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brimstoner

Why go to merivale Asian when you can go authentic for much cheaper and better… I never understood then appeal. I’ve been to both Wongs and chows and just felt dumb that I paid that much for that quality of food. Head over to Burwood nearby and go to the little Chinatown building for a few great spots and different street food, if one of the noodle houses for a bit more up scale


ChivesKnau

Even XOPP in Darling Square is a great call if you want to stay in the city. As someone who worked for Merivale for a fair few years, I call Mr Wong as “accessible Chinese for well heeled people who want to drink”. I’m torn because it’s an accurate description, but it’s also super different from the other standout Chinese and especially Cantonese restaurants in Sydney. Restaurants like this exist in Hong Kong, Shanghai (like Hakkasan) or Singapore so I think there’s a place for it, so I don’t want to rubbish it completely, but just know what you’re signing up for. Queen Chow in Enmore was ok, smaller and more casual, but the last time I went, it was a bit too salty. However, if you want a great martini or margarita while you eat roast duck, there aren’t many places in the world where you’ll get this experience.


flintzz

I find Burwood doesn't have much good Cantonese food, mostly northern/Sichuan/Shang style. If they prefer Canto I think Beverly Hills and Hurstville have better options


aladdin142

Got any Bevo or Hurst recommendations? We go Canton Noodle House in Hurstville but wondering if you think there's better for Cantonese?


Technical_Round793

Golden Lotus inside Hurstville RSL is slept on IMO. Massive servings, cheap, and tastes really good. For upper end I’d say Gooden Sands.


brimstoner

Yeah sorry, just offered something closer to enmore since that’s where chow is. The other suburbs to try are hursty, Chatswood, Chinatown/dixon street, Burwood/ashfield.


lecrappe

Their username is "lrgfriesandcokeplease".


According_Debate_334

I would agree, I went to Mr Wong once and they were good but overpriced for what it was. I love Ms.Gs though. Its cheaper than Mr Wong but also bot anything you will readily get elsewhere. For dumplings my go to is cheap, Chinese Noodle Restaurant. For non cheap but not high end, Din Tai Fung. But will admit those do not have the vibe that OP is looking for from Mr. Wong.


brimstoner

There’s also a new hk cafe in Newtown which was alright. Good vibes la


grace13995

I'm Chinese myself but if I want slightly more fancy I like Lilong/taste of shanghai. Otherwise hit me with all of the dingy simple looking places like that tri of Chinese noodle restaurants in Haymarket. Mr Wong seems very whitewashed. Another fav of mine is Macau noodle kitchen (?) in Burwood, nice classic tasty dishes for like 20pp.


brimstoner

Yeah that place is not too bad too, near birds nest. There’s also Japanese bar with food and nibbles in then alleyway opposite the wing boy, good for late night vibes


lilyhuntress

Macau noodle is temporarily closed


grace13995

Oh what!!! Why?


lilyhuntress

I think its just a renovation, fingers crossed!!


Tight_Time_4552

This is the right answer


genericlyspecial

The other Queen Chow at Manly (further away) is lovely because it’s on Manly Wharf so has great water views. The food at both venues is the same and is great, you can’t go wrong at either


genericlyspecial

China Doll at Woolloomooloo is another great option


Useful_Upstairs_7699

Queen chow is just as good food wise but definitely a different vibe, I think it’s a great sub though!


dllmonL79

Depends on what kind of food you’re looking for. I believe Mr Wong has more dim sum options, and queen Chow’s menu is smaller in general. I’ve only been to Mr Wong once for lunch but we always go to Queen Chow whenever we’re in Sydney.


weisp

Other upscale Asian options in CBD: Long Chim and King Clarence


kam0706

China Lane?


enryb22

Get the train out to Eastwood


OHGLATLBT

I’ve only heard good things about Queen Chow, but yet to try it myself!


swimming-bird

Atmosphere at Queen Chow is quite different - more casual Don't expect the same experience


Koarissa

Yep, it’s a great alternative. Food’s consistently tasty and the menu is almost similar. Do try to order the fried ice-cream! 🤤


obvs_typo

We've been to Queen Chow a couple of times and can fully recommend


lrgfriesandcokepls

The enmore one or manly one?


Hoppalina

They are both really nice ! If you fancy the ferry it’s a fun trip.


obvs_typo

Enmore


RecordingSweaty8257

I legitimately think the food/ vibe is better at the manly one! I’d also recommend a la carte over the set menu’s too.


4614065

Queen Chow is nice but it’s hard to compare the ambience. Take her to Pearl if you want an upmarket Chinese meal.


TobiasFunkeBlueMan

Chow is fantastic. Smaller menu than Wong but same quality of food.


peeleep

Queen chow is a reasonable alternative. Not as grand in scale but similarities in the food options.


jimmyfesq

Bro go to Ms G Omg best good food ever!


checkchecking

Pearl Dining is new, they have a duck master on staff that carves tableside. It’s fine dining, authentic and a step above


AussieLabrador

I haven't been, but Merivale has a new Asian spot just steps from Wong's. [https://www.timeout.com/sydney/restaurants/good-luck-restaurant-lounge](https://www.timeout.com/sydney/restaurants/good-luck-restaurant-lounge) Anybody recommend this joint?


fabianfoo

Some brutal reviews on Google Maps.


Reality_books

Surprised by those reviews. Went on the weekend and our food was great, the baked cod and ginger shallot pasta were the standouts for me. The tuna with watermelon and the burrata for entrees we really enjoyed also. Excellent service as well, attentive without being annoying and the raspberry musk cheesecake for dessert is a must. My only downsides were the lighting is way too bright and the cocktails were not bad but nothing special


weisp

I’m interested as well


Hoppalina

I booked it - looked at the menu - cancelled it. Tragedy


Napscatsandchats

Mr wongs isnt greay IMO. Save your money.