During the 1880's, at the onset of the pearling industry, Chinatown was a bustle of activity, with its opium & gambling dens and corrugated iron sheds tacked together to house pearling crews and noodle kitchens. Chinatown become a multicultural melting pot... this spirit still continues today, with Chinatown's unique architecture providing a glimpse of days gone by.

​Today, Paspaley Plaza is your one stop shopping destination, and is home to major anchor tenants Coles, Best & Less and Australia Post, and also more than 25 specialty stores including Sportspower, Subway, Chinatown Pharmacy and Chinatown Newspower, with a range of dining experience.