MELBOURNE | Up until this year, I’d not been to Mordialloc before, but there have been a few things this year that have gotten me down to the bayside suburb. Most recently, it was for the launch of Chiki Chan that I was invited to.
The restaurant, from ex Crown and Lucas Group chefs Johnny Jong and Kelvyn Yeoh, is modern Asian and unashamedly fusion. The menu takes Asian flavours, with particular influence from Malaysia, and gives them a spin, incorporating Western influences.
It’s not something that this part of Melbourne has seen before. Modern Asian fusion isn’t a new concept in this city, of which Johnny and Kelvyn are cognisant. The dishes they’re creating aim to being a different, refreshing spin what you find at similar restaurants around town.
A take on pani puri is filled with tuna tartare, sweet savoury tamarind, shallots, and Vietnamese mint, and is a great way to kick things off. Another must try small plate is the “Sichuan” burrata. It’s a creamy ball of burrata served in a plate of roasted sesame sauce, fennel jam, macadamia, and chili oil. Be sure to order a side of focaccia to mop it all up.
For larger plates, charred Fremantle octopus is a must. It’s served with whipped dill and mint yoghurt, lime leaf, and sweet chili sauce. For something either of the diced beef fried rice with crispy garlic, pine nuts, and roasted bone marrow; or smoky wok-braised udon with prawn, pork, cabbage, and onsen egg, will serve you well.
To finish things off, try the white chocolate dome. Crack it open with the back of your spoon and you’ll find a filling of chocolate mousse, chocolate “soil”, candied cacao nibs, puffed rice, and palm sugar mandarin caramel.
To drink, its an extensive and diverse selection of wines, house cocktails that follow the theme of the food, and local craft beer. It’s all available as part of the regular menu, or with snacks and live DJs at the adjoining side bar, Hiki.
Chiki Chan
2 Centreway
Mordialloc
Victoria 3195
Australia
Telephone: (03) 9580 4363
E-mail: [email protected]
Website
Open
Wed – Sun: 12:00pm to 10:00pm