I hate picking favorites, but I can't hold back with this Malaysian phenom. My brother and sister-in-law must be recognized and praised for finding this hole-in-the-wall treat. I think they found it through anothers recommendation. Apparently this is the ONLY way to dine in Vancouver.....word of mouth!
The Restaurant: SERI MALAYSIA
Location: 2327 E. Hastings, Vancouver V5L 1V6 (Intersection - Just west of Nanaimo st.)
Phone: 604. 677. 7555
Payment: Cash ONLY (lots of nearby banks)
Average cost of meal for 2: $25.00
The Review:
My family and I can't get enough of this gem. The atmosphere and decor need a major face lift, and some soft music wouldn't hurt either. Often you will walk in here and wonder why you have an overwhelming need to cough. It's because of the fresh chilli's they use in most dishes. You can sit wherever you want. At most times of the day you have your pick of the restaurant. They usually notice that you are there after about 10 minutes, and then present you with the menu's and a much needed jug of water. I have a horrible tendency to order what I already know that I love....'the usual'. It is fun when you go in a larger group because this gives you the opportunity to try lots of items! Everything is shared at this place. As good as everything is on it's own, there are SO many different dishes to taste and try. Like any restaurant I have my favorite dish. At Seri Malaysia, it is definitely the Beef Rendang. This is a rich stew-like curry that has been simmering on the stove for hours (or at least it tastes like it has). The flavours are deep and complex, with a strong emphasis on garlic and spice. It is best paired with plain rice. Another dish that we always order is the Char Kway Teow, with your choice of beef, chicken, or seafood. All options are fine, but I think the chicken is the best. This is a thick, flat noodle dish made with dark soy (darker in colour than taste), belacan (dried shrimp paste), garlic, ginger, and sugar. The sauce absorbs into the noodles, making it extremely flavourful. Growing up in Asia gave me the opportunity to try all of these dishes with the greatest of authenticity. Seri Malaysia is the closest thing to actually being in the hawker stalls in KL. If you are looking for a lighter meal, this isn't the place for you. My mum's favorite has to be the roti canai. This is a light, flaky pastry dish often ordered as an appie. It comes with a rich curry dipping sauce (which happens to be the same sauce as the Chicken curry - another great dish). This is definitely an item that is shared because even though it is light and flaky, it is fried and crisp. It is one of those items you use to to soak up all of the 'left over' sauce left on your plate. You might need a work out the morning after this meal, but whatever extra weight you are carrying around after this experience is well worth it!
If you are in a rush, this isn't always the most effecient restaurant. If you walk in and there are already a few tables sitting down NOT eatting, you better be patient. I can't emphasize enough that this meal is well worth the wait!
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