Prominent Chinese-Australians are urging Victorians to return to Chinese restaurants abandoned since the coronavirus outbreak, just as they have been asked to take empty Eskies to the state's bushfire-hit regions.

Eastern Victoria MP Harriet Shing said seeing so many Asian restaurants empty and on the brink of closure was really confronting.

Customers returned in droves to Shark Fin Inn on Thursday after The Age revealed it was at risk of closing. Credit:Wayne Taylor

"We're asking people to visit bushfire affected communities. It's absolutely crucial that we enable businesses that provide the most amazing multicultural and culinary and sensory experience for Melbourne to continue to do what they do best by supporting them," Ms Shing said.

"The food doesn't stop being just as delicious, and the experience doesn't stop being just as vibrant."