Yea, was recommended to me by a co-worker. Was looking forward to it. I told the waiter that I eat "lite", don't eat fried food and was not super hungry. He suggested 3 dim sum items - one was "crispy dumplings". I said, not deep fried?? He said no - in a pan. Guess what. 4 Deep fried. He also recommended the "cheeseburger wontons" which I questioned as it was on top of 2 other things and I wanted to eat light. Yea, well - got 4 big deep fried cheeseburger wontons. Ugh. I ate 2 the lettuce wraps and had 1 each of the other things and bagged to others for the hotel - but they went in the trash. Sorry... can't recommend. read more

This is my favourite "special occasion" restaurant. The food is always delicious and you just can't beat the romantic atmosphere along the water, with a few of the city skyline. I guess I have occasionally had a slightly arrogant server, but who cares when they are still friendly and professional. I will continue to return again and again. read more

It's hard not to like this joint. Situated romantically at the wharf facing a beautiful harbour, with perfected lighting and soft music. China doll does set the scene for a good romantic date or a nice night our with some close friends for good conversation. Food was great. Our banquet was filling. It was a little pricy but I didn't mind. My only criticism was that the food was actually really simple for that price so much so my mum could have probably made better in a few of the dishes, for which I thought I personally won't go there again. But for anyone not from a Chinese background, you'd love it! read more

food is good service is not good the lady bring us to the upstairs the last table then left , never asked us where do we like to seat, we booked 6:00pm the main dish came 7:10pm no one cares about you, the waiter asked the tips in the end ! no way read more

Not impressed at all. Lots of quick cooked foods, fried etc... Host was not overly friendly and the place is loud. I would not recommend this place. read more

I'm still trying to wrap up my reviews of all the new places I got to visit in Australia. We were in Sydney for a few days and got a chance to try out the food in the area. I'm surprised with all the new cuisine in the area and very much excited to see how progressive the food scene has become! One of these restaurants was China Doll, a restaurant focused on Chinese (specifically Cantonese) type cuisine with a hint of local flavors and fresh seafood. A relative of ours suggested that we give the restaurant a try. We booked the day before and even on Australia day, we managed to get a booking for our large party of 7. There are tons of other restaurants next door and we initially walked right passed it and didn't even notice. Along the Woolloomooloo Wharf, there's tons of public art displayed right along the pier as you look out from the restaurant. Theres both indoor and outdoor seating but the restaurant is actually open so perhaps everything is outdoor seating. We started the evening with some appetizers. The hot numbing salt and pepper chicken ribs were delicious. Not hot or numbing at all to be honest ... just delicious. Duck pancakes were decent too (a little surprised!). We had the salt and pepper king prawns tossed with a delicious toasted chili and garlic as well as the cone bay barramundi with shiitake and mushroom dashi. We're a big fan of duck so we also got a tea smoked duck with tamarind and plum as well as a side of the barbeque pork and prawn fried rice. The food was great and inspiring with authentic flavors and modern twists. Loved the view of the water and the opportunity to people watch. Service was quick and efficient. If you have a large group, you can opt to do the banquet meals which I believe you'd have to order ahead of time but I may be wrong on that. We Uber'ed to and from (much easier than looking for parking!). A decent restaurant to try if you're looking for some Asian flare in your cuisine! read more

I have been to many restaurants throughout the world and this restaurant was by far a standout. We ordered the $59 pp banquet and also added on the duck pancakes. Every part of the meal that came out was just divine. The portion sizes were perfect and left you excited for the next serving. Service was phenomenal. The waiter knew everything about the menu and knew what wine complimented each dish. Cocktails are so delicious aswell! The price is on the more expensive size but it's definitely worth every cent. Stand out dish was the pork belly and duck pancakes. Do not leave without trying them! I highly recommend China Doll and I will certainly be going back again. read more

China Doll - Must request a table upstairs. - Chinese Near Me - Woolloomooloo, NSW

I know the food was really great but it could have been so much more which had nothing to do with the chefs; I had super bad allergies on the day of this dinner dining date and I curse those allergies for not allowing me the full experience (think blocked nose stopping you from breathing and tasting). I booked a few weeks in advance for a Thursday night and requested to be seated outside (request approved) and I would say booking is a MUST because this wharf-side restaurant is huge and was packed to the rafters. Service was quick but I didn't feel like we had a relationship with our waiter unlike some other high-end restaurants I've been to but that's ok, I'm not there to make out with the staff. The mango and coconut Mojito was a refreshing Summer drink which I could have had 10 of (but refrained) and as for the food I didn't choose any of the dishes so they weren't my number one picks but they were still really good and I enjoyed every single one. I highly recommend the Shu Mai (pork prawn scallop and shiitake w chilli oil dumplings)... also the chilli salt squid was soft and melted in my mouth. Grilled spatchcock was good, not great but still full of flavour and for the mains we shared the Marron and Crispy Pork Belly - if you love pork belly you won't want to miss this! For dessert we were surprised with sorbet (2 flavours including Kiwi), Sago Pudding and Black Sticky Rice. I'm not usually a huge dessert fan but all 3 sealed the deal; in particular the Sago - order it. Now. read more

