Menu

Melbourne

The 16 Best Chinese Chinatown in Melbourne

Exploring Chinese Chinatown in Melbourne is a vibrant and exciting experience for those looking to immerse themselves in Chinese culture, cuisine, and shopping. Melbourne's Chinatown is located in the heart of the city and is the oldest Chinatown in Australia, dating back to the 1850s.

Visitors to Chinese Chinatown in Melbourne will find themselves surrounded by traditional Chinese architecture, bustling markets, and a wide variety of restaurants serving up delicious authentic cuisine. Whether you're looking for a taste of home or wanting to try something new, Melbourne's Chinatown has something for everyone.

When it comes to finding the best Chinese Chinatown in Melbourne, it's important to consider what each has to offer in terms of dining, shopping, and overall experience. Below is a list of the 16 best Chinese Chinatown in Melbourne to help you make an informed decision.

How this guide is ordered

Our Melbourne editors chose these businesses from across the city and suburbs, looking for a reputation that has stood up over time, details we could confirm and genuinely good work in their field. Each list is reviewed through the year as places open, move and close.

Featured businesses may pay for a more visible position within the guide.

Top 3Full listMapHow to choose

Quick view

Featured options

Select an option to see its summary.

#1
Master Lanzhou Noodle Bar-Chinatown
4.8580 reviews
#2
Chinatown Melbourne
4.36,283 reviews
#3
Shanghai Village
4.22,924 reviews

Full list

Compare 16 local options

Master Lanzhou Noodle Bar-Chinatown#1
What stands out

  • Authentic Lanzhou style hand-pulled noodles

  • Delicious and hearty comfort food

  • Efficient service and consistent food quality

  • Warm ambiance and top-notch service

Master Lanzhou Noodle Bar-Chinatown

4.8580 reviews
244 Swanston St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

Master Lanzhou Noodle Bar-Chinatown is a beloved Chinese restaurant located in Melbourne, Australia. Offering a variety of service options including No-contact delivery, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in, customers can enjoy their delicious meals wherever they prefer. The menu boasts Alcohol, Beer, Small plates, and Wine to pair with their delectable dishes.

Customers rave about the delightful dining experience at Master Lanzhou Noodle Bar-Chinatown. Here are some key points from their reviews:

With a stellar rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 580 reviews, it's clear that Master Lanzhou Noodle Bar-Chinatown is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Don't miss out on the opportunity to indulge in their signature dishes and experience the cozy atmosphere for yourself!

Chinatown Melbourne#2
What stands out

  • A great place for Chinese food with a variety of options from different parts of China.

  • Offers a unique cultural experience with traditional performances and celebrations like Chinese New Year.

  • Beautiful architecture and design that captures the essence of a Chinese village street.

  • Parking available nearby, close to main train stations and markets.

Chinatown Melbourne

4.36,283 reviews
Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

Chinatown Melbourne is a vibrant historical landmark located on Little Bourke St in Melbourne, Australia. Known for its rich tapestry of Chinese culture, this bustling district offers a diverse range of authentic Asian cuisine and traditional markets. Visitors can immerse themselves in the colorful street art and lively atmosphere that make Chinatown Melbourne a must-visit destination.

Customer reviews highlight the following key points:

Whether you're looking for a delicious meal, cultural experience, or a scenic stroll, Chinatown Melbourne has something to offer for everyone. Make sure to visit and explore all that this historic landmark has to offer.

Shanghai Village#3
What stands out

  • An absolute hidden gem in Melbourne’s China Town with exceptionally appealing smells and standout food.

  • Great value for food offerings such as dumplings, BBQ pork buns, and 'tofu skin prawn'.

  • A Melbourne favorite with quick service, great food, and a memorable experience for all ages.

  • A favorite for cheap eats in China Town with a variety of veggie options and quick service.

Shanghai Village

4.22,924 reviews
112 Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

Shanghai Village is a renowned Chinese restaurant located in Melbourne. The restaurant offers various services and amenities to ensure a pleasant dining experience. Customers can enjoy delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. The atmosphere is described as casual, making it suitable for different groups.

