Chinatown Moonta Street
Adelaide's vibrant Chinatown on Moonta Street, a compact hub for authentic Asian cuisine, bubble tea, and cultural exploration.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Bustling atmosphere, vibrant food scene
Chinatown Moonta Street
Best Time
Bustling atmosphere, vibrant food scene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Adelaide's vibrant Chinatown on Moonta Street, a compact hub for authentic Asian cuisine, bubble tea, and cultural exploration.
"A compact but vibrant hub for authentic Asian cuisine, bubble tea, and cultural exploration."
Authentic Eats on Wright Street
For truly authentic Chinese cuisine, explore Wright Street, just off Moonta Street.
Don't Miss Central Market
Combine your Chinatown visit with the adjacent Central Market for diverse food options.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Legend Lanzhou Beef Noodles
Moonta Street
Authentic hand-pulled beef noodles that are a must-try for noodle lovers.
Eggette
Moonta Street
Indulge in delicious egg waffles and soufflé pancakes for a sweet treat.
Star Hot Pot
Moonta Street
Experience hot pot under a unique hand-painted interactive star ceiling.
T-Chow Restaurant
68 Moonta Street
A popular spot for Chinese cuisine, known for its vibrant relaunch events.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Chinatown Vibe
Beyond the Street: Explore the Surroundings
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Authentic Eats on Wright Street
For truly authentic Chinese cuisine, explore Wright Street, just off Moonta Street.
Don't Miss Central Market
Combine your Chinatown visit with the adjacent Central Market for diverse food options.
Hand-Pulled Noodle Hunt
Seek out places like Legend Lanzhou Beef Noodles for incredible hand-pulled noodle dishes.
Bubble Tea Bliss
Chinatown is dotted with bubble tea shops, perfect for a refreshing drink.
Tips
from all over the internet
Authentic Eats on Wright Street
For truly authentic Chinese cuisine, explore Wright Street, just off Moonta Street.
Don't Miss Central Market
Combine your Chinatown visit with the adjacent Central Market for diverse food options.
Hand-Pulled Noodle Hunt
Seek out places like Legend Lanzhou Beef Noodles for incredible hand-pulled noodle dishes.
Bubble Tea Bliss
Chinatown is dotted with bubble tea shops, perfect for a refreshing drink.
Parking Can Be Tricky
City center parking can be challenging; consider public transport or parking at Central Market.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Chinatown Moonta Street is a compact but vibrant hub for Asian cuisine in Adelaide, praised for its authentic noodle dishes, hot pot experiences, and sweet treats. While smaller than its counterparts in larger cities, it offers a delightful culinary adventure, especially when combined with the adjacent Central Market. Some visitors note it can be quiet on weekday mornings, but it truly comes alive in the evenings and on weekends.
"Chinatown is a small street between Gouger and Grote Streets next to the Central Market.
I visited on a Sunday and it was pretty quiet. There are only eateries around as far as I could tell with even more Chinese restaurants located in the surrounding streets.
This Chinatown is insignificant when compared to Sydney and Melbourne. However, if there was an event happening I'm sure that there would be a completely different atmosphere to the area."
Emmy Silvius
"There are no shops open as we arrived just past 9am in Chinatown. The only shop was opened is the Bread shop at the front. Later in the day we returned to Chinatown and found a lot of interesting shops and market. Highly recommended the Central Market which has different varieties of food and cafe. We loved the Portuguese custard tarts shop and it tasted very authentic."
Joe Kwong
"This street is actually quite short, but the surrounding area is where the real charm is. You'll find a wide variety of Chinese food, supermarkets, and restaurants offering all kinds of regional flavors ,from roast duck(燒臘) and beef noodle soup to hot pot and milk tea.
Parking here can be a bit difficult since it's in the city center, but it's right next to the Central Market, so you can easily visit both while shopping. There are so many familiar ingredients and flavors from home, making this a great spot to visit whenever you feel homesick."
ألثيا شون
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Chinatown Moonta Street is located in the CBD of Adelaide, between Gouger and Grote Streets, adjacent to the Central Market. It's easily accessible by public transport, including buses and trams that stop nearby. If driving, parking can be found in city car parks, with the Central Market car park being a convenient option.
Yes, Chinatown Moonta Street is a compact and walkable area. You can easily explore the shops and restaurants on foot. It's also conveniently located next to the Adelaide Central Market, which is also best explored by walking.
