Sydney’s vibrant food scene is about to get a significant upgrade with the introduction of Melrose Central, a groundbreaking Asian-inspired street food precinct. Slated to open in mid-2026, this first-of-its-kind complex will transform Melrose Park in Sydney’s west into a bustling culinary and lifestyle hub. From neon-lit laneways to sizzling open kitchens and a broad mix of retailers, Melrose Central is poised to redefine Sydney’s dining experience.
A First-of-Its-Kind Culinary Destination in Sydney
Melrose Central is not just another food court—it’s a game-changer. The precinct, set to open in 2026, will cover over 4,700 square meters, making it more than three times the size of Burwood’s Chinatown. This expansive site will immerse visitors in a unique, vibrant atmosphere inspired by the energy and aesthetic of some of Asia’s most iconic street food markets. Picture bustling neon-lit laneways, open-air kitchens sizzling with live grills, and murals that transport you straight to the lively streets of Mong Kok or Shibuya.
According to Time Out Sydney, the complex will feature a highly interactive and sensory-driven experience. Designed by Anthony Ho of Basalt Studio, the precinct promises to offer much more than just food. The fusion of street art, immersive light installations, and late-night trading ensures the energy continues long after dark, catering to both early birds and night owls. This innovative design will give visitors an all-encompassing journey through food, culture, and art, creating a truly unique environment for Sydney.
More Than Just Street Food: The Complete Lifestyle Experience
While the Asian-inspired street food is undoubtedly the highlight, Melrose Central is shaping up to be a multi-faceted lifestyle precinct. The site will house a sprawling mix of around 100 retailers, which includes everything from boutique grocers and a Korean supermarket to beauty salons, nail studios, and even an early-learning center. But it doesn’t stop there—wellness and fitness will also be front and center. A Pilates studio, infrared saunas, recovery zones, and a gym will ensure that visitors can indulge in both their culinary cravings and personal well-being.
“We’ve imagined our street food concept as a graduated evolution of everything people love about Burwood Chinatown, East Village, and Regent Place, elevated by the immersive artistry creating a city-style dining offer,” said Bilinda Turner, Head of Retail of Deicorp.
This insight reflects the vision for a place where culture, food, and lifestyle seamlessly come together, with a focus on creating a vibrant, engaging space for all ages and interests.
Melrose Central: A Key Player in the Melrose Park Urban Renewal
Strategically located just six kilometers from Parramatta’s CBD and 15 kilometers from Sydney’s central business district, Melrose Central sits at the heart of the Melrose Park urban renewal precinct. This large-scale redevelopment is expected to add more than 11,000 new homes and 22,000 residents to the area. The precinct’s proximity to the Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2 stop and the Parramatta Gateway Bridge makes it exceptionally accessible, connecting it directly to key areas like Sydney Olympic Park and Wentworth Point.
Melrose Central will not only enhance the local food scene but will also serve as a central hub for the growing community in Melrose Park. As part of a larger plan for urban revitalization, it will introduce open spaces and green areas, with 6,000 square meters of podium gardens and a rooftop terrace that will offer a peaceful escape for residents and visitors alike.
