Chung Ying Cantonese Restaurant | Chinese
Billing itself as the ‘original Cantonese restaurant’ in Birmingham, Chung Ying (map) has been a staple feature of the city’s Chinatown district for over two decades, this year welcoming the third Year of the Dragon since its launch in 1981. Dine Birmingham visited Chung Ying on the eve of Chinese New Year, to investigate the secret of its longevity.
[by Ahmed Ahmed]
atmosphere
On entering, the immediate impression was one of bustling activity. Alive with chattering guests and waiters darting about with sizzling platters, Chung Ying captures the business-like energy of a traditional Chinatown. The decor is insistently Chinese: red and gold decorations are reflected in the many mirrors which, according to feng shui, holds the power to enhance positive energy and prosperity.
food
The menu certainly holds a promise of plenty. Faced with a dizzying array of options, we opted for one of the set starter bundles, including vegetarian spring rolls, crispy wontons, and deep fried shredded squid. While the wontons were average, the spring rolls and squid were excellent, perfectly complemented by the selection of accompanying sauces.
Although primarily a Cantonese restaurant, Chung Ying offers dishes from another of China’s three culinary traditions. Fried king prawns szechuen style and sizzling fillet of beef in black pepper sauce both offer more of a spicy kick to the palate than the average Chinese dish. We recommend the noodles cooked with mixed seafood and chicken if you’re in the mood for a really filling meal. For a slightly lighter accompanying option, go for egg-fried rice.
drink
Only the most demanding wine-lover would have trouble finding something satisfactory on the wine list, as the selection carries a good range of Old and New World bottles, including several sparklings and champagnes should you choose to spend a special occasion here. Disappointingly, however, only two wines from the Orient appear, and neither of these is Chinese. The easy-drinking Tsing Tao beer represents China’s main contribution to the drinks menu.
Overall, Chung Ying’s casual atmosphere, combined with its wide variety of culinary options, keeps its clientele well-satisfied. Fans of unfussy Cantonese cuisine can join the Birmingham venue as it celebrates the Chinese New Year on the weekend of 28th-29th January with a special festive menu.
You can enjoy exclusive discounts at this Birmingham restaurant and many more nationwide with a Gastro Card. Click here to find out more.
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