Ma La Sichuan: Authentic Sichuan Flavors in Westminster
Experience authentic, boldly spiced Sichuan cuisine in the heart of Westminster with vibrant flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.
Ma La Sichuan is a vibrant Chinese restaurant in London’s Westminster district, specializing in authentic Sichuan cuisine with bold, spicy flavors. Located at 37 Monck Street, it offers an extensive menu featuring dim sum, classic Sichuan dishes like Ma Po Tofu, and unique specialties such as preserved egg. The atmosphere is lively yet unpretentious, with attentive service and a focus on quality and presentation. Ideal for lovers of spicy Asian food seeking a genuine taste experience near iconic London landmarks.
A brief summary to Ma La Sichuan
- 37 Monck St, London, SW1P 2BL, GB
- +442072222218
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 12 pm-2:30 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-2:30 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-2:30 pm
- Friday 12 pm-2:30 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-10:30 pm
- Sunday 4 pm-10 pm
Local tips
- Reserve a table in advance, especially for weekend evenings, as the restaurant fills quickly.
- Try the dim sum and Ma Po Tofu for a classic taste of Sichuan’s signature dishes.
- Ask staff about spice levels to customize your meal according to your heat tolerance.
- Visit during weekday lunch hours for a quieter experience and quick service.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Ma La Sichuan location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Ma La Sichuan
A Taste of Sichuan in the Heart of London
Ma La Sichuan brings the fiery, aromatic cuisine of China’s Sichuan province to the bustling Westminster area. Nestled on Monck Street, this restaurant offers a culinary journey defined by bold spices, numbing peppercorns, and complex flavor layers. The extensive menu showcases traditional dishes such as Ma Po Tofu, fragrant chili chicken, and a variety of dim sum, including Shanghai dumplings and ‘Chao Shou’ dumplings in chili oil. Each dish is crafted with care, balancing heat and aroma to deliver an authentic experience that reflects Sichuan’s rich food heritage.Ambience and Service in a Central Location
Despite its central Westminster location—close to landmarks like Big Ben and Tate Britain—Ma La Sichuan maintains an inviting and relaxed atmosphere. The decor is straightforward and functional, focusing attention on the food rather than elaborate design. Service is attentive and professional, with staff knowledgeable about the menu and happy to guide diners through the spice levels and dish selections. The restaurant is popular with a diverse clientele, including local government workers, tourists, and families, creating a lively yet comfortable dining environment.Menu Highlights and Culinary Craftsmanship
Signature dishes stand out for their authentic preparation and presentation. The hot and sour soup is praised for its perfect balance of sour and spicy notes, while the roast pork belly and marble beef are noted for their rich flavors and tender textures. Dim sum offerings, such as pork buns and vegetarian aromatic duck, are delicately prepared and highly recommended. The menu also includes unusual items like preserved egg, reflecting the chef’s dedication to traditional Sichuan cooking techniques. Portions tend to be moderate, emphasizing quality over quantity.Dining Experience and Practical Details
Ma La Sichuan operates with lunch and dinner services, closing on Mondays and opening later on Sundays. The restaurant is moderately priced, reflecting its central location and quality ingredients. It is advisable to book ahead, especially on weekends, as the venue fills quickly. The setting suits casual meals, group dining, and those seeking a flavorful escape from typical Chinese fare in London. While the service is efficient, some guests note a brisk pace during busy times.Location and Nearby Attractions
Situated in Westminster, Ma La Sichuan is ideally placed for visitors exploring London’s historic and political heart. After dining, guests can easily visit nearby attractions such as the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and St. James’s Park. The area is well served by public transport, making it accessible for locals and tourists alike. The restaurant’s presence adds a spicy culinary dimension to the cultural richness of the neighborhood.Commitment to Authenticity and Quality
The chef, formerly of Bar Shu—London’s premier Sichuan restaurant—brings expertise and passion to Ma La Sichuan’s kitchen. The emphasis on authentic ingredients, traditional recipes, and careful spice calibration ensures a genuine Sichuan dining experience. This commitment has earned the restaurant a strong reputation among aficionados of Chinese cuisine, making it a standout choice for those seeking depth and authenticity in London’s diverse food scene.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue of George V
0.4 km
A dignified white Portland stone statue honoring King George V, standing proudly in Westminster’s historic Old Palace Yard.
