Overview
When a restaurant sells over two million servings of a dish each year — a dish that has also inspired a museum — you know it's on to a good thing. Quanjude originated in Beijing 154 years ago and is world-renowned for its signature peking roast duck, served traditionally with pancakes, shallots, cucumber and bean sauce. Melburnians have been able to sample the crispy fire-roasted duck for a few years at the restaurant's Queen Street outpost, but now, finally, Sydneysiders can get in on the action too. The restaurant has set up shop in World Square in the space formerly occupied by China Republic.
The space has had a complete overhaul with timber-clad walls and hand-painted artworks. The space can seat up to 250 patrons and also features six private dining rooms, an open kitchen and a circular bar. Traditions from the original Beijing venue including nightly Bian Lian performances and tea pouring ceremonies.
In addition to the trademark peking duck, the menu includes a bevy of Northern Chinese dishes. An on-site tank supplies cooked-to-order seafood dishes including whole lobster, abalone and coral trout. The Beggar's Chicken — stuffed, wrapped in clay and slow-baked for six hours — is worth ordering in advance (and mandatory), and if you're feeling adventurous, give the spicy duck gizzard or braised pork intestine a go. Drinks-wise, you can expect an extensive wine list, bespoke cocktails and traditional Chinese spirits.
Quanjude is now open in World Square, Sydney. It's open daily for lunch from 11am–3pm and dinner from 5–11pm. For more info, head to quanjudesydney.com.au.