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CHINATOWN  |
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Chinatown |
Decorated streets, Chinese restaurants and aroma-filled shops |
There has been a Chinese community in London since the 19th century. Originally they were concentrated around the East End docks, frequented by Chinese sailors. The area became known for its slum housing and tales of opium dens, rather than the Chinese restaurants and supermarkets in the current Chinatown. Following extensive damage by aerial bombing during the Second World War and an influx of immigrants from Hong Kong, a Chinese community was established in Soho, where an ever expanding Chinatown has been created. |
Chinatown town today contains decorated archways, many Chinese restaurants and aroma-filled shops selling oriental produce. In late winter, the Chinese New Year is celebrated in a colourful street festival, with massive paper-Mache animals dancing through the streets. |
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Did you know? |
Samuel Johnson and Joshua Reynolds met at the Turk's Head Tavern (now 9 Gerrard Street) to found The Dining Club in 1764. A dining club is a social group requiring membership which meets for dinners and discussion on a regular basis. Clubs limit their membership to those who meet highly specific membership requirements; applicants must pass an interview, or simply pay a large membership fee. |
Most restaurants are open late! |
2008 is the Chinese year of the Rat |
 Leicester Square |
SEE ALSO |
