To eat like the locals in Shanghai, you have to be a local. You have to know which crooked alleyway to walk down and which riverside home cooks the best congee. Similarly, in Prahran, the streets are heaving with hustle and bustle. But down quite, one-way Cecil Place, you can forget the noise and city lights while feasting at an established hidden gem, the same way you can lose yourself sitting beside the water in the Chinese countryside, munching on prawns from the morning’s catch.

David’s was born 15 years ago from a small tea store on Chapel Street, founded by Shanghai-born David Zhou. Word of David’s tea talents spread quickly, and he soon opened David’s so he could share Shanghai cuisine with Melbourne. At David’s, we put tradition on the table, offering casual cuisine inspired by countryside Shanghai. Our wholesome fare combines traditional dishes with contemporary tastes. Many of our recipes have been passed down from great grandmothers and are perfect to share with family, friends and colleagues.

At David’s, we want you to feel at home in a casual environment. Our menu isn’t bound by ‘mains’ and ‘starters’; dishes come out of the kitchen as soon as they’re ready. This means you don’t have to wait with grumbling stomachs and your food is as fresh as it can possibly be. We’re here to serve you, but that doesn’t mean you can’t help yourself to water or a little more sauce.

David’s brings people together through food in an informal but tranquil atmosphere. We believe there is beauty in simplicity. Our aim is to introduce you to another culture through unfussy food bursting with tastes of the real Shanghai. Whether you have an hour to kill and feel like dropping in or a special occasion worth celebrating, you are always welcome at David’s.