First off, that is some top rhyming in the name. I’ve seen far too many Chinese restaurants that just lazily use any old title for their shop, but that is brilliant. I do wonder whether the location was chosen because of the name rather than where it was though. Anyway name debates aside, Ling’s is easily one of the best Chinese restaurants I’ve been to, ever. I’ve visited a fair few Chinese restaurants in my time, particularly in the last few months, but Ling’s is so far above its competitors that it’s embarrassing at times. The restaurant itself has a classy, contemporary feel to it unlike the usual dated look that most sport and the menu itself is large and impressive. The range of meals on their menu manages to cater for everyone as it includes fish, chicken, duck and beef dishes as well as various vegetarian options too, all of which are available at very reasonable prices. They also offer a takeaway service if you don’t fancy having a sit down meal there but to be honest, the restaurant and service there is so good that I’d recommend you putting on some pants and going in there yourself.
Emma Louise M.
Rating des Ortes: 4 Manchester, United Kingdom
Don’t you just love a bit of rhyming? Especially when it comes to restaurant names. Lings on Kings is a fine example of using both the street name and the owner’s name. Wasn’t it a lucky combination? First of all you know you’re in safe hands as this very owner, Ling Lam, has almost 30 years worth of experience in the restaurant business.(She’s also a renowned singer who will perform on cue so watch out.) And the awards don’t lie — Lings on Kings won the Best Restaurant Award for 2010’s Southport Food and Drink Festival. So, what’s all the fuss about? The first Beijing-inspired restaurant of its kind in the North West, it feels very luxurious thanks to the décor and the warm welcome you’ll receive. In addition to your usual Chinese fare there are plenty of dishes you might not have come across before and a nice focus upon seafood. Scallops, squid and prawns all feature as well as meatier options like steak and crispy duck in a variety of sauces. The banquets are where they really shine and it’s a super venue for parties, as they’ll go the whole hog to make the celebration special providing table decorations and popping sparklers in your puddings. The food really is delicious, and if the place sometimes looks empty I can only assume it’s difficult to find as it is something of a trek from the main hub of Southport. The service is perfectly lovely and all the dishes are great value as far as I’m concerned. From now on it’s generally the first port of call if myself and the brunette are in the mood for something Oriental at the seaside!