In this episode of Hammy Eats, Nick Hamman heads to Chopstix to find out if this is truly the best Chinese restaurant in Johannesburg, and possibly the best Chinese food in South Africa.
Located in the heart of Johannesburg’s foodie hub, Melville, Chopstix is redefining what authentic Chinese cuisine means in SA. Founded by Athena and Charlie, this spot blends traditional Chinese flavours with a modern Joburg energy, delivering handmade noodles, Sichuan-inspired dishes, and meals that goes way beyond your average takeaway sweet and sour.
This is not your typical mall Chinese food.
This is authentic Chinese cuisine.
This is handmade, flavour-packed, next-level comfort food.
🍜 In this episode, Nick dives into:
🔥 Beef Soup Noodles. Handmade noodles swimming in a rich, slow-cooked broth made from carrots, onions and Chinese spices, topped with melt-in-your-mouth flank beef. Deep, comforting, and packed with authentic flavour.
🥟 Wonton ProMax. Inspired by traditional Sichuan cuisine, these plump, house-made wontons are drenched in a flavourful, aromatic broth with sesame, chilli and bold umami notes.
🍗 Sweet and Sour Chicken. Lightly coated, not overly battered, and made from scratch. A darker, richer, more authentic take on sweet and sour that actually lets the chicken shine.
🍤 Prawn Stars. Whole prawns, butterfly-cut for easy eating, bursting with garlic, fresh vegetables, spring onions and real chilli heat. A seafood lovers’ dream.
Nick chats to the owner about:
• Growing up between Taiwanese and South African cultures
• The evolution of the Chinese community in Johannesburg
• Making authentic Chinese food accessible to South Africans
• Why Joburg might be the best food city in the country
• Leaving a career to build a full-time food business
If you think you know Chinese takeaway in South Africa… think again.
🇿🇦 Is this the best Chinese restaurant in Johannesburg?
🥢 Is this the most authentic Chinese food in South Africa?
🔥 Are these the best noodles in Joburg?
Watch now and decide for yourself.