Chef Tong’s Next Chapter: The Essence of Gouqi
Gouqi (pronounced “goji”) is a contemporary Chinese fine‑dining restaurant in London’s St James’s/Trafalgar Square area, helmed by Chef Tong Chee Hwee—the former Hakkasan executive chef who helped earn the group its Michelin star. Hakkasan was synonymous with Chinese fine dining as never before experienced.
Chef Tong was originally from Ipoh, Malaysia and trained across Singapore and Southeast Asia, where he mastered traditional Cantonese techniques with a modern sensibility.
When Alan Yau handpicked him from a pool of 60–70 chefs to lead the kitchen at the soon-to-be-opened Hakkasan London, the mission was bold: to redefine how Londoners experienced Chinese cuisine. Within just a year, that vision came true—Hakkasan became the first Chinese restaurant in the UK to be awarded a Michelin star.
After 20 years at Hakkasan, Chef Tong stepped away and journeyed across Asia between 2019 and 2022. It was during this time that he discovered Gouqi Island, the second-largest island in Shengsi County, Zhoushan City.
Famous for its abundant goji berry fields, tranquil landscapes, and one of China’s most beautifully preserved fishing villages, the island left a deep impression. The experience became the spiritual and philosophical seed for his next chapter.
“It wasn’t just about food anymore. Gouqi Island represented vitality, balance, and tradition—and I knew that’s what the restaurant had to reflect.” — Chef Tong
The restaurant’s name was drawn from the humble goji berry. With a deep-rooted connection to the land and a commitment to honouring the region’s traditions, it stands as a testament to the beauty of Gouqi Island.
In 2022, he opened Gouqi.
The interiors exude calm sophistication—low lighting, curated Chinese artwork, and Botanique floral arrangements set a serene, luxurious tone.
Gouqi is more than a meal—it’s a refined, sensorial experience that captures the elegance of modern Cantonese dining while honouring its timeless roots. Whether searching for sublime dim sum, an unforgettable private dinner, or a moment of serenity with a rare tea, Gouqi delivers with grace and quiet grandeur.
The menu is elevated and authentic—think Peking duck with Oscietra caviar, A4 wagyu, abalone, and handcrafted dim sum presented with royal precision.
We first came to dine with fellow Malaysian and Singaporean friends, who amusingly had rather small appetites.
We had the most amazing desserts.
For round two, we were delighted to be invited back by the restaurant to explore more of the lunch menu. And of course, we said yes!
There is still something else to try for our third time there – Afternoon Tea!
Another added joy: Gouqi is incredibly dog-friendly.
Perhaps that’s down to Chef Tong being a dog parent himself—he has a cockapoo named Jessie (who is “very naughty”, says Chef Tong). That extra warmth was genuinely felt.
Gouqi, located at 25‐34 Cockspur St in London near Trafalgar Square