With a rating of 4.2 based on 2924 reviews, Shanghai Village has garnered positive feedback from patrons. Some key points highlighted in the reviews include:

Whether customers are looking for a quick bite, a family meal, or a casual dining experience, Shanghai Village aims to deliver delicious Chinese cuisine with a touch of authenticity and value for money.

Juicy Bao#4
What stands out

  • Delightful experience with flavorful dishes

  • Underwhelming bbq pork buns but overall okay food

  • Consistently good food with slightly high prices

  • Quick service with delicious chilli oil wontons

Juicy Bao

4.31,494 reviews
178 Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

Juicy Bao is a renowned Chinese restaurant located in the heart of Melbourne. With a rating of 4.3 stars, it offers a variety of services to its customers, including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. The restaurant provides an authentic experience with a casual atmosphere, making it perfect for families and groups.

Some of the standout dishes at Juicy Bao include their delectable dumplings, savory noodles, and mouth-watering Black Pepper Beef. Customers rave about the freshness and flavors of the food, praising the fluffy bao and perfectly cooked dumplings.

Here are some key points from the customer reviews:

Whether you're looking for a quick lunch or a nice dinner with your loved ones, Juicy Bao is a go-to spot for authentic Chinese cuisine in Melbourne. Visit their website for more information and to place your order today!

Shanghai Street#5
What stands out

  • Quick service, delicious food, and recommendable dishes like kung pao chicken and signature dumplings.

  • Efficient service, good food quality at a fair price, and a vibrant atmosphere.

  • Amazing food experience, great service, fresh and juicy dumplings, and quick service.

  • Good service, tasty food, efficient staff, and reasonable prices.

Shanghai Street

4.21,735 reviews
146/148 Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

Shanghai Street is a popular Shanghainese restaurant located in Melbourne, Australia. They offer a variety of services such as delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Customers can enjoy a range of offerings including beer, wine, and organic dishes in a casual atmosphere.

With a rating of 4.2, based on 1735 reviews, Shanghai Street has garnered positive feedback from patrons. Some key points from customer reviews include:

China Red#6
What stands out

  • Quick service and comfortably priced food

  • Impersonal but not bad service, unique ordering system

  • Traditional dishes that are tasty and plentiful

  • Fresh and delicious food, quick arrival of meals

China Red

4.21,075 reviews
206 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

China Red is a popular Chinese restaurant located in Melbourne, Australia. They offer a variety of services including No-contact delivery, traditional Dine-in experience, Takeaway options, and more. Customers have praised the quick service, reasonably priced food, and delicious dishes like the xiao long bao and fried rice.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Fortune Dumpling#7
What stands out

  • Exceptional service and delicious dumplings

  • Clean and modern restaurant with amazing food

  • Nice casual spot for handmade dumplings

  • Warm atmosphere, fresh food, and great service

Fortune Dumpling

4.3232 reviews
198 Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

Fortune Dumpling is a renowned Chinese restaurant located in the heart of Melbourne. This cozy establishment offers a variety of service options including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Guests can indulge in a delightful array of offerings such as alcohol, cocktails, and wine while enjoying the casual atmosphere. The restaurant caters to families, groups, and the LGBTQ+ community, creating a warm and inclusive crowd.

Customer reviews highlight the exceptional dining experience provided by Fortune Dumpling:

Tim Ho Wan#8
What stands out

  • Delicious, flavorful dishes cooked to perfection.

  • Fast service with food served promptly.

  • Popular dishes like the baked bun with BBQ pork are a must-try.

  • Efficient staff and a pleasant dining experience.

Tim Ho Wan

3.81,720 reviews
206 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

Tim Ho Wan is a renowned Cantonese restaurant located in Melbourne. This establishment offers a wide range of services and features, including no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. In terms of accessibility, there are wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating available.

