Happy's Chinese Restaurant

4.1

Google Rating

Unit 1/17 Garema Pl, Canberra ACT 2601, Australia

$20-40

About

You'll discover Canberra's oldest Chinese restaurant by descending the stairs from Garema Place into this family-run institution that's been serving authentic Chinese since 1962. Three generations of the same family have maintained the traditions, creating dishes with their famous 16-hour master stock that transforms every curry and stir-fry. The quiet basement location feels like a local secret, complete with hand-painted Great Wall mural, where regulars have been coming for decades. The lunch deals offer incredible value, and you'll quickly understand why this hidden gem has such devoted following among Canberrans who know good Chinese food.

Popular Dishes

Prawn Toast, Satay Dishes, Fried Rice, Lemon Chicken, Cantonese Stir-fries, Sweet and Sour Dishes, Beef Black Bean, Honey Prawns

Best Times to Visit

Visit weekday lunchtimes for a peaceful experience or Monday evenings for quieter dinners. Friday and Saturday evenings showcase the vibrant atmosphere.

Opening Hours

Monday: 11:45 AM - 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 11:45 AM - 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Thursday: 11:45 AM - 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Friday: 11:45 AM - 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Saturday: 11:45 AM - 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Sunday: 11:45 AM - 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Busiest Time

Saturday evenings 7PM - 8PM

Quietest Time

Tuesday (Closed) or weekday lunch 11:45AM - 2PM

Restaurant Features

Delivery, Takeaway, Dine-in, Alcohol Service, Quick Service, Reservations Recommended, Digital Payments, Family-friendly, Group Dining, Solo Dining Friendly, Paid Parking

Meals Served

Lunch, Dinner

Phone

Address

Get Directions

Getting There

By Car: Happy's Chinese Restaurant is located in Unit 1/17 Garema Place in Canberra's city centre. From the north, take Northbourne Avenue towards the city and turn right onto Alinga Street, then left onto Garema Place. From the south, follow Adelaide Avenue to the city centre, turn left onto Commonwealth Avenue, then right onto Alinga Street and left onto Garema Place. Paid parking is available in nearby car parks including the Canberra Centre and on-street paid parking around Garema Place.

By Public Transport: Take any ACTION bus route that stops at City Bus Station, which is located adjacent to Garema Place. From the bus station, it's just a short walk to the restaurant. Light Rail services from Gungahlin terminate at City West Station, from where you can walk approximately 5 minutes through the city centre to reach Garema Place. Most city loop buses also stop near Garema Place, making it highly accessible by public transport.

By Taxi or Ride-Share: Happy's Chinese Restaurant is easily accessible by taxi or ride-share services. Ask to be dropped off at Garema Place in the city centre. The central location means short wait times for pickups, and drivers are familiar with the area. The basement location is clearly marked from street level.

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