Business Details
24 Years
experience
Experience Authentic Vietnamese Cuisine at Red Lantern
Red Lantern has been a cornerstone of Sydney's dining scene for 25 years, celebrated as the world's most awarded Vietnamese restaurant. Since our establishment in 2002, we have dedicated ourselves to crafting authentic Vietnamese cuisine elevated by fresh ingredients and cultural storytelling. Our menu blends classic street food with refined dishes, complemented by an extensive bar program featuring Indochine-inspired cocktails and global wines.As a sanctuary of flavor and connection, we have welcomed guests into our designer space reminiscent of Southeast Asia's vibrant streets, offering unforgettable experiences through private dining and curated banquets. While we announced the conclusion of our journey on 22nd November 2025, our legacy remains rooted in culinary excellence, resilience, and the warmth of hospitality that has defined us for over two decades.
Services
Vietnamese cuisine
Private dining
Takeaway orders
Bar menu
Banquet menus
Cocktail service
Wine pairing
Special event hosting
Street food
Dessert menu
Details
- Year established: 2002
Highlights and features
- 25 years of culinary excellence in Vietnamese cuisine
- Recipient of multiple national and international restaurant awards
- Private dining room accommodating up to 16 guests
- Executive Chef with decades of specialized culinary experience
- Commitment to fresh, seasonal ingredients in every dish
What people say
Unforgettable flavors
Award-winning dishes
Immersive atmosphere
Exceptional service
Perfect private events
Services
Vietnamese Cuisine
Our menu showcases authentic Vietnamese flavors through street food-inspired dishes and gourmet creations. Using fresh, seasonal ingredients, we craft meals that balance traditional techniques with modern presentation. From crispy tofu salads to char-grilled wagyu beef skewers, each dish reflects our commitment to preserving cultural heritage while innovating for contemporary palates.
Private Dining
The barbershop-style private dining room accommodates up to 16 guests for intimate celebrations or corporate functions. Complete with soundproofing and dedicated service, the space offers customizable banquet menus featuring family-style sharing plates. Larger groups can reserve the main dining area for exclusive use with tailored event planning support.
Bar Program
Our bar features Indochine-inspired cocktails made with fresh ingredients like makrut lime and lemongrass. The menu includes classic Negronis, espresso martinis, and non-alcoholic options alongside regional beers and an extensive wine list showcasing Australian and international varietals paired to complement Vietnamese spices.
Banquet Menus
Curated multi-course menus serve groups of 2-16 with themed experiences like the Hanoi Hunger or Saigon Scrumptious banquets. Dishes rotate seasonally while maintaining core favorites like chilli salted squid and master stock chicken salad, with dietary adaptations available upon request.
Takeaway Service
Available Tuesday-Saturday until 5pm, our takeaway menu includes signature dishes like Aunty 5's rice cakes and sesame dumplings. Orders can be placed online or by phone for dine-at-home convenience, with full menu availability during operating hours.
People
Mark Jensen
Executive Chef
Transitioning from hairdressing to culinary arts at 27, Mark Jensen honed his skills at Matthew Moran's Paddington Inn Bistro before co-founding Red Lantern in 2001. His approach emphasizes fresh ingredients and cross-cultural techniques, blending French-Mediterranean foundations with Vietnamese mastery learned through collaboration with the Nguyen family.
Questions
Why is Red Lantern closing?
After 25 years as Sydney's premier Vietnamese restaurant, we announced our closure on 22nd November 2025 to conclude our remarkable journey of food, family, and storytelling.
What dining options remain available?
We continue serving dinner Tuesday-Saturday 5pm-late and offer takeaway until 5pm, with private dining available for special occasions.
Will the menu change before closure?
Our regular menu remains available with seasonal adaptations. Special events will feature curated banquets celebrating our culinary legacy before November 2025.
Is gift card redemption still possible?
Existing gift cards remain valid until our closure date on 22nd November 2025 for dining or takeaway purchases.