Customers have praised Tim Ho Wan for its delicious dishes and exceptional service. Here are some key points from their reviews:

With a solid rating of 3.8, Tim Ho Wan continues to impress its customers with authentic Cantonese cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere. For a delightful dining experience in Melbourne, make sure to visit Tim Ho Wan!

Chine On Paramount Chinese Restaurant#9

Chine On Paramount Chinese Restaurant

4.2197 reviews
101 Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

Chine On Paramount Chinese Restaurant offers a variety of service options including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in experiences. Customers praise the outstanding food and service provided by the friendly staff. The Mapo tofu dish receives special mention for being the best one customer has ever had. Some customers appreciate the attention to detail, like filling up water glasses constantly, and the reasonable prices of both food and wine. However, others mention that some dishes lacked flavor, like the Special Fried Rice and Seafood Combination. Overall, the atmosphere is described as pleasant, with good food and service, making it a potential dining spot for those in the neighborhood.

Empress of China#10
What stands out

  • Best value ever~ great food, super efficient. Only paid $23 for two. Tasty and ideal for a quick meal on a budget in Chinatown.

  • Outstanding food quality with generous portions. Friendly and quick service. Very reasonable prices.

  • Extremely cheap Chinese food of mediocre quality. The wonton with hot chili sauce was the highlight, but other dishes fell short in taste and quality.

  • Unwelcoming atmosphere with poor customer service and disappointing food quality. Better options available in the area.

Empress of China

3.81,207 reviews
120 Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

Empress of China is a renowned Chinese restaurant located in the heart of Melbourne. With a rating of 3.8 stars out of 5, it has gained popularity for its exceptional service options like delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. The restaurant offers a wide range of offerings including alcohol, beer, late-night food, small plates, and wine.

Customer reviews paint a vivid picture of what to expect at Empress of China:

Iconic and always crowded, Empress of China offers an outstanding dining experience for those who seek authentic Chinese cuisine in Melbourne.

Red Emperor (Chinatown) Chinese Restaurant#11
What stands out

  • Hands down one of the best Chinese restaurants in town with fresh seafood and experienced chefs.

  • Good wine list and competent service make it an enjoyable experience.

  • Exceptional food and exceptional service with a touch of humor from the staff.

Red Emperor (Chinatown) Chinese Restaurant

4.0330 reviews
131 Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

Red Emperor (Chinatown) Chinese Restaurant is a delightful establishment offering a wide range of services to its patrons. From traditional dishes to refreshing cocktails, this place has it all. The restaurant provides takeaway, dine-in, and even breakfast, lunch, and dinner options for the convenience of its customers.

With a 4.0 rating based on 330 reviews, it's easy to see why Red Emperor is a favorite among many. Some key points from customer reviews include:

Whether you're looking for a cozy dinner spot or craving some authentic Chinese cuisine, Red Emperor (Chinatown) Chinese Restaurant is the place to be!

The Crane Restaurant#12
What stands out

  • Delicious and well-cooked food.

  • Great service and variety of options.

  • Comfortable atmosphere for groups.

  • Lunch dishes served in unique Clay Pots.

The Crane Restaurant

3.9484 reviews
212 Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

The Crane Restaurant is a popular Chinese restaurant located in Melbourne. They offer a variety of services, including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Customers can enjoy specialties such as Peking duck pancakes, beef with veggies, and San Choi boa in a casual atmosphere.

Customer reviews highlight the following key points:

Ling Nan Chinese Restaurant#13
What stands out

  • This is a standard Chinese restaurant with fast service and standard Cantonese-style dishes. However, some utensils and furniture may need improvement in terms of quality and safety.

  • Delicious food, attentive staff, and a welcoming atmosphere have impressed customers, making them highly recommend the restaurant.

  • Customers appreciate the traditional Chinese dishes offered at reasonable prices, although some dishes may vary in quality. Quick and efficient service is a plus point for many visitors.

  • The crab meat fried rice, garlic Chinese broccoli, and garlic prawns receive special mention for their delicious flavors and quality, adding to the positive dining experience.

