The team behind Chimek is an ambitious bunch. As if opening What the Bao in the CBD wasn’t enough, Michelin-experienced chef Jimmy Soo and his team have opened a second outlet in Vic Park.

Taking over the shell of Asian-fusion restaurant Shark Bites Toast, the venue’s substantial refurbishment sees only the bar left untouched.

While fried chicken is the star of the menu, co-owner Soo describes Chimek as offering a mix of Korean and American influences that extends beyond the food.

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“Rather than being a one-trick pony, I wanted to bring the two influences together,” he says. “In Korea they love American urban wear and lifestyle. The vibe I want to bring is urban lifestyle with chicken eats.”

The result is Sneakers & Co, a consignment sneaker store inside the restaurant that Soo hopes will stock 200 premium pairs of shoes including limited-edition Yeezys, Jordans and Supremes.

“I’m an avid collector of sneakers,” he says. “I want to be the first in Perth to have a store like this.”

The menu at the new Chimek will be familiar to regulars at the Fremantle and Northbridge originals, but they’ll find the 100-seat modern fitout in stark contrast.

“We wanted to do a lot of things in Northbridge but almost every week something is stolen or broken,” says Soo. “That’s why we don’t even upgrade our tables and chairs.”

Several new dishes join the menu including a Philly cheesesteak and an Aussie take on a lobster roll containing a whole poached crayfish. On-tap beers and cocktails will follow, pending a successful liquor licence application.

Soo and his team plan to open another Chimek in Southern River in October. They also have an as-yet-undisclosed brand in the final stages of development. Despite the gruelling expansion regimen, Soo is determined to remain hands-on.

“I don’t believe in opening a place without having your blood and sweat in it,” he says. “You lose your identity if you do that.”

Chimek Victoria Park
818 Albany Highway, Victoria Park
chimekchimek.com.au

Hours
Tue-Thu & Sun 11am-11pm
Fri & Sat 11am-2am