Blue Orchid

Romford. Is it part of Essex or London? Anyway, the Blue Orchid has become famous around the United Kingdom over the past year or so, mainly because of social media and Big John. The restaurant itself opened in 1963 and has been family run since it’s inception over 60 years ago. It’s been a while since I’ve had a Chinese after being pretty disappointed with my experiences in Chinatown and after many recommendations, I was very excited to see what was in store for me.

I arrived at opening time around 12pm and already a couple of customers had got in before me. A great sign. The service was excellent from start to finish. The restaurant itself had two floors albeit the upstairs one was not open during my visit, tables nicely spaced apart and gave you a real traditional vibe.

I ordered a quarter of Crispy aromatic duck (£18.50) for starter and then for mains, two seasoned king prawns (£16.80), Chicken Chinese style (£11.80), Fillet beef in black pepper sauce sizzler (£25.80) and Egg fried rice (£7.00).

The Crispy aromatic duck came already prepared by the staff which can be hit and miss as it has a tendency to turn dry and that’s always the big concern with duck. However, not a concern on this occasion as the meat was tender and the portion size just about enough for at least 4/5 pancakes with hoisin sauce and cucumber. I did enjoy it, it wasn’t the best I’ve ever had but set me up perfectly for the main course which arrived promptly after the starter was taken away.

The two seasoned king prawns which were both spicy and sweet had the perfect amount of both – absolutely delicious. The star of the show without a doubt. The Fillet beef in black pepper sauce is one of my all time favourite dishes and really impressed me. Sometimes the beef can be chewy and lack any sort of consistency but I really enjoyed this one. The Chicken Chinese style came with a rich barbecue sauce which looked very appetising on the eye, especially with the whiteness of the chicken. No complains with the Egg fried rice although I do think it was a little expensive.

No room for dessert as the starter and main course had me waving the white flag. The best Chinese restaurant I’ve visited since starting the channel back in August 2023.

Total cost of the meal: £79.40. (Enough for two people, maybe three.)

Star of the show: The two seasoned king prawns.

Would I recommend it? Yes. Without a doubt. Staff excellent, food superb and the general atmosphere is puts a smile on your face.