If you’re after a yum cha experience without the usual hustle and bustle, Chef Wong in Hawthorn East is where it’s at! This place has such a trendy, relaxed, and welcoming vibe that makes it perfect for a family outing.

Chef Wong himself has been in the kitchen for many years, and he’s joined by an incredible team of chefs from some of Melbourne’s best yum cha spots.

Instead of the usual carts rolling by, you get to pick your own dumplings from the menu— mamma felt immediately more relaxed!! The menu has vegetarian and gluten-free options clearly marked, and you can choose just one or a few dumplings, rather than getting stuck with a big plateful like at the traditional places.

There’s so much space indoors and out for prams and high chairs, and they know how to support a peaceful meal and give kids a pencil case full of pencils and paper to get creative while you feast. The kids’ artwork wall is worth a look, and who knows, your little artist might get their masterpiece up there too!

We tried a big spread of both steamed and fried dishes, and our faves were “the football,” sticky rice, prawn dumplings, and prawn toast. IF you’re feeling adventurous, give the PHOENIX CLAW a go! And don’t forget to save room for dessert as they’ve got everything from jelly to cakes to mochis, and even cannolis!