Seemor

Lucy Liu Kitchen and BarAMust Try

Name: Lucy Liu Kitchen and Bar
Address: 23 Oliver Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia, Melbourne VIC 3000
Rating: 4.6

23 Oliver Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia · Asian restaurant · 4.6/5 Google (2628 reviews)

Reservations

Lively Asian-fusion hotspot with bold flavors, strong cocktails, and a buzzing room; great tasting menus and veg options, but loud, pricey, and time-limited seatings can frustrate.

Why it gets an A for overall quality

Lucy Liu Kitchen and Bar ranks among Melbourne's finest dining destinations through exceptional food quality anchored by creative pan-Asian cooking and attentive, knowledgeable service. The dramatic laneway entrance and open-kitchen counter design create a warm, buzzing atmosphere that draws repeat visitors and special occasions. While seating comfort shows occasional limitations and peak-hour noise can be intense, the generous tasting menus, solid cocktail program, and consistent execution across multiple visits establish this as a destination-worthy establishment that delivers on its reputation.

Restaurant Summary

Slip through the laneway door into a room that feels warm and buzzing. The open kitchen and counter seats give you a show, while the bar keeps the energy high. One diner raved, "We let the team pick seven plates and every course landed," though another noted the music can be pretty loud at peak. Cooking here leans modern and creatively pan-Asian: kingfish with nam jim, silky barramundi and scampi wontons, and a now-legendary turmeric cauliflower. Flavors run bold, sometimes too assertive for some, but the tasting menus are well-paced and generous, making it ideal for groups and curious eaters. Cocktail fans will enjoy a solid drinks list to match the spice and richness. Families do come, but options for younger diners skew limited. Reviews say staff can place condiments on the side and the fried chicken buns go down well, yet much of the menu is spice-forward. Expect to order thoughtfully for kids, and consider the vegan set for flexible veg choices.

At a Glance

Generous, well-structured tasting menus with standout dishes
Lively design with open-kitchen counter and strong cocktails
Loud soundtrack and crowded peak hours
Time-limited seatings and occasional rush from staff
Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food

What Sets It Apart

open_kitchen_counter_seating
well_composed_tasting_menus
strong_vegan_options

What People Love

The turmeric cauliflower that steals the show
Silky seafood dumplings and fresh sashimi
Generous banquets that build in intensity
Attentive allergy handling and clear guidance

Points of Concern

Noise can be high; conversation may require raised voices
Time-limited sittings enforced; dessert sometimes redirected to bar
Pricey with weekend surcharge and optional tip prompt
Creative/fusion menu may challenge conservative palates

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average CostA$70-95 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

Choose a tasting menu for value and balance
Pair richer plates with bright sashimi or papaya-style salads if you enjoy heat
Request milder seasoning if sensitive; staff accommodate where possible

Perfect For

Date night with cocktails and small plates
Group celebrations on a lively night
Out-of-towners seeking a CBD hotspot
Solo diners at the kitchen counter

Location Insights

Area: Hidden laneway in Melbourne CBD; trendy, after-work and destination dining crowd.

Safety: Busy, well-lit CBD lanes with steady foot traffic; generally safe though nightlife bustle.

Nearby: Near Flinders Lane dining strip, office towers, and boutique bars; close to transit.

MelbourneMelbourne's CBD offers a dynamic dining environment with a wide range of cuisines from casual eateries to high-end restaurants. The area is lively during weekdays with business crowds and remains active in the evenings with entertainment and nightlife options.

nullnull

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday11:30–23:00 Tuesday11:30–23:00 Wednesday11:30–23:00 Thursday11:30–23:00 Friday11:30–23:00 Saturday11:30–23:00 Sunday11:30–23:00

Available: Reservations

View full analysis on Seemor →