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From family tradition to local favourite
- binhluong3
- Mar 13
- 3 min read
Junior Tan Hawker Kitchen – Bayswater
If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Malaysia and Singapore right here in Bayswater, Junior Tan Hawker Kitchen is the place to be. Known for its bold flavours, vibrant atmosphere, and dedication to tradition, this local gem brings the essence of a bustling hawker centre to the eastern suburbs of Melbourne.
A family legacy in food
For owner Donnie, food has always been a way of life. Coming from a family of chefs and restaurateurs, Donnie’s passion for cooking was inspired by his late grandparents, who owned a coffee shop in Malaysia. When his parents and uncles migrated to Australia, they carried on the family tradition, running restaurants across Victoria.
“I’ve been in the hospitality industry for as long as I can remember,” Donnie shares. “I started working in hotels and resorts in Southeast Asia and Melbourne, then transitioned to restaurant management, where I really enjoyed working with a close-knit team. That experience inspired me to open Junior Tan in 2015.”
The menu at Junior Tan is a tribute to the flavours of Donnie’s childhood, dishes lovingly prepared by his parents, capturing the heart and soul of traditional Malaysian street food.
A true hawker experience
What makes Junior Tan special? Authenticity. The restaurant stays true to traditional Malaysian and Singaporean hawker style cuisine, offering comforting classics with bold, punchy flavours.
Beyond the food, the venue itself is designed to capture the essence of a bustling hawker centre, a lively yet welcoming space where people can come together over great food. “We aim to create a warm and relaxed dining experience where everyone feels at home,” Donnie explains.
At its core, Junior Tan is built on community and family values. “Our team is family, and we are always people focused. We put sincerity into every dish we make and the way we care for our diners.”
What customers love
Visitors to Junior Tan can expect incredible food in a casual setting with high standards. It’s a place where flavours shine, and every dish is crafted with care.
“Our food isn’t fusion, it’s not ‘modern Asian.’ While we might serve it on different plates and play music a little louder, our recipes remain true to Malaysian cuisine,” Donnie says.
Customers also appreciate the genuine hospitality at Junior Tan. Whether you’re a regular or a first-time visitor, you’ll be welcomed like family.
A love for Bayswater and its community
Beyond the kitchen, Donnie values the peaceful charm of Bayswater. “After a hectic week, I love that I can take a break and be surrounded by some of the best parks in the state. Mt Dandenong is just down the road—it’s a perfect escape.”
The support from the local community has been incredible, especially during challenging times like COVID-19. “Many of our customers have not only continued to support us but have also spread the word about our restaurant to friends and family from all over Melbourne. That means so much to us.”
Looking to the future
Junior Tan’s goal is to uphold its reputation as a business that the community can take pride in. By staying true to its roots and delivering exceptional food and service, it remains a beloved spot for both locals and visitors.
So, if you’re craving authentic, soul warming Malaysian food, make sure to visit Junior Tan Hawker Kitchen. With every bite, you’ll experience the love, tradition, and passion that have made this restaurant a local favourite.
Contact
 | 03 9720 1935 |
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 | 681 Mountain Highway, Bayswater, VIC 3153 |