What a beautiful location for lunch or dinner, we had order the $72 per person banquet which featured 8 dishes, steamed jasmine rice and a dessert platter. Our favourites from the banquet would be the Pork belly w Chilli Caramel & Nam pla Phrik, the perfectly steamed steamed cone bay barramundi w chilli garlic and mustard greens. The banquet is a bit pricey, however you are not only paying for the quality food, but the service and the amazing view! read more

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Nice setting on the wharf with hit or miss food and so-so service. We had the Banquet for two: scallop (limited flavor), corn fitter (v good), lettuce wrap (v good), duck salad (excellent), wagyu beef (very fatty), curry beef (didn't like). We ordered the Chardonnay wine and it was not drinkable. Our table was tucked in closer to the main bar area (limited views) so try to get a table on the outer edge. I didn't like that a food check was not presented at the end of the meal (not sure if they charged us for the wine we sent back!)..The banquet was a nice way to try different dishes. read more

The low ratings due to pricing seems a bit unfair. You don't come to eat at Wolloomoolo wharf for a bargain meal. This place is pricey however the food quality, service and ambiance was worth it. After having a wonderful meal at another restaurant farther down decided to pop into China Doll for lunch the next day. The staff kindly accommodated me with a nice table facing the waterfront (even without a reservation). It was a beautiful day outside and I was looking forward to a leisurely lunch. Although it seems that lunch time attracted business lunches they didn't mind that I took my sweet time eating and reading a book. I ordered 2 separate items. The lunch started off with the fried tofu which wasnt exactly what you would envision as being "fried" at an Asian restaurant. The tofu was steamed rather softly with the lightest tempura like breading in the outside. It was finished with scallions in a nice broth. As far as tofu dishes go this was delicious and very well done. The final dish was the fish in a yellow curry. The curry had the perfect texture and thickness to it along with a great blend of flavors. Typically I'm not a member of the clean plate club but I finished both dishes entirely - which was a lot of food! read more

Wow so much hype and conversation led me to book China Doll. I am really sorry but I think I arrived late or something. Let's start with the not so great...I feel like the restaurant is tired. Both in appearance and the style of service. All the waiters were wearing different clothing and were not focused on customer service. There is this thing happening in Sydney at the moment which is super relaxed yet super focused service. China Doll has not got the balance right. Even the bathroom was a mess! Although remedied through a free dessert the blue bandaid dropped on my table during service was not welcomed :/ The brilliant part of China Doll was the good. Yummy Chinese I inspired cooking that left you wanting more! Seriously delicious. The view out to the bay was great especially on the sunny day we were enjoying. I think the restaurant needs a revamp and a new service manager to get all the wait staff smiling, happy and focused on the customer and not their own conversations :) read more

China Doll - Chinese Near Me - Woolloomooloo, NSW

Set on the beautiful Woolloomoolloo wharf this waterfront restaurant offers fine Chinese in a casual and relaxed environment. The service was efficient and attentive. You can sit inside or out, and we opted to sit outside nearest to the water.... winter time and our comfort was made so by the effective use of the gas heating. Tables are nestled tightly together however the vibe of the place is complimented by this layout. Initially we reacted as though perhaps it was too tight however we soon warmed to the envoirnment. There is a buzz about this place. The food is great for sharing and we certainly took up this opportunity.....we started with the Steamed dumplings of prawns & green beans and the Shu Mai, the pork, prawn, scallop & shiitake dim sims. It felt like we were dining in Asia....they were so tasty. Our mains all for sharing included BBQ Hoi Sin pork rib, the green curry of flathead with beans and the Cone Bay barramundi. We added a steamed broccolini and rice, we feasted on some truly tasty and delicious dishes. The dishes are generous portions so we did not get to the deserts....the mind was willing but the body had had a true indulgence.....we loved the setting, the food was was good, the service was effective and all of us enjoyed the whole experience. read more

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we arrived on time and were the first customers seated only to find that our table didn't fit the tiny space allocated and the chairs were skewed at odds with the table. Our polite request to move was rudely and swiftly rejected. We left to the glowering stares of the unpleasant maitre'd who would benefit not only herself but also the reputation of any business she's employed by. WTH does she think she is? read more

