Uncover the authentic flavours of Chinatown’s culinary treasures and experience the popular weekly street food scene.
Chinatown is a bustling part of Sydney CBD with a rich blend of culture rooted in years of history. To Chloe, she feels that the lively and energetic atmosphere centered around community can provide a sense of homeliness and is a key reason why it attracts so many people, locals and tourists alike. For any international students that live in accommodation around the area, this intersection of culture helps to bring a sense of ‘home’ overseas. In particular, the weekly Friday Night Markets and the amazing array of cuisine that it offers is a late-night shopping hotspot that many look forward to.
The night markets is one of the most exciting highlights of Chinatown. Small businesses gather to sell high quality goods, and the food stands that sells anything from tasty skewers to dim sum. It is something everyone looks forward to at the end of the work week as the area transforms into a true melting pot where people from all different age groups and backgrounds come together and share a piece of their own culture. The candied fruits and custard puffs from Emperor’s Garden Cakes & Bakery are Chloe’s personal favourite from the markets.
The malatang restaurants in the area are always busy with people from various backgrounds because of its signature spice and freedom to customise your meal. Nearby there are also tantalising Thai food and dessert places for customers to have the best of both worlds in the one eatery. Worry not that there is comfort food available at every corner for students to feel like they are having a home-cooked meal making to help lessen feelings of homesickness.
There is another Chinatown in Burwood that is highly recommended for its indoor setting with bright dangling neon signs. The markets here are open on Thursday to Sunday from 5pm to 10pm. It’s just a 15-minute train ride from Central Station and then less than a minute walk from Burwood Station. Indulge in some amazing street food and fun activities as you take a much-deserved break from your studies at the end of the week. Take a culinary adventure with your friends throughout the streets of either Chinatown, and you can guarantee it will be an impeccable activity.
Thank you to Chloe Gozal (Diploma student) for sharing her story with us.
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