Mietta's Review
Dining at Near East is both relaxing and exciting. The relaxation comes from the spacious room with generously proportioned tables, elegant artworks and fine flowers. The excitement from a menu with dishes from Ki Wah, an experienced chef whose previous gig was the Casino's lavish Silks Restaurant. Excellent service overseen by another Crown alumni, Jacky Chu.

Other published opinions

Age Good Food Guide 2008 Score: 13/20 "The colonial moniker sums up the menu, which raids the rich culinary traditions of Malaysia, Hong Kong, Vietnam and even India. While purists might look askance, the panAsian melange translates reasonably well"

The Age Good Food Guide 2006 score 14/20 "This veteran of mod-East cuisine has been in the doldrums for a few years, serving up Asian dishes that please rather than inspire. But chef Ki Wan Lau (formerly of Silks) has breathed wind into the Near East's sails. In the warm environment of parchment-coloured walls, high ceilings, elegant timber floors and classy brass objets d'art, you take a five-star culinary amble through Asia, on a backpacker's budget."

The Age Good Food Guide 2005 "WE bring good tidings from the Near East. Tales of flavoursome curries, monumental vases with soaring floral displays and accommodating but unobtrusive service."

Herald Sun Bob Hart 30/10/04 "But the food and the demeanour of the place, in the hands of two of Melbourne's top Asian food professionals, have acquired a fresh sparkle. Chinese masterchef Ki Wah Lau ruled the kitchen at Crown's celebrated and opulent Silks restaurant for years. Jacky Chu was his young maitre d' at that establishment where, together, they made a formidable team."

AGFG 2004, score 13/20