Happy Boy
Fortitude Valley
Happy Boy is Fortitude Valley’s cool, contemporary go-to for some of the best, most authentic Chinese food to be found in Brisbane.
Occupying a light airy industrial space in a jacaranda-lined side street, Happy Boy, who have moved from their original Spring Hill garage digs, offers seating on its deck under the trees or in the minimalist sunken dining room.
The restaurant just happens to be one of Brisbane's most popular Chinese restaurants, with regulars flocking here for their faves on the menu, such as the House fried rice, prawn and pork wontons in chilli broth, roast duck pancakes and flash fried lamb in Sichuan spiced oil with yam bean.
Other delicious bites include starters of Salt and Pepper Quail eggs and Gua Bao sliders (with crispy skin roast pork belly) and mains such as ‘Many Mushroom Much Tofu’ in light soy sauce with broccoli, Fish Slice drowned in Sichuan chilli broth, Beef Brisket Stew with noodle knots and Gong Bao Chicken (in sweet chilli sauce with peanuts).
Can’t decide? Then, for tables of 4+, order the Chef’s Banquet for a fab selection of dishes at just $45pp.
At lunchtime, Happy Boy has a special menu that won’t break the bank and that is great for the time poor: think Chinese BBQ roast pork belly or duck, Crispy Skin Chicken (Hainan or Canton style) with steamed rice; house or vegetarian fried rice as well as sides/ share plates such as Hong Kong long spring rolls or Crispy Chicken wings.
Drinks wise, there’s an extensive well curated wine menu, with 5 house wines available by the glass, as well as beers. And Happy Boy is a rare Chinese eatery where you can get a well-brewed coffee.
Nice to know – Many of the dishes are available as gluten-free on request.
The menu may have changed since our visit.
Still hungry for more suggestions on where to eat out in Brisbane, head to our comprehensive Eat & Drink section HERE! Happy grazing!
