We Londoners are extremely lucky to have a huge choice of Chinese restaurants, both within Chinatown and out in the suburbs. Obviously the eateries in Chinatown are spurred on by the huge amount of competition, and by the local Chinese residents, but the
Water Margin in Golders Green is a strong contender.
Outside the Water Margin
We've been eating there for nearly twenty years and have never been disappointed. Judging by the way the place is always busy, and many of the customers are Chinese, we are not wrong. The speciality is Chinese spare ribs and barbecue duck, and I would never eat anything else. Just walking past, looking in the window and catching sight of all those deliciously seductive birds displaying their gleaming, crispy, mahogany skins would be enough to turn a vegetarian into a carnivore. The Water Margin is a Cantonese restaurant, so don't expect to eat crispy sweet and sour pork or other Pekinese delicacies, just enjoy what they do best.
Ducks in the Window
The restaurant is on two floors and is very unpretentious. The only decorations are sepia toned photographs of China on the walls. The staff are efficient and all speak good English, so there is no need to order by numbers, and they will make changes to the dishes on the menu if you wish. Should you just fancy popping in for a light meal during the day, a bowl of noodles in soup with duck, pork, or whatever else takes your fancy will fill a hole, but be warned that if you try to follow it with other courses you will find yourself having to let out your belt by a notch or two. There is an extensive choice of vegetarian dishes on offer, as well as meat and seafood, and the Water Margin is also licensed. If you're in a hurry you can order food to take away, but they don't do home delivery.
