A bowl of chendol in George Town, Penang. — LIM BENG TATT/The Star
AS a favourite topic with Malaysians, food is indeed a mouthwatering subject for discussion.
It is not unheard of for locals to talk about what one plans to do for dinner while eating lunch.
Medan Sate in Jalan Sulaiman, Kajang. — GRACE CHEN/The Star
But that is to be expected of a nation whose customary greeting is to ask whether one has eaten.
Al fresco dining in Petaling Street, where diners enjoy cold drinks from hawker stalls. — CHAN TAK KONG/The Star
With the food scene constantly evolving, diners are often spoilt for choice.
A shawarma stall in Bukit Bintang, an area well known for its wide array of Middle Eastern food. — SS KANESAN/The Star
The best way to gauge the taste and quality of what is being offered at a restaurant or hawker stall is usually to watch for the queues.
Traditional Indian sweets and deserts being sold at Little India in Brickfields. — YAP CHEE HONG/The Star
However, experienced foodies are also urging caution as some establishments are known to resort to making viral videos to attract customers.
Nasi Kandar Bendi in Bukit Jalil claims to offer the authentic taste of Penang nasi kandar. — AZLINA ABDULLAH/The Star
Tasting the dishes personally remains the only tried-and-true formula to ascertain if an eatery is worth a second visit.
An ice-cream seller performing tricks for a delighted customer in Jalan Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur. — YAP CHEE HONG/The Star
The best way to enjoy Malaysian food is to forget about debating over the origins of its many evergreen favourites and to focus on the taste.
Where there is good food, a crowd will gather, as this restaurant in Jalan Alor, Kuala Lumpur, shows. — GLENN GUAN/The Star
There is a popular saying among food lovers when it comes to worthy eateries: “Once you try it, you’ll want twice, or thrice”.
Bon appetit!
