Hot pot lovers have a new reason to celebrate with the recent opening of Master Cow Hot Pot, a Cantonese-style restaurant reimagined for modern foodies. Located in Sydney’s World Square, this new addition to the city’s dining scene launched on 22 May 2025 and has already made a splash with its premium ingredients, stunning design, and unique dining concept.
Master Cow is the brainchild of restaurateur Howin Chui, known for prominent venues like Ni Hao Bar and Kowloon Café, and 22-year-old entrepreneur Chi Zou, whose family operates Life of Chi Beef Hotpot in Haymarket. Their shared Cantonese heritage serves as the backbone for Master Cow’s mission to elevate and modernise the traditional hot pot experience while staying true to its cultural roots.
A Premium Take on the Hot Pot Tradition
At the core of Master Cow’s menu is a dedication to quality and tradition, with a clear emphasis on premium beef cuts, all hand-cut daily on-site. Unlike many restaurants that rely on frozen, machine-sliced meats, Master Cow offers expertly prepared cuts such as chuck rib, prime rib, oyster blade, and shin shank. Guests can also indulge in luxurious options like M9+ Wagyu and Kagoshima A5 Wagyu Beef. The result is meat that retains its tender texture and full flavour, enhancing the richness of the hot broth.
Signature platters, like the Master Cow Platter and Supreme Beef Combo, cater perfectly to groups, with a philosophy that prioritises quality over convenience. It’s a shared experience designed for slow-paced enjoyment.
A Feast of Flavours in the Soup Base Selection
A highlight of the menu is the array of eight distinctive soup bases crafted by a Hong Kong-based master chef. These broths, ranging from house-made tomato and oxtail to seafood, satay, duck, and spicy fish, offer a deeply flavoured, drinkable foundation to the hot pot experience. This dedication to authentic Cantonese flavours ensures every guest enjoys a memorable and satisfying meal.
To personalise their hot pot, diners can explore a self-serve sauce bar stocked with curated condiments and oils. Master Cow staff offer pairing suggestions and guidance, making it an educational experience for those new to the art of Cantonese hot pot.
A Modern Space with a Nod to Hong Kong
Master Cow’s interior, designed by Darren Kong Studios, captures the vibrant street energy of Hong Kong while maintaining functionality. The restaurant’s 68-seat layout includes an open-plan main dining area and three private themed VIP rooms, each accommodating up to ten guests. These intimate spaces come equipped with TVs and service buttons, ideal for customised gatherings.
Adding a playful touch, a claw machine near the entrance invites guests to win small prizes and vouchers, blending arcade-style nostalgia with contemporary dining. For those celebrating special occasions, Master Cow goes the extra mile with birthday signage, personalised table presentations, and fun service rituals to create memorable moments.
Late-Night Dining to Revitalise Sydney’s Nightlife
Master Cow’s extended trading hours set it apart from many other CBD restaurants. Open until midnight from Sunday to Thursday and until 2am on Fridays and Saturdays, the venue caters to a wide range of diners, including shift workers, post-event crowds, and night owls seeking high-quality food after hours. This bold move is part of Chui and Zou’s vision to reinvigorate Sydney’s late-night dining scene with an experience that goes beyond the usual fast-food options.
A Menu Beyond Beef
While beef takes centre stage, Master Cow offers a diverse menu to satisfy all palates. Highlights include fresh seafood like abalone, scampi, Japanese scallops, and oysters, as well as a variety of hearty vegetables, handmade meatballs, and comforting carbs like noodles and rice. Vegetarian and halal-friendly options ensure inclusivity, making Master Cow a welcoming destination for everyone.
To round out the meal, the drinks menu delivers a mix of Cantonese classics and contemporary choices. From HK-style lemon tea and house-made plum juice to cocktails like the Strawberry Bellini and Whiskey Highball, there’s something to complement every dish.
Experience the Best of Cantonese Hospitality
Master Cow Hot Pot brings a refreshing blend of tradition, quality, and innovation to Sydney’s dining scene. Whether you’re a hot pot aficionado or a curious first-timer, this new venue delivers a modern, interactive experience rooted in deep culinary heritage. With its vibrant design, premium ingredients, and commitment to late-night service, Master Cow is poised to become a go-to destination for both locals and visitors.
Visit Master Cow Hot Pot at World Square in Sydney’s CBD and discover the perfect place to share good food, explore authentic flavours, and create unforgettable moments.