Melbourne CBD has officially earned the crown as Australia’s capital for multiculturalism, and yes, modern Asian dining too. Here, traditional cooking techniques take a backseat while chefs get experimental (in a good way), serving dishes you didn’t know you needed but suddenly can’t live without. Melbourne’s modern Asian scene doesn’t stick to just one cuisine. Why settle for Thai when you can have a little Japanese, Korean, Vietnamese, Chinese, and everything in between on the same plate?
Looking for your next culinary adventure? Bring your family and friends and explore some of Melbourne’s top modern Asian restaurants serving flavour and aesthetics.
Modern Asian hits: Discover the best 10 must-try fan favourites in Melbourne CBD:
Melbourne CBD is the beating heart of modern Asian dining, packed with vibrant restaurants, buzzing nightlife, and venues just steps from major train stations like Flinders Street and Melbourne Central. With everything so easy to find and even easier to access, it’s the perfect place to start your culinary adventure. Beginning with these top modern Asian restaurants you need to try:
1. Juni
136 Exhibition St, Melbourne VIC
Powered by Southeast Asian flavours, Juni brings “fire and spice” to the table, literally and figuratively. The dynamic bar and dining experience blends the distinctive flavours of Vietnam, Thailand and Japan with a modern spin and a warm intimate ambience. Being walking distance from Regant, Princess and Her Majesty theatres on Exhibition street, you’ll explore the perfect location for pre and after show bites within a mid-upper ($11-55+) price range. Step inside and you’ll be hit with bold reds, pinks, and greens that scream “Instagram me now,” whether you snag a spot at the bar, a table by the kitchen, or just hover nearby to watch the chefs work their magic. I’m heading to this spot in a few weeks, and at the top of my list is the Crispy Chicken Bao with sweet fish-sauce caramel and the Aromatic Lamb Shoulder with Malay curry, chilli sambal, and charred roti. Pair that with a Dragon’s Eye Spritz (lychee liqueur, ginger syrup, limeade, prosecco, and soda) and we’re officially in next-level foodie territory. Whether you’re craving dumplings, curries, fish, or marinated meats, Juni’s menu has something for everyone, even your indecisive friend who can’t pick between sweet or spicy.
2. Chin Chin
125 Flinders Lane, Melbourne VIC 3000
Known for the hotspot’s chaotic charm, vibrant energy and innovative take on modern Asian cuisine, this Thai inspired menu takes playful detours into Vietnamese and Indian flavours, serving up curries, stir-fries, barbecues, and dishes that pack zesty lime, coconut richness, herbal freshness, and all the umami you could dream of. Located on Flinders Lane, Chin Chin offers an upper-mid-range ($41–$100+) dining experience, all wrapped in the lively, buzzing energy that has made it a Melbourne favourite. As a curry and noodle lover, the Braised Wagyu Beef Pad Seuw and Rendang Beef Curry are already calling my name. Wash it down with a Purple Rain cocktail, a gorgeous, Insta-worthy mix of vodka, lychee, peaflower, violet, jasmine, prosecco, and soda and you’re basically living the Melbourne foodie life. Walk-ins are welcome, but don’t be surprised if it feels like a party in full swing!
3. Supernormal
180 Flinders Ln, Melbourne
Supernormal keeps it sleek and minimalist on the outside, but the menu is full of bold, playful modern Asian flavours inspired by Tokyo, Shanghai, Seoul, and Hong Kong. From dumplings to meats, fish, and noodles, they give traditional dishes a contemporary twist with ingredients like yuzu, gochujang, and more. Dumpling lovers, brace yourselves, the Pan-fried Pork & Chive Dumplings with gochujang are a must. And I’m personally curious to tackle the Slow-cooked Lamb Shoulder with roasted cherry tomato, coriander, and Yuxiang sauce, sounds like a flavour explosion waiting to happen. And yes, you absolutely cannot leave without a sweet treat. Their Kensington Pride Mango & Jersey Milk soft serve? Let’s just say it’s soft, sweet and creamy. Located on Flinders Lane, Supernormal keeps it accessible ($10–20+). It’s simply modern Asian consistently done well. Bookings for groups up to 14 can be made online, but a few secret walk-in spots are always saved for the spontaneous foodie adventurers. Swing by, let the hosts work their magic, and prepare for a seriously tasty outing.
