Best Southeast Asian Restaurants in Essendon

Price

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$$$
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Regions

City CentreInner City EastInner City NorthInner City SouthWestern Suburbs

Neighborhoods

AbbotsfordMaribyrnongMelbourne CBDMoonee PondsRichmondSouth Melbourne

Top Rated

CharmingGood for groupsGood for special occasionsGreat for happy hourHealthyHot spot

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Accessibility

Wheelchair access

14 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

1. Local Chook

4.8

Exceptional(171)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Southeast asian • Moonee Ponds

Booked 13 times today

Local Chook in Moonee Ponds is a culinary delight, celebrated for its inventive fusion of Vietnamese flavors with a modern twist. Diners rave about the "sensational" Bao Buns and the "fantastic" Red Chicken Curry, all crafted with fresh ingredients that balance authenticity and creativity. The restaurant's eclectic menu caters to diverse dietary preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Patrons consistently praise the "excellent" service and vibrant atmosphere, making it a "local gem" that offers great value for money. With generous portions, it's an ideal spot for sharing meals and enjoying a casual, yet unforgettable, dining experience.

A photo of Viet Hotpot and Steam restaurant

2. Viet Hotpot and Steam

(0)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Southeast asian • Maribyrnong

Booked 2 times today

Viet Hotpot and Steam offers an inviting dining experience cantered around steaming hot pots. Known for its cosy atmosphere, it’s a perfect spot to warm up with family and friends. The menu features an array of fresh ingredients and flavourful broths, allowing diners to customize their hot pot experience. The restaurant is also appreciated for its warm hospitality and attention to detail.Whether you're looking for a hearty meal or celebrating a special occasion, Viet Hotpot and Steam ensures a satisfying culinary adventure

3. Hochi Mama CBD

4.7

Exceptional(3359)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Southeast asian • Melbourne CBD

Booked 88 times today

Hochi Mama CBD in Melbourne is a vibrant gem for authentic Southeast Asian cuisine. This buzzing Vietnamese Fusion venue captivates diners with its "amazing food and cocktails," as one review notes. The restaurant is praised for its creative twist on traditional dishes, with highlights like the "crispy duck appetizer" and "Kingfish Sashimi." Guests rave about the "generous servings" and the memorable "Feed Me menu," which offers excellent value. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, making it perfect for a "fantastic dining experience" or an intimate date night. Hochi Mama’s commitment to delicious, innovative flavors ensures it stands out in Melbourne’s culinary scene.

A photo of Hochi Mama Richmond restaurant

4. Hochi Mama Richmond

4.7

Exceptional(1208)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Southeast asian • Richmond

Booked 52 times today

Hochi Mama Richmond, nestled in the vibrant heart of Swan Street, Richmond, showcases Southeast Asian cuisine at its finest. This "absolute fave" is celebrated for its "amazing food" that bursts with flavor, making each dish a delightful journey. Renowned for its 'Feed Me Now' offering, it allows diners to savor a diverse array of zingy and fiery delights for a reasonable price. The "exceptional and genuine hospitality" ensures every visit feels special, with attentive staff ready to elevate your dining experience. Whether it's the "best Asian fusion food" or the "divine" Chicken Baos, Hochi Mama promises a memorable culinary adventure.

5. Salted Egg

4.5

Awesome(581)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Southeast asian • Melbourne CBD

Booked 3 times today

Salted Egg in Melbourne's CBD delivers an exceptional dining experience with its authentic Southeast Asian cuisine, particularly focusing on the vibrant flavors of Thailand. Executive Chef Adam Woodfield crafts a menu that is a "delightful journey through Southeast Asian flavors," showcasing dishes like Twice Cooked Pork Belly and Kao Soi Chicken Curry. Guests rave about the "generous and well-executed" set menus, making it a top recommendation for anyone seeking genuine Thai flavors. The restaurant's "comfortable and inviting setting" paired with "attentive service" ensures every visit feels special. Whether for a date night or a celebration, Salted Egg is a must-visit destination for lovers of Southeast Asian cuisine.