I love the view of the water and boats at this spot, not to mention it's attached to one of the best hotels I've ever stayed at, Ovollo. I got the steamed dumplings which were pretty good, I would steer towards a different menu item personally, but still tasty and well presented! As well as the apple martini with the white chocolate green tea dessert, I wanted to get a better picture before I ate it, but I devoured it very quickly...definitely try it. read more

China Doll - Chinese Near Me - Woolloomooloo, NSW

Great place to go when celebrating something exiting. Awesome view and great service. The food is good but not my favourite Asian food Sydney has to offer. The prawn and bean dumplings were one of my favourite dishes. Along with the Shandong chicken. The pork belly was good but have to say you can't beat the pork belly at Jimmy Liks. Overall great atmosphere and good food. Will return again. read more

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There were a lot of people here, but as mentioned earlier, this restaurant is way overpriced for what it is. Make sure you're aware of that before you book - you are going to get the same quality food as in Auburn but the service, location and wine list are remarkable and that's why you're paying a lot of money. Saying all that, the food was really top quality and would go again - but only if someone else is footing the bill. read more

Great food but SERIOUSLY over priced. This is fusion Asian so don't expect Authentic Chinese or Japanese. Pan fried dumplings were great. Best of the 3 dishes we ordered. Also ordered Duck pancakes (Chinadoll take on Peking Duck) and Salmon Sashimi. Total was $117 for the 3 dishes (inclusive of 1 spirit). Dishes were not huge in size and the waiter did say we maybe hungry between the 2 of us. We were satisfied and walked out comfortable. If you are big eater make sure it's with someones corporate card ;) read more

Finger wharf is a great spot on a sunny afternoon, especially when its a friday and you're meant to be in the office but instead your off having a free lunch, I've enjoyed quite a few meals at Kingsleys just a little further down the wharf, its a old fav of mine... I'd never been to China Doll before yesterday afternoon but was looking forward to it after hearing good feedback from friends of friends etc. who'd been. The venues great, the foods pretty good we were locked into the set menu as a larger group, but that allowed us to try a wide variety. Great Pork Belly I really recommend ordering that dish! The only problem with this place though is the waiting staff, they are all horrible. To be fair the sommelier was cool, what a nice guy he was ! very knowledgeable and most attentive I ended up ordering all drinks through him be it cocktails beers etc. I'm guessing they must have atrocious working conditions as they are collectively pissed off, they are obviously under the pump so maybe they'd had a colleague chuck a sicky but they didn't appear understaffed at all and anyway it doesn't warrant Attitude! I was concerned our waitress was going to knife me I even ended up being super polite too her, to try and cancel the aggression. But all the thank yous and pleases in the world weren't going to break the shell of this crab. Talking of crabs do ya self a favor and skip this joint head on down to Kingsleys and get some crab you can eat. read more

It was at this restaurant where my girlfriends and I had a slightly awkward, highly mortifying, really funny (really funny only at the present time; for a long time it was just slightly awkward and highly mortifying and not funny at all no matter in which angle you looked at it) encounter with some guys two tables across on our left and where we eventually ran into the friendly lead singer from The Script (the encounter, in fact, was across the street, but China Doll was our starting point) so you would think that I would like this place. But no, I don't. The food is a little bit Mr Chow in Los Angeles (food keeps coming to your table at this restaurant because there is inevitably going to be someone in your party who says, "Why don't we ... order almost everything on the menu"?) and whatever is on offer is offered in Gee Whiz! meat, vegetarian, dumplings, seafood, on-the-grill separate listings which inevitably means that you will eat a lot of appetizers to share and one main and by the end of the night you might realize, as I did, that the price of the hefty bill is uncomfortably aligned with the psychological price that you pay being frustrated at the inconsistency of the food. So you may be paying twice. Two times an expensive bill. So if you care to do the math (and if you're only just out of high school I get that you won't) your time here will be very expensive. But there are pluses people. One plus: you may see a celebrity or, on an off day, a rich person or five. You might also enjoy this restaurant if you are single and pretty by your own standards and open to meeting single, handsome-by-their-own-standards guys (but do note, an exchange of eye contact will do; quiet down any crazy in your group who suggests sending a note over of any kind). Also, hopefully you'll get sat on a table next to nice people. And if you really want my advice don't go for healthy here - order what sounds good like the KFC-like chicken pieces we ordered. Also, ideally, come with a skinny silhouette and a fat wallet. read more

