Maxim's Peking Cuisine — Restaurant in London

Took hubby and my boys out for a meal for his birthday.

I admit I hadn't been here for 15 years because back then I was a regular customer, but they never recognised me and then the portions got noticeably smaller - and when I mentioned this to the waiter back then he insisted, to my face, that they’d always been that size (They hadn’t. I’d always taken a doggy bag home for lunch before). I didn't go back for 15 years.

Anyway, due to my husband's curiosity (they are a well-rated local restaurant with central London prices) and the passage of time, I swallowed my feelings and booked a table for his special day.

Lovely 3 course meal had by all. Food tasty. Service ok.

Until… I asked for the bill.

Despite them bringing my hubby a birthday flaming sambuca and singing 'Happy Birthday' (random choice for a family meal on a Wednesday night, but hey ho) … the manager put the bill in front of him.

So far, so #everydaysexism.

I smiled and laughingly said, “No, it’s his birthday…wrong assumption!” whilst beckoning the bill over to me.

No apology expected, it was a forgivable error this time, but then the manager said, as I handed my card over:

“Oh …you’re giving me your card, but it’s his money!”

???!!!

I responded: “Errrr… no, it’s MY money and I earn my own way, thank you!”

No apology.

Instead, he dug himself further…

“Yeah, so your money is your money, but his money is also your money!”

“My money is his money too.” I said, through gritted teeth, as I paid, furious at his insistent sexism.

Will never EVER go there again, it took a lot to give them another chance 15 years on… and I’m justified in that their level of service has only plumbed new depths over that time.

Customer experience is EVERYTHING.

I was horrified at the insulting way they treat women in 2022. Seriously?

EDIT: As I cannot reply to their comment. Yes, I already mentioned the singing. No, it's not an overreaction - I shared this on social and had over 100 reactions and comments - not one saw a funny side, so I think you're out of touch with how the world has moved on. And that is not an apology by then further digging yourself a hole by saying I'm overreacting. No other restaurant behaves like this. Take note of the all negative reviews and use them...

Lots of pluses. Good hot plates, proper linen on tables. A nice mix of dishes but expect to pay more than the average. I'd give 5 stars but there are inconsistencies with the service and food which drag it down. I think the restaurant is spacious and well presented but some attention to cleanliness of chairs, seating arrangement would elevate the whole experience. They have so much space to be creative and add to the customer experience. Major pluses are the preparation of some dishes the salt and pepper squid is exquisite, as is the crab. The rice was very average and I think the range of seafood dishes is limited.

I think for a fine dining experience it's not quite there. It's better than many but there's room for improvement. The service whilst polite was hesitant and disorganised.

——-

Edited February 2024

Went for a birthday meal the restaurant has improved in so many areas. The food is head and shoulders above many of their competitors. The starters are exquisite especially the prawn taste and spare ribs. The fish was cooked to my husband’s specification, the fried rice was tasty full of flavour and assorted proteins, as for the squid in spicy salt and chilli next level cooking. Food is not cheap but when you have quality you tolerate even expect a slightly higher price tag. The chefs pay attention to detail as every dish was tasty and well prepared.

Most of the service issues have resolved but it’s not perfect, e.g. not changing cutlery between courses is not very nice. One waiter took our dirty cutlery and left it on our table in between courses. I think this lowers standards and but as it was a special occasion we didn’t make a fuss.

Overall service could be improved but the maitre d and other staff were polite and we will be back.

Edit august 2025

The fish with ginger and spring onion is the most bland dish we’ve ever had in a Chinese restaurant. There is a slight deterioation in quality in this third visit, whereas they needed to up their game. Such a shame as some dishes are...

I recently visited this restaurant and felt compelled to share my experience. The service here is subpar and doesn’t merit the 12.5% service charge.

I was seated near the back and struggled to get the attention of the waitstaff. When a waiter finally came over, I asked about the Satay Chicken starter, specifically how many skewers it included. He told me it came with six. When the order arrived, however, it was only four skewers. I brought this to another waiter’s attention, only to be told that the starter indeed comes with four skewers, not six.

Another issue arose when I ordered Prawn Crackers, a staple for any Chinese meal. The crackers arrived slightly over-fried—not a problem for me—but the waiter failed to provide any sauces. We asked if sauces were meant to be included, and after a brief wait, they brought some to the table. This poor service isn’t acceptable for the service charge they demand.

Based on these experiences, I find the 12.5% service charge excessive and unfairly imposed on customers.

The restaurant’s atmosphere was nice, so credit where it’s due.

As for the food, I ordered the Hot and Sour Soup, which had an off-putting texture—far too thick, more like gravy than soup, with hardly any flavour. I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone. The stir-fry lamb was overly salty, but the egg-fried rice was impressive and well-executed.

I should also mention that the chairs at the restaurant felt very light and flimsy. Throughout the evening, I couldn’t shake the feeling that they might tip over at any moment.

In the end, I did pay the service charge. However, I have read reviews which have stated that the manager tends to argue when customers try to refuse this charge, so be aware of that if you visit.

The price of the food is quite dear compared to other restaurants in the area and I am afraid to say that this price is most certainly...