Portrait of Guirong Wei
i. Biography
Guirong Wei is chef at Xi'an Impression in London, United Kingdom, with Shaanxi food as the brief and Xi’an as the reference point. The work is stated plainly in her own words: “I think Shaanxi food deserves more attention in the UK.” The line to family is equally direct: “My grandmother is my biggest cooking inspiration.”
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The Climb
The early archive runs from Xi’an to London: Guirong Wei worked as head chef at Xi'an, China (until 2008) and chef at Barshu in London, UK (2008–2015). That progression leads into ownership, with Xi'an Impression, Master Wei, and Dream Xi'an all tied to her name as co-founder, founder, and chef-owner.
Today
The current pitch is regional, not generic. At Xi'an Impression in London, United Kingdom, Guirong Wei is founder and head chef; in 2019, those same titles were also listed there. Master Wei Xi'an was founded in London, United Kingdom, and in 2019 Wei was head chef at Master Wei in Bloomsbury, London, United Kingdom. The aim is stated without decoration: “my dream is to bring my hometown food here. And I think Xi’an food is very special because it has more than 2000 years of history. I always wanted to run a restaurant specializing in Xi’an food.”
Signature
Biangbiang noodles sit among Guirong Wei’s signature dishes.
In Their Words “My grandmother is my biggest cooking inspiration.” “I learnt how to make noodles from her.”
Recognition
Guirong Wei has received OFM Awards — Best newcomer (2019).
FAQ
Asked of Guirong
Where did Guirong Wei work before?
Guirong Wei's earlier career included Xi'an and Barshu.
What recognition has Guirong Wei received?
OFM Awards Best newcomer (2019).
The Sunday email
Read about chefs like Guirong Wei in the Sunday email.
Every Sunday we send a lead story and up to four more about the chefs, winemakers, sommeliers and hoteliers behind the restaurants, bars, wineries and hotels we cover.
Recent stories
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