Sandwiched between a major bank and a tobacconist on Botany Road in Mascot is one of South Sydney’s most popular eateries. And while Hong Ha’s inconspicuous shopfront is given away only by the lunchtime hordes, it’s more about quality and than the aesthetics at this suburban gem, which has been going strong since 1986.

No matter what time of the day you arrive at Hong Ha, you’ll face a queue. But don’t let that intimidate you – it moves pretty quickly. You’ll be rewarded with a fresh, crusty roll filled with three types of pork (barbeque, processed and cured) plus carrots, cucumber, spring onion, coriander and your choice of chilli. Variations include chicken, schnitzel and meatballs, plus there are also spring rolls, dim sims and rice-paper rolls.