Hidden beneath the bustling city streets of Melbourne, tucked away in the basement of a building on Little Collins Street, lies a culinary secret that’s no longer so secret. 

Welcome to Do Dee Paidang, the kind of place you might stumble upon by chance and then wonder how you ever lived without it. From the moment you descend the stairs into this lively Thai street-food haven, the energy hits you. There's a buzz in the air—spoons clinking, voices laughing, the aroma of lemongrass and chili swirling through the space—and somewhere in the background, a ’90s pop anthem floats above the chatter. It feels like you’ve stepped straight into Bangkok’s late-night food scene.

Opened in 2017 as an offshoot of the popular Sydney chain, Do Dee Paidang in Melbourne quickly carved out a name for itself with food that speaks from the soul—specifically, the fiery, complex soul of Isan cuisine, from Thailand’s northeast.

At the heart of the menu lies their Tom Yum noodle soup, a dish that is as customizable as it is unforgettable.  But Do Dee Paidang isn’t just about heat, it’s about harmony. Every dish carries balance: sweet, sour, salty, and spicy.

The place seats around 150 and gets busy fast, especially on weekends when live Thai acoustic bands sometimes play. You’ll hear Thai spoken at many tables, a good sign that the food here stays true to its roots. Service is fast, friendly, and refreshingly casual, perfect for groups of friends catching up or solo diners slurping noodles while scrolling their phones.

One thing’s for sure: once you’ve been, it’s hard not to return. Whether you're chasing a spicy high, craving a late-night snack, or just missing the flavors of Thailand, Do Dee Paidang delivers comfort and thrill in equal measure.

How to get there: 

If you're already in the CBD: Head to Little Collins Street, between Swanston and King Street. Locate Equitable Lane, adjacent to the Causeway Hotel. Walk down into Basement, 353 Little Collins Street to find Do Dee Paidang.