Step off the elevator on the sixth floor of L’Escape Hotel in Jung-gu and you’re transported to 1920s Shanghai by way of Paris. Palais de Chine is pure drama: crimson velvet drapes, damask armchairs, mirrored ceilings, gilded sconces and towering floral arrangements that greet you at the door. A row of Michelin plaques spanning 2022 to 2025 sits proudly at the entrance. The space feels romantic and indulgent, ideal for date nights, celebrations or impressing visiting guests. It’s just a short walk from Hoehyeon Station, right in the heart of the city.
The Food Review
The Peking duck is the reason you come here, and it’s fabulous. The bird arrives glistening and mahogany-lacquered, then gets carved tableside with real ceremony. The skin shatters like glass. Dip it in sugar first, the classic Beijing way, then wrap slices of juicy meat in feather-light steamed pancakes with cucumber, leek and a beautiful swirl of hoisin and sesame sauce.
The mapo tofu is a standout for a different reason. Silky tofu sits in a rich, savory sauce, but a fragrant layer of herbs lifts it into something unique and refreshing. It’s a clever modern twist on a Sichuan classic.
Dim sum lovers should order the luxe basket, which includes truffle and gold-leaf siu mai and a caviar-topped dumpling. The juicy xiao long bao is another crowd favorite. Other must-orders include the claypot Sichuan eggplant, the glossy glazed prawns showered with crispy seaweed, and the chili shrimp. A comforting milky broth with tender ribs and dried chilies rounds the meal out nicely.
The verdict
Palais de Chine delivers Chinese fine dining with flair. The setting is opulent, the service polished, and the Peking duck ranks among Seoul’s best. Come hungry, bring friends, and let the duck steal the show.
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Meta description: Palais de Chine at L’Escape Hotel Seoul serves showstopping Peking duck, luxe dim sum and a herb-kissed mapo tofu in a lavish Shanghai-inspired dining room.