China Star has been serving the Chinese food needs of Haymarket for a number of years. I’d popped in on a number of occasions, both for sit-in and takeaway .

Exterior

Much in the same fashion as nearby Eastern Cuisine the place has had highs and lows over the years. I was hopeful of catching it on a good day when I visited.

The setting is homely and a little worn, but the welcome is friendly and warm. I was promptly seated and left to contemplate the menu. It covered the usual broad selection of Chinese dishes. I alighted upon two vegetarian choices, starting with salt and pepper beancurd then following with braised aubergine, with some noodles ordered as an accompaniment.

Starter

The starter packed a good amount of heat and the texture of the beancurd, which is so often the thing that puts people off this ingredient, was light and crisp.

The main course wasn’t quite so good. It was a huge, volcanically hot portion, but was rather gloopy. The accompanying noodles were much more to my liking.

Aubergine and noodles

So overall, China Star was hit and miss on this visit. I enjoyed the starter but the main course failed to sparkle. It’s a very friendly place, though, so I’ll no doubt be back for takeaway before long.

Scores
Blythe scores China Star
3.5/5 for food
3/5 for presentation
2.5/5 for setting
3.5/5 for service
giving an overall 12.5/20

I ate: salt and pepper beancurd; braised aubergine; noodles

I drank: lager

I wore: action footwear

Total bill: £18.90