Cockpit Steps
0.5 km
Discover Cockpit Steps, a hidden historic passage in Westminster where London’s royal cockfighting past meets ghostly legend and quiet charm.
Statue of Oliver Cromwell
0.5 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Oliver Cromwell, standing outside Westminster Hall as a symbol of Britain’s turbulent 17th-century history and contested legacy.
Millicent Garrett Fawcett Statue
0.5 km
Honoring Millicent Garrett Fawcett, the first woman commemorated in Parliament Square, inspiring equality through her iconic statue and legacy.
Westminster Hall
0.5 km
Step into Westminster Hall, a majestic medieval masterpiece that has witnessed a millennium of British history, law, and monarchy.
His Majesty's Treasury
0.6 km
The historic and strategic heart of the UK government’s economic policy, located in the iconic government district of Westminster, London.
Clive Steps
0.6 km
A Grade II-listed bronze statue commemorating the controversial architect of British imperial power in India.
Clive of India Memorial
0.6 km
A towering Edwardian statue in London commemorating Robert Clive, founder of British rule in India, embodying imperial triumph and controversy.
King Charles Street
0.7 km
Explore King Charles Street, a historic London government hub famed for its grand Victorian architecture and pivotal role in British political life.
King Charles Street Arch
0.7 km
A grand 1908 triple-arched gateway in London’s Whitehall, rich in sculptural detail and historical significance.
The Cenotaph
0.7 km
Britain’s national war memorial in Whitehall, a solemn tribute to the fallen of the World Wars and later conflicts.
10 Downing Street
0.8 km
Iconic London residence and office of the UK Prime Minister, steeped in centuries of political history and power.
10 Downing St
0.8 km
Discover the historic seat of British leadership, where iconic moments and political power converge behind the famous black door.
The Women of World War II
0.8 km
A powerful bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring over seven million British women’s vital roles during World War II.
Little Ben Clock
0.8 km
Discover Little Ben, London’s charming miniature clock tower echoing Big Ben’s grandeur and symbolizing enduring Franco-British friendship.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sinfonia Smith Square
0.3 km
Experience world-class classical music in a stunning 18th-century Baroque concert hall at the heart of Westminster.
The Sanctuary
0.3 km
Historic charm meets modern comfort in the heart of Westminster, with cozy rooms, a classic pub, and sustainable hospitality.
Jewel Tower
0.4 km
Discover the Jewel Tower, a medieval fortress guarding royal treasures and parliamentary history opposite London’s iconic Houses of Parliament.
Central Hall Westminster
0.4 km
Iconic Grade II* listed venue with Europe’s largest self-supporting dome, hosting historic and modern events in central London.
Westminster Abbey
0.4 km
Discover the majestic Gothic abbey where British monarchs have been crowned since 1066 and history echoes through every stone.
Victoria Tower Gardens South
0.4 km
A peaceful riverside park in Westminster featuring iconic memorials, scenic views, and a family-friendly playground beside the Houses of Parliament.
St Margaret's Church
0.4 km
Explore the serene St Margaret's Church, a historic Anglican church in London, next to Westminster Abbey, rich in history and stunning architecture.
The Supreme Court
0.5 km
Explore the UK's highest court in a stunning neo-Gothic building at the heart of London’s political and judicial district.
Royal Court
0.5 km
London’s Royal Court Theatre: A historic beacon for groundbreaking new plays and emerging playwrights in the heart of Sloane Square.
Mahatma Gandhi statue
0.5 km
A dignified bronze tribute to Gandhi’s peaceful legacy, standing humbly among world leaders in the heart of London’s historic Parliament Square.
Palace of Westminster
0.5 km
Discover the architectural splendor and historical significance of the Palace of Westminster, the iconic heart of British democracy in London.
Parliament Square Garden
0.5 km
A historic green oasis in Westminster, offering iconic views and monuments at the heart of London’s political heritage.