5 Hardware Lane, Melbourne
Rice Paper Scissors brings the lively chaos of Southeast Asian hawker centres straight to Melbourne CBD. Think snapping chopsticks, animated chatter, and the irresistible aroma of flavours that make your stomach do a happy dance. Since 2013, this shared-eating hotspot has been serving crowd-pleasers like the caramel tamarind sticky pork belly (I’m dying to try this one) paired with cocktails like “that lychee drink,” which apparently goes beautifully with their solid wine and beer selection. All sauces and relishes are made in-house, ethically and organically wherever possible, because, you know, flavour AND conscience matter. While I’ve yet to visit in person, Rice Paper Scissors is definitely on my foodie bucket list, and I can already picture myself diving into their sweet and savoury delights with a group of mates. With prices sitting in the mid-range ($15–$35+), it’s perfect for a adventurous night out. Walk-ins are welcome, but if you’re hoping to snag a weekend table, booking ahead is a smart move (because missing out on that juicy pork belly goodness would be a tragedy).
5. Cha-Ching
348 Flinders Lane, Melbourne
Cha-Ching is a must-visit modern Asian hotspot in Melbourne CBD, serving up a cheeky mix of Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Thai, and Vietnamese flavours with a contemporary Asian twist that keeps your taste buds guessing (in a good way). Perfect for sharing, the menu pairs beautifully with their inventive cocktails, including fire and smoke-infused creations that are almost too cool to drink… almost. Anything lychee instantly has my name on it, so the ‘Cha Ching Me On’ , a dazzling combo of Butterfly Pea Gin, Soho Lychee, Lime Juice, and Popping Pearls was practically screaming my arrival. And let’s talk food indecision: do I go Black Truffle Fried Rice with crab, prawns, snow peas, egg, and spring onion, or the Soya Wagyu Beef Noodles with mung bean sprouts, chives, and egg? Honestly, why not both? The vibrant neon interior makes Cha-Ching a neon-drenched Instagram dream, perfectly matching its contemporary and playful Asian menu. Prices sit in the mid-range ($18–$35+), making it ideal for casual bites or a fun night out with friends. Walk-ins are welcome, but if you’re coming in with a bigger crew or aiming for a weekend spot, booking ahead is definitely recommended.
6. Kiss & Tell
Level 1/37-41 Little Bourke St, Melbourne
Tucked above Little Bourke Street, Kiss & Tell is a moody escape that’s equal parts intimate lighting, Instagrammable vibes, and daring modern Asian flavours. Think sweet and sour chicken, pork belly salad, and popcorn chicken (KFC, but make it fancy!), elevated so you feel like foodie royalty while pretending you’re not about to snap a dozen photos for Instagram. Pair your feast with playful cocktails like the Saigon Sour (Bombay Sapphire Gin, Disaronno, apricot, Peychaud’s Bitter) or a curated selection of wines and spirits, and you’ve got a night of flavour explosions that’ll get your tastebuds tingling. Part of the Mamas Dining Group (hello Suzie Q and Ho Chi Mama fans), Kiss & Tell is my go-to for birthday celebrations (mine included), there’s just something about the energy that makes you feel extra fancy. Start small with the salmon sashimi, simple, yet done to perfection with ponzu yuzu, chilli oil, and shallot. For mains, sharing is the way to experience the full “kiss” of modern Asian flavours, don’t skip the crab fried rice or duck curry featuring panang curry, duck breast, snake bean, and fried lime leaf. Prices sit in the mid-to-upper range ($20–$45), perfect for a stylish night out with friends or a cheeky date. Walk-ins work if you’re feeling lucky, but weekends or big groups? Book ahead. This hotspot is always buzzing. One taste, and you’ll see why it’s called Kiss & Tell… and why everyone keeps talking about it.
