TĪNG, derived from the Chinese word for “living room”, is the collective name for the restaurant and lounge on level 35 of London’s Shard. Situated 128 metres above ground level, both areas offer unsurpassed views of many London landmarks.

“Whoa!” (c) Black Rob

As impressive as all that sounds, I didn’t get a chance to sample the food in that picturesque ambience. Instead, I got to try one of the dishes within the confines of Borough Market where the chefs at the soon to be opening Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard were cooking up a sampler dish to try before the restaurant opens its doors to the public.

“Is TĪNG a fancy Caribbean restaurant?”

Nah bredrin. It’s described as “European menu with an Asian twist”.

So what does that actually mean in the real world. Well from the small Penang Curry Laksa sampler I did try, I would describe it as Asian flavours for the blind.

“Sword of Omens, give me sight beyond sight!”

It just so happens that a few years ago I went on a food pilgrimage to Malaysia, which included Penang, arguably the foodie capital of the country. This gave me enough solid background tasting experience to form a strong opinion on the food.

“The Breakdown?”

• Presentation – it’s pretty much on point – the disposable cutlery was just for the convenience for the occasion. I imagine it would look very, very nice in the restaurant.
• Taste – I guess this is where the “European” bit they describe kicks in. The actual soup base was very far off in flavour. If anything, the more known delicate flavour and heat balance I would have expected is replaced by a spicy coconut milk flavour.
• Overall – not a good representation of the Penang Curry Laksa, unless it’s your first time trying a laksa.

TĪNG opens to the public on 6th May 2014.

TING Restaurant
Level 35
Shangri-La Hotel At The Shard
31 St Thomas Street
London
SE1 9QU

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