Darra isn't a glorious place to eat, but the eating is Vietnamese and the Vietnamese food there is the best in Brisbane. My brother told me of a new yum cha place in Darra called Maxim and I had to check this out. Not only did this mean I wouldn't have to make that long drive into Sunnybank anymore, it meant that I could have yum cha and get my grocery shopping done too (literally next door).
The restaurant looks like it used to be a used karaoke hall and it's not that clean by any means. It looks ultra daggy and the tables and chairs aren't that great. The menu is usually a bit sticky, I know what you're thinking.
The yum cha comes out piping hot. They have some trolleys with food on them coming around during peak lunch times, but usually you can order straight from the menu so it's cooked fresh. The owner is a lady who likes to give young kids free juice and you are also provided with free chinese tea, always a bonus.
My husband and I go there with our two kids, and our bill always averages $25-$30 and we are pretty hungry when we get there, and pretty damn full when we leave, which does tell you one thing.
For all you Darra fiends out there, the My Friend guy... works here too on top of the other 2-3 places he works. If you go to Darra for vietnamese cuisine a lot, you'll know what I mean. Insider information - he is an awesome waiter with really good hearing. read more