Styling itself as “the Best UK-Style Chinese Takeaway in Hua Hin,” UK Chinese Takeaway by Pitty has carved out a place in the local culinary scene. Catering to an expat community that knows its way around a crispy spring roll, this restaurant offers the familiar, comforting flavors of UK-style Chinese cuisine—distinct from what many might consider traditional Chinese fare, but no less nostalgic for those who grew up with these dishes. While authenticity might be debated, there’s no question that for many, it brings back memories of home.
Aromatic Crispy Duck
The meal begins with a quarter portion of aromatic crispy duck, a dish that serves as a perfect introduction to what UK Chinese Takeaway does best: melding crispy textures with bold, familiar flavors. The duck, marinated in a blend of aromatic spices, is steamed before being fried to a perfect crisp. Served with spring onions, cucumbers, pancakes, and hoisin sauce, the dish is all about the interplay of contrasting textures. The crispiness of the duck against the smooth, umami-rich hoisin sauce creates a delightful balance, offering diners an appetizing start that feels both indulgent and familiar.
Egg Fried Rice
A standard side dish that complements almost any main course, the egg fried rice here is a simple but effective offering. Fluffy, steamed rice is stir-fried with a mix of ingredients, and you can choose from egg, seafood, vegetables, or meat. It’s a dish that could easily be overlooked but shouldn’t be. The rice is seasoned well, with a nice balance of flavors, making it a reliable sidekick to the more robust mains.
Sweet and Sour Pork
The sweet and sour pork offers a crisp contrast to the softer textures of the duck and rice. Battered and fried to a golden crunch, the pork is tossed in a vibrant sweet and sour sauce that manages to hit just the right notes for an expat palate—sweet but not cloyingly so. The pork itself remains juicy, the crispy exterior providing a satisfying bite, while the sauce adds the expected tang. It’s a dish that feels entirely at home in this westernized version of Chinese cuisine, and it’s one that UK Chinese Takeaway does well.
Char Siu BBQ Pork
Char siu, a Cantonese-style barbecue pork, stands out for its savory, slightly sweet glaze. For those who prefer to avoid heat, this dish is a winner, offering depth of flavor without a spicy kick. The pork is tender, while the vegetables, stir-fried quickly to retain a crunch, add freshness to the dish. The al dente texture of the vegetables is particularly welcome, bringing a contrast that elevates what could otherwise be a simple dish. The high-heat cooking method typical of Chinese cuisine ensures that the ingredients retain their distinct qualities while blending harmoniously.
Beef with Black Bean Sauce
Finally, the beef with black bean sauce is an unmistakable nod to the UK Chinese takeaway tradition. Generously scattered fermented black beans give the dish its signature salty, umami punch, while the cuts of beef are lean, tender, and free from fat or sinew. It’s a hearty dish, the sauce rich but not overwhelming, allowing the quality of the beef to shine through. For many, this dish will transport them straight back to the bustling Chinese takeout shops of their childhood, where the flavors were as bold as they were comforting.
Final Thoughts
UK Chinese Takeaway by Pitty, also known as Wok and Roll, serves up a satisfying selection of western-style Chinese dishes with care and consistency. While some might argue about the authenticity, there’s no denying the appeal for those seeking the flavors they grew up with. From the crispy duck to the sweet and sour pork, each dish is executed with a clear sense of what makes this version of Chinese food so beloved by many in the West. If you’re craving a taste of home, this might just be the place to satisfy it.
