Zhang Liang Malatang Restaurant Haymarket
By Lisa Nguyen | Published 19 October 2023
Does this spot match the hype?
TL; DR | Summary
Zhang Liang Malatang is a hot spot among comfort food enthusiasts, strategically located in the bustling streets of Sydney's Chinatown. Their broths are intrinsically flavourful and often require no additional flavouring enhancements. This eatery boasts 9 malatang broths and stir-fry options, and an extensive ingredient selection. In addition, there is a sauce-making station with heaps of variety, ensuring a tailored dining experience. Although it attracts a massive crowd during peak hours, the ample seating provides a reasonably comfortable dining experience regardless.
Zhang Liang Malatang Review
@bestspots.com.au Chinatown's Hot Spot Among Malatang Enthusiasts ⬇️ The broths at @zhangliangmalatangsydney are intrinsically flavourful 🍜 and often require no additional flavouring enhancements 🔥, which is what you want at a Malatang joint 😋 I've had the classic spicy 🌶️ and tom yum 🦐 soups and can attest that both are brimming with umami flavour! Additionally, the complimentary condiments allow you to constantly adjust to your preferences 😌 However, I did notice that many other diners were opting for the stir fry or dry options, which piqued my curiosity about trying them on my next visit 🤔 ℹ️ Here are a bunch of soup bases and broths you can choose from: - Classic spicy soup - Tomato soup - Mushroom soup - Spicy tomato soup - Tom yum soup - Spicy dry wok - Spicy mix with spicy sauce - Spicy mix with Sichuan pepper sauce 📕 For the insider info, head over to bestspots.com.au #malatang #sydneycbd #hotpot🍲 #malatanghotpot #malatangfood ♬ Daydreams - Gentle State
Located in the heart of Haymarket in Sydney's CBD, Zhang Liang Malatang resonates with the spirit of traditional Chinese comfort food, which has been finetuned for busy city diners.
The restaurant is just outside the Chinatown lightrail stop, so its location is optimal as you can conveniently travel to the restaurant via public transport, walk along George Street or park around Market City.
As you walk in, you'll immediately notice the hustle and bustle of diners weaving through the crowded lanes, all keen to pick and choose ingredients for their personalised malatang. It's perfect for casual group gatherings and quick catch-ups after work.
The ingredient selection is vast and varied, ensuring that every diner finds something they love, regardless of their palette. It's ranked high up in terms of variety compared to other malatang places.
Choices range from marinated meats, fresh vegetables, noodles, eggs, and tofu to a delightful collection of seafood options, including clams and fish. For those who crave a deeper dive into traditional options, mushrooms, dumplings, and organ meats are plentiful.
In addition to these menu offerings, Zhang Liang Malatang pays attention to those with dietary restrictions. Vegetarian, gluten-free, and non-dairy options are available, ensuring every person feels catered to.
As for the price, it's standard pricing, much like the other popular malatang eateries, and you can expect to pay about $17-22 for a bowl of malatang with all your favourites and be overly satisfied.
Zhang Liang Malatang Menu & Service
Despite how full and busy the restaurant gets, Zhang Liang Malatang offers speedy delivery on your order. You can expect a lively atmosphere as the restaurant can accommodate over 55 customers and includes outdoor options, making it the largest malatang restaurant in size. Like many familiar malatang restaurants, the practical buzzer system allows diners to relax, chat, or make their sauces while their meal is prepared.
As for the food, one can't help but notice the rich aroma emanating from the various soups. They are incredibly flavourful, making additional seasonings almost redundant.
I've had the classic spicy and tom yum soup. I can attest that both are brimming with umami flavour, and you can constantly adjust to your preferences with the complimentary condiments. I did notice, however, that many other diners were opting for the stir fry or dry options, piquing my curiosity to try them on my next visit.
Here are the types of soup bases and broths available:
- Classic spicy soup
- Tomato soup
- Mushroom soup
- Spicy tomato soup
- Tom yum soup
- Spicy dry wok
- Spicy mix with spicy sauce
- Spicy mix with Sichuan pepper sauce
On top of these options, you can also order steamed rice and a brown sugar fruit ice jelly dessert, which is rare. I've been to malatang restaurants all across Sydney, and this is my first time encountering these dishes on the menu.
As for the drinks, aside from complimentary water, there's a range of classic and contemporary Asian beverages, from refreshing soft drinks and juices to beloved Asian specialties.
Alas, with many reasons to make this your malatang pitstop, it's a given that peak hours can get quite crowded. The bustling atmosphere can challenge those wanting to select ingredients and navigate the space peacefully. It is, however, a minor trade-off for the authenticity and consistent all-rounder that the place offers.
Classic Spicy Soup
The Classic Spicy Soup is an ode to the traditional malatang many know and love. If you enjoy a spice kick like I do, this bowl introduces the palate to a delightful medley of flavourful heat without being overwhelmingly hot. It's tempting to keep drinking the soup as it lures you with its savoury umami notes from the first sip.
Tom Yum Soup
A delightful twist on the classic Thai soup, the Tom Yum Soup at Zhang Liang is a well-balanced soup with notes of tanginess. It offers the right amount of sour kick with enough savoury prowess, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a fusion of flavours that lingers on the palate. If you need more of a spicy hit like I do, simply add more chilli oil from the sauce and condiment station.
Sauces & Condiments
Zhang Liang Malatang offers diverse condiment stations for dipping sauce or to top your meal. Their handmade chilli sauce provides a fiery kick, while sesame oil adds a subtle, earthy note. Then, there's the mushroom sauce and oyster sauce, which adds a punch of umami goodness.
For garnishes, extra flavour and texture, fresh coriander and green onions add brightness, while crushed and fried garlic elevates the dipping experience. Or you can opt for peanuts to introduce a crunchy twist. The combinations and additions are endless, as you can pick and choose the exact amount you desire.
RECOMMENDED
- Classic spicy broth
- Tom yum soup broth
- Trying random ingredients from its vast selection
- Consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more relaxed experience, but generally, you should be fine to find a table.
Final Words
Zhang Liang Malatang, with its vast ingredient selection, flavourful broths, and an ambience that vibrates with authenticity, is an experience that beckons malatang enthusiasts and novices alike. The bustling crowd is a testament to its allure, making it a must-visit in the heart of Sydney's CBD for some solid malatang that caters to just about everyone.
Where To Find Zhang Liang Malatang Sydney
Address
Hours
- Monday: 11:00 AM – 11:30 PM
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 11:30 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 11:30 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:30 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 11:30 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:30 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 11:30 PM
Website
Phone
+61 2 9281 9137
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