Profiled by de GrootsThere is no doubt that Dickson is overrun with Asian restaurants. This is good news for punters, as restaurants will keep their prices competitive in a bid to win your patronage. The result is an ideal environment for trying new places instead of sticking to the favourite haunts. New Asia is run by the same couple who own the Regal in Belconnen, a Chinese Malay pair who are all-too-accommodating in order to wrest some of the Woolley Street traffic into their cosy 34 seater. Nothing is impossible, nothing is too much effort for Diana Qiu who patrols the floor – a tiny yet imposing figure, a severe matron of Chinese hospitality.
The restaurant specialises in Shanghai, Sichuan and Cantonese cuisine, and serves a few Malay dishes for good measure. This makes for a menu of strong flavours, full of spice and sauce. Shandong lamb comes braised, tender and flaky, with a chilli and vinegar kick. Huge king prawns are smothered in a moreish XO sauce, with dried baby shrimp continuing the seafood taste through the dish. Vegetarians have plenty of choice and most dishes can be modified to suit dietary needs. To really get the most out of the competitive market, check out New Asia’s weekday takeaway lunch special – selected dishes for $6.50 with rice. That’s the sweet taste of capitalism right there.
Sarah Theeboom, April 2007
