best Malatang In Sydney
Discovering The Top 5 Malatang Restaurants In Sydney
By Lisa Nguyen | Last updated 6 January 2024
Welcome to the flavourful world of malatang, a hot and spicy Chinese street food sensation that has taken Sydney by storm.
Malatang, which translates to "spicy and numbing hotpot," is a mouth-watering mix of ingredients, cooked in a delicious Sichuan-style broth. With so many Malatang restaurants popping up across the city, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go.
In this blog post, we embark on a fiery quest to explore some of the best malatang restaurants in the city and compare the top 5, that I think are the best restaurants. Join me as we delve into the aromatic broths, mouth-watering ingredients, and intense flavours that make malatang a favourite among food lovers.
We'll compare five renowned establishments — Mama Tang, Zhang Liang Malatang, No.1 Malatang, Hot Hot Hot Maltang, and Chungking Malatang — I do have my preference however I'll leave the final decision up to your discerning taste buds, as I recommend all of these fantastic establishments.
Number 5: Mama Tang
In the corner of John Street Cabramatta, lies a gem that has continued to shine overtime. It's a must pit-stop for all Malatang enthusiasts - known as Mama Tang. I highly recommended it if you are a local or someone who travels to Cabramatta for their wide selection of fresh fruit and Asian household items. It's easy to see why this South-West Sydney hotspot always buzzes with activity during peak hours. With an amazing range of meats, seafood, and fresh produce paired with the choice of having your Malatang dry or steeped in a delectable broth, the options for customisation seem truly endless.
The restaurant's casual ambiance makes it perfect for those quick bite moments or leisurely chats with friends. And if you're on-the-go, their well-equipped sauce and condiment station ensures that your takeaway is just as flavourful, ready to delight your taste buds even on a reheated encore the following day.
Mama Tang is ideal for those living in South-West Sydney and want avoid long travels, or those visiting Cabramatta and looking for something other than Vietnamese food.
Number 4: Zhang Liang Malatang
Tucked away near the Chinatown light rail stop in Sydney, Zhang Liang Malatang embodies traditional Chinese comfort food vibes while accommodating the bustling pace of city life. The venue radiates a lively atmosphere with space for over 50 diners, including outdoor seating. Their strategic location makes it easily accessible, whether that's arriving via public transport, strolling down George Street, or parking near Market City.
Their expansive selection includes everything from marinated meats, organ meats, tofu, eggs, noodles, and fresh vegetables to a delectable variety of seafood. The restaurant also take it up a notch by provide broth choices for those with dietary restrictions, with vegetarian, gluten-free, and non-dairy alternatives.
Notibly, when you take your first sip of any broth at Zhang Liang Malatang, you're immediately hit with its depth. As a testament to their quality, these broths often require no additional seasoning. Their intrinsic flavors are so well-balanced and robust that they stand strong on their own. Yet, for those who wish to elevate their experience further, the eatery offers an extensive sauce-making station.
During peak hours, Zhang Liang Malatang is a hive of activity with diners eager for their comforting bowls. However, the expansive restaurant space accommodates the influx smoothly, increasing the chances to find a spot amidst the buzz.
With each visit, it's clear why Zhang Liang Malatang has cemented its reputation as a must-visit in Sydney's CBD for malatang. The restaurant offers a harmonious blend of traditional flavours, efficient service, and a range of flavourful broth options that keeps you coming back for more.
Number 3: No.1 Malatang
Boasting a dominating reputation in Sydney's malatang scene, No.1 Malatang reigns supreme all around the wider Sydney area, with its original Burwood location often hailed as the crown jewel. Offering a range of seven distinct soup bases, from the richness of laksa to the hearty tomato ox bone soup, and the insurmountable ingredients, their menu easily offers over 100 ingredient choices, ensuring each visit is a unique palette adventure.
