Pappa Laksa

14/20Critics' PickUpdated October 11, 2026,first published November 18, 2024Pappa LaksaMalaysian-Chinese$Benchmark balanced broth with a dark sambal funk; a local gold standard.A bold red and yellow sign hints at the big flavours inside this little restaurant, nestled between a golf shop and a curtain store. Laksa is, naturally, the star – cited by soup enthusiasts as one of Melbourne’s best. But Pappa also does an excellent nasi lemak: fried chicken pulled from the oil not a moment too soon, a perfect partner for dark chilli sambal. If you’re here for the soup, though, prepare for a long-simmered broth, rich with coconut and heavy on the lemongrass. Toppings range from classics like seafood, tofu and vegetables to beef rendang set right on top as a generous scoop. Curry puffs, prawn cakes and spring rolls make great companions, especially dipped in the coconut-y broth. You can also have the broth and trimmings served over a bowl of steamed rice. For the full hawker experience, add an iced Milo or teh tarik to your order. Must-orders: Beef rendang laksa. Seafood wat tan hor. Classic char koey teow.Good Food reviews are booked anonymously and paid independently. A restaurant can’t pay for a review or inclusion in the Good Food Guide.Restaurant reviews, news and the hottest openings served to your inbox.Sign upLast visited: April 2026More:BurwoodPappa LaksaMelbourneMalaysian-ChineseTakeawayFamily-friendlyGood for solo dinersGood for business lunchBudget friendlyWalk-ins onlyVegetarian-friendlyGluten-free optionsCommunity hubGood for a first dateRestaurantReviewsGood Food GuideCritics’ PickFrom our partners