The Royal Military Chapel (The Guards’ Chapel)
0.5 km
A modernist military chapel in London, blending solemn remembrance with rich history and striking architecture.
The Guards Museum
0.5 km
Explore centuries of British military history through the iconic Foot Guards’ uniforms, artifacts, and stories at Wellington Barracks’ Guards Museum.
Sir Winston Churchill statue
0.5 km
Iconic bronze statue of Winston Churchill in Parliament Square, symbolizing British resilience and leadership during World War II.
Essential places to dine
Ma La Sichuan
0.0 km
Experience authentic, boldly spiced Sichuan cuisine in the heart of Westminster with vibrant flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.
Osteria dell'Angolo
0.2 km
Classic Italian flavors and fresh pasta in a warm, elegant Westminster setting with attentive service and a visible kitchen.
Mio Restaurant & Bar
0.2 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you in this cozy central London gem with generous portions and great value.
Sapori
0.3 km
Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine with generous portions and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Westminster, London.
Colosseo Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s Victoria at Colosseo Restaurant.
Caxton Grill
0.3 km
Refined British grill cuisine with fresh rooftop garden produce in a relaxed Westminster setting inside St Ermin’s Hotel.
The Pem
0.3 km
Elegant modern British dining in Westminster, honoring heritage with exquisite seasonal menus and refined ambiance.
Chez Antoinette Victoria
0.4 km
Authentic French bistro in London’s Victoria offering classic Lyonnais and Parisian dishes in a cozy, Parisian-style setting.
Bill's Victoria Restaurant
0.7 km
A vibrant British eatery near Victoria Station offering hearty classics, sharing plates, and plant-based dishes in a cozy, casual setting.
The English Grill
0.9 km
Classic British dining perfected with expertly grilled steaks and seasonal delights in a refined, elegant setting near London’s iconic theatres.
OKAN South Bank
1.0 km
Experience authentic Osaka-style okonomiyaki and Japanese street food in a cozy, lively South Bank eatery with friendly service and a nostalgic vibe.
Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge
1.1 km
Stylish 4-star hotel on London’s South Bank with exceptional dining, event spaces, and modern amenities near iconic landmarks.
Troia Southbank
1.1 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with halal options in a vibrant riverside setting near the London Eye.
Ekstedt at The Yard
1.1 km
Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
Great British Restaurant
1.1 km
Elegant British dining in the heart of St James’s, blending traditional flavors with modern sophistication in a tranquil hotel setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Westminster Abbey Shop
0.3 km
Discover exclusive Abbey-inspired gifts and souvenirs that support Westminster Abbey’s heritage and conservation efforts.
Jubilee Shop (Houses of Parliament Gift Shop)
0.5 km
Discover exclusive British political gifts and souvenirs inside the historic Westminster Hall at the Jubilee Shop, Houses of Parliament.
Houses of Parliament Shop
0.6 km
Discover parliamentary pride in souvenirs, books, and gifts at this cozy Bridge Street boutique, steps from Westminster's iconic halls.
Browns of London
0.9 km
Explore Browns of London for unique handcrafted gifts and local treasures in the heart of the city, perfect for memorable souvenirs from your travels.
Buckingham Palace Shop
0.9 km
Official royal souvenirs at the palace gates: chinaware, gifts, and memorabilia that bring Buckingham Palace's grandeur home with you. (162 characters)
The Queen's Shop
0.9 km
Exclusive royal gifts and British heritage souvenirs steps from Buckingham Palace, blending luxury, tradition, and timeless elegance in a charming London boutique.
Cool Britannia
0.9 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and vintage photography moments just steps from Buckingham Palace in a lively and welcoming shop.
Gift Shop - London Eye Shop
1.1 km
Capture London's magic at the London Eye Gift Shop: exclusive souvenirs, Thames views, and iconic keepsakes from the wheel's base.
Berry Bros. & Rudd Wine Shop
1.1 km
London’s oldest family-run wine merchant since 1698, blending royal tradition with expert wine and spirits in a historic Pall Mall setting.
