CHINA TANG AT THE DORCHESTER TO WELCOME RENOWNED TOKYO COCKTAIL INSTITUTTION BAR BENFIDDICH 

China Tang at The Dorchester will host Hiroyasu Kayama, owner of Tokyo’s renowned Bar Benfiddich, for an exclusive one-night guest bartender takeover on 4 March 2026. The event marks Kayama’s first appearance in the United Kingdom as part of Bar Benfiddich’s 2026 UK Tour, hosted by Akashi-Tai. This forms part of a wider series of developments at the bar this spring, including extended late night opening hours and weekly live music.

Bar Benfiddich is widely regarded as one of Japan’s most respected cocktail bars and is currently ranked No.18 in The World’s 50 Best Bars, making it the highest ranked bar in Tokyo. The bar has earned international recognition for a highly individual approach to bartending rooted in craftsmanship, seasonality and meticulous attention to detail. Kayama’s work focuses on flavour, balance and careful preparation, resulting in drinks that are both precise and expressive. The takeover has been organised by Bar Manager Erik Lanza and Assistant Bar Manager Levs Surovecs at China Tang at The Dorchester, who continue to develop the bar’s programme through collaborations and new seasonal menus.

For the takeover, a dedicated cocktail menu will be created featuring six cocktails in total. Four will be designed by Kayama, including drinks showcasing Hatozaki Whisky and Akashi-Tai Sake, while two additional cocktails created by Levs Surovecs will be served alongside the guest selection. Guests will be welcomed with a complimentary glass of sparkling sake on arrival, courtesy of Akashi-Tai. Cocktails will be priced at £20 each, and Japanese fruits and additional ingredients for garnishes will be supplied by Avanti Asia.

Alongside the takeover, China Tang is introducing a series of updates to the bar as part of its spring programme. From 1 March, the bar will extend its opening hours, welcoming guests later into the evening and encouraging a more relaxed close to the night post-dinner. Weekly live music will also be introduced on Wednesdays at 8pm from 18 March, bringing an atmospheric energy to the space.

Since opening in 2005, China Tang at The Dorchester has set the standard for fine Cantonese dining in London, delivering a timeless culinary experience inspired by the glamour of 1930s Shanghai. Conceived by the late Sir David Tang, the restaurant embodies a unique blend of classic Chinese elegance and contemporary British sophistication, from its Art Deco entrance on Park Lane to its opulent private dining rooms and lavish bar.

The Bar Benfiddich takeover will take place on 4 March 2026 with two sittings at 7pm and 9pm. Reservations will be required and guests will be able to book via Reservations.ChinaTang@ChinaTangLondon.co.uk.

China Tang at The Dorchester is open daily for lunch and dinner. Reservations can be made by calling +44 (0)20 7319 7088 or via SevenRooms.