Chop Chop
When you step into Chop Chop, you’re in for a treat! The place is a burst of colour and texture with its thatched roof, zebra patterning and cosy wooden decor. It’s like walking into a Japanese street food haven – cool, vibrant, and full of life.
Despite its snug layout, seating is all pretty close to the action-packed kitchen, so if you’re wanting some entertainment, you can keenly observe the chefs work their creative magic. Just a heads-up though, those wooden block seats can be a bit unforgiving on the toosh – consider bringing along a cushion if you’re there for any length of time!
The menu is a mix of delicious noodle or rice ramen bowls, crispy fried dishes, fluffy bao buns and refreshing salads. Simple in presentation, the food tasted good but on the day it lacked a little excitement for the most part. The service however was really friendly, even if it took a bit longer to get the food on the tables during peak hours – understandable with the hustle and bustle that usually accompanies a popular spot like this one. A fun little place to try out, get in early to nab your seat!
Total spend – people – $137.00
Louise had Miso Ramen with vegetable noodles, and shared the cheeseburger bao and fried chicken. She said, “In my mind, ChopChop is a stalwart of Ponsonby Road and one I have always rated in the past. Today somehow didn’t tick the box for me. Might’ve been the uncomfortable wooden block I was sitting on though.”
Mel had the chicken rice bowl and shared the cheeseburger bao and fried chicken. She said, “Not a bad little spot to be in amongst the busy action of Ponsonby Central. The flavours were average (I kinda expected a bit more punch!) but the service was nice and friendly.”
Sam had the chicken rice bowl and shared the fried chicken. He said, “Always busy, nice food, lots on the menu to try.”
Sarah had the vegetable rice bowl and some shared fried chicken. She said, “The flavours of the vege rice bowl were not balanced today. The tempura was nicely cooked but the kimchi and the dressing together made it overly sour. The fried chicken however was great, nicely cooked and flavourful.”
