Spice Alley

Spice Alley is a narrow, paved laneway off Kensington Street in Chippendale, reached through a red gateway on the eastern side of the street. It is lined with small kitchens in the style of an Asian hawker centre, and diners share communal tables in the lane and under cover. The atmosphere is informal and lively, particularly in the evenings, when the alley fills with groups of friends.

The vendors cover a wide spread of Asian cuisines. Alex Lee Kitchen and Ginger and Spice serve Singaporean food, Bang Luck combines Thai and Vietnamese street food, Hong Kong Diner offers Cantonese dishes, Sedap Malaysian covers Malaysian favourites, Seoul Yum serves Korean street food, Shanghai Dumpling Bar specialises in dumplings, and Tabé-ru offers Japanese food. There are also outlets for satay and grills, dim sum and Thai desserts. Two small bars, Gin Lane and Nomu Bar, serve drinks.

The format works well for groups who want different dishes, as each person can order from a different stall and bring their food back to a shared table. Prices suit a casual meal, and it is easy to try small dishes from several kitchens. Food can be eaten in or taken away.

Spice Alley opens daily from 11:00, closing at 21:30 from Sunday to Wednesday and at 22:00 from Thursday to Saturday. Seating is first come, first served, so arrive before 19:00 at weekends for an easier time finding a table. Weekday lunchtimes are quieter, and the lane is a good choice when you want a quick, inexpensive meal near the city centre.

If you are unsure where to start, walk the length of the lane first to see what each kitchen is offering, then order a few dishes to share. Groups often split up to queue at different stalls and meet back at a table, which is the quickest way to get a varied meal.

It suits budget travellers, families with older children and groups of friends. Those wanting a quiet or formal meal should look elsewhere, as the alley can be crowded and noisy at peak times. Central station is about ten minutes' walk away. The surrounding Kensington Street precinct has further restaurants in The Old Rum Store and other converted buildings, and Central Park and Chippendale's galleries are close by. Ester restaurant on Meagher Street is a short walk away if you prefer a sit-down dinner on another night.