Ling Nan Chinese Restaurant

3.8630 reviews
207 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

Ling Nan Chinese Restaurant is a popular Chinese restaurant situated in Melbourne, offering a wide range of services such as kerbside pickup, no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. With amenities like toilets and a casual atmosphere, it caters to diverse customer preferences. The restaurant accepts reservations and provides various payment options, including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments. It is also considered family-friendly, making it a suitable choice for customers with kids.

Mr. Bo#14
What stands out

  • Good place for a quick meal, loved the dumplings, slightly undercooked rice.

  • First time dining, special fried rice and wonton soup highly recommended, crispy sweet and sour pork ribs, will return for other dishes.

  • Dim sum lunch with family, crowded, hot dim sum, nice taste, average service level, worth revisiting.

  • Food quality not amazing, dishes lack strong flavor, nice modern Chinese restaurant vibe but pricey.

Mr. Bo

3.7325 reviews
Kmart Centre, Shop 23/209 Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

Mr. Bo is a popular Chinese restaurant located in Melbourne, Australia. They offer a variety of services and features to cater to their customers' needs. Customers can enjoy no-contact delivery, traditional dine-in options, or opt for takeaway orders.

The restaurant provides a welcoming and family-friendly atmosphere for all to enjoy. The menu offers a wide range of options including vegetarian choices, small plates, and even cocktails for those looking to unwind.

Customer reviews highlight a few key points:

With a rating of 3.7 stars, Mr. Bo continues to attract customers seeking authentic Chinese cuisine and a pleasant dining experience.

China Bar Russell Street#15
What stands out

  • Generous portions of delicious food at affordable prices.

  • Fast service and fresh ingredients, perfect for a quick bite.

  • Bustling atmosphere and friendly staff, making customers feel welcome.

China Bar Russell Street

3.41,366 reviews
235 Russell St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

China Bar Russell Street is a bustling Chinese restaurant located in Melbourne. With a rating of 3.4, it has gained popularity among locals and visitors alike. The restaurant offers a variety of service options such as delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Customers can enjoy alcohol, beer, late-night food, and small plates on the menu.

Some key points from customer reviews include:

Customers have praised dishes like the BBQ pork buns, crispy roast pork with rice, and steamed chicken rice. The restaurant also received compliments for its quick takeaway service and reasonably priced menu items. China Bar Russell Street is a go-to spot for those craving authentic Chinese cuisine in Melbourne.

China Chilli Melbourne Chinatown#16
What stands out

  • The service is excellent, and the shared dishes make it convenient for students to grab a quick meal.

  • The spicy and sour fish dish is a standout, along with other flavorful options like fried scallops with asparagus.

  • The dark-themed interior creates a cozy atmosphere, and the food is described as fantastic, especially the lamb ribs.

  • The attentive staff and delicious food, like the chilli oil fish and stir fry vermicelli, make it a highly recommended dining spot.

China Chilli Melbourne Chinatown

3.6323 reviews
206 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

China Chilli Melbourne Chinatown offers a delectable experience with its Sichuan-style cuisine. Customers can enjoy dine-in, takeaway, or have their meals delivered. The restaurant is known for its signature spicy and sour fish dish, along with other tasty offerings like lamb ribs and tea smoked fried rice. The ambiance is described as casual and family-friendly, making it perfect for gatherings. The diverse menu includes vegetarian options and an all-you-can-eat selection.

Customer reviews highlight:

Experience the flavorful and inviting offerings at China Chilli Melbourne Chinatown for a memorable dining experience.