From Adelaide Airport, you can take a taxi or rideshare service directly to Chinatown Moonta Street. Alternatively, you can take the JetBus (J1 or J2) towards the city and alight at a stop close to the CBD, then walk or take a short connecting bus.
While there aren't specific 'park and ride' facilities directly for Chinatown, you can utilize city car parks. The Central Market car park is a good option, allowing you to park and then explore both the market and Chinatown on foot.
Yes, cycling is a viable option. Adelaide has a growing network of bike lanes, and there are usually bike racks available in the city center, including near the Central Market and Chinatown. Remember to use a good lock.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Chinatown Moonta Street is a public street and does not require an entry ticket. You are free to wander and explore the area at your leisure.
Chinatown itself doesn't have set opening hours as it's a public street. However, individual shops and restaurants have their own operating hours. Many restaurants are open for lunch and dinner, with some shops opening earlier. It's best to check the specific hours for any establishment you plan to visit.
Yes, Chinatown Moonta Street and the surrounding areas often host special events and festivals, particularly around Lunar New Year and other cultural celebrations. These events can bring a vibrant atmosphere to the street.
There is no admission fee to enter the restaurants in Chinatown. You will only pay for the food and drinks you order.
Chinatown Moonta Street is generally accessible on public holidays, but it's advisable to check the opening hours of individual restaurants and shops as some may have reduced hours or be closed.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You absolutely must try the authentic hand-pulled noodles at Legend Lanzhou Beef Noodles,
delicious egg waffles and soufflé pancakes from Eggette, and experience hot pot at places like Star Hot Pot. Don't forget to explore the diverse regional Chinese cuisines available.For more authentic, non-Western adapted Chinese restaurants, head to Wright Street. Wah Hing on Gouger Street is also a popular choice.
Yes, there are vegetarian options available. Pure Vegetarian restaurant was a highly recommended spot, though it's noted the owners were retiring. It's always best to ask about specific dietary needs at restaurants.
Chinatown Moonta Street is home to several bubble tea shops, including Milk Flower, which offers delicious drinks made with fresh ingredients.
Dining prices can vary widely depending on the restaurant and dish. You can find affordable noodle bowls and snacks, as well as more upscale dining experiences. Expect to pay around $15-$30 AUD for a main meal at most restaurants.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant atmosphere of the street, especially the signature Chinatown gates at either end. The hand-painted star ceiling at Star Hot Pot is a unique indoor photo opportunity.
Look for colorful signage and bustling restaurant scenes.Yes, it's generally acceptable to take photos of your food in most restaurants. Many diners do this to share their experiences online.
Evenings offer a lively ambiance with illuminated signs and bustling crowds, making for dynamic photos. Weekday mornings can be quieter, offering a more serene perspective and easier shots without many people.
Look out for the traditional Chinatown gates that mark the entrances to the street. The diverse signage of the restaurants and shops also adds to the visual appeal.
Drone usage in urban areas like Chinatown is often restricted due to safety and privacy regulations. It's essential to check local aviation authority rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When dining, look for restaurants with more casual settings or those offering familiar dishes. Sharing plates of dumplings or noodles can be a great way for kids to try new flavors. Remember that parking can be a bit challenging, so planning your transport in advance is advisable.
🍜 Food Enthusiasts
Seek out the more authentic eateries on Wright Street and be adventurous in trying new dishes. Many visitors rave about the quality and variety of food available, making it a prime destination for a gastronomic exploration.
🚶 Budget Travelers
While there's no entry fee to explore the street, be mindful of your spending on bubble tea and snacks, as these can add up. Visiting during off-peak hours might also lead to better deals or set menus.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Culinary Delights of Chinatown
Beyond the street itself, the adjacent Adelaide Central Market offers an even broader culinary adventure, featuring fresh produce, international delicacies, and numerous food stalls. This makes combining a visit to Chinatown with a trip to the market a perfect way to spend a day exploring Adelaide's vibrant food scene. Remember to ask about allergens if you have specific dietary needs, as noted by some visitors.
Exploring the Atmosphere and Culture
While some reviews suggest it's smaller compared to Chinatowns in Sydney or Melbourne, its charm lies in its accessibility and integration with the surrounding city. The area truly comes alive during cultural events and festivals, such as Lunar New Year celebrations, which can transform the street into a bustling hub of activity and festivity. Even on quieter days, the vibrant signage and the aroma of diverse cuisines create an engaging sensory experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit