Panda BBQ

Level 2 on Bourke Street. The entry feels distinctly unassuming—like slipping through a back service door. Push past it. You're immediately hit by a high-energy collision of Chinese and Thai street food culture. Serious skewer fiends constantly drop this name. Think authentic shao kao—perfectly grilled wagyu, lamb, and pork belly heavily dusted with cumin and customizable chili heat. The spicy clams pack a massive punch, while the salted egg corn with prawns hits that elusive sweet-salty frequency. It’s sensory overload in the absolute best way. Hot skewers in one hand, stellar milk tea in the other. Folks navigating the Chinatown fringes know to snag a spot at one of the quirky indoor dining swings. Live performers belt out English and Mandarin tracks, adding a vibrant, karaoke-laced soundtrack to the smoke and spice. Outdoor seating offers a breather, and plenty of vegetarian plates or killer fried rice noodles balance out the meat-heavy lineup. Grab a crew, order aggressively, and let the late-night feast begin.