A new dining and bar venue, Shan Shui Social, has launched at 14 Buckingham Palace Road in Victoria, London. The venue marks a distinct shift from the brand’s original restaurants, which are known for their refined 1920s Shanghainese art deco interiors. This latest opening embraces a more relaxed, back-alley bar character, described as the “cheeky younger sister” of the original Shan Shui concept.
The design was developed by interior architecture and design studio Macaulay Sinclair, which previously worked with the same ownership group on other hospitality projects in London. Drawing on its experience, the studio reimagined the traditional aesthetic with a playful twist, crafting a setting meant to feel open, intimate, and approachable.
The 74-cover venue features a Victorian-period shopfront leading into a setting with rich colours and textures, nodding to the Roaring Twenties while maintaining a more informal tone. The design integrates art deco references through metallic accents, mirrored finishes, and layered patterns, creating a setting that blends traditional influences with a playful, modern edge.
The main feature of the ground floor is a partially hidden bar that acts as the focal point of the space. A series of mirrors manipulates light and depth, guiding the guest’s gaze along the interior. This layout contributes to a subtle sense of discovery, enhancing the open-yet-private feel of the venue.
Downstairs, the basement level offers a more intimate “speakeasy” atmosphere. Small booths are tucked into vault-style alcoves, offering privacy for groups of four. Decorative details such as floral motifs on custom-designed wallcoverings and traditional painted anaglypta wallpapers reinforce the brand’s identity. A bespoke porcelain mosaic floor runs throughout the restaurant, bringing visual cohesion and detail to the interior.
The kitchen at Shan Shui Social operates with a fully electric setup, supporting a lower-carbon approach to restaurant operations. This decision aligns with a broader focus on sustainability and staff wellbeing.
Ellen Chew, Director of Chew On This Group, said: “Sustainability is extremely important to us. The kitchen at Shan Shui Social is fully electric to reduce carbon emissions and provides a safe and comfortable environment for our staff. We also continually strive to source the best ingredients from local producers for our dishes.”
Dishes served at the new venue are inspired by Cantonese and Sichuan cuisine, with the menu designed around sharing plates and casual bites. Key flavours include dim sum, roast meats, and spiced salads, while the drinks menu features cocktails built around Asian fruits and herbs, such as lychee, calamansi and yuzu.
The launch of Shan Shui Social introduces a more casual, energetic extension to the Shan Shui brand, offering both loyal customers and new guests a relaxed environment for drinks and dining. Its setting in Victoria places it within reach of key transport hubs and local attractions, and its distinctive design sets it apart on one of London’s busiest streets.
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