Full Breakdown
Amy Poon Revives Family Legacy with Poon’s at Somerset House
2/24/2026, 11:00:47 PM
The Journey to Poon’s at Somerset House
Amy Poon, daughter of renowned Chinese-British chef Bill Poon, opened her first permanent restaurant, Poon’s at Somerset House, in November 2025. Despite her family's legacy in the culinary world, Poon initially pursued a different path, studying Japanese at Oxford and working in public relations and advertising in Tokyo, Australia, and Singapore. Her parents, who immigrated from Hong Kong in the late 1960s, established a successful restaurant group in London, with Bill Poon becoming the first Chinese chef to earn a Michelin star in 1980.
The Turning Point
Poon's transition back to the culinary scene was catalyzed by a friend's encouragement, prompting her to reconsider her career trajectory. After quitting her job, she developed a plan to revive the family restaurant brand, leading to a series of culinary ventures, including a pop-up in Clerkenwell and a residency at Carousel. In 2022, she launched a line of sauces, paving the way for her permanent establishment at Somerset House.
Culinary Philosophy and Menu Highlights
At Poon’s, Amy Poon emphasizes a menu that reflects both her family's heritage and her personal tastes. The restaurant features a variety of cooking methods and dishes that prioritize balance and home-style cooking. Signature items include clay pot rice topped with the family's wind-dried meats and a roast duck salad inspired by her father's original recipes. Poon aims to educate diners about authentic Chinese cuisine, moving away from common Westernized interpretations.
One notable dish is her take on prawn toast, which she initially resisted but ultimately refined using a heritage recipe from her father. The menu is intentionally limited in desserts, offering only lychee sorbet and a trio of bites inspired by chef Helen Goh, showcasing a blend of Western techniques with Asian sensibilities.
Reception and Future Aspirations
Poon’s at Somerset House has garnered a warm reception, attracting both new patrons and those familiar with her parents' legacy. Poon acknowledges the weight of her family's history but is focused on establishing her own identity in the culinary landscape. The restaurant's popularity has sparked inquiries about future locations, although Poon remains committed to perfecting her current establishment.
Looking ahead, Poon plans to expand her offerings online, including her parents' wind-dried meats and chili oil, as well as launching a line of Chinese knives and home goods. She aims to create a platform that celebrates authentic Chinese culture and cuisine, countering negative perceptions associated with "Made in China."
Conclusion
Amy Poon's journey to opening Poon’s at Somerset House reflects a blend of personal exploration and familial legacy. While she embraces her heritage, Poon is determined to carve out her own niche in the culinary world, prioritizing quality and authenticity over fleeting trends. As she continues to develop her restaurant and product offerings, Poon remains committed to sharing the richness of Chinese cuisine with a broader audience.
