Rice Paper Scissors
Experience highly-rated Southeast Asian cuisine in Melbourne's CBD. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere & unique flavors at this popular spot. Rated 4.5 stars! Book your table today.
Southeast Asian share plates in a rustic stone-and-brick space with hanging bikes and a buzzy vibe.
About Rice Paper Scissors
Located in the heart of Melbourne's CBD, this eatery offers a distinct Southeast Asian experience that has earned a stellar 4.5-star rating. The atmosphere is lively, making it a favorite spot for groups and those seeking a memorable dining experience. While reservations are recommended due to its popularity, walk-ins are welcome, though you might encounter a wait, especially on busy evenings. Diners often highlight the friendly and attentive staff. The menu presents a unique take on Southeast Asian flavors, offering dishes that stray from the typical, so expect an adventure for your palate. With a vibrant setting, cocktail options, and the possibility of outdoor seating, it's a place worth considering for your next meal.
Restaurant Analysis
Restaurant Characteristics
This restaurant has been analyzed using our formula-based system to help you understand its key features and match it with your dining preferences.
Price Range (Moderate)
Moderate pricing ($$) - Mid-range restaurants with good value
Meal Time (dinner)
This restaurant primarily serves dinner. Based on opening hours.
Group Size (Groups Welcome)
Welcomes large groups and families. Great for group dining.
Atmosphere (Outdoor)
Al fresco dining with outdoor seating
Dining Style (Flexible)
Flexible options. Reservations available but not required.
Features & Amenities
This restaurant offers: Outdoor Seating, Cocktails, Beer, Wine, Coffee, Groups Welcome, Reservations
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Why Travelers Love Rice Paper
Sourced from recent guest feedback and verified reviews.
Nice place atmosphere, reservations recommended but you do can try walk in if just a couple. Walk in will likely need to wait at least an hour or so depending on the day of the week. Food is rather ‘unique’ taste. Not the typical SEA taste you expect. At least for us, the taste is off. The barramundi and the wok meat taste decent but forgot to take pictures. We were quite full and rather turn off by then. On a positive note, the staff are friendly and helpful. Attentive for a packed dining place. My wife and I are from Sydney were recommended Rice Paper Scissors by some of our Melbourneite friends. The service was impeccable all of the seafood dishes were absolutely amazing and the cocktails were on point. Would highly recommend. Really funky place for dinner with low lighting and an intimate feel. The staff were very friendly and knowledgeable about the food, with really good recommendations. We had the 5 share plates, and highly recommend the papaya fritters (which were recommended by our waitress). The only criticism I have, is that it took a while for our meals to be served. We had one brought out, then had to wait ~20mins for another two to come out in quick succession, then wait a ~20 mins for the next two to come out in quick succession. I wasn't sure if this was planned, but I was expecting the food to be delivered almost at the same time. However, I acknowledge it was a very busy night for the staff.
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Where to Find Them
Opening Hours
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Recent Reviews
Schnitzer A.
October 30, 2025
Nice place atmosphere, reservations recommended but you do can try walk in if just a couple. Walk in will likely need to wait at least an hour or so depending on the day of the week. Food is rather ‘unique’ taste. Not the typical SEA taste you expect. At least for us, the taste is off. The barramundi and the wok meat taste decent but forgot to take pictures. We were quite full and rather turn off by then. On a positive note, the staff are friendly and helpful. Attentive for a packed dining place.
Henry B.
November 15, 2025
My wife and I are from Sydney were recommended Rice Paper Scissors by some of our Melbourneite friends. The service was impeccable all of the seafood dishes were absolutely amazing and the cocktails were on point. Would highly recommend.
Kristopher W.
October 31, 2025
Really funky place for dinner with low lighting and an intimate feel. The staff were very friendly and knowledgeable about the food, with really good recommendations. We had the 5 share plates, and highly recommend the papaya fritters (which were recommended by our waitress). The only criticism I have, is that it took a while for our meals to be served. We had one brought out, then had to wait ~20mins for another two to come out in quick succession, then wait a ~20 mins for the next two to come out in quick succession. I wasn't sure if this was planned, but I was expecting the food to be delivered almost at the same time. However, I acknowledge it was a very busy night for the staff.
Isabelle S.
November 5, 2025
Decent food - not mindblowing, definitely better places to have Asian fusion in Melbourne. 3 baos cost $32 even if you get vegetarian, that’s weird to me. Beef tasted so bland, all the dishes felt like they were trying to appear fancy but it’s just cheap ingredients. Still can’t get over the baos, for $11 a piece I was expecting a large one with generous fillings, smallest bit of pork ever. However, this place is still worth a try for Melbourne foodies. Their banquet menu is diverse and can cater for vegetarian/vegans. Staff are very helpful and the interior is vibey. Nice cocktail list too.
Kyle B.
October 17, 2025
Spent a week travelling and doing the foodie thing in Melbourne. This was probably the best resturant we visited for dinner food wise. Better in a group due to the share plates. Masaman curry was average, but everything else was great. Had the Pear dish, sticky tofu, pork belly, crying tiger and roti. All were lovely. Also had a couple cocktails and they were good too
What to Expect
Features and amenities that make Rice Paper special
Outdoor Seating
Cocktails
Beer
Wine
Coffee
Groups Welcome
Reservations
Practical Information
Everything you need to know before you visit
Payment Options
Parking
Accessibility
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Transportation Tips
Public transport is excellent. Walking is perfect for the CBD, and organized tours include transportation.
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