Sydney’s Chinatown Street Food and Stories Walking Tour

Sydney , Australia

Sydney’s Chinatown Street Food and Stories Walking Tour

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About this experience

Sydney’s Chinatown is full of secrets and excellent restaurants, and on this experience, you’re going to see and taste a bit of everything!

On this tour you’ll sample a range of street foods and snacks from some of Chinatown’s best restaurants, with a minimum of 4 food samples included. All samples are snacks or street foods that represent different parts of China and are designed to be eaten on the move. Vegetarians, vegans and guests with other dietary requirements are more than welcome – just let us know in advance.

This tour has a strong focus on uncovering Sydney’s long connection with China, and the contributions Chinese-Australians have made to the community. You’ll learn more in 2.5 hours about Australia’s Chinese community than you could possibly imagine, and “pub trivia” style games will keep it interactive and fun.

At the end of the tour, you’ll get a souvenir to take home, plus a great map and guide to Chinatown, covering all the best restaurants and what to order.

Available options

Sydney’s Chinatown Street Food and Stories Walking Tour

What's included

Photos shared after the tour

4 to 5 Chinese regional street food snacks (route dependant)

A guide to Chinatown’s best restaurants

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

We start the tour outside Paddy's Markets, an important institution that heralded the beginnings of Sydney's Chinatown.

Walk through Dixon Street, the heart of Sydney's Chinatown and the largest Chinatown in the Southern Hemisphere. You'll hear stories of how the area has developed over the decades, and continues to change. Be introduced to several important Chinese-Australians and their contributions to Chinatown, Sydney and Australia. Sample delicious regional street foods from several different restaurants on and near Dixon Street.

Stop 3 Pass by

We pause outside the Chinese Garden of Friendship and tell you about the history of this lesser-known attraction. Over 30 years old, the Chinese Garden of Friendship is modelled on a Southern Chinese style scholars garden, and a beautiful spot for respite in the middle of the city. We don't enter the garden, although you can visit it after the tour and take your time exploring.

Explore Darling Square, one of Sydney's newest precincts full of restaurants, cafes and things to see.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

CMN EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

11 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.9

113 reviews

5★

108

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1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

We meet outside Paddy's Markets, directly across from the southern end of Dixon St mall. If you're looking across the light rail tracks and you can see Emperor's Garden restaurant, Covent Garden hotel and the Chinatown red gates, you're in the right spot.

About Sydney

Sydney, Australia's most iconic city, is renowned for its stunning harbour, vibrant cultural scene, and diverse neighborhoods. With its blend of natural beauty, historic landmarks, and modern attractions, Sydney offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

Top Attractions

Sydney Opera House

An iconic landmark and UNESCO World Heritage site, the Sydney Opera House is a masterpiece of modern architecture and a hub for performing arts.

Architecture/Cultural 1-2 hours for a tour, longer for a performance AUD 42-100 (tour prices vary)

Sydney Harbour Bridge

One of the world's most famous bridges, offering spectacular views and the thrill of the BridgeClimb or BridgeWalk.

Architecture/Adventure 2-3 hours (depending on activity) AUD 174-468 (BridgeClimb prices vary)

Bondi Beach

Australia's most famous beach, known for its golden sand, surfing, and vibrant atmosphere.

Beach/Entertainment Half day to full day Free (surfboard rentals and lessons cost extra)

The Rocks

A historic area with cobblestone streets, colonial buildings, and a vibrant market scene.

Historical/Cultural 2-3 hours Free (market and museum entry fees apply)

Royal Botanic Garden Sydney

A beautiful oasis in the heart of the city, offering stunning views of the harbour and Opera House.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Avo on Toast

A simple yet iconic dish featuring avocado on toast, often topped with poached eggs, feta, or smoked salmon.

Breakfast Vegetarian (check for specific toppings)

Barramundi

A popular Australian fish, often grilled or pan-fried and served with seasonal vegetables and a sauce.

Dinner Gluten-free (check for specific sauces and sides)

Tim Tams

A beloved Australian chocolate biscuit, often enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee.

Snack Contains gluten and dairy

Flat White

A popular Australian coffee, similar to a latte but with a stronger coffee flavor and velvety microfoam.

Drink Contains dairy (non-dairy options available)

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Blue Mountains Surfing at Bondi Beach BridgeClimb or BridgeWalk at Sydney Harbour Bridge Kayaking in Sydney Harbour Scuba diving in Jervis Bay Beach lounging at Bondi Beach Picnicking in the Royal Botanic Garden Spa day at a luxury hotel

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer is the peak tourist season in Sydney, with long, sunny days perfect for beach activities and outdoor events. However, it can be crowded and more expensive.

20-26°C 68-79°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English, Mandarin, Arabic, Cantonese
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Australian Dollar (AUD)

Time Zone

AEST (GMT+10) or AEDT (GMT+11) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Sydney is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any major city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and be cautious in crowded areas.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services to avoid overcharging.
• Purchase tickets from official sources or authorized sellers.

Getting there

By air

Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport • 8 km (5 miles) from city center

By train

Central Station, Sydney Terminal

By bus

Central Station, Sydney Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Sydney's train network is efficient and covers most of the city and surrounding areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

The Rocks Bondi Surry Hills Newtown Barangaroo

Day trips

Blue Mountains

80 km (50 miles) from Sydney • Full day

A stunning national park known for its dramatic landscapes, waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails.

Hunter Valley

120 km (75 miles) from Sydney • Full day

Australia's oldest wine region, offering beautiful vineyards, wine tasting, and gourmet dining.

Royal National Park

30 km (19 miles) from Sydney • Half day to full day

Australia's oldest national park, offering beautiful coastal scenery, hiking trails, and wildlife spotting.

Festivals

Sydney Festival • January Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras • February/March Sydney Writers' Festival • May

Pro tips

Use an Opal card for convenient and discounted public transport fares.
Visit iconic attractions like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
Explore Sydney's diverse neighborhoods, each with its unique character and attractions.
Take a ferry to explore the city's stunning harbour and waterfront areas.
Try local specialties like seafood, Asian cuisine, and Australian wines.