Lock & Co. Hatters
1.1 km
Discover the world’s oldest hat shop, where centuries of British style and craftsmanship come to life in the heart of London.
John Lobb St. James
1.2 km
Where 170 years of royal patronage meets handcrafted perfection in every stitch.
Crest of London Ltd
1.2 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
Custom Gifts By Jupiter
1.2 km
Unleash creativity with bespoke gifts and custom decor from this South Bank artisan haven near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
The Giftree London
1.3 km
Discover London's soul in souvenirs, crafts, and conveniences at this Lambeth gem—unique gifts, luggage storage, and local flair await.
Gifts of London
1.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Blue Boar Pub
0.3 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty British classics in a cozy, historic setting near Abbey and Parliament—perfect for ales, roasts, and relaxed evenings.
Westminster Arms
0.4 km
Historic Westminster pub with parliamentary division bell, Shepherd Neame ales, and cozy alcoves steps from Abbey and Parliament—timeless British charm in political heart.
All Bar One Victoria
0.4 km
Sophisticated wines, global bites, and lively vibes on Victoria Street – London's go-to for stylish drinks and casual feasts near Westminster's heart.
Two Chairmen
0.4 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty pies, fresh ales, and classic British cheer just steps from St. James's Park and Parliament.
Adam & Eve
0.5 km
Classic Westminster pub pouring real ales and hearty grub amid historic streets—a cozy haven near Parliament and the Abbey for authentic London pints.
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
0.7 km
A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
Morpeth Arms
0.8 km
Historic Thameside pub with cask ales, hearty fare, haunted cellars, and MI6 views— a Westminster gem blending Victorian ghosts and modern cheer.
Bbar
0.9 km
Chic Victoria cocktail bar beneath a living wall, blending South African zest with inventive drinks, hearty bites, and unforgettable afternoon teas near Buckingham Palace.
The New York Bar
0.9 km
A polished hotel lounge opposite Buckingham Palace — handcrafted cocktails, tasting events and piano-accompanied afternoons in plush, traditional surroundings.
The Spy Bar
1.0 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
Le Champagne Bar
1.1 km
A compact riverside champagne lounge beside the London Eye—perfect for a celebratory flute and framed Thames views.
Primo Bar, London
1.1 km
Sophisticated South Bank cocktails and live jazz with Big Ben views—Primo Bar blends daytime lounge ease with electrifying nightly performances in stylish 60s-inspired surrounds.
Old Shades
1.1 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
All Bar One Waterloo
1.1 km
Sophisticated South Bank bar serving creative cocktails, sharing plates, and wines in a lively spot near Waterloo Station and the London Eye.
Slug & Lettuce - County Hall
1.2 km
Chic South Bank cocktail haven in County Hall: bottomless brunches, 2-for-1 sips, pub classics, and Thames views for London's liveliest lunches and nights out.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Boat Show Comedy Club
1.0 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
Cirque Du Soul
1.2 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
1.2 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
1.2 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
TSQ Club
1.2 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
Union
1.2 km
Vauxhall's relentless nightclub heartbeat: techno-fueled nights stretching to dawn in multi-zone bliss along the Thames.
Bootylicious London last Saturday of the month
1.2 km
Late-night Vauxhall institution for raw techno, queer-focused party nights and after-hours clubbing on Albert Embankment.
The Scotch of St James
1.3 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
Heaven
1.3 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
Lightbox London
1.4 km
Dive into dazzling LED realms at Vauxhall's electrifying nightclub, where lights, beats, and all-night energy create unforgettable weekend escapes.
Tabu London
1.4 km
Escape Mayfair's polish for Tokyo's neon-lit Shinjuku alleys at Tabu London—retro gaming vibes, caged dancers, hip-hop beats, and upscale bites fuel epic nights.
Tiger Tiger London
1.4 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
Fire Nightclub
1.5 km
Vauxhall's railway arch behemoth: all-night house marathons, go-go dancers, and dawn-defying beats in London's gay club epicenter.
Luxe Club
1.5 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
The Cuckoo Club
1.5 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Casual
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Instagrammable
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
