In the heart of Mayfair, proudly situated on Grosvenor Square, Lucky Cat by Gordon Ramsay opened its doors in 2019, offering a vibrant and eclectic dining experience that transports guests to the spirited ambiance of 1930s Tokyo’s kissas and Shanghai’s drinking dens. With an emphasis on character, energy, exceptional cuisine, and impeccable service, this Asian Eating House quickly became a culinary hotspot.
Rachel and I had long been intrigued by the restaurant’s reputation for experiential dining and its inventive cocktail menu. As we stepped inside, we were enveloped by an atmosphere that pulsated with life—a blend of contemporary design and nods to traditional Asian aesthetics. The ambience promised a lively evening, and we were eager to dive into the culinary journey that awaited us.
Food and Drink at Lucky Cat by Gordon Ramsay Mayfair
Rachel and I were warmly greeted by Vito, the Restaurant Manager, who showed us to the bar. We kicked off our adventure with cocktails, expertly crafted by Nicolás, the resident Mixologist, opting for the Okinawa Margherita. I chose the classic version, while Rachel opted for the spicy rendition, infused with Tabasco for an extra kick. My traditional Okinawa Margherita was elegantly crafted and refreshingly easy to sip, while Rachel’s spicy twist added a delightful tanginess to the experience.
The food menu at Lucky Cat is nothing short of a smart exploration of various Asian cuisines, and it quickly captivated our attention. After perusing the menu and querying portion size with Arlo, the Assistant Restaurant Manager in training, we began our culinary adventure with spicy edamame, which leaned more towards sambal than pure heat, delivering a rich umami flavor that teased our palates.
Next, we were presented with the tuna tartare, artfully arranged with a raw egg perched atop. The server skillfully mixed the egg into the tartare at our table, revealing a base of crispy wontons. The tuna was meaty yet delicate, seasoned beautifully with a hint of soy, making it a perfect starter.
As the evening progressed, we savored a soft shell crab salad that stood out for its vibrant combination of rocket and an Asian sweet and sour sauce. Mixed tableside, the crispy crab offered a delightful contrast of textures—crunchy, light, and perfectly complemented by the pepperiness of the sauce.
Our exploration continued with an aubergine dish that was smoky and crunchy on top, giving way to a tender, slow-baked interior that was utterly moreish. The Korean Spiced Black Cod was another highlight; a delicate, flaky texture and subtle flavor that harmonised beautifully with the accompanying sauce. The Gordon Fried Chicken, affectionately known as GFC, did not disappoint either. The savory sauce, reminiscent of buffalo sauce but with an Asian twist, coated the chicken, which maintained its crispness despite being generously drenched.
We could not resist indulging in the duck bao buns next, thanks to Arlo’s praise as a standout dish. These were a sight to behold, featuring a deep-fried tender shredded duck, pickled cucumber, and cabbage. The bao buns themselves were large and fluffy, and the hoisin sauce added a savory depth that enhanced the entire dish.
While many Asian restaurants may not emphasise desserts, Lucky Cat takes pride in offering a selection that stands out. We concluded our meal with a Baba dessert infused with winter spices—cinnamon, ginger, and star anise—that lent a festive vibe to the dish. Beneath its delicate presentation lay a solid custard base, contrasting beautifully with a wobbly, brine-flavored layer that introduced a hint of saltiness. It was a dessert that managed to be both delicate and indulgent, leaving a lasting impression as we finished on a high note. We finished our meal with Lucky Cat’s homemade Yuzucello, made on site and not filtered. This digestive was sharp and clean and made for the perfect palate cleanser post meal.
What truly set Lucky Cat apart was Gordon Ramsay‘s commitment to excellence at every touchpoint. The restaurant boasts strong relationships with top suppliers, ensuring that every ingredient is of the highest quality. From fish sourced from the finest suppliers in Japan and Spain to premium beef from the acclaimed Lake District Farmers, the attention to detail was evident in every dish. Even the unique kimchi and yusu hot sauce, crafted by London-based Eaten Alive, added an extra layer of authenticity to the dining experience.
Furthermore, Lucky Cat collaborates with Surrey Ceramics, a family-owned business that provides bespoke plates and crockery, further enriching the overall dining experience. Each dish was presented with care, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the meal.
As we left Lucky Cat, we felt a sense of satisfaction that came not just from the exquisite food but from the entire experience—a celebration of Asian cuisine infused with creativity and passion. It was a dining adventure that lingered in our memories, and we knew we would return to explore more of what this remarkable restaurant had to offer.
Lucky Cat by Gordon Ramsay Mayfair
10 Grosvenor Square
London
W1K 6JP
United Kingdom
