6 trendy and not huge shopping centres perfect for Asian food

The anticipation of waiting for your meal during peak lunch time. Pictured: vibes at World Square

Whether it is for a lunch break or a planned dinner with family, we have scouted out some of the most photogenic and must-visit shopping centres that you can type into Google maps. These destinations are full of authentic Asian food, with cuisines including Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, Hong Kong and Thai.

Please note that these shopping centres are listed in no particular order. 

Regent Place

Based a stone’s throw away from Town Hall station, many Sydney food bloggers and lifestyle influencers enjoy visiting Regent Place. It is fun, youthful and family-friendly. Over two floors, you will find Japanese eateries, Chinese noodles, premium ice-cream, Korean bibimbap and more.

We’d recommend trying out Edomae Sushi Yokocho for their sushi train, Cedric’s for stylish coffee and bistro food, and Dopa by Devon for creative rice bowls.

Credits: Regent Place

Instagram credits: @regentplace_sydney

Spice Alley

If you have travelled to south-east Asia, you will appreciate the picturesque, hawker-style decor of the hole-in-wall eateries here. Although not a shopping centre, we had to include Spice Alley for its flair and variety of dining options. You don’t have far to walk far from Central train station to find it. After you’ve satisfied your stomach, you can visit Central Park Mall next door to catch a movie.

Instagram credits: @spicealleysydney

Credits: Spice Alley website

World Square

From its name, you can probably deduce that World Square is known for an international array of restaurants. This bustling precinct is popular for office workers, especially those based in Haymarket. There are popular restaurants inside the shopping centre, as well as in the outdoor lanes and rooftop. 

We love Gami Chicken & Beer for Korean food, Din Tai Fung for dumplings, and Papparich for flavourful Nasi Lemak. If you’re feeling like a drink, The Cidery and The Bavarian are lively options.

Credits: Word Square website

Market City

Market City is the biggest (in size) in this list. This landmark building houses a humming foodcourt on its ground floor for the more budget-conscious. For more celebratory occasions or wedding banquets, the top floor hosts prestigious dining options.

Called the “1909 Dining Precinct”, the upper market restaurants on the top floor include The Eight for yumcha, Yayoi for elegant Japanese dining, and Nanyang Tea Club for premium Malaysian food.  

Credits: timeout.com

Instagram Credits: @happilee_munching

Rhodes Central

Next to the train station is the modern and polished Rhodes Central. On the ground floor, Bamboo Lane is a collection of popular brands including Yasaka Ramen, Mao Po and Madam Pho. The ambience is warm and spirited, with locals enjoying a solo meal or parents enjoying a break at LAB Bakery. The restaurants on the second floor are for a longer sit-down meal.

Highlights include: Spicy Joint for Chinese hotpot, Lilong by Taste of Shanghai for a la carte dishes, Hong Kong Street Food for its namesake served in a literal replica of a MTR subway carriage.

Instagram Credits: @damierrr

Burwood Chinatown

Neon-lit and decorated with puns such as “Have a rice day”, Burwood Chinatown is an energetic enclosure of predominantly Chinese eateries. You will find well-known names including No 1 Malatang and Hong Kong Cafe, as well as smaller vendors selling comfort street food.