Once upon a time, Lucky Chan’s was the coolest place to eat in Perth.
After it opened in 2014, people lined up — a feat that’s fairly unheard of in our state — to score a table at the restaurant shrouded in secrecy.
From the front, it’s cleverly disguised as a Chinese laundry, but once welcomed through the hidden door, you are transported into a playful, slightly chaotic, buzzing multi-level dining space inside.
Lucky Chan’s camera icon. Credit: Instagram
Whether it’s been the devastating impact of the pandemic on the hospitality industry, fierce competition from neighbors on William Street, or perhaps a change in menu and offerings, it’s anecdotal that Lucky Chan’s has lost its ‘It girl’ status.
There was no line midweek, which I certainly wasn’t complaining about, and we were welcomed to the downstairs dining area, which is as quirky as ever. Not all tables were occupied, but there was a cozy atmosphere, and the service was fast and friendly.
My younger self would have been disappointed to have bypassed their signature alcoholic bubble tea for a South Australian La Maschera prosecco ($10). Still, the thought of watermelon vodka or rainbow jelly wasn’t calling my name on a school night.
Camera Icon Chicken and Mushroom Dumplings in Mushroom, Soy, and Licorice Broth ($16) Credit: Jade Jurewicz
If your memories of Lucky Chan’s include gulping down a huge bowl of ramen with homemade noodles, be prepared to make new ones because ramen isn’t on the menu. However, there is still plenty to impress.
It’s easy to see why Chairman Chan’s Popcorn Chicken with Lime Aioli ($16) has been their best seller for the past six years.
Camera Icon Big hit: Chairman Chan Popcorn Chicken with Lime Aioli ($16). Credit: Instagram
The souped-up restaurant version of a takeout favorite has the great crunch you know and love, and the addition of lime aioli is the perfect complement. However, we found several pieces a bit chewy and chewy.
If you’re still looking for a noodle fix, the Dan dan Street Noodles with Beef Ragu, Chili and Black Beans, Peanuts, and Guan Miao Noodles ($26) are a good way to go.
While it wasn’t as greasy and rich as others in Perth (Brendan Pang’s version at Bumplings is at the top of my list), it was still a tasty and moreish bowl of noodles.
Camera Icon Popcorn Chicken with Lime Aioli ($16). Credit: Jade Jurewicz
Chicken and Mushroom Dumplings in Mushroom, Soy, and Licorice Broth ($16) were plump and well-made dumplings with a tasty filling. The only downside was that no spoon could taste or drizzle the stock served underneath.
Wok greens, bok choy, choy sum, bean shoots, and ginger boy sauce ($15) was a large bowl of healthy greens covered in a slightly sweet sauce that made you want to taste more and more.
Camera Icon Wok veggies, bok choy, choy sum, bean shoots, and ginger boy sauce ($15). Credit: Jade Jurewicz
While Lucky Chan’s was not the same as the go-to restaurant of the past, it is still very good. Drop by for a quick and tasty meal, or gather and group and head to the rooftop for a bubble tea and a round of popcorn chicken.
Lucky Chan’s
Address: 311 William St, Northbridge
The verdict: A playful and cozy setting to enjoy audience-friendly dishes and a nice cocktail list.
Rating: 7/10
