The 6 best Chinese restaurants in Darwin

Vibrant Pink Chopstix is a standout in Darwin, nailing the trifecta of stunning dishes, warm service and waterfront sunsets. The bold black-and-pink decor buzzes with energy, while an open kitchen offers front-row seats to the chefs’ artistry. Highlights from the Asian fusion menu include live mud crab with Sichuan chilli sauce, a heart-stopping seafood platter and perfectly cooked whole barramundi. Kick things off with Peking duck bao buns or san choy bow. If you’re feeling indecisive, the Feed Me experience takes over, offering a curated selection of Pink Choptix’s best dishes. Pair it all with vibrant cocktails, local beers or a soothing pot of Chinese tea.

Step into this award-winning eatery for some of Darwin’s finest Chinese and Southeast Asian cuisine, specialising in yum cha and siu mei (Chinese roast meat). This modern city-centre hotspot nails it with fresh dishes, inviting seating and elegant decor. Picture dark timber, rich red walls, and intricate blue and white porcelain crockery. Kick things off with DIY Peking duck pancakes, pillowy bao buns or crispy eggplant, before diving into showstoppers like caramelised pork belly or Cantonese roast duck. Laksa enthusiasts will enjoy the Chinese Malay coconut curry chicken soup, brimming with egg and rice noodles, local sprouts and tofu puffs. 

Loong Fong, located on Wood Street, just a short stroll from Darwin’s CBD, offers a casual spot for a family meal or a low-key catch-up with friends. The menu sticks to familiar territory, starting with staples like steamed dim sims or fried wontons, before moving on to special fried rice and sizzling beef with black pepper. Lazy Susans make sharing easy and the comfortable chairs ensure a relaxed dining experience. Loong Fong is a solid choice when you’re after a straightforward Chinese meal in an unfussy setting.

If you’re craving Chinese cuisine with a touch of luxury, head to Dragon Court at Mindil Beach Casino Resort. This is where white tablecloths, gleaming lazy Susans and attentive service set the stage for elevated dining. The menu shines with must-tries like crispy beef in plum sauce, tender Cantonese roast duck, and sweet and sour lychee pork. Don’t miss the coconut and mango sago pudding to finish. Hosting a group? Their banquet menus cater to eight or more, featuring starters like black and white sesame prawn toast, and kung pao chicken wings, followed by a spread of bold, flavourful stir-fries, noodles and fried rice. Vegetarian and gluten-free diners are well looked after, too. Pair your feast with a pot of fragrant tea or make it indulgent with a bottle of Champagne.

Tucked in the middle of Smith Street mall, China Bar brings fresh energy to the city’s dining scene, offering tasty dishes that won’t break the bank. Hailing from Melbourne, this franchise specialises in comfort food favourites, serving up classics like juicy Shanghai dumplings, fluffy barbecue pork buns, tangy lemon chicken, and perfectly balanced sweet and sour pork. Whether you're after a quick bite or a casual sit-down meal, China Bar delivers a satisfying experience in a convenient location.

For a laid-back CBD meet-up, Noodle House on Mitchell Street serves up plenty of Chinese and Cantonese favourites. Established in 1994, this eatery is conveniently located across from Darwin Entertainment Centre, making it perfect for a pre- or post-show feast. Specialities include homemade prawn spring rolls, Sichuan barramundi, NT mud crab in black bean sauce, spicy salted bug tails with black pepper, and honey prawns. Dining with a group? The steamboat is a must for parties of four or more – dip your choice of meats, bean curd and vegetables into a bubbling broth at your table.