Chinatown Adelaide South Australia Inc. — Attraction in Adelaide

Review of Adelaide Chinatown

Overview

Adelaide's Chinatown, located in the city center along Moonta Street and surrounding areas, is a vibrant cultural enclave that celebrates the rich heritage and contributions of the Chinese community to South Australia. Spanning several blocks, it’s not just a dining destination but also a hub of culture, shopping, and community events.

Ambiance and Atmosphere

Entering Chinatown, you’re greeted by a mix of traditional and modern aesthetics. Red lanterns hang overhead, and the architecture reflects both contemporary designs and traditional Chinese motifs. The streets are bustling, particularly on weekends, with locals and tourists alike enjoying the atmosphere. The vibrant colors and intricate decorations create a festive mood, particularly during cultural events such as the Lunar New Year celebrations, when the area truly comes alive.

Culinary Offerings

Chinatown is a food lover's paradise, offering a diverse range of culinary experiences:

Restaurants: Chinatown Restaurant: Known for its authentic dim sum, this restaurant serves a variety of dumplings and buns that are freshly prepared and bursting with flavor. The har gow (shrimp dumplings) and siu mai (pork dumplings) are must-tries. Jiang's Chinese Restaurant: Offers a more modern take on traditional dishes, with an extensive menu featuring favorites like Peking duck and Kung Pao chicken. The ambiance is elegant, making it suitable for both casual and special occasions. Noodle House: A more casual spot, ideal for quick bites. Their hand-pulled noodles, particularly in spicy broth, have garnered a loyal following.

Street Food: During festivals or on weekends, food stalls pop up, offering delights such as bao buns, spring rolls, and bubble tea. The smell of sizzling dishes fills the air, and the lively atmosphere enhances the overall experience.

Shopping

Chinatown boasts a range of shops that cater to both locals and visitors:

Asian Grocery Stores: Stores like the Asian Supermarket offer a wide variety of ingredients, from fresh produce to specialty snacks. They are a treasure trove for anyone looking to cook Asian cuisine at home. Traditional Chinese Medicine Shops: A couple of stores specialize in herbal remedies, teas, and wellness products. It’s fascinating to browse through the offerings and learn about traditional practices. Souvenir and Gift Shops: Many shops sell unique items, including Chinese calligraphy art, decorative lanterns, and jade jewelry. These make for great gifts and mementos of your visit.

Cultural Significance

Chinatown is not just a commercial district; it’s a cultural hub. The area hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, showcasing traditional performances such as lion dances, martial arts, and music. The annual Lunar New Year celebration is particularly noteworthy, drawing large crowds to witness parades and cultural displays.

Community Engagement

The community aspect of Chinatown is palpable. Local organizations often collaborate to promote cultural education and engagement. The presence of community centers and cultural organizations facilitates workshops and classes on Chinese arts, cooking, and language, enriching the cultural fabric of the city.

Accessibility and Location

Located just a short walk from the main shopping districts, Chinatown is easily accessible. Public transportation options, including buses and trams, make it convenient for visitors. There are also several parking options nearby, though it can get busy during...

Gateway to food district is more accurate than "tourist destination", but both are true. It's lost a lot of its grimey charm and is under heavy renovation and development. It's still the nicest food district in Adelaide.

The "new" old food court has some nice restaurants if lacking its old charm, the "old" new food court is larger and offers more variety, if not the same level of execution. Choose carefully and you'll find excellent preparation, presentation and tasty meals. Prices have followed inflation, so take a bit of extra cash.

Woven between and around the food courts are more restaurants, specialty markets and fresh produce. You can spend a day here, snacking, wandering and shopping. Friday nights are jammed, but it's nice to come and experience the buzz of a crowded Chinatown!

Don't forget, this area has spilled out to the surrounding streets. Wright, Grote and Morphett are worth a lap to see the variety. Cross Morphett to the west to catch all the Gouger St restaurants and fill in the side streets like Field St for specialty...

Love Adelaide Chinatown

Old Food Hall V New food Hall (Chinatown Plaza).

Tried the new one today for the first time Ordered Seafood Massaman 🍛 curry from Cardamom in the middle of the new plaza.

Went to collect but was given the beef version, I’d been waiting a while so I did them a favour and told them it was OK I’ll take the beef one , Had to ask for the $3 difference back though , didn’t seem to please em I thought they would have been relieved I’d accepted it 😶. It was $15 for the Oilyest Curry I’ve ever had . It’s all new it looks nice , probably going to be problem with seating when it gets busy and it’s a few dollars more than the Old one across the pavement.

Old Place

Can Highly recommend Laksa House as a cheap and cheerful Seafood Laksa I wouldn’t say the Seafood was high quality but the soup is absolutely spot on $11.50. For a small one which is huge anyway.

Also had the sizzling Fish on Bok Choy at Master Huang which was easily enough for two people at $12.50

Good luck to the new place hopefully it will...