Fai’s Noodle Bar is a firm favourite among local diners; and surely the best indication as to any restaurant’s quality and authenticity is the loyal clientele it attracts. The restaurant can seat up to 180 diners and feels spacious, bright and sleek. Its open-plan arrangement makes it ideal for large parties, but couples and smaller groups will feel equally comfortable. A vast water feature and decorative lanterns help set the scene, as does the fact that the chefs can be viewed working busily in the kitchen. All of these sights and sizzling sounds go towards making the dining experience thoroughly enjoyable.

Choosing where to start can be quite a challenge, but the staff are happy to offer suggestions. Paper mats depicting many of the dishes also help the novice get a better idea of what they are ordering. One fantastic option is the bento box – a traditional assortment of dishes presented in a lacquered, compartmented box. I asked the manager to suggest a selection of dishes and the advice we received was priceless. The mussels in black bean sauce were succulent, the noodle soup was flavoursome, and the stir-fried kuay teow (fried flat noodles) had a spicy kick. A pot of Chinese tea and a dish of fresh fruits completed our meal perfectly. We’ll certainly be back to take advantage of the special lunch menu offering main courses from just £4.95.