The consistency of service of No.1 Malatang allows guests to confidently immerse themselves in a quick dining experience that's both personal and delightful. It's a familiar rhythmic dance of choosing your preferred ingredients, paying at the counter, and eagerly awaiting that buzzer’s call. The only issue you'll come across is finding seating during peak hours, so try to plan ahead!
While some may argue over which Malatang establishment truly stands out, there's no denying the unparalleled quality and efficiency that the Burwood location consistently delivers, making it a cut above its other branches.
But a word of caution for first-time visitors: the sheer popularity means peak hours see an explosion of eager diners, leading to extended wait times. Yet, the efficiency of the staff ensures your customised bowl is set before you in record time, often within 10 minutes.
No.1 Malatang is the franchise almost everyone has been to or seen around, but I do warn you, non all franchises match the quality and speed of the original Burwood location.
Number 2: Hot Hot Hot Malatang
When most people think of Mascot, the airport immediately comes to mind. However, nestled within the buzzing streets of this suburb, there's a malatang sensation that's worth landing for - Hot Hot Hot Malatang. This restaurant offers an extensive selection of fresh ingredients, coupled with an impressive variety of soup bases like the hearty beef bone, tangy tomato, or the fiery Sichuan spicy soup. In particular, the stand-out of this malatang restaurant is its wide selection of condiments boasting 19 different sauces and garnishes!
But what truly distinguishes Hot Hot Hot from its counterparts is its nod to customer loyalty and delightful post-meal surprises. Regulars can benefit from a loyalty card, racking up points for enticing discounts. And just when you think the experience is over, the restaurant often surprises diners with a fresh fruit offering, a sweet ending to a spicy saga (if you enjoy you're fiery kick like I do). Its proximity to Mascot train station and ample parking makes the journey as seamless as the dining experience itself.
So, before you catch your next flight or landing in Sydney, consider making a pit stop for a meal that promises to be hotter than your next destination.
The Best Malatang: Chungking Malatang
At the heart of Sydney's bustling Haymarket, a soup haven Chungking Malatang not only satisfies the cravings of malatang enthusiasts but elevates the dining experience to a whole new level. From bowls tailored to every palate in addition of a plethora of milk teas to wash it all down, this spot is a true city gem.
Step into Chungking Malatang, and you're immediately immersed in a rich tapestry of flavours. The selection of 11 broths is nothing short of sensational, with each one promising a unique and heady experience. The Chef's Chilli, an establishment recommendation, stands out with its vibrant hue and robust taste. But then, there's the allure of Pickled Cabbage, the zing of Thai Tom Yum, the richness of Curry Laksa, the warmth of Bones Soup, and the list goes on. So, every visit becomes a delightful dilemma, a choice between tried-and-tested favourites or the excitement of the unknown.
But what sets Chungking Malatang apart, aside from its flavourful broths, is its exceptional range of ingredients. From the staple offerings of a typical malatang joint, Chungking extends its repertoire to encompass exotic choices like marinated chicken wings, succulent pork ribs, and even seafood delicacies like abalone. The place hums with activity, yet the efficiency of the ordering system ensures that you're never too far from diving into your customised bowl. As you sip the broth, its intricate layers of taste and depth reveal themselves, a testament to the meticulous preparation and hours of simmering that goes behind each pot.
Beyond the food, it's the ambiance that makes the meal truly memorable. The restaurant, despite its popularity, manages to maintain its cleanliness and spaciousness. As you relish your meal, surrounded by the city's hustle and bustle, the diverse range of ingredients and beverages ensures that every visit feels fresh and new. So, the next time the allure of a hearty soup beckons, remember there's a bowl waiting for you at Chungking Malatang.
There you have it – a comparison of some of the best malatang restaurants in Sydney. Each of these establishments brings something unique to the table. Ultimately, the choice comes down to your personal preferences and what kind of malatang experience you're craving. So, why not give them all a try and decide for yourself which one takes the crown? Happy eating!
Want to find more great spots to eat in Sydney? People who like malatang also love our list of the Top 5 Ramen Bowls In Sydney.