The Sydney Morning Herald logo
Advertisement
14.5/20Critics' Pick

Chaozhou Malaya Bistro Cafe

Updated ,first published

14.5/20Critics' Pick

Chaozhou Malaya Bistro Cafe

Malaysian-Chinese$

A one-aunty show of southern Chinese homestyle hits.

The Balwyn North eatery.Wayne Taylor

Cult following doesn’t cover it – Aunty’s cooking is the stuff of legend among locals and chefs. Follow the derelict arcade to a humble dining room and prepare for a homespun masterclass in “luwei”, light soy, rice wine and five-spice seasoning. It’s the backbone of Teochew cooking, and it’s in delicious evidence in the braised duck and tofu platter.

Crisp oyster omelette with a chewy middle might follow, then “white” char kwai teow, light on the dark soy, heavy on sweet pickled radish. Seasoned eaters love the sashimi scampi, the stir-fried conch, the foie gras.

They also call ahead to chat specials, maybe steamed mudcrab with glutinous rice wrapped in bamboo leaves; organic chicken, head and feet intact; slow-cooked conch; and whatever else a Teochew childhood might conjure. Finish with buttery taro paste enriched with pork lard. Reservations and patience are recommended.

Best for: A “sifang cai” experience – homestyle deliciousness served in an intimate setting.

Good Food reviews are booked anonymously and paid independently. A restaurant can’t pay for a review or inclusion in the Good Food Guide.

Restaurant reviews, news and the hottest openings served to your inbox.

Sign up

Continue this series

Melbourne’s Eastern Suburbs
Up next
The Clover menu is cooked solely over fire.
  • Review

Clover

Fire-powered plates and a deep, natural-leaning wine list.

Rice noodle soups are a specialty at Colourful Yunnan.
  • Review

Colourful Yunnan

Fungi-phobes need not apply.

Previously
Pan fried cod served with homemade soy sauce.
  • Review

Chae

Mountain hideaway’s pursuit of perfection reaches new heights.

See all stories

From our partners

Advertisement
Advertisement