Sri Pinang

Overview

Sri Pinang redefines cheap and cheerful, and once you’ve dined here you’ll never want to part with your hard earned dollars at another Malaysian joint again. Unsurprisingly, you can find it on K Road, and it’s deservedly packed to the rafters with an eclectic mix of regulars most nights of the week.

The first thing you need to know is that corkage is $1 and there’s a liquor store across the road, so, well, it would just be rude not to. The second is that owner Angie is the sweetest and is scarily good with faces, so you’ll want to come back just for the hospitality (and she’ll remember your name and possibly your order when you do).

Sri Pinang’s menu is inspired by the melting pot of cultures that make up peninsular Malaysia, with the Eggplant Sambal, Chilli Squid and Angel Wings (stuffed, deep-fried chicken wings) being especially delicious.

Make sure you ask for some rotis with your order; they’re like naans but better, super buttery and flakey – almost like a squished croissant. Word on the street is that the most popular menu item is the $8 roti curry, a simple boneless chicken curry which comes medium-spicy and with a roti for your dipping/sopping pleasure.

If you’re in the mood for dessert, the creamy sago coconut pudding with a ladle of palm sugar caramel or the crisp banana fritter with mango sauce and passionfruit ice cream will hit the spot.

Hit up this local fave for your next BYO or work lunch (the daytime menu is even cheaper, and they take pre-orders), and you’ll see what all the fuss is about.