Chef Sam Young, better known to some as ‘Big’ Sam Young is no stranger to a good feed. Inspired by his travels to Italy, Canada, Hong Kong, Vietnam and Malaysia to name a few, he has worked in some of Sydney’s top restaurants like Mr. Wong, Ms.G’s, Queen Chow, Totti’s and more. These days, he heads up S’more, a 40-seat bistro slinging Wagyu steaks and caviar tins, and has also just opened his new venture, Young Palaces, a self-proclaimed ‘local neighbourhood Chinese’ restaurant dishing up the classics. “In my opinion, Sydney is one of the best cities in the world,” he shares. “It’s fun, amazing weather, very multicultural – it’s like a melting pot of so many different cultures.” Here is Sam Young’s guide to his favourite spots in Sydney.
Neptune’s Grotto is amazing. Really beautiful fit-out; delicious and affordable Italian food. Interesting wine lists. The dining room reminds me of New York City. Love the energy and vibes. I have been a big fan of chef Daniel Pepperell for a long time. And his food is always so tasty.
I usually take my staff out to a Chinese dinner after service. Eaton Ashfield is open until 1am. Classics like ginger shallot lobster e-fu noodles, Hong Kong Harbour-style mud crab, and the best salt-baked chicken in town.
Mimi’s is one of my favourite restaurants in the country. The vibes, the energy, the service, the view. It all hits the spot. Of course, it’s the food also – super delicious, and perfect execution every time. A special place for a special occasion.
Cho Dumpling King in Haymarket! One of the places I most visited when I came to Australia and made 10 bucks an hour working as a kitchen hand. Fun fact: they actually don’t serve dumplings, but you will find the most delicious Taiwanese pork belly rice, fried chicken and all the delicious Taiwanese-style cold dishes! And it’s really, really cheap.
Restaurant Hubert, the live jazz music, the beautiful cocktails, the wonderful service. It’s like you are transformed to a different world.
Sun Ming Restaurant is a cha chaan teng (Hong Kong-style cafe) at Hurstville that serves some authentic Hong Kong-style food. I go there when I get homesick for baked pork chop rice, milk tea and Hong Kong-style French toast.
Thai Kee IGA in Haymarket is where I do all my shopping. I love how you can get one hour free parking at Market City when you shop there. It’s convenient, it has a good selection, and it’s a shop that inspires me when I need new ideas for my restaurant.
New Pioneer Palace Lakemba is an OG Chinese restaurant that’s been open for years. They also open till late every night. Seafood classics and other Cantonese dishes is a must. But they have this dish you can pre-order – sea cucumber with fish maw and abalone. It’s one of the best dishes in the city, if not in this country. So good.
I like to go to PS40 in the CBD. Good vibes, good drinks and always a warm welcome.
Double Tap Coffee in Marrickville. Best in the country. Thanks for asking.
Eat at ROBs in Rozelle. The burger is probably as good as, if not better than, all the burgers I had in New York City. Definitely a game changer.
