Whether you’re passing through or the venue is the destination, some of the best Chinese eats are a short and worthwhile commute from the Sydney CBD. China has one of the most varied cuisines in the world and this guide covers regional Chinese dishes representing Guangdong, Sichuan, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Fujian, Hunan, Anhui and Shandong provinces.

Here’s where you’ll find some of our picks in Sydney’s suburbs and beyond.

Taste of Tang, Oatley

Taste of Tang has been part of the fabric of Oatley since 1985 and is considered an institution for South Sydney residents. The family business has transformed, adapted and matured over the years, however its approach to food has always remained the same with high quality dishes and family recipes remaining at the forefront.
The menu is an ode to the generations of recipes that have come before, evolved through years of innovation. The result is a menu that remains somewhat traditional with some contemporary dishes and flavours added to the mix, with signature dishes local to cuisines from Southeast Asia.
Be prepared and pre-order one of our favourite dishes: the Singapore chilli mud crab. Other standout dishes that don’t require any pre-dining organisation include the wok-tossed prawns in spicy salt and deep-fried barramundi in sweet and sour sauce. Taste of Tang also has an excellent and extensive selection of gluten-free dishes, which don’t compromise on flavour.

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Hoong Cheong, Punchbowl
A 30-minute drive southwest of Sydney’s CBD is where you’ll find Hoong Cheong, a Cantonese restaurant in Punchbowl known for its seafood banquet. Some of the standout dishes include the pipa tofu with dipping sauce – deep-fried tofu covered with minced meat and mushroom – as well as the eel platter. Though the service can be a little indifferent , it makes up in its generous serving portions.

Cantonese cuisine, also known as Yue cuisine, is from Guangdong province in China. What distinguishes Cantonese food from its neighbouring provinces is lightly cooked fresh vegetables and meat and sweeter tasting sauces.

Miss Lee’s, Wollongong
Miss Lee’s is a well-loved local gem amongst Wollongong residents and it’s for good reason. Situated on the popular Keira Street in Wollongong’s CBD, Miss Lee’s is known for it’s varied menu, inspired by flavours across South East Asia. Dining at Miss Lee’s feels somewhat modern, with contemporary and varied dishes across South East Asia including pork in plum sauce, with sides of steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables, sizzling rainbow beef and peking-style pork chops. Miss Lee’s has a fully licensed bar with an option to BYO.

Lantern Palace, Wamberal
There’s a few reasons to visit NSW’s central coast, whether it’s for the day or a coastal weekend away. Just an hour north of Sydney, the region has somewhat flown under the radar compared to Australia’s other blockbuster holiday destinations. Think laid-back lifestyle, pristine beaches, national parks and excellent food.

A favourite eatery amongst locals is Lantern Palace nestled in Wamberal, just north of Terrigal. The round tables covered in white tablecloths, sturdy upright chairs and carpet floors give the space a sense of warmth and authenticity. The menu takes inspiration from different flavors and cuisines across China including popular dishes - Chicken Fillet with Plum Sauce, Chicken and Seafood Soup and Steamed Duck.

Canton Café, Eastwood
Canton Cafe has quickly made a name for itself across Sydney, with the launch of its third venue in Sydney in 2021. Situated in Eastwood, Burwood and Haymarket the venue is home to delicious Hong Kong inspired food, pushing the boundaries by fusing together flavours from Southeast and Southwest Asia, resulting in new and experimental dishes.

Visit at any point in the day, including breakfast and expect to be delighted with Century Egg with Pork Fillet Congee, Lemongrass Pork Shoulder and Homemade Pork Meatball Congee, all available from 9AM. The all-day menu kicks off shortly after at 10:30AM with the featured Cantonese BBQ at the forefront of their menu. This includes Roasted Pork Belly, Shredded Free Range Chicken and Roasted Duck.

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