When i said "fillet" with a silent "t" the waitress said "You mean FILLET?" and she emphasised the T and i couldn't help but say "for the uneducated, my way is the proper way!" But as a waitress, shouldn't she know what I'm talking about???? She actually said that only hoity toity restaurants pronounce it that way. That surprised me to hear because China Doll is a hatted restaurant! and they charge hatted prices! Anyway, lets talk about the food. I was actually not blown away. The food was so-so. But their peanut butter cake-like dessert was AMAZING!! At least it ended well. The dress code is smart casual but i would say they're leaning more towards dressy. I didn't really see anyone in there casually dressed. But, they DO serve you if you're not. read more

Tourist? First time in Sydney? Or just looking for a place that serves phenom food in an incredible location? Yeah. This is definitely the place! We were seated on the 2nd floor by a window...shuttered to protect us from the setting of the sun. The wait staff...the model for all wait staff everywhere. I have to say the place didn't seem all that large to me, more intimate and friendly...and could be romantic with the right person.Having said that, the main floor offered searing on the wharf, a bit more casual and low-level noise. This is my daughter and son-in-law's favorite place and with good reason. My younger daughter is here for the first time, in Sydney. Perfect weather, great service, impeccable food. It's easy to over-order but then again, leftovers? Always a good thing with food of this caliber. We had several starters, all incredible perfectly served. And by that I mean, the hot food was right off the flame and the cold food perfectly chilled. Everyone loved the Curry Beef Shin and the Beef Short Rib. If you're not drooling just from the name, you aren't alive. The Fried Rice was perfect, too. I highly recommend China Doll, for a romantic night out, with family (though I would suggest leaving very young kids at home), friends visiting from out of town or out of the country. read more

Dined here tonight with a group of friends so we tried a variety of dishes. The restaurant has an intimate atmosphere in a great location by the wharf. It's also fairly well known so there is some expectation of living up to a good reputation. The food was average and nothing special. It is modern asian without a twist and lacking something. Dumplings and wontons were fine but are better at yum cha and 1/4 the price. Penang beef shin curry - too salty and can find much better penang curry at an indian restaurant Salt and pepper prawn with garlic and chilli - the batter wasn't crispy and couldn't taste garlic Tea smoked duck - can find better in chinatown Crispy pork belly in chilli caramel - wonderful dish! Tender but delicately crispy on the outside Overall food was ok. I have nothing against modern asian food but given the price it should be cooked to perfection with a special touch or else you're better going to an authentic asian restaurant for half the cost and better food. read more

Very effiecient service and delicious food in a setting that is beautiful. Located on a wharf next to 6 other happening restauraunts, we chose this spot because it was crowded and we love chinese food! We were not disappointed in teh wine or the food. Great lettuce wraps theough they are called Bau or something like that. Dumplings delicious, the shrimp had a vinegar sause (skip it) and the pork had an incredible spicy sauce, YES PLEASE. would eat here again. read more

I was looking forward to this upcoming booking but I have to say I was bitterly disappointed. I'd best describe it as over-rated and over priced. There are better quality places in Sydneys infamous Chinatown that run rings about this place. I'd say what your paying for is the expensive rent the place must pay for being on Cowper Road Wharf. For those not versed with high quality Chinese Food - you might think this place is terrific and idea for groups but again I say head over to Chinatown people Service 9/10 - Excellent and the highlight of the night Menu - 9/10 - Excellent and diverse Food - 4/10 - Flavours lacking with the exception of one dish and portions small Drinks - 5/10 - Good range Value for Money - 4/10 (over priced by at least $10 per dish) Location - 8/10 read more

The view, the food, the service all fantastic, the staff are amazing knowledgeable and friendly. I completely understand why people are regulars there. Ask the staff to recommend a dish for you you won't be disappointed, we had a whole barramundi, beautiful dumplings, a great spicy curry and scallops. read more

Amazing food everything I had melted in my mouth. The most amazing service not only were the staff gracious they had complete knowledge about the menu and were talkative. Cocktails are amazing. And would highly recommend the crispy truffled beef rice paper parcels along with the pork belly! read more

We had a lovely evening with friends here. Our friendly server chose dishes for us and she was spot on with as each dish had a unique flavor. The pork entree was my favorite. Very delicious with perfect texture. Even the side of rice tasted good as it had a hint of lime or lemon in it. read more

