Eat @ Chilli Padi

Malaysian eatery Chilli Padi (Shop OE7, Menzies Alley cnr of Elizabeth and Lt Lonsdale Sts, Melbourne Ph: 9663 5688) is one of those restaurants which quickly becomes a staple in your restaurant portfolio, and for me, it’s almost institutional.

It’s rich flavours, sizeable portions and inner city ambiance, Chilli Padi is a great place for a quick bite before a show, a big birthday celebration or an intimate dinner for two. The only danger is being tempted to order more than you can eat.

The friendly wait staff are knowledge about each dish and the best wine to accompany the meal. Since opening a few years ago, the menu has changed slightly but retains the best dishes including their deliciously spicy Beef Rendang, Braised Duck Breast with chestnuts and lotus roots, Mee Goreng and Laksa Noodles in coconut broth. The large platter-type dishes combine the best dishes with a side of steamed jasmine rice are new to the menu and are perfect for those with big appetites.

Although originally a Malay eatery, Chilli Padi has introduced other dishes from around Asia including Korea, India and Japan. The only odd inclusion into the menu is the Porterhouse Steak with ‘shichimi’ chips… not quite an Asian dish.

However, everything else works at Chilli Padi. The flavours and dishes combine to create a fulfilling experience and as you leave, no matter what you’ve eaten, you are guaranteed to leave full and with a smile.

4 of 5