7. Longrain
44 Little Bourke St, Melbourne
Set in an expansive 1900s converted horse stable (yes, really), Longrain is a lively modern Thai hotspot that blends contemporary Asian flair with communal, family-style dining. With the Princess Theatre just around the corner, it’s the perfect pre- or post-show feast, because nothing pairs better with drama than green curry and cocktails. The menu puts a modern spin on traditional Thai favourites, blending fresh local ingredients with Southeast Asian flavours. Think BBQ lamb ribs swimming in green curry, or dive into my personal “must-try” list: stir-fried Port Phillip Bay mussels with chilli jam and Thai basil, followed by Yum Kao Tod crispy rice, pork mince, ginger, mint, coriander, chilli, and peanuts. Basically, a flavour rollercoaster you didn’t know you needed. Prices sit in the mid-range ($20–$45+), making it perfect for a night out, a foodie catch-up, or that fancy date where you want to look like you know what “umami” really means. Walk-ins are welcome, but for busier evenings, I’d recommend booking because good vibes, spicy curry, and communal tables are in high demand.
8. Aru
268 Little Collins St, Melbourne
Named after the islands that once charted ancient seafaring routes between China, Indonesia, and northern Australia, Aru is a contemporary modern Asian gem that brings together Asian cuisines with a clever Aussie twist. The space is all textures: marble, wood, and brick, giving off vibes that are chic yet grounded, perfect for a smart-casual night out that feels effortless. The menu is cooked over a wood-fired hearth, elevating Asian classics with fresh, local ingredients. Cocktails are equally inventive, the take the “Bend at the Knees”, a cheeky mix of tequila, gochujang hot honey, grapefruit, and lime that sounds dangerously fun. While I’ve yet to experience Aru in person, my foodie curiosity is officially piqued, especially by their Shorthorn Short Ribs with Rendang Paste and Bone Marrow Jus. Prices sit in the upper mid-range ($25–$55+), making it perfect for a night out where you want to impress without breaking the bank. Booking ahead is smart, and their private dining room is ideal if you want to gather friends or family for a memorable modern Asian feast. One visit here and I’m sure you’ll be plotting your next trip.
9. Taxi Kitchen
Transport Hotel, Level 1 Federation Square, Melbourne
Perched above Federation Square with sweeping views of the Yarra River and Melbourne skyline, Taxi Kitchen is a contemporary modern Asian playground that’s as much about vibes as it is about bold flavours. The industrial-chic interior perfectly mirrors the menu, a creative fusion of Australian ingredients and Asian influence that keeps your taste buds guessing in the best way possible. From barramundi dumplings to slow-roasted lamb shoulders, each dish is an elevated twist on the classics. As a Vietnamese foodie, I’m personally intrigued by how they’ve reinvented traditional bites like the wagyu la lot skewers, it’s like a culinary wink to heritage with a modern spin. And if you’re a cocktail adventurer, their Miso Old Fashioned is calling your name, because why shouldn’t Japanese miso meet a classic cocktail? Prices sit in the mid- to upper range ($18–$45+), making Taxi Kitchen perfect for anything from a casual lunch to a special celebration. Walk-ins are welcome when you’re feeling spontaneous, but for weekends or dinner with friends, booking ahead is recommended. One bite here and you’ll feel like you’ve captured the spirit of Melbourne in every dish, and probably the perfect skyline shot for your Instagram while you’re at it.
10. Lucy Liu
23 Oliver Lane, Melbourne
Buzzing with eccentric energy, Lucy Liu is the kind of modern Asian hotspot that grabs you by the hand the moment you step into its red neon tunnel on Oliver’s Lane, and yes, it’s as dramatic and photogenic as it sounds. This place is where street-food soul meets contemporary Asian flair, serving a menu that bounces happily across Japan, Korea, China, Thailand, India… basically a whole flavour passport. Expect all the favourites: fresh sashimi, plump dumplings, bao buns, noodles, masala, and then expect them to be dialled up with playful accents like ponzu, house-made kimchi, and Lucy’s iconic Sriracha. And let me be honest: this is officially my next girls’ night spot. I’m fully prepared to drag all my friends here just so I can dive head-first into their Wagyu Bulgolgi Gyoza with Korean chilli vinegar and the Roast Pork Bun loaded with house-made kimchi and sriracha mayo. Lucy Liu is perfect for groups who want something exciting and different without hiking across the whole city for variety, you get it all in one moody, neon-lit space. Looking for something a little extra? Their private dining room turns a regular dinner into a full-on moment. Just don’t forget to book ahead (especially for weekends or big groups). This place fills up quicker than your camera roll will with food photos.
