showstopper. The dish features braised bone-in chicken stir-fried with fragrant spices, soft potatoes, and thick handmade noodles, soaking up the rich sauce. What I love most is that Urumchi offers different portion sizes, making it easy to enjoy whether dining solo or with friends.

Another highlight is the Lamb Pilaf (手抓饭). Here, tender lamb is fried until crisp, then slow-cooked with carrots, onions, and stock-infused rice, resulting in a buttery, deeply satisfying dish.

A bowl of traditional Xinjiang-style rice pudding topped with a dusting of cinnamon powder.

For those with a sweet tooth, the Uyghur Rice Pudding is a rare find in London. Served with a touch of cinnamon and a drizzle of sweet milk, it’s surprisingly light yet comforting—the perfect way to end the meal.

Atmosphere & Dining Experience

The blue and gold exterior of Urumchi restaurant in London, a must-visit for authentic Xinjiang cuisine.

Urumchi is a true hidden gem, located just off Russell Square, only a short walk from the British Museum. The restaurant’s bright blue exterior stands out against the muted tones of the neighbouring British pub, making it feel like an oasis of Central Asian hospitality.

Inside, the decor is warm and authentic, filled with Uyghur patterns and cultural touches. The owners are incredibly welcoming—we chatted with them throughout the meal, and their passion for the cuisine was evident in every dish they served.

The layout caters to both solo diners and large groups, a rarity among restaurants serving this kind of cuisine. Many of the dishes, such as Da Pan Ji, come in multiple sizes, making it easy to share or enjoy alone. Whether you're in the mood for a comforting meal on your own or a lively feast with friends, Urumchi has you covered.

Final Thoughts on Urumchi

Simply put, Urumchi is one of the best dining experiences I’ve had since starting this blog—both in terms of quality and value. It’s a fantastic introduction to Xinjiang cuisine, offering something fresh and exciting for London food lovers.

If you love bold, flavour-packed food and want to explore a lesser-known gem of Chinese cuisine, Urumchi is a must-visit. Whether you're a first-timer or already a fan of Uyghur food, this spot delivers—trust me, you won’t regret it!