General Chao

The Verdict

Chatswood newcomer, General Chao is decadent, in your face and full of flavour. The latest Asian-fusion joint in the heavily saturated Chatswood dining scene brings you next level Asian restaurant staples with an emphasis on ‘extra’. 

Head chef, Son Sewoo (formerly Sovereign Room) has drawn inspiration from a range of Pan-Asian cuisines including Chinese, Japanese and Thai and fused them to create a premium menu that really packs a punch. Everything on your plate is made in-house from scratch. This place oozes authenticity. 

The XO menu is a must, featuring six varieties of XO sauce ranging from your standard entry level to a super-premium AAA level sauce infused with black truffle, Tasmanian abalone, and gold leaf (did we mention this place was extra?). The menu is designed for sharing. Start with the giant  pork bun (the size of your head) and the jasmine tea-smoked duck dumplings. For mains, tuck into Singapore chilli mud crab, caramelised 24-hour braised pork belly and for a special occasion, the mammoth 2kg tomahawk steak with king brown mushrooms and kombu butter.

If you can fit dessert, opt for the deep-fried banana with coffee-caramel and ginger ice-cream. 

Image credit: Supplied