A new kid on the Prospect block is hoping to bring a bold, hawker and Chinatown inspired design and taste palate, never been seen before in Adelaide.
Red Panda Barbecue, situated next to He Said, She Said, combines playful design with an interactive menu where diners pick their ingredients and watch them come to life at the fry counter.
Founders Charlie and George, who have been friends since high school, grew up in the area and knew this was a gap in the market they could meet. Taking inspiration from Melbourne and Sydney’s bustling late-night food scenes, the venue has been designed to create a lively, welcoming hub for both dine-in and takeaway experiences.
“We feel like Adeladie is missing the late night food scene which the other states have,” George said. So, instead of closing by 9pm like most venues across the city, Red Panda will be open from 12pm right through to 11pm.
That sense of hawker atmosphere is mirrored in the menu, with the cuisine kept intentionally broad. Chinese fusion will be its core, while also incorporating flavours from Vietnamese and Thai cooking. The aim, they say, is inclusivity.
“We wanted to mix flavours so that it eases people into bolder profiles like mala, and it’s open for everyone.”
The restaurant is centred around skewers, with chicken, lamb, pork, fish and even rice cake available to select from and fry up. All are marinated in house-made spices and sauces, with spice levels that build gradually on the palate.
“Our spice isn’t the one where, you know, you eat and it just hits you right away,” George explained. “The more you eat, the more it warms up, and as you stop eating, it calms back down.”
The venue’s set up will almost be a cross between a Yochi and a hotpot – stay with me here. As you walk in a selection of fresh skewers will be located inside a fridge, where you’ll be able to pick from a range of skewers to bring to the counter for cooking. The seating is where the Yochi vibe comes into play, with side booths and mixed tables to enjoy a cup-full of delicious skewers – not frozen yogurt.
On the drinks menu is three signature teas, you’ll find the classic green match, a creamy Thai milk tea and lastly, a pink rose tea. Every aspect of the venue reinforces the brand, from the trays, cup designs, and even tray liners; it all follows the red and yellow theme for insta-ready pics.
“We really wanted the space to be welcoming, warm and social” George explains. “People can take a tray and go for a walk with their food, or sit in and chat.”
The duo already has plans to expand, turning Red Panda BBQ into a franchise in the future, and hopefully build a reputation as a unique offering in Adelaide.
Red Panda BBQ
Where: 2/69-73 Prospect Rd, Prospect SA 5082
When: opening March 14
For more info, click here.
