PROFILED BY DEGROOTS MEDIAYou’ll find a Pacific BBQ House satisfying hungry diners in several locations throughout Melbourne. The Richmond restaurant is as Chinese in its decor and menu as they come, while the South Yarra venue is a touch more sophisticated. The latest offering from Pacific BBQ House is a buzzing casual eatery perched on the edge of Chinatown on Lonsdale Street. Pacific BBQ Cafe is big and bold, with bright, sunny coloured walls adorned with lunch specials and canary yellow banquettes, usually crowded with chopstick wielding students filling up on noodles in between classes.
The menu combines a surprising mix of classic Chinese dishes and old-school cafe fare. Fried bean curd and vegetables on rice share the menu with frankfurters in bolognese sauce on noodles or spaghetti and a selection of freshly cut sandwiches. Stir-fried scallops and vegetables is a crowd-pleaser for those who prefer a more authentic Chinese dish and there are lots of soups and noodles to choose from. The one-plate selections are another tempter that come piled high with vegetables, meat and your choice of rice, noodles or spaghetti. Prices are low, but you could lash out and share the signature dish of roast duck (half or whole), succulent and rich with crisp glazed skin.
Rita Erlich, July 2008
