Ho Jiak Melbourne - Junda's Playground

In the heart of the Melbourne CBD, Ho Jiak Melbourne - Junda's Playground takes on Malaysian flavours through a modern lens. Its name hints at mischief and mastery: a place where bold tastes meet polished technique, and spice finds its rhythm. Expect urban energy and a menu that moves with intent rather than nostalgia.

The cooking pivots on provenance and heat. Think crisp lotus root chips tossed with salted duck egg and curry leaves. Oven-roasted, dry-aged, corn-fed duck takes centre stage, its richness cut with an elegant bite. From the coast, Shark Bay scallop pairs with xo butter, while san choy bow folds shiitake, pork and duck into crisp leaves. Each plate threads South-East Asian verve with an eye for texture and savoury sauces.

Char and spice drive the larger cuts too: chargrilled Loddon Valley lamb rump is lifted by spiced garlic sambal and herbed yoghurt, and MB4 Angus short rib leans into umami with Vegemite and pico de gallo.

It's a confident, playful kitchen built for sharing and lingering conversations. Gather your favourite people, bring an appetite, and let Junda's Playground do what it does best: make tastebuds swing!