Kenmore Welcomes Chern, a Fresh Take on Asian Fusion

Kenmore’s dining scene has a fresh addition, with the opening of Chern, a new Asian fusion restaurant that’s already turning heads for its inventive takes on classic dishes and a menu built around sharing.


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Chern leans into bold, punchy flavour combinations, and layered textures that invite diners to mix, match and linger over plates together. It’s a place designed for groups, families and anyone who enjoys food that sparks conversation.

At the heart of the menu are playful twists on familiar favourites. One early standout is their reimagined prawn toast, not served as a crisp triangle, but tucked into a bao bun. The buns are made in-house, golden and lightly crisped, then filled with prawns, sesame and a kick of spicy mayo. It’s a dish that feels comforting yet excitingly new.

Photo credit: Chern Restaurant – Kenmore/Facebook

For those who prefer greens, the Khao Tod Salad channels the vibrancy of Thai street food. Golden fried rice is tossed with fresh herbs, ginger, peanuts and chilli flakes, then lifted with a tangy tamarind dressing. The crunch, heat and acidity combine into something light yet satisfying, a dish that captures the restaurant’s philosophy of layering flavour and texture.

Photo credit: Chern Restaurant – Kenmore/Facebook

Hearty eaters aren’t left out either. The kitchen’s slow-cooked beef ribs come bathed in a housemade green curry that balances spice with creamy depth, while a salted egg yolk stirred through at the end adds richness and complexity. It’s a warming bowl that’s both comforting and adventurous, a signature that already feels like a staple.

Photo credit: Chern Restaurant – Kenmore/Facebook

The drinks list is equally considered, with cocktails drawing praise from early visitors. “Time to Shine” is a refreshing gin-based mix that stands out with kiwi and basil — bright, light and a little different. The Togarashi Margarita, meanwhile, balances a sour edge with gentle spice, a drink that feels made for warm nights and long chats.

Since opening, the restaurant has quickly become a talking point in the western suburbs, with locals praising its energy and inventive approach to fusion dining. By blending the familiar with the unexpected, it has carved out a niche in Kenmore as more than just another eatery — it’s a destination for those who want to share not just a meal, but an experience.


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Find them at 2/6 Wongabel Street, Kenmore, and discover a new local spot where bold ideas meet memorable dining.

Published 16-September-2025

Chern Now Open in Kenmore, Serving Up Modern Asian Favourites

Kenmore’s dining precinct is enjoying a wave of fresh energy, and one of the latest additions turning heads is Chern, a vibrant new restaurant now open on Wongabel Street. 


Read: Kenmore, Brookfield, and Moggill Named Queensland’s Best Suburbs for Families


Tucked into the space formerly occupied by Chaya Asian Restaurant, Chern is the second venture from Nail Saengin and Garfield Pachnoi, the duo behind the much-loved southern Thai restaurant Chalong in neighbouring Chapel Hill.

Photo credit: chern.com.au

Building on the warm community welcome they received with Chalong, the pair saw an opportunity to expand their culinary vision just one suburb over. While their first restaurant focused on the traditional flavours of southern Thailand, Chern takes a broader approach, blending elements of Southeast and East Asian cuisines into a playful and flavour-packed fusion menu.

Diners can expect a line-up of bold, share-style dishes designed to surprise and delight. The menu ranges from small bites like duck and chive dumplings and soft-shell crab bao buns to larger plates including sticky tamarind pork belly, green curry with slow-cooked beef ribs, and the crowd-pleasing char kway teow with tiger prawns and pork belly. 

Chern
Khao Tod Salad (Photo credit: Chern Restaurant – Kenmore/Facebook)

A coral trout coconut salad and Thai-style crispy rice (khao tod) offer fresh, vibrant options, while the grilled king prawns with tom yum sauce bring a punchy finish.

The drink selection has also been carefully curated, featuring Australian and French wines chosen to pair with the menu, along with craft beers and unique offerings like a matcha-infused IPA from Kyoto. Non-drinkers can enjoy thoughtful booze-free options, including a non-alcoholic umeshu.

Chern
Photo credit: chern.com.au

Inside, Chern impresses with a sleek interior crafted by Clui Design and built by Lowry Group. Its green and cream tiles, soft leather seating, and ambient lighting create a modern yet inviting space. A feline mascot – a nod to the owners’ own cat – adds a personal touch, while the venue’s name, which means “welcoming” in Thai, reflects the restaurant’s relaxed and community-focused spirit.


Read: Kenmore Favourite iFruit Fresh Changes Hands After 8 Years


Chern’s arrival adds further variety to Kenmore’s evolving food scene, joining long-standing favourites and new arrivals alike. With its inviting atmosphere and creative menu, Chern is poised to become a go-to spot for locals looking for something fresh, casual, and full of flavour.

Published 16-July-2025