The beautiful entrance to Chinatown in Sydney Image via Wikipedia
Australia has a long love affair with Asian cuisine ever since before the Gold Rush era. In fact, Haymarket in Sydney (otherwise known as Chinatown) has been in existence in its current location since the 1920′s after moving from “The Rocks” to Market Street. It is one of the best places to sample a wide variety of Asian food outside of Asia.
The Atmosphere
Image via Wikipedia
Most ‘Chinatowns’ have a ubiquitous entrance gate so as soon as you enter market street you know you have walked into another world. The difference between this experience and say, a good Asian restaurant in your suburb or town is that you are surrounded by Asian influences. Even the delicious custard filled little cakes you can buy out of a wall window for $2.00 reminded me of my time in Asia.
The atmosphere is great and their are even people outside the restaurants urging you to come in and try their food. While that can be a little annoying it is definitely part of the experience. So stepping off George street and dissapearing inside Market street is a great way to travel on a budget!
Hidden Gems
While most of the restaurants are similar I have my own favourite that is both cheap and filled with atmosphere. The Dixon House food court isn’t much to look at but in a small space you can buy different delicacies from aroudn the world at an affordable price. Other sit down restaurants just don’t offer the same experience and (I believe) the food is even better!
Dixon House is easy to miss, and it is on a corner of Market street and down some stairs. You can buy Thai, Chinese, Malay, Vietnamese and almost anything else you can imagine from Asia. If you want a cheap, easy meal that is also amazingly delicious then walk down those stairs and you won’t be disappointed.
Other Fun Things to Do
Asia, and Haymarket are all about the food. However, you can also sample a bit of an Asian night out by doing the whole Karaoke thing after you have something to eat. There are also a few specialty stores that are straight out of Japan and Korea where you can buy all those unique gifts!
It is also very close to most of the entertainment found in the City centre so it is a convenient location to grab a bite to eat and then head for a show or performance. A thoroughly enjoyable spot to visit for a day or just for dinner and lunch, it is a short walk from Central station, just follow the Tram line and you will find it! (Oh and the golden tree is a dead giveaway as well!).
Have a great Sydney adventure today!
