The ultimate guide to Chinatown

Take the queues snaking out the door as a sign that Shanghai Street is the real deal. Fried pork mini buns or fried chicken and prawn dumplings are on hand for the hungry. Steamed snacks await if you want a warming meal with a pillowy texture, and vegetarians have some un-bao-lievable options too.

You've slurped your way through spicy Sichuan, kimchi stew and meaty beef broths. Now it's time to go luxe with Fishpot, a dazzling new hotpot restaurant serving silky smooth fish-based broth. Order luxurious ingredients like lobster, sashimi and premium wagyu to cook at your expert-designed hotpot station. Ready to eat? With the tap of a button the cooking basket automatically lifts up, no effort required.

If you're a bubble tea fiend head straight to Toppings n Tea in Kmart Centre and create your very own customisable drink. Need a quick bite? Order stuffed Chinese crepes from Wow Crepes or feast on Malaysian hawker-style dishes like nasi lemak at Jom Corner. For even more tasty bites, wander through MidCity Centre, where custard-filled dessert puffs, ice-cream-topped ramen and gluten free desserts await. While you're at it print photo keepsakes at Hailde Express or sit back and enjoy a Chinese-language movie.

Taiwanese sweet treat masters at BlackBall have a huge menu of sugary delights just for you. Try flaming tofu pudding with a crispy crème brule-type topping or mochi milk tea sprinkled with crunchy oreo crumbs. If you're having trouble deciding what to order, go for the dessert box feature nine mini favourites like red bean milky crushed ice, waffles, black sesame delights and more.

Chinatown has loads of secret spots to pop in for a cheeky cocktail or two. Hidden under the neon sign is Bar Clara, a gorgeous basement joint with an expertly curated cocktail list. Or go where the cool kids go and make your way to Section 8. Pull up a wooden pallet at this converted shipping container bar and sip on a frosty one. Then head upstairs to Aster next door complete with views of the laneway and DJs.

The best way to celebrate Lunar New Year is with a big yum cha feast. Gather your family and friends and head to Chinatown for some of the best spots in Melbourne. Enjoy affordable Michelin starred restaurant Tim Ho Wan for BBQ pork buns and artfully pleated prawn dumplings. Seek out hidden gem Chine On Paramount and dine on dim sum while looking out over Chinatown Square. Or try one of Melbourne's oldest and most authentic Chinese restaurants and book a spot at Westlake.