Wednesday Nights just got a whole lot spicier with the return of the Hawker 88 Night Market. After it’s phenomenally successful inaugural year, it’s back at the famous Queen Victoria Market. In case you missed it last year, the Hawker 88 Night Market brings the sights, sounds and tastes of Asia to the heart of Melbourne so you can enjoy authentic Asian street food right on your doorstep.

Picture the loud, smokey and bustling streets of Bangkok or Beijing right under the roof of the iconic Queen Victoria Market. With a kaleidoscopic Asian arcade, pop up bars, durian eating competitions and more than 20 vendors, Hawker 88 recreates the feeling that you’ve stepped into some of the most atmospheric parts of Asia.

This year’s delicious line up showcases tastes from Thailand, Vietnam, India, Japan, and Nepal including a mix of returning favourites and fresh new street traders. Thai restaurant, Son In Law returns serving it’s popular spicy fried chicken wings and fairy floss characters as well as Miss Wonton’s Vietnamese homemade soft-shell crab served in a crunchy wonton taco shell. Be sure to stop by some of their new traders including Durasia serving up fresh cut durian and durian ice-cream, Nepal Dining Room to taste their grilled momo and Kobe Jones to enjoy their succulent Japanese pork ribs and grilled king prawns.

If it’s something more novel you’re after  join the line at the Twistto’s stall and try their spiral shape Korean Twist Potato coated in your choice of seven delicious flavours including mild chilli, satay, chicken salt and cheese.

Each week will celebrate a different theme dedicated to Asian culture, cuisine and dishes such as Mooncake Festival, Malaysian Durian, Boracay Island night, Bollywood and more. Shop the weird and wonderful at the craft stalls and enjoy live music and cultural celebrations to reflect each theme.

The Hawker 88 Night Market will be open every Wednesday night from 5pm – 10pm in sheds K-L at the Queen Victoria Market. Entry is free with food and drinks available for purchase.

If you’re looking for some more free things to do in Melbourne this month click here.

Queen Victoria Market

Queen St, Melbourne VIC

Open wednesdays 5pm – 10pm

18th September – 23rd October