Mamak Melbourne

Overview

Malaysian-inspired, this Sydney import smashes the senses with its satay, curry, roti and sambal, and as such, it is bustling with spice-sweaty bodies on a nightly basis. Brave the queue for its BYO privileges, and find yourself reliving your gap year travels with hawker-style delights. A dozen charred satay sticks, teamed with the flaky pastry of fresh roti and a selection of curries — we suggest the kari ikan fish curry with tomato, okra and eggplant — make the wait worth the effort.

Other classics include the sambal udang with stir-fried tiger prawns and a fiery sambal sauce that'll hit you for six; the kari kambing with spicy lamb; the kacang panjang belacan with long beans, chillies and shrimps; ayam goreng with stir-fried chicken marinated in an array of herbs and the sambal sotong with stir-fried calamari and that famous sambal sauce. 

If you're having a sober night, try one of its famous hot drinks, including classic Malaysian sweetened tea; black coffee and hot milos. Cold drinks include ice milk tea; fresh lime with syrup on ice; iced coffee and all the classic soft drinks. 

Images: Alana Dimou.