A photo of Bali Hai CBD (Thai fusion) restaurant

6. Bali Hai CBD (Thai fusion)

4.6

Exceptional(57)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Southeast asian • Melbourne CBD

Booked 23 times today

Bali Hai in Melbourne CBD is a culinary gem that masterfully blends the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine with Melbourne’s sophisticated dining scene. Known for its "AMAZING and FRESH" dishes, Bali Hai offers a menu inspired by the bustling streets of Bangkok and the serene beaches of Pattaya. From fiery curries to delicate noodle dishes, each plate is infused with a modern twist, ensuring a delightful experience for every palate. Guests rave about the "Kingfish Sashimi" and the "best red duck curry" they've ever had. With its friendly staff and vibrant atmosphere, Bali Hai promises an unforgettable dining adventure.

A photo of Jinda Thai Restaurant restaurant

7. Jinda Thai Restaurant

4.6

Exceptional(22)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Southeast asian • Abbotsford

Booked 27 times today

Established in 2013, Jinda Thai restaurant has become a favourite among locals and visitors seeking genuine Thai dishes. Our menu showcases the rich diversity of Thai food, featuring everything from aromatic curries and striking stir-fries to zesty salads and comforting noodle soups. Start your culinary journey with house-made appetizers like Family recipe's Thai fish cakes and classic Chicken satay. For the main course, try our signature Fried Barramundi with Tamarind Sauce or the traditional Pad Gra Pow, both bursting with flavour. Reserve and Enjoy our warm atmosphere with rustic wooden tables and exposed brick walls, where our friendly staffs await to guide you through the menu and suggest dishes tailored to your taste and your party.

8. Makan

4.7

Exceptional(631)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Southeast asian • Melbourne CBD

Booked 9 times today

Makan, nestled in the heart of Melbourne CBD, offers an extraordinary journey into the vibrant world of Indonesian cuisine. Helmed by the talented Tasia & Gracia Seger, winners of My Kitchen Rules 2016, Makan presents "a contemporary take on authentic dishes" that celebrate Indonesia's rich culinary heritage. Diners rave about the "delicious, generous" servings and how every dish is "an explosion of flavor." Standout favorites include the succulent Sate Maranggi and the satisfying Rendang Wagyu. With a warm ambiance and "superb" service, Makan is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic and unforgettable Asian dining experience.

9. Operator25

4.8

Exceptional(5)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Southeast asian • Melbourne CBD

Booked 5 times today

Located in a heritage-listed, original telephone exchange building on Wills street within minutes of the leafy Flagstaff Gardens, you’ll connect with our home’s history from the moment you walk in.Operator 25 is a bright and playful space to have meetings or settle in for a cosy chat.

10. Charlong

4.5

Awesome(86)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Southeast asian • St Kilda

Booked 5 times today

Charlong, nestled in the vibrant heart of St Kilda on Carlisle Street, is a celebrated gem for authentic Thai cuisine lovers. Renowned for its "modern take on Thai classics," Charlong masterfully combines traditional Southeast Asian flavors with French culinary techniques using locally sourced, seasonal produce. The rotating menu caters to diverse dietary preferences, offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Diners rave about exceptional dishes like the lamb shank Massaman curry, with one review exclaiming, "Best Thai food we have ever had!" The cozy and vibrant ambiance, along with the commitment to quality, makes Charlong a must-visit haven for food enthusiasts.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

D
David
Brisbane •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Set dinner menu is good value. You need to start with an empty stomach though!
More info
Hochi Mama RichmondPrice: Expensive• Asian• Richmond
•
4.7
L
Luciana
Melbourne •1 review
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
A wonderful dining Experience for my sister in-law's birthday, will definitely be back!
More info
Salted EggPrice: Expensive• Asian• Melbourne CBD
•
4.5
T
Tim
Melbourne •1 review
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
We had a fantastic experience, the service was outstanding, the food delicious and the cocktails were great.
More info
Hochi Mama CBDPrice: Moderate• Asian• Melbourne CBD
•
4.7
S
Sherren
Melbourne •14 reviews
5.0
Dined on May 27, 2025
Always delicious and freshly cooked. Staff friendly, always look forward to my meal there.
More info
Local ChookPrice: Moderate• Vietnamese• Moonee Ponds
•
4.8

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