Restaurants

A basement hideaway that has long been the preserve of budget-conscious students and Malay families. Order nasi campur (‘mixed rice’), which will get you a large serving of steamed rice, vegetables (cabbage and peppers on our visit) and up to three freshly cooked specials from the counter – you might find squid cooked in turmeric, lamb or chicken curry, or fish stewed in sweet kicap manis (a sweet soy sauce).

The extensive menu includes plenty to sate the homesick, from char kway teow (£5.60) to ikan bakar, or charcoal grilled mackerel (£6.50) that must be ordered in advance. Side dishes, like bhindi goreng (okra in a punchy chilli sauce) hit the spot, while the Malaysian kueh (cakes) are a sweet way to round off the meal, at 60p each.

Time Out London Issue 2024: June 4-10 2009