Yangguofu Malatang set to make West End debut in Chinatown London’s cultural hot pot

Shaftesbury Capital has announced that hot pot-focused concept, Yangguofu Malatang (YGF Malatang), is set to launch at Chinatown London’s 47-49 Charing Cross Road this summer, joining the neighbourhood’s extensive line-up of authentic ESEA cuisine.  

Originating from China’s popular Sichuan street food stalls, Yangguofu Malatang will deliver a distinct twist on the traditional hot pot by allowing diners to customise their own bowls. Guests will be able to choose from a vast selection of meat, fish, and vegetable toppings, with further choices in noodle type and broth flavour, which includes the classic herbal beef bone broth, sweet & sour tomato broth, and peanut butter spicy dry mix (malaban).

Yangguofu Malatang currently operates nearly 7,000 restaurants worldwide, making it the largest malatang brand globally. The new Chinatown London site marks the brand’s West End debut and its first central London flagship, spanning over 3,200 sq ft and offering more than 100 covers.

Emma Matus, Head of Restaurant Leasing at Shaftesbury Capital, commented: “Chinatown London is a hub for standout concepts from across the ESEA, and YGF Malatang is a great example of a proven concept in China choosing Chinatown at an early stage of its UK journey. Malatang is a staple for so many across China and beyond, with Yangguofu Malatang set to bring an authentic taste of North East China for the thousands of discerning diners that come to Chinatown London every day.”

Neil PING, Europe General Manager of Yangguofu Malatang, added: “Whilst Yangguofu Malatang has already proved to be a hugely successful concept, the chance to weave Yangguofu Malatang into the fabric of Chinatown London marks a deeply significant moment for us. Considering the location’s reputation as a hub of ESEA culture, we are confident that our grounding in such a popular Sichuanese culinary trend means we can deliver an offer that aligns with the destination’s globally renowned and authentic lineup.”

This announcement follows the recent arrival of Songhelou in Chinatown London, a 250-year-old Suzhou noodle institution, has launched its first international outpost at 22 Wardour Street, serving time-honoured soup-based noodle dishes in a 3,600 sq ft space across three floors.