Secret Kitchen CBD
Traditional Chinese cuisine done well.
Overview
Despite the name, Secret Kitchen has quite the reputation in Melbourne. As one of four outposts under the moniker across the city, this CBD location maintains the restaurant groups A-plus scorecard, providing reliably slick and sophisticated service.
Menu-wise, don't expect any major surprises — this is simply traditional Chinese cuisine done really well. Seafood is proudly the main focus here, which is evident in the menu (each species has at least a dozen options) and the enormous fish tank by the entrance. Dessert doesn't disappoint either — expect deep-fried durian puffs and steamed custard buns fashioned as cutesy pig heads.
Dumpling options include steamed Shanghai pork dumplings, and king prawn dumplings, while the entrees include traditional Peking duck pancakes and crispy garlic prawn spring rolls. The seafood san choi bao is a delight while the braised whole abalone is an exotic option. For a main go no further than the perfectly succulent and deliciously saucy suckling pig with a side of veggies and some fried rice.