If you’re a food enthusiast like me, Johor Bahru’s Nasi Kandar Marwah is a must-visit. Nestled in the bustling Taman Mount Austin area, this eatery is a haven for those craving authentic Malaysian flavours. During my recent visit, I had the pleasure of trying their renowned Nasi Kandar, and here’s my take on the experience.
Nasi Kandar Marwah
One of the most striking aspects of Nasi Kandar Marwah is its ambiance. The place is surprisingly spacious and clean for a Nasi Kandar restaurant. The main dining area is air-conditioned, providing a comfortable dining experience. There is also an outdoor seating area for those who prefer to dine al fresco. Additionally, there are seating options upstairs, which can be a great spot if you want a bit more privacy or a quieter environment.
One of the most striking aspects of Nasi Kandar Marwah is its popularity. Even at 4:30 PM, the place was packed, with a snaking queue extending from the main entrance. The line of people waiting for Nasi Kandar is a testament to its deliciousness. Despite the crowd, the queue moved steadily, and the semi self-service system worked smoothly. The bustling atmosphere added to the charm, making it a lively dining experience.
Despite the large number of staff on duty, the service could use some improvement. Given the crowd, the service is passable, but the waiters who make rounds to take orders and clear plates could be more attentive. Some of them tend to gather in a corner to chit-chat, which can be a bit frustrating when you need assistance.
The Food
Nasi Kandar (Assorted) – RM40.10
Nasi Kandar is a beloved Malaysian dish that originated from Penang. It consists of steamed rice served with a variety of curries and side dishes. What sets Nasi Kandar apart from other rice dishes in Malaysia is its unique blend of spices and the sheer variety of accompaniments.
At Nasi Kandar Marwah, you can choose from an array of dishes like fried chicken, beef rendang, squid curry, and various vegetables. There is really a wide variety of choices available. The semi self-service setup allows you to point out your choices from the display window, and the server will pile them onto your plate. At the end of the line, your meal is tallied, and you’re given a card to pay at the counter after your meal. This card can also be used to order drinks and other à la carte dishes.
During my visit, I opted for a mix of Nasi Putih (RM2.50), Ayam Goreng (RM6.50), Sotong Goreng (RM12.90), Bendi Goreng (RM2.50), Kambing Kurma (RM14), and Telur Rebus (RM1.70), all drenched in a mix of their curries, banjir style. However, the total came to a hefty RM40.10, making it the most expensive Nasi Kandar I’ve had to date.
One trick I’ve learned is that take-out Nasi Kandar can be even more enjoyable. Allowing the rice to soak in the flavours of the various curries adds an extra depth to the meal. However, since I was quite hungry that day, I appreciated the overall quality of the dishes. The Ayam Goreng was crispy and juicy, while the Kambing Kurma was tender, rich, and aromatic. On the other hand, the Sotong Goreng could have been crispier; it seemed to be one of their less popular dishes, as it was cold and chewy.
Mi Goreng Mamak Original – RM7.90
I also tried the Mi Goreng Mamak, a beloved dish in Malaysian Indian Muslim cuisine. This stir-fried noodle dish features yellow noodles, soy sauce, vegetables, eggs, and a choice of meat or seafood, and is celebrated for its savory and slightly spicy flavor profile.
However, I must say that I didn’t quite enjoy their version as much as I had hoped. I still prefer Maggi Goreng, which uses instant Maggi noodles instead. The instant noodles give it a unique texture and taste, and it’s quicker to prepare. I might opt for that on my next visit instead.
Verdict
In conclusion, Nasi Kandar Marwah offers a delightful culinary journey with its authentic and flavourful dishes. The Nasi Kandar, with its rich curries and variety of sides, is definitely a standout.
The restaurant’s popularity speaks volumes about its quality, and I would certainly return. While it’s on the pricier side, it’s a hidden gem that I haven’t found in Singapore, making it a must-visit whenever I’m in Johor Bahru.
Check out other food in Johor:
- 茶楼 Cha Lao Dim Sum @ Menara Malpakat, Johor Bahru
- George & Dragon Cafe @ Johor Bahru, Johor
- Jang Won Korea BBQ @ Johor Bahru, Johor
My Rating
75%: Ambiance
70%: Price (value for money)
85%: Taste
80%: Location
70%: Service
77%: Overall Rating
Opening Hours
Open daily from 10 AM – 10:00 PM
Note: Friday closed for prayers from 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM
Address / Contact Information
+6012 809 0786No GF-01-01 & 08-01 Lot 46115
Jalan Mutiara Emas Utama
Taman Mount Austin
81100 Johor Bahru