Modern Asian Beyond Melbourne CBD
Chiki Chan
2/6 Centreway, Mordialloc
If you’re willing to stray beyond Melbourne CBD (yes, I know, leaving the city limits feels dramatic), Chiki Chan is absolutely worth the trip. This place has built a cult following for its loud, proud, and completely unapologetic take on modern Asian cooking. Think bold flavours, inventive twists, and a vibe that’s somehow both effortless and edgy. If you’re a fan of the Asian classics: dumplings, duck, pork belly, barramundi, prepare yourself. Chiki Chan takes those familiar favourites and gives them a contemporary spin and that’s, well… very Chiki. Sitting comfortably in the mid-tier price zone ($6–$68), the menu has shot straight to the top of my must-try list. At the very top? Their dry-aged half roasted duck with pickles, onions, and pancakes, a comfort food but elevated. Then there’s the twice-cooked pork belly with slaw and pickles, which honestly sounds like the kind of dish you think about weeks after eating it. Inside, the restaurant’s modern, moody red ambience will have you wondering if the space used to be an underground jazz bar or a secret late-night hangout for food-obsessed melbournians. Walk-ins are welcomed, but if you’re heading in on weekends or with a group, booking ahead is definitely the way to go, this place fills fast. Chiki Chan is proof that some of Melbourne’s best modern asian dining experiences are happening beyond the CBD postcode.
Why Modern Asian Restaurants Thrive in the Melbourne CBD
Melbourne’s dining scene shows no signs of slowing down. If anything, it’s evolving to experiential menus that combine flavours you never thought could work together on your taste buds.
So why does modern asian do so well? It’s simple:
Melbourne CBD’s concentration of talented chefs.
The buzzing nightlife, one of the best in Australia!
Our multicultural roots run deep, and we genuinely love exploring new flavours.
And let’s be real… Melburnians are adventurous eaters. We’ll try anything once (twice if it’s served with chilli oil).
Asian cuisine has been perfecting the art of flavour since forever! Bold spices, wok-charred magic, and comfort dishes that heal the soul. Melbourne just gave them the stage they deserve, and of course… they delivered.
All of these factors have created the perfect environment for pan-Asian cuisine to flourish. Whether you’re after bold flavours, Instagram-worthy vibes, or just a seriously good meal, Melbourne CBD’s modern Asian restaurants deliver it all.
The only challenge? Deciding where to begin.
FAQ
What is modern Asian cuisine?
Modern Asian cuisine combines flavours and cooking techniques from across Asia, including Japanese, Thai, Korean, Vietnamese, and Chinese influences into fresh, innovative dishes. Instead of sticking strictly to traditional recipes, chefs reimagine classic elements with contemporary methods, creating bold, creative plates that still honour their Asian roots.
Which modern Asian restaurant in Melbourne CBD is best for groups?
Rice Paper Scissors, Taxi Kitchen, Chin Chin and Lucy Liu are all excellent options for group dining with shareable menus and lively atmospheres.
Do I need bookings for modern Asian restaurants in Melbourne CBD?
Most require bookings, but Chin Chin operates mostly walk-in. Book ahead for JUNI, Aru, Kiss & Tell and Longrain.
Where should I go for the most Instagrammable experience?
Cha-Ching (neon heaven), Kiss & Tell (moody glam) and Juni (bold curiosity) win for aesthetics. However Taxi Kitchen wins for the best views!
What should I wear to these modern asian restaurants?
Smart casual is usually perfect, but some venues lean a little more elevated. And honestly, dressing up always elevates your Instagram photos, so if you feel like going glam, absolutely do it!
Do these restaurants offer vegetarian or vegan options?
Most CBD modern Asian restaurants include vegetarian and vegan dishes, including dumplings, noodle bowls, and creative plant-based mains.
Are these restaurants kid-friendly?
Many modern Asian restaurants welcome families. Dishes are shareable and adaptable for younger palates, though some venues have a lively, bar-focused vibe.
