Chin Chin

Chin Chin Sydney occupies the heritage-listed Griffiths Tea building at 69 Commonwealth Street in Surry Hills, a space the venue says had been dormant for 30 years before being brought back into use. It presents itself as more than a restaurant, combining casual Southeast Asian dining with contemporary art, music and local culture. The result is an unconventional setting where the room, the food and the wider creative atmosphere are intended to be part of the same experience.

The kitchen’s focus is a lively selection of Southeast Asian dishes, with Thai cooking given particular attention to its balance and delicacy. Chin Chin describes its approach as experimental and deliberately outside traditional dining conventions, while keeping the mood relaxed and enjoyable. The website does not publish a detailed menu in the supplied information, so it is best approached for its broader style of cooking rather than a particular dish. Lunch and dinner are available seven days a week, making it a flexible option for a meal in central Surry Hills.

The venue also has a substantial events offering. Its private dining and function spaces are designed for occasions ranging from team dinners and product launches to weddings and larger celebrations. Options include a long-table Chef’s Table in the middle of the restaurant, the larger Chii 1, the adaptable Chii 2, the more intimate Chii 3, and exclusive use of the full Chii Town space. Groups can also book GoGo, the neighbouring bar, exclusively. The event information points to curated menus, custom cocktails and tailored service, with spaces available for both seated and stand-up gatherings.

Chin Chin is therefore suited to diners who want a sociable, energetic restaurant setting, as well as groups looking for a distinctive Surry Hills venue for a private occasion. Its combination of food, art and music gives the space a clear identity, while the range of rooms makes it practical for gatherings of different sizes. The venue’s Google rating is 4.1 from 3,948 reviews, providing a useful indication of its established local following, though the strongest reason to visit is the distinctive Southeast Asian dining and event experience described by the venue itself.