Stylish and surprising

When Stephen Liu traded property for hospitality, he had a clear vision: bring something sleek and considered to Box Hill’s dining scene—a sharp departure from its food courts and chain cafés. With business partner Mary Lai, he opened The Penny Drop, a design-forward, all-day eatery that blends style with substance.

A modern nod to tradition

Designed by Pop & Pac and We Are Huntly, the space is built around a circular motif—a nod to Chinese symbolism, where roundness signifies prosperity. You’ll spot it in the marble bar, copper lighting, and refined finishes throughout. Chefs Jason Shiong and Daniel McDonald deliver a smart, East-meets-West menu. Standouts include a potato and garlic-chive waffle with poached eggs, ham, hollandaise and wakame, and a glossy, sweet-and-sour pork knuckle topped with fried shallots. Dessert? Go for the mandarin brûlée with lychee and ginger biscuit. Coffee is by DC, while the drinks list leans confident and playful: beer on tap, a solid wine lineup, and a cocktail menu that puts a spotlight on sours.