Goldmine London: Best Roast Duck in Chinatown London
When it comes to Cantonese food in London, one dish always sparks debate: who really serves the best roast duck in the city? Friends had long told me that Goldmine was the spot for it, famous for its juicy and flavourful duck. After hearing countless recommendations, my curiosity (and craving) finally got the better of me. So, on a weekday evening, I set out determined to see if Goldmine truly lived up to the hype.
Background About Goldmine London
Goldmine is located in the heart of Chinatown London, a neighbourhood known for its vibrant food scene and cultural diversity. The restaurant itself has a long-standing reputation, particularly among London’s Chinese community and those who are serious about Cantonese cuisine.
The restaurant is not flashy or overly modern so don’t expect minimalist interiors or trendy design. Instead, it leans into authenticity, with its straightforward décor, buzzing atmosphere, and tables packed tightly together. The focus is very much on the food, and that’s exactly what makes it authentic.
Goldmine’s opening hours are generous, catering to both lunch and late dinners throughout the week, with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays. Given its popularity, though, walking in without a reservation can be risky, especially during peak dining times so be prepared to wait.
What is the Experience like at Goldmine London?
I visited Goldmine on a weeknight for dinner at around 6:30pm. Despite being early by London dining standards, the restaurant was already filled with people. Families, groups of friends, and couples filled the tables, the clatter of chopsticks and chatter creating that familiar, familiar hum of a busy Cantonese restaurant.
Luckily, I had booked ahead since I was with a group of friends, as it quickly became apparent that many hopeful walk-ins were being asked to wait. The staff were efficient and brisk, guiding us to our table with minimal fuss. Service at Goldmine isn’t about lengthy pleasantries, it’s fast-paced and practical, which, if you’ve eaten at authentic Cantonese spots before, will feel completely natural.
The menu showcases an extensive variety of dishes. From roast meats and seafood to dim sum and vegetable stir-fries, it was clear that Goldmine caters to every mood and preference. While tempted by several items, I came with a mission, to try the juicy roast duck.
What is the Food like at Goldmine London?
The menu is packed with options, but for us it had to start with the famous roast duck, with a few extras to make it a proper feast.
Roast Duck (Cantonese Style) (Half £23.80)
The dish that Goldmine is most famous for and rightly so. When the roast duck arrived at our table, glistening and fragrant, it was hard not to dive straight in. The skin had that glossy finish, dark and golden-brown, the kind that makes you instantly know it’s been roasted to perfection.
The meat itself was everything I hoped it would be, juicy, succulent, and bursting with flavour. It wasn’t greasy, as can sometimes happen with duck, but perfectly balanced between richness and tenderness. Paired with their tangy plum sauce and a simple bowl of white rice, it was comfort food elevated to something truly special. For me, this was easily the juiciest and most flavourful roast duck I’ve had in London.
Portion-wise, half a duck is generous, perfect for sharing between two or three people alongside other dishes. For bigger groups, the option of ordering a whole duck (£37.80) makes sense, while a quarter portion (£19.50) works if you just want a taste.
Crispy Belly Pork (£17.90)
The crackling was satisfyingly crisp, giving way to tender, juicy layers of pork underneath. It’s that contrast of textures that makes Cantonese roast pork so addictive, and Goldmine delivered it well. A bite of this paired with their chili oil or soy-based dipping sauces added another level of depth.
Steamed Sea Bass with Ginger & Spring Onion – £35.90
For something lighter, we opted for the steamed sea bass, a Cantonese classic. The fish was soft and delicate, perfectly cooked so that it flaked easily under the chopsticks. The ginger and spring onion sauce was fragrant and flavourful, pooling at the bottom of the dish in a soy-rich broth that was perfect for spooning over rice. It provided a refreshing contrast to the richness of the roast meats, proving that Goldmine does more than just duck.
Morning Glory (£15.80)
No Cantonese meal feels complete without a plate of greens, and the morning glory was the ideal choice. Lightly stir-fried with garlic, it was crisp yet tender, offering a refreshing balance to the meat-heavy spread. While not as headline-grabbing as the duck or pork, it was an essential supporting act.
What is the Price and Value like at Goldmine London?
Goldmine sits in that sweet spot between casual and special occasion dining. For London, particularly in the Bayswater area, the prices are reasonable given the quality and portion sizes. Expect to spend around £20–£30 per person, depending on how much you order and whether you lean towards seafood or keep it simple with roast meats and rice.
The roast duck, at under £24 for half a portion, is especially good value considering both its reputation and how generously it feeds.
Final Thoughts
Goldmine lived up to its reputation. The roast duck was everything I had been told it would be, juicy, flavourful, and deeply satisfying. The supporting dishes rounded out the meal well, proving that this is a restaurant where you can confidently explore the menu beyond its most famous duck. As with most Chinese meals, the experience is best enjoyed with multiple dishes ordered for sharing.
The dining experience itself may feel brisk and busy, but that’s part of the Cantonese dining experience.
Would I go back? Absolutely. In fact, I’d recommend Goldmine to anyone who wants to experience some of the best Cantonese roast meats in London, whether you’re a fan of Chinese cuisine or simply looking for a satisfying dinner that hits the spot.
Goldmine may not be the trendiest or flashiest restaurant in London, but it doesn’t need to be. It delivers where it matters most, in the food and especially the roast duck.
Highlights and Tips
- Best known for their juicy roast duck
- Recommended dishes: Roast meats, especially with roast duck
- Reservations are made via phone and mainly accept walk-ins
- They also have yum cha options, but mainly visited for their roast meats during dinner
- Accepts card or cash
Goldmine London Details
- Location: 100-102 Queensway, London W2 3RR
- Opening Hours: Mon – Thu (12pm – 11 pm); Fri – Sat (12pm –11:15 pm); Sun (12pm –9:30 pm)
- Price: Average £20 – £30
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