Lilong by Taste of Shanghai Canberra 里弄

Stepping into Lilong by Taste of Shanghai Canberra 里弄 is like discovering a hidden laneway that transports you directly from the streets of Canberra to the vibrant, aromatic alleyways of Shanghai. Located in the heart of City Walk, this modern Chinese restaurant captures the lilong spirit — the sense of community, warmth, and shared moments that define Shanghai's historic residential lanes. Since expanding from Sydney, the team has brought a unique dining concept to the capital, focusing on the flavors of traditional Shanghainese cuisine while embracing contemporary Australian sensibilities. Every detail speaks to a passion for authentic, handmade food, from the delicate xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) to the bold, wok-fired noodles that arrive steaming at your table.

With a stellar 4.6 rating drawn from over 365 reviews, the restaurant has quickly established itself as a go-to destination for Chinese food in Canberra. Its prime address at Unit 190/264 City Walk makes it easily accessible for both locals and visitors, offering a welcoming environment for everything from quick takeaway lunches to relaxed dinner gatherings. The atmosphere is cheerful and unpretentious, designed to encourage round-the-table moments where conversation flows as freely as the jasmine tea. Whether you're craving a comforting bowl of noodle soup or an adventurous platter of dim sum, Lilong delivers a dining experience that feels both familiar and exciting.

Services & Facilities

The restaurant provides multiple ways to enjoy its Shanghainese menu, understanding that modern diners value flexibility. Dine-in guests are welcomed into a clean, stylish space where the buzz of the kitchen and the aroma of freshly steamed dumplings set the tone. For those on the move, the takeaway service is efficient, allowing you to enjoy restaurant-quality meals at home or in the office. A dedicated delivery service ensures that Lilong's flavors travel well, bringing their signature dishes right to your doorstep. Reservations can be made through their website via Now Book It, and an online ordering system powered by Aupos makes securing your favorites seamless.

Accessibility is a clear priority. The venue is situated on ground level with terrain suited for street view navigation, and public transport, cycling, and walking routes are all convenient. While a specific accessibility statement isn't detailed online, the location in a modern retail and dining precinct like City Walk implies good physical access for strollers and wheelchairs. Parking is available nearby at Wilson Parking on 5 Nangari Street, City East, a short and easy walk from the restaurant. The business is proudly noted as LGBTQ+ friendly and women-led, reflecting an inclusive ethos that resonates with Canberra's diverse community.

What We Offer

The menu at Lilong is a carefully curated journey through Shanghai's culinary highlights, centered on craft techniques that have been passed down through generations at Taste of Shanghai. Dumplings are undoubtedly the star, with the xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) earning particular praise for their thin, pleated skins and rich, savory broth. Diners frequently cite the dumplings as a must-order, and the kitchen's generous use of fresh ingredients shines through in every bite. Beyond dim sum, the selection covers a full spectrum of Chinese cooking, including robust noodle dishes, vibrant wok-tossed specialties, and seafood prepared with ginger and shallots in classic Cantonese-influenced Shanghainese style.

For those seeking a show-stopping centerpiece, the whole lobster with ginger and shallot noodles represents the kitchen's flair for elevated street food flavors. Seasonal specials and traditional comfort foods appear regularly, such as the crispy Mocun-style fish celebrated during Chinese New Year. The menu also features dishes like Mongolian beef, okra, tom yam soup, udon, and spring rolls, demonstrating a breadth that goes beyond strict regional limits. With a reported price range of $20–40 per person, the offering strikes a balance between premium ingredients and everyday accessibility. A full menu can be explored on the restaurant's website, helping guests plan their visit around the dishes they most want to try.

Why Customers Choose Us

Reviews consistently praise Lilong for delivering high-quality food in a friendly, welcoming setting — a combination that sets it apart from many competitors in the Canberra Chinese dining scene. One local guide described it as "a very delicious Chinese restaurant," highlighting the incredible consistency across visits. The xiaolongbao and clam dishes receive frequent shout-outs, with customers often preferring Lilong's approach to that of other well-known establishments. During Chinese New Year, the restaurant becomes a vibrant hub where the sweet, aromatic soup and wok-seared noodles evoke a deep sense of celebration and nostalgia, as noted by Chinese-speaking patrons who appreciate the authentic homestyle touches.

The experience extends well beyond the plate. Guests point to the friendly, attentive service as a reason they return, emphasizing the staff's ability to make every visit feel personal. The atmosphere is described as lively and comfortable — a place where the design encourages connection. The restaurant's commitment to inclusivity, signaled by its women-led leadership and LGBTQ+ friendly stance, adds a layer of trust and community alignment that resonates with Canberra diners. Value is another factor: generous portions, fresh ingredients, and a price point that sits comfortably within the casual dining bracket make Lilong a popular choice for families, groups of friends, and solo diners alike.

Serving Canberra & Australian Capital Territory

Lilong by Taste of Shanghai holds a prime position in the Canberra dining landscape, bringing a slice of Sydney's renowned Shanghainese food culture to the nation's capital. Located within the Highgate precinct at City Walk, the restaurant sits at the nexus of Canberra's shopping, entertainment, and business districts. This centrality makes it an easy lunch spot for office workers, a convenient dinner choice before or after a movie, or a planned destination for visitors exploring the city's growing culinary reputation. The proximity to major hotels and public transport links ensures that tourists and locals alike can access the restaurant without hassle.

