China Tang at The Dorchester will host Hiroyasu Kayama, owner of Tokyo’s Bar Benfiddich, for an exclusive one-night guest bartender takeover in March.

It marks Kayama’s first appearance in the country as part of Bar Benfiddich’s 2026 UK Tour, organised by Akashi-Tai. The event is part of a series of updates at China Tang this spring, including extended late-night opening hours and weekly live music.

Bar Benfiddich, ranked 18th in The World’s 50 Best Bars, is the highest-ranked bar in Tokyo and is known for its precise, craft-driven approach to cocktails, emphasising seasonality, balance and meticulous preparation. The takeover has been arranged by China Tang’s Bar Manager Erik Lanza and Assistant Bar Manager Levs Surovecs, who continue to develop the bar’s programme through collaborations and seasonal menus.

For the takeover, a dedicated cocktail menu will feature six drinks: four created by Kayama, highlighting Hatozaki Whisky and Akashi-Tai Sake, and two by Surovecs. Guests will receive a complimentary glass of sparkling sake on arrival. Japanese fruits and garnishes will be supplied by Avanti Asia.

Since opening in 2005, China Tang has been a benchmark for fine Cantonese dining in London, combining classic Chinese elegance with contemporary British sophistication. Conceived by the late Sir David Tang, the restaurant features an Art Deco entrance on Park Lane, opulent private dining rooms and a lavish bar, inspired by the glamour of 1930s Shanghai.