Considering that Malaysia has such a culturally diverse population, it comes as no surprise that the country's food is a mix of fabulous flavours - something that we Londoners just can't get enough of. So, if you've got a craving for laksa, nasi goreng or roti dipped in a hearty curry, make sure to check out our roundup of the best Malaysian restaurants in London.
Gopal’s Corner at Market Halls
If you’re looking for an authentic Malaysian restaurant in Central London, give Gopal’s Corner a whirl. This street food stall at Market Halls Victoria comes from Sugen Gopal, the same man behind Roti King, who created the brand in homage to his parents' eatery back home in Malaysia. Pop by to get your smackers around aromatic eats like jam-packed dosas, noodle dishes and curries.
Gopal's Corner will cook up your dishes fresh to order.
Sticky Mango
Sticky Mango isn’t just an Instagrammable heaven, boasting vibrant, patterned wallpaper and blossoms that spread across the ceilings – it also whips up one helluva menu of pan-Asian bites. Highlights include wok-fried monkfish in a Malaysian chilli sauce and mamak BBQ chicken accompanied by a pickled red onion salad. Need a tipple to pair? Guzzle classic cocktails with an Asian twist.
You won't want to leave this stunner without taking a few snaps for the 'Gram first.
Tai Pan Alley
When it comes to the best Malaysian restaurant in Camden, Tai Pan Alley is a hot contender. The cool, laid-back joint oozes serious tropical vibes and hosts three-course Asian street food dinners - book in to slurp up laksa, stir-fried noodles and lychee ice cream. But that’s not all, as you’ll also bag 90 minutes of bottomless cocktails or bubbles to help wash it down.
Be transported to the bustling street food stalls of Asia at this snazzy space.
Ekachai
Ekachai in King's Cross has made a name for itself by serving up enticing seafood laksa, nasi goreng, chicken kapitan and so much more. This Malaysian restaurant in North London is also pretty stylish, featuring rustic-chic seating and colourful murals, making it a top spot for a chilled-out date night or meal with the whole gang. You can also check out its sister sites in Camden and Wandsworth.
To complement your feast at Ekachai, choose from wines, beers and juices.
Sambal Shiok
Having garnered a bit of a cult following in recent years, Sambal Shiok should certainly be on your hit list. Toting a simple but oh-so-cute canteen setting, this halal Malaysian restaurant in London is perfect for casual catch-ups with pals. On the menu? Everything you could ever want and more, from the signature laksa, which comes with a range of proteins, to fried chicken and lemongrass curry.
Get ready for vibrant plates of fresh fare at Sambal Shiok.
Hawker’s Kitchen
The Caledonian Road hole in the wall might not be the most glamorous of restaurants, but it has amassed a great deal of hype - and for good reason. Cooking up freshly prepared dosas, fluffy rotis and a lip-smacking array of noodle dishes, Hawker's Kitchen is sure to blow your socks off. And don't skip dessert here either, as the gulab jamun – small balls made of milk and flour soaked in rose syrup - is an absolute winner.
You can't visit Hawker's Kitchen without trying its legendary roti.
Banana Tree
Swing by Banana Tree in Soho, Angel, Covent Garden and beyond to treat your tastebuds to a terrific lineup of noodles and curries from all over Asia. Our favourite? It has to be the tiger prawn kari, which comes in a coconut sauce with aubergines, tofu and bamboo shoots. It goes all too well accompanied by a hefty serving of aromatic spiced rice.
Banana Tree's rustic-chic setting is the perfect place to get your munch on.
Roti King
Fronting venues in Euston and Battersea, this much-loved restaurant is not to be missed when a craving for Malaysian munch strikes. The small but mighty menu at Roti King packs a punch, offering all of the classics you know and love. Think beef rendang and naski lemak, as well as beautifully fluffy rotis that come with a choice of curry.
It's safe to say that Roti King has gained legendary status among fans of Malaysian cuisine.
Rasa Sayang
On the hunt for a Malaysian restaurant in London’s Chinatown? Rasa Sayang has got you well and truly covered. Inspired by the hawker scene in the Southeast Asian country, this buzzing place to eat rustles up plates that will hit the spot and then some. We’re talking crispy sambal seabass and gado gado salad, accompanied by cocktails like lychee coolers.
You won't regret visiting this Malaysian restaurant near Leicester Square.
Laksamania
Not just famed for the fiery, fragrant noodle soup that is its namesake, Laksamania has become a Soho stalwart, filling tums with a load of mouthwatering Malaysian classics. Kick off by ordering a round of satay skewers before diving into char kuey teow (wok-fried noodles) or nyona curry chicken. And if you need a tipple to pair, go for an Asahi beer or a carafe of sake.
Laksamania's broth is lovingly made over eight hours, with either a coconut curry or sour "Assam" base.
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