Summary

The comparison at a glance

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Master Lanzhou Noodle Bar-Chinatown 4.8580
#2Chinatown Melbourne 4.36,283
#3Shanghai Village 4.22,924
#4Juicy Bao 4.31,494
#5Shanghai Street 4.21,735
#6China Red 4.21,075
#7Fortune Dumpling 4.3232
#8Tim Ho Wan 3.81,720
#9Chine On Paramount Chinese Restaurant 4.2197
#10Empress of China 3.81,207
#11Red Emperor (Chinatown) Chinese Restaurant 4.0330
#12The Crane Restaurant 3.9484
#13Ling Nan Chinese Restaurant 3.8630
#14Mr. Bo 3.7325
#15China Bar Russell Street 3.41,366
#16China Chilli Melbourne Chinatown 3.6323

For businesses

Run a business?

Manage or add my business

Map and areas

Map of Chinese Chinatown in Melbourne

Melbourne is home to a vibrant Chinatown that boasts a rich cultural heritage and diverse culinary scene. From traditional Chinese restaurants to bustling markets and specialty stores, this neighborhood is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience authentic Chinese culture in the heart of the city. Check out the map below to explore all that Chinatown Melbourne has to offer.

How to choose Chinese Chinatown in Melbourne

  1. Wide range of authentic Chinese restaurants.
  2. Bustling markets with fresh produce and unique souvenirs.
  3. Traditional Chinese architecture and cultural attractions.
  4. Opportunities for shopping and exploring.

Frequently asked questions

What is the history behind Melbourne's Chinese Chinatown?

Melbourne's Chinese Chinatown has a fascinating history dating back to the mid-19th century when Chinese immigrants first arrived in the area during the Gold Rush. As more Chinese settlers made Melbourne their home, they established a vibrant community centered around Little Bourke Street. Over the years, Chinatown has evolved into a cultural hub known for its authentic cuisine, lively festivals, and traditional architecture. Today, Melbourne's Chinatown continues to thrive as a popular tourist destination and a symbol of the city's multicultural heritage. Visitors can explore the historic alleys, visit traditional Chinese temples, and sample delicious dishes from various regions of China. The area also hosts cultural events such as the Chinese New Year celebrations, making it a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.

What are the must-visit attractions in Melbourne's Chinatown?

When visiting Melbourne's Chinatown, there are several attractions that you should not miss. One of the highlights is the Chinese Museum, which offers insights into the history and culture of the Chinese community in Australia. You can also explore the vibrant shopping district with its array of stores selling everything from traditional Chinese crafts to modern fashion. Food lovers will delight in the numerous authentic Chinese restaurants scattered throughout the area, offering a diverse range of regional cuisines. Be sure to try specialties such as dim sum, Peking duck, and Sichuan hot pot. Additionally, don't miss out on the chance to visit the famous Chinatown Gate, a symbol of unity and prosperity in the community.

What events and festivals can I attend in Melbourne's Chinatown?

Melbourne's Chinatown is known for hosting a variety of exciting events and festivals throughout the year, showcasing Chinese culture and traditions. One of the most popular events is the Chinese New Year festivities, which feature vibrant parades, dragon dances, and fireworks to welcome the Lunar New Year. Other notable events include the Mid-Autumn Festival, Lantern Festival, and various cultural performances showcasing Chinese music, dance, and martial arts. Whether you're interested in celebrating traditional holidays or simply immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of China, there's always something exciting happening in Melbourne's Chinatown.

What are the best dining options in Melbourne's Chinatown?

Melbourne's Chinatown is renowned for its diverse and mouthwatering dining options, offering a taste of authentic Chinese cuisine in the heart of the city. Whether you're in the mood for classic Cantonese dishes, spicy Sichuan specialties, or delicate dim sum, there's something for every palate in Chinatown. Some of the top dining spots to check out include Shark Fin House, Flower Drum, Hutong Dumpling Bar, and Golden Dragon Palace. These establishments are famous for their delicious food, elegant ambiance, and impeccable service, making them ideal destinations for a memorable dining experience. Don't forget to explore the hidden gems and hole-in-the-wall eateries that offer unique and delicious dishes you won't find anywhere else.

Related guides

The 16 Best Sandwich Shops in MelbourneThe 16 Best All-You-Can-Eat Places in MelbourneThe 16 Best Chinese Food in Melbourne CBD