Round Square in Finsbury Park is becoming one of Islington’s most cherished community spaces. Run by couple Bing and Simon, it’s a labour of love, a cultural bridge, and a favourite spot of local MP Jeremy Corbyn! 

Bing, a Mandarin tutor in Islington, had long dreamed of opening a restaurant in the borough. In 2023, she and Simon found the perfect spot. “We love Finsbury Park,” says Bing. “The people, the energy – it’s perfect. Traditional Cantonese food is rare in London. We wanted to bring something special.”  

Round Square’s menu features authentic Cantonese cuisine – crispy roast pork belly and aromatic duck – alongside Shanghai-style free-range chicken, all marinated and roasted in-house. This commitment to quality draws Chinese diners from far and wide.

A community hub 

Round Square is a cornerstone of the borough’s Chinese community. They regularly host the Islington Chinese Association and other elderly groups, some of whom travel from outside London to reconnect over a shared meal.

“One group of 18 elders from across the country come here to meet,” says Simon. “We keep the prices low so they can afford to come.”

Helping elders socialise is deeply important to the couple. During the pandemic, Bing was unable to visit her father, who had Alzheimer’s. Without social contact, his mind quickly declined, and she remembers him no longer recognising her voice on the phone with great sadness.

That experience fuels her mission to create a welcoming and accessible space. “We want elders to have fun together – and they do! When they’re here, I can see the light in their eyes.”

Just last week, someone called to ask if a guest with additional needs could dine during the day, have help eating, and a space to draw. Simon and Bing didn’t hesitate – they opened the restaurant specially for them.

“London can be so lonely. We want this to be a place where everyone feels welcome,” says Bing.

A local favourite

On a recent visit, the Islington Chinese Association were gathered around a large table in one of Round Square’s two private rooms, kitted out with karaoke equipment, which the restaurant offers free of charge.

“We love coming here” says Ying, the group’s unofficial chairwoman. “We sing, we catch up – the owners are wonderful and the food’s delicious. Try the duck!”

Simon and Bing’s children help out on weekends, and they’ve poured their life savings into making Round Square a success.

“I love my customers – they’re all my friends,” says Bing. “It’s a tough time economically, but we keep going because we believe in what we’re doing.”

Their passion shines through in the food, service, and the beautifully decorated space. The restaurant has earned a 5-star food hygiene rating, and their reputation continues to grow – local MP Jeremy Corbyn is a regular customer and avid supporter!

Circling the square

Looking ahead, Simon and Bing hope more locals will discover Round Square. Bing explains the meaning behind the name: ‘In Chinese culture, the square represents rules and frameworks, while the circle represents flexibility. The Round Square means having rules and the wisdom to bend them.”

It’s a fitting name for a place that serves up strictly authentic dishes in a space where everyone is invited to relax, connect, and feel at home.

Local businesses looking for any support can contact the council’s Local Economies Team. Email: andrew.paschalis@islington.gov.uk