Rocking up at Wonton Charlie’s on the first rainy day in months feels like kismet. At this Hong Kong-inspired noodle bar everything is steamy. I might be soaked and shivering, but am instantly warmed by plumes of vapour that waft over from massive metal pots in the open kitchen. The quick arrival of a strong Vesper martini doesn’t hurt either.
An unpretentious place to get a relaxed bite
Owned by the restaurant group behind Peckham’s much-loved Mr Bao, Wonton Charlie’s is a casual joint attached to the front of vibey Cantonese restaurant Cafe Kowloon. It’s been a popular lunchspot since late 2025, but only recently started dinner service. The space has an airy, canteen-like feel, with a massive stainless steel bar wrapping round the kitchen. Storied chef Budgie Montoya stands at its centre, dishing out noodle soup and dumplings. Already, Wonton Charlie’s seems like a hit with commuters grabbing takeaway or stopping by for a quick bite on their way home from work (it’s right next to London Fields station). By the time I leave, the 18 seats are almost all taken.
For the grub, it’s a simple offering. Choose your wonton (pork, prawn, both or fish skin), choose your noodles (with or without broth), choose your side (crispy fish skin or fish balls). I go for pork and prawn with noodles in broth and crispy fish skin. The fish skin is featherlight, with an airy batter and a satisfying crunch – the perfect beer snack. Then comes the generous bowl of comforting soup. The broth is clear but rich in flavour – not too salty, slightly sweet and with a delicate fishiness from the use of traditional dried flounder. Handmade noodles are thin but still have a good bite. The plump hand-wrapped wontons come with a bouncy, meaty filling.
Wonton Charlie’s also triumphs on the smaller details: a crisp pilsner arrives with a chilled glass; each station is supplied with a pot of unctuous and umami homemade chilli oil; diddy little cups of complimentary Chinese tea are placed in front of every diner as soon as they sit down.
In short, this is an unpretentious place to get a relaxed bite that won’t break the bank. As the cooler weather rolls in, catch us here hunkering down over a steamy bowl.
The vibe An affordable, causal spot inspired by the noodle bars of Hong Kong.
The food Wontons, noodles, soup. And that’s it.
The drink Unlimited Chinese tea, cold beer and cocktails from Cafe Kowloon next door.
Time Out tip Don’t skimp on the chilli oil.