Stunning Chef Wong Yum Cha Dinner
Yum cha heaven! Hong Kong-style yum cha haven Chef Wong has opened its doors for dinner in Hawthorn East, offering a comprehensive, affordable, and tantalizing menu, and we were invited along to experience it. They also have a restaurant in Huntingdale.
Dim sum master Chef Wong, formerly of Shark Fin House and Gold Leaf, brought decades of expertise to the table, having honed his craft since the tender age of 16. Now, the younger generation, led by Doris and Chung, continues this dim sum dynasty, faithfully executing family recipes with a fresh twist. The result? Quality yum cha, handmade in-house and bursting with flavor. 
We embarked on an extraordinary culinary journey, ordering a feast that was nothing short of spectacular. Highlights included the Xiao Long Bao, a perfect HK-style dumpling that burst with rich, savory broth, and the Sesame Prawn Toast, which was among the best I’ve ever tasted—crisp, flavorful, and utterly satisfying. The Prawn Dumplings, Football Dumplings, and Pork Siu Mai were all generous in size and filling, showcasing the high-quality ingredients and meticulous in house preparation. 
Standouts also included the Tempura Prawns, which were light and crispy, and the Crispy Sichuan Eggplant, an outstanding dish with a perfect balance of spice and texture. The Bird’s Nest, a crunchy, flavorful delight, and the Beef Hor Fun, rich and hearty, were equally impressive. 
Desserts did not disappoint either; the egg tarts were layered with perfection, while the Asian cheesecake and tiramisu were showstopper dishes.
The ambience at Chef Wong is welcoming and unpretentious, a standout family-run business. Steph, the outstanding manager, ensures the service is quick and efficient, further enhancing the dining experience.
Ordering at Chef Wong is refreshingly simple. You can order yum cha by the piece. Additionally, the clean, fresh taste of the dishes, free from MSG and additives, is a testament to the quality and care put into every bite.
You can also order their dumplings online and enjoy them at home. Chef Wong in Hawthorn East (also in Huntingdale) is a celebration of tradition, quality, and the joy of sharing good food. It might just be Melbourne’s best yum cha experience.