Chinatown Melbourne

Reviews

Chinatown Melbourne is widely praised as a vibrant and essential part of the city's cultural fabric. Reviewers frequently highlight the incredible variety of food, ranging from authentic Chinese restaurants to modern sweet shops and ice cream parlors. The Chinese Museum is a noted highlight, offering deep insights into the hardships and history of 19th-century settlers. While many enjoy the blend of historic architecture and colorful symbolism, some visitors note that the area can be crowded and that certain alleys have a gritty, urban smell. Popular dining spots like The Supper Inn are highly recommended but often require reservations due to their popularity. Overall, it is seen as a lively destination that caters to diverse tastes and budgets, appealing to both locals and tourists.

Highlights

• Home to the Chinese Museum detailing 19th-century settlement history.
• Extensive selection of authentic Chinese restaurants and sweet shops.
• Historic architecture featuring traditional gates and colorful lanterns.
• Lively atmosphere popular with both locals and international tourists.

Cons

• Historic architecture blended with modern Melbourne structures.
• High foot traffic and busy crowds during peak dining hours.
• Some narrow alleys may have an urban smell or grit.

Tips

• Visit the Chinese Museum to see the dragon and learn about early immigrant history.
• Make reservations for popular restaurants, especially on weekends, as they fill up quickly.
• Explore the side alleys for hidden gem sweet shops and ice cream parlors.
• Be prepared for a mix of historic charm and gritty urban alleyways.