Scottish Enterprise Awards 2025/ 20 Best Chinese Restaurant 2025 – Glasgow Chinese cuisine has long been celebrated across the UK, and in Glasgow – one of Scotland’s most diverse cultural hubs – I-Chai stands out as a family-run business grounded in authenticity, passion, and community values. With two sit-in restaurants and multiple express takeaway locations, I-Chai continues to grow while staying true to its roots. Founder Chow Wong shares the story behind one of Glasgow’s most respected names in Chinese dining. Open for lunch and dinner and catering to a wide variety of tastes and budgets, I-Chai is dedicated to delivering memorable dining experiences built on exceptional food and genuine hospitality. Despite its continued expansion, I-Chai is not a franchise or chain, but a true family business built on hard work, loyalty, and a commitment to serving authentic Chinese cuisine at a fair price. A defining part of I-Chai’s success is its people-first approach. Team members who demonstrate true passion for the food industry, strong work ethic, and long-term dedication are encouraged to progress into leadership roles – and in some cases, even become part-owners of new locations. This shared-success culture reflects the values on which I-Chai was founded and continues to shape its journey today. Distinct Dining Experiences: Anniesland & Bishopbriggs I-Chai offers two unique restaurant experiences, each with its own atmosphere and style. The Anniesland restaurant, opened in 2005, is best known for its iconic unlimited Chinese tapas. This lively, social dining concept offers a set-price, freshly prepared menu ideal for families and groups who enjoy trying a variety of dishes together. The restaurant has become a staple in Glasgow’s West End, attracting diners from across the city. In contrast, the new Bishopbriggs restaurant delivers a more refined and modern dining experience. Spacious and thoughtfully designed, it offers a relaxed, elegant environment suited to families, celebrations, and guests looking to enjoy their meal at a slower pace. Several dishes are exclusive to dine-in, showcasing I-Chai’s creative approach and its dedication to offering a high-quality, memorable restaurant experience. From the warm welcome at the entrance to the final bite, Bishopbriggs is crafted to make every visit feel special. Restaurant vs Express – Serving Different Needs With One Standard To meet the growing demand for convenience, I-Chai has expanded its Express operations, now located in Anniesland, Airdrie, Bishopbriggs, Erskine, and Hamilton. Each Express branch is designed to provide quick, reliable takeaway and delivery while maintaining the same authenticity and freshness that define the restaurant kitchens. All Express locations follow the same preparation standards and quality controls, ensuring consistency across every branch. Dishes are cooked to order, guaranteeing fresh, flavourful meals regardless of where customers choose to order from. This creates a clear, complementary difference between the two sides of the business. The restaurants focus on atmosphere, creativity, attentive service, and the full sit-in experience – particularly at Bishopbriggs, where the setting is modern and welcoming with dishes available only for dining in. The Express locations, meanwhile, offer the speed, convenience, and reliability customers expect when enjoying I-Chai at home, while still delivering the authentic flavours and high standards the brand is known for. Together, the restaurant and Express formats allow I-Chai to serve the diverse needs of its customers while maintaining one consistent standard of quality. Growing With Its Community Even as it expands, I-Chai remains deeply connected to the communities it serves. Loyal customers continue to support the business, and in return, I-Chai gives back through meaningful local involvement. This includes sponsorship of the Glasgow Badminton Academy and Age Scotland, supporting both young people and seniors across the region. The business also participates in local fundraisers, raffles, and community events throughout the year. “Scotland is our home,” says Chow Wong. “Our customers have supported us from the start, and we’re committed to giving back in every way we can. We do plan to expand further within Scotland, but always carefully and with the right intentions.” A Recognised Pillar of the Community A proud family business, a trusted local name, and home to some of Scotland’s finest Chinese food, I-Chai is honoured to be recognised in the Scottish Enterprise Awards 2025.
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