STEP out onto Level 35 of the iconic Shangri-La Hotel at the Shard and you’re greeted by a combination of elegance and warmth, from the minimalist architecture to the relaxed vibe of the lounge and the incredibly welcoming service, every detail has been considered. Derived from the Chinese word for “living room” TĪNG, is the signature restaurant at the Shangri-La Hotel where my guest and I enjoyed a sumptuous supper on a chilly evening. Undoubtedly the view that comes served with your meal is something special.
Being a daily disgruntled commuter myself, I often forget the beauty of London and what better place to appreciate it, than from the tallest building in the UK. We were seated at the edge of the restaurant, overlooking the Thames, so we were offered unparalleled views of the city at night as we sampled the menu.
Duck Liver Rhubarb and Match. Courtesy of: TĪNG Restaurant at Shangri-La Hotel
The cuisine at TĪNG combines the best of British fare with clever nods to enticing Asian flavours. We opted for the three-course seasonal menu, each of which was paired perfectly with wine. We kicked off the evening with a glass of Laurent Perrier, which was the ideal accompaniment to the spectacular London skyline. To start, I chose Loch Var salmon, with yoghurt, nashi pear and wild rice, which was presented so elegantly. The salmon was incredibly meaty and complemented the delicate flavours of the yoghurt and pear. My guest thoroughly enjoyed the cauliflower veloute which she said was well balanced and fresh and bursting with flavours of sultana and truffle.
Both starters were accompanied by delicious warm soda and sourdough bread and rock salt covered butter. For the main course, I chose the line caught stone bass with XO sauce and salt and pepper squid. The bass was so light and tender and worked so well with the tangy seafood sauce, which originates from Hong Kong. A buttery Chardonnay “Arthur” matched beautifully with the fish, without overpowering it.
My guest commented on the clever blend of British and Asian flavours in her main of pork belly cooked in a traditional Cantonese char sui sauce with salt baked pineapple. The menu at TĪNG is intelligently put together, each plate highlights the very best in contemporary British cuisine, while delicate accents of one or two Asian inspired flavours.
Venison Smoked Beetroot Salat and Red Cabbage. Courtesy of: TĪNG Restaurant at Shangri-La Hotel
Without a doubt, dessert was the highlight of the meal. We both opted for the Sacher Torte, compromising of Grand Marnier soaked apricots and salted apricot vanilla sorbet and paired with a delightful Henriques & Henriques Sercial Madeira which complemented the tartness of the dessert so perfectly. I am not always a dessert person, but this particular dish won me over with every bite. Despite being rich in flavour, it wasn’t overwhelmingly sweet and the cognac-soaked apricots are buried in every layer, providing a bitter orange punch against the chocolate.
Vegan Dessert. Courtesy of: TĪNG Restaurant at Shangri-La Hotel
Despite the decadence of Shangri-La, the atmosphere at TĪNG is one of relaxed luxury. The team is accommodating and friendly, leaving you feeling so looked after while you are there. It is definitely somewhere to treat a friend or loved one to an unforgettable dining experience – while soaking up some unprecedented views of the city.
by Heather Doughty
For more information on TĪNG and how to book visit here
TĪNG, Shangri-La at The Shard, 31 St Thomas St, London SE1 9QU