Dined Jan 1, 2015 - 5 people. China Doll has a nice, intimate environment. But could fit a group. There are many tables, some sort of close together. Wait staff is nice enough, but seems like there's a lot of people serving you at one time, so it's hard to tell who to ask for things from when you need it. I think there may have been hangovers throughout on this visit, however. Food is very good. Portions are gourmet. Ordered a (sweet and sour?) duck dish, some pieces were on the bone, which is very complex to eat politely with chopsticks. They were out of the first two types of beer we ordered which might be kind of a big deal usually, except it was New Year's day, so no surprise there- however, i wish the waiter would have known what they had left and told us what was available, instead of making us guess. Had some other dishes that were presented well and all tasted good. Just wish there was a little more of each one. In terms of take away, they "can only do certain dishes for takeaway" because of the options they have to package it - and not just for soup either. Again, it was a guessing game as to what could be ordered 'to go' instead of- "here's the take away menu", or "I think we can accommodate x, y, or z." Considering the area, pricing is appropriate. For anywhere else, moderate to high. If you come on a Friday or Saturday evening, make a reservation - always seems to get busy fast. read more

Service was slow. Only refilled our waters twice. They were able to squeeze us in last minute. Busy restaurant. The fried pork belly was tasty and didn't really need the chili sauce. The beef curry was pretty meaty and could use some veggies on the side. It was a bit spicy, but had a very good taste to it read more

China Doll - Beef curry - Chinese Near Me - Woolloomooloo, NSW

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I am a fan of Yum Cha, so the cuisine here gets me every time. I can never go past good dumplings, shu mai and wontons. The crispy dumplings here are very good too (given I am generally not a fan, that says a lot). I love the setting of this place on the wharf and the staff are always friendly and attentive. Yes it's expensive for Chinese but it's Woolloomooloo so it's expected. I think the wine list could do with a bit of work, but the green tea cannot be faulted. I'm a regular so I'll be back :) read more

We had a really wonderful NYE lunch here with a super friendly server. Situated along the pier, China Doll serves up a great combination of various Chinese foods, from dumplings and little sashimi bites to classic main. We had a selection of everything to share with some white wine and loved it. And the service is just really friendly and relaxed, which isn't always the case with more upscale places. It was easily one of our overall favourite dining experiences in Sydney. read more

Food was delicious. Service was out of this world. Jacqui was absolutely fantastic. Looked after us and is a wonderful front of house for the restaurant. A read more

The food was great (five star) the service was shocking (two star) served with attitude all day!

This is a great place with friends or clients.. Service is amazing and have never been disappointed by the food.. Since Yelp is not widely used in Australia hence probably why the ratings are so low.. read more

Went here in a group of 4. They were really busy for a Tuesday night, the setting is good and decided quickly on the $72pp Banquet - had to try the Pork Belly. The scallops were great, felt like having more. The Chilli Salt Squid was really good too, like the touch of the chilli powder and had the perfect amount of crispiness. The Corn and Zucchini cakes were so good. Not a fave was the Beef Salad and Pickled red cabbage mizuna, just plain and also salad - really. Anyway, Steamed Cone Bay Barramundi was good, really soft and tasty. The Pork Belly was as described - really amazing. I was so full but just kept eating it. The Poached chicken was pretty good too but was just too full at that point. The Chinese greens had a really nice smokey flavour, that was also subtle yet nice. Dessert Platter wasn't that amazing, I guess I liked the sorbet the best although the others like the sago dessert. I would say to go with A La Carte next time - especially if it's just two, even with 4 people we were struggling to finish the food. It's good quantity that's for sure. But the best dishes were the Chilli Salt Squid, Corn and Zucchini cakes and Pork Belly, would go with those next time and try a few other dishes. Overall, it's been the best fusion Asian place so far. Service was a bit slow, even with a dedicated waitress, I know it was busy but was hard getting their attention at times - even to pay the bill! read more

China Doll - Chinese Near Me - Woolloomooloo, NSW

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There are fine views of the city and park, as well as the wharf if you can be seated outside. The staff that served us were quite friendly, attentive and patient as we spent some time going through the menu and wine list. The dumplings were among the best I've had in Sydney and the Bug sashimi was quite good as well. They were serving two duck dishes from the menu. We opted for the duck pancakes and also thought they were tasty as well. All in, we were pleased with the food, the staff and the ambiance and would certainly return. read more

Really fun place - excellent cocktails and desserts. Food was very good - recommend dumplings, shu mai, octopus, and prawns. Also the Chinese greens were fabulous! View is gorgeous of course. Nice times. Would come back here for drinks and dessert for sure. read more

Great food, service and location. Highly recommend the banquet, everything is delicious, dumplings, chilli squids, duck and etc. Would definitely go back read more

Very over priced dim sum with decent drinks and view. I would skip it and go somewhere else for good food. If you want to go to an overpriced tourist trap, I would recommend Yukis. read more