Food is an undeniable conciliator among Malaysians. From every rumah terbuka to every pasar malam, the food available is always the highlight, proving that there is simply nothing like food that unites us in this country. In celebration of the 63rd Malaysia Day, let’s explore Malaysian cuisine around the world.
Nyonya Malaysia Kitchen – Amsterdam
Nyonya Malaysian Kitchen (often called Nyonya Malaysia Express) is a cozy, small, and unpretentious Malaysian restaurant located in the heart of central Amsterdam. Highly rated classics include Hainanese Chicken Rice (noted for tender, juicy chicken), Curry Laksa, and Nasi Lemak Nyonya served with fragrant coconut rice, anchovies, cucumber, and shrimp sambal. Traditional beverages like teh tarik (pulled milk tea) are crowd favourites, alongside snacks like sambal okra and Roti Canai. Offers a notable selection of vegetarian dishes, and the establishment is known for serving halal food.
Penang Tiffin – London
Run by husband-and-wife duo Hemalatha (Hema) and former Tattu London head chef Yogaeshwaran (Yogaesh). Inspired by Penang’s rich culinary heritage and generations of family recipes, featuring spices and core ingredients shipped directly from Malaysia. Menu highlights include Kolambu Banana Leaf, a signature rice-and-curry dish served on a traditional banana leaf, and Mee Goreng Mamak, popular wok-tossed spicy stir-fried noodles.
Kopitiam Lah – Bangalore, India
Kopitiam Lah is an authentic Malaysian coffee shop and café located in Indiranagar, Bengaluru, founded by Malaysian-origin pastry chef Joonie Tan. Inspired by traditional Southeast Asian neighbourhood coffee shops with a colonial-era touch, featuring marble tables, antique elements sourced from Malaysia, and a relaxed, communal atmosphere. Led by Joonie Tan alongside head chef David D’Souza, with recipes perfected in consultation with Michelin-starred chef Darren Teoh. Some of the popular menu items include Kopi, Kaya Toast and Nasi Lemak.
Phat Eatery – Houston
Phat Eatery is a celebrated Malaysian street food restaurant in the Greater Houston area, founded in 2018 by the late James Beard Award Semi-Finalist chef Alex Au-Yeung. Located in Katy featuring colorful signs that mimic Malaysian street stalls within a contemporary, casual space. Signature menu items include Beef Rendang, Roti Canai, Nasi Lemak and Sizzling Tofu.
Mamak – Australia
Mamak is a popular, award-winning Malaysian street food restaurant located in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane City in Australia. Inspired by the open-air roadside stalls of Kuala Lumpur, it brings authentic Indian-Malay hawker flavours to Australia. The restaurant serves authentic Malaysian hawker food, specialising in rich curries, sambals, and freshly tossed breads. Signature menu items include Satay, Mee Goreng and Teh Tarik.
No matter where in the world you find yourself, the rich aromas of a bubbling Curry Laksa or a freshly pulled Teh Tarik have an undeniable way of bringing people together. These eateries do far more than just serve delicious meals; they carry a comforting slice of home across borders, sharing Malaysia’s vibrant culinary identity with the world. Whether you are a homesick Malaysian craving a familiar plate or an adventurous foodie eager for bold new flavours, these global spots prove that the warmth of Malaysian hospitality truly knows no boundaries.