As part of the broader Taste of Shanghai family, the Canberra outpost benefits from deep culinary roots while maintaining its own distinct identity. The brand's story, which begins in Sydney, is one of introducing the lilong philosophy — eating well, eating together — to Australian audiences. By establishing itself on City Walk, Lilong contributes to the area's elevated street-food-meets-sit-down-dining scene, competing confidently with other cherished Asian eateries such as CBD Dumpling House and Happy's Chinese Restaurant. Its dedication to traditional methods, such as hand-pulling noodles and carefully pleating dumplings, ensures that every meal served carries the authenticity of a meal you'd find down a Shanghai lane way, but with the comfort and freshness expected in a modern Australian restaurant.

Hours, Location & Directions

You can find Lilong at 190/264 City Walk, Canberra ACT 2601, right in the vibrant pedestrian thoroughfare that defines Canberra's city center. The restaurant is open seven days a week, providing consistent lunch and dinner services. Lunch runs from 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM, making it a perfect midday escape, while dinner is served from 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM, ideal for unwinding after work or exploring the city's evening atmosphere. For easy navigation, use the Plus Code P49M+48 Canberra, Australian Capital Territory on Google Maps or simply follow the map link provided on their website. For reservations or takeaway orders placed over the phone, dial +61 433 818 942, or visit lilongcbr.com.au to book online. General inquiries can be directed to the email address manager.lilongcbr@gmail.com.

When planning your visit, note that the most convenient parking is at Wilson Parking located at 5 Nangari Street, City East. From there, it's a straightforward and short walk to City Walk and the restaurant entrance. If you're cycling, the area is well serviced by bike paths and bike parking facilities, and multiple bus routes stop within close proximity. To avoid peak crowds, consider arriving early for dinner on Friday and Saturday evenings, or enjoy the typically quieter weekday lunch services. The restaurant's compact yet clever layout means that tables turn over smoothly, but booking ahead remains the best way to secure your spot during busy periods.

Questions Visitors Ask

What kind of food does the restaurant serve?

Lilong by Taste of Shanghai specializes in traditional Chinese cuisine with a focus on Shanghainese dishes. The menu is built around handmade noodles, wok dishes, dough pastries, and an extensive dim sum selection featuring soup dumplings (xiaolongbao), steamed buns, and dumplings with various fillings. You will also find seafood, meat, and vegetable dishes prepared with classic techniques like wok-frying, steaming, and braising. Regional specialties such as whole lobster with ginger and shallot noodles highlight the kitchen's ability to elevate classic street-food flavors into memorable restaurant dishes. The food is well reviewed for balancing authentic tastes with fresh, high-quality Australian ingredients.

What are the most popular menu items?

According to customer reviews and the Google Maps panel, standout items include the xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), which are praised for their delicate wrappers and flavorful broth. The dumplings in general are the most frequently mentioned highlight, followed closely by Mongolian beef, seafood dishes like the clams, and spring rolls. Seasonal dishes, such as the crispy Mocun-style fish served during Chinese New Year, also draw enthusiastic comments. Diners often recommend ordering a variety of dishes to share, allowing the table to sample the restaurant's range of noodles, wok-tossed plates, and dim sum. The whole lobster noodle dish is particularly noted as a luxurious offering for special occasions.

Is the restaurant suitable for dietary needs or families?

While the menu does not explicitly advertise dedicated vegan or gluten-free menus, a Chinese kitchen of this caliber typically accommodates common dietary requests — it is always wise to speak with staff about allergies or dietary preferences when ordering. The restaurant's casual, lively atmosphere makes it family-friendly, and the shared-dining style encourages groups to order multiple plates. The price range of $20–40 per person, combined with the variety of dumplings, noodles, and rice dishes, makes it a practical choice for families looking for a satisfying meal without breaking the budget. The women-led and LGBTQ+ friendly designation adds an extra layer of comfort for diverse family structures and groups seeking an inclusive space.

How can I make a reservation or order takeaway?

Reservations are easily made through the Now Book It platform, which is linked directly from the restaurant's official website at lilongcbr.com.au. The booking system allows you to select your preferred date, time, and party size. For same-day inquiries or large groups, you can call the restaurant directly on +61 433 818 942. Takeaway orders can also be placed through the website, where an ordering portal powered by Aupos enables digital browsing of the menu and secure payment. Delivery is available, and the hours for takeaway mirror the restaurant's operating hours: 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM for lunch and 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM for dinner daily. Email inquiries about functions or catering can be sent to manager.lilongcbr@gmail.com.

Where is the restaurant located and what parking is available?

The restaurant is at 190/264 City Walk, Canberra ACT 2601, within the Highgate complex. The entrance faces the main City Walk pedestrian area, making it easy to spot when walking through the city center. The nearest parking structure is Wilson Parking at 5 Nangari Street, City East — a short, flat walk from the restaurant. The area is also well served by bus routes with stops along City Walk and neighboring streets. If driving, opening Wilson Parking's location in your maps app is recommended, as it provides the most direct walking path. The restaurant's central location also makes it accessible for those using rideshares, taxis, or cycling.