Aunty Franklee

Aunty Franklee has opened this spring in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD and it is all about the Bak-Kut-Teh. 

Not much is known about Malaysian cuisine in Australia, and this venture by twins Francesca and Fiorn Lee is going to change all that.

The twins are well known throughout Asia. Their family chain SugarBun, which has over 60 restaurants, have been serving their famous recipes since 1979.

We loved the extensive drinks list which features Malaysian hawker favourites. Of particular note is their house-made pear and snow fungus drink - a refreshing drink made with goji berries, pear, snow fungus and red dates which provide just the perfect hint of sweetness.

We loved sampling Aunty Franklee's Bak Kut Teh (which directly translates from Hokkien to “meat bone tea”) which is made from meaty pork ribs that are simmered for hours in a herbal broth.

An absolute must-have is the dry bak kut teh which is Francesca and Fiorn’s modern take on the traditional. The pork belly pieces were beautifully charred, caramelised and glossing with intense spices. It was a decadent treat that was both familiar but different.

We savoured the traditional mother hen soup - a concoction of mushrooms and chicken. The broth was full of flavour courtesy of being a variety of dried Chinese herbs and a wonderful array of spices.

The fluffy mixed grain rice and deep fried you char kway doughnuts were the perfect canvas for the broth. 

The lamb ribs stewed in 23 herbs and spices and finished off on a chargrill is similarly delicious. We loved the accompanying salad of pickled cucumber, pineapple and carrot which added a fresh balance and acidity to the fatty ribs.

Aunty Franklee offers an authentic taste of Malaysia’s best street delicacies, without even stepping out of Melbourne. We loved the exciting food offerings which showcases Malaysia’s diverse food culture and rich heritage. The intimate dining environment is comfortable and brings diners back to the memorable streets of Malaysia where many of the best meals are found at the roadsides.

Location: 205 Russell Street  Melbourne,
Phone: 03 9650 4336
Link: www.auntyfranklee.com