This Thursday night, Sydneysiders can slurp down a bowl of rich, spicy Malaysian-style curry noodles for just $3 – and it’s not from a hawker stall in Penang, but from one of Sydney’s most celebrated chefs.

On Thursday 22nd May, Junda Khoo, the culinary force behind Ho Jiak Town Hall, is throwing open the doors to his downstairs dining space – Junda’s Playground – for a one-night-only noodle party in collaboration with Maggi.

To celebrate the launch of Maggi’s new Kari noodles, Junda is giving the humble pantry staple a glow-up, transforming instant noodles into three bold, hawker-style dishes packed with all the punchy flavours Malaysians know and love – think creamy curry broth, sambal heat, and plenty of umami.

“I wanted to show how simple comfort food like curry noodles can be both nostalgic and exciting,” says Junda. “In Malaysia, we eat them any time of day – lunch, dinner, supper – it’s all about those spicy, satisfying flavours.”

For just $3, you’ll score a steaming bowl of noodles from a chef whose restaurant has a hat to its name. It’s a cheeky blend of high-end meets hawker stall, all at a price that’s frankly unheard of in the CBD.

Also on offer? A line-up of Maggi Kari-inspired sides that riff on familiar Malaysian snacks. And if you’re the type to doctor your instant noodles at home, Junda will be sharing his top tips for levelling up your Maggi game – Malaysian-style, of course.

Junda’s Playground, downstairs at Ho Jiak Town Hall, 125 York Street, Sydney