Back in September 2024, we opened the doors to Chiki Chan in the heart of Mordialloc — and what a ride it’s been. The idea was simple: bring the energy and flair of Melbourne’s inner-city dining to the coast. I wanted to create more than just a place to eat — I wanted to create something fun, bold, and just a little cheeky. A space that invites people to escape the ordinary.
Chiki Chan offers a playful, flavour-packed experience that celebrates bold combinations, blends cultures, and reimagines tradition. Inspired by Melbourne’s vibrant food scene, our menu pushes boundaries with unexpected pairings that spark conversation. Hiki Bar, nestled within our venue, is a dynamic space where our bartenders craft signature cocktails, and the tapas menu provides a delicious preview of what’s to come. Upstairs, our Level 1 event space is filled with natural light and accented with golden touches, offering an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere — the perfect setting to celebrate special occasions.
Shifting from chef to investor and embarking on the journey of opening a new restaurant has presented its fair share of challenges, but my core values remain unchanged. Consistency, passion, and a deep respect for quality continue to guide everything I do. I’ve channelled my experience into building a workplace where our team feels genuinely supported, where balance is prioritised, and where everyone is empowered to grow. For us, wellbeing and work-life balance aren’t just perks — they’re foundational to who we are.
When we launched, our crew was fresh, young, eager, and full of potential. We put our trust in them, invested in training, and created space for them to grow. The result? A confident, capable team who take genuine pride in every plate and welcoming every customer through our doors.
Listening to our guests has also been key to our evolution. From day one, we’ve welcomed honest feedback — the good, the constructive and everything in between. It’s helped us understand what resonates, what needs tweaking, and where we can push boundaries further. Whether it’s a comment on a dish, a suggestion on service, or just a conversation at the bar, we take it all on board. That constant dialogue with our community has allowed us to fine-tune the experience, stay aligned with what people love about Chiki Chan, and keep raising the bar in everything we do.
I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve created — and even more excited about what’s to come. Chiki Chan isn’t just a restaurant. It’s a culinary adventure, and we’re only just getting started.
Kind regards,
Johnny Jong
Johnny Jong