Nan Yang Dao PLQ Mall serves up Malaysian Delights (Without Border Crossing!)

南洋岛 Nan Yang Dao is a new restaurant in Paya Lebar Quarter (PLQ) founded by Malaysian Chef Jackson Chu, who had stints at the Sentosa Golf Club and Oasia Hotel. The casual diner specialises in dishes from different parts of Malaysia. It has become one of the most popular eateries in PLQ.

Popular Restaurant in PLQ

Those familiar with Paya Lebar Quarter (PLQ) will recognize the scene – a persistent queue outside Red Ginger cafe, a testament to the enduring popularity of its nasi padang. Look just 2 doors away, and you will find a similar phenomenon at Nan Yang Dao. The new casual eatery serving up authentic Malaysian flavours has quietly become a favourite among PLQ diners.

Be prepared to stand in line for a while at Nan Yang Dao. However, their efficiency ensures the queue moves fairly quickly. The waiting time is nothing compared to the time standing at the immigration counter when crossing the border to Malaysia.

Orders are placed through a user-friendly mobile app triggered by a simple QR code scan. Adding to the convenience, you can pay at the counter after you have enjoyed your meal. The kitchen is fast, delivering dishes within minutes of placing our order.

The decor leans towards a nostalgic, pleasant vibe, but the popularity of the restaurant means tables are packed quite close together. In a way, that just adds to the lively atmosphere.

Menu of Nan Yang Dao

Nan Yang Dao boasts an extensive menu, offering a range of dishes from Malaysia’s diverse culinary landscape. From Penang Assam Laksa and Seremban Fried Oyster Omelette to Rojak, Salted Egg Chicken Chop and Curry Chee Cheong Fun, the variety caters to diverse palates. They also have egg tarts and bolo buns as well as a long list of beverages and desserts.

Below are a few screenshots from the digital menu of Nan Yang Dao.

Signature Mini Trio Noodles

For those who like to have a sampling of what Nan Yang Dao has to offer, or those who simply have difficulty making a decision, the Signature Mini Trio Noodles ($10.90) is a great option.

3 small bowls of Penang Prawn Noodle Soup, Seafood Curry Mee and Pork Ball Noodle Soup were presented on a wooden tray.

The Penang Prawn Noodle Soup was a robust broth with yellow noodles, fresh prawns and thin pork slices. It tasted like prawn noodles we had tried in Penang. A dish that was satisfying for the taste buds.

The Seafood Curry Mee packed a punch. There were lots of ingredients, including prawns, fishball and tau pok. The creamy curry was thick with just the right amount of spiciness.

The Pork Ball Noodle Soup was fairly average. The pork balls were quite firm to the bite. One of the pork balls had a filling in the centre.

Fried Kway Teow & Fried Nasi Lemak

Nan Yang Dao’s Penang Fried Kway Teow ($7.50) was a delightful surprise. It looked pretty normal with the familiar ingredients – fried egg, Chinese sausage and bean sprouts. The Penang Fried Kway Teow was a case of simple things done right. It was not too oily and had that bit of wok-hei that made all the difference. Straightforward but delecatable.

Fried Nasi Lemak was reputed to be from Kuala Trengganu, where a local chef combined Chinese fried rice (nasi goreng) with nasi lemak to create nasi lemak goreng (fried nasi lemak). The rice was cooked with coconut milk, and then fried with the addition of spices. Nan Yang Dao’s version of Fried Nasi Lemak ($9.90) was flavourful and enjoyable. The crispy fried chicken that came with the fried rice were delicious.

Desserts & Beverages

Nan Yang Dao’s Cendol ($3.50) is worth a try. The classic Malaysian dessert had a delightful mix of textures and flavours. The star of the show, of course, was the green rice flour jelly – there was plenty sitting atop the shaved ice. The cendol was sweet but not overly so, making it refreshingly delicious.

The Puff Pastry Egg Tart ($2.60 each) at Nan Yang Dao was crisp, buttery and flaky. Its creamy custard filling was not too sweet. It was a delectable snack.

Nan Yang Dao’s Nanyang kopi, in both its hot and cold iterations, was good. Aromatic, strong and rich, it would have even the seasoned kopi tiam uncles nodding in approval.

Malaysian Delights Without Border Crossing

With its reasonable prices and extensive menu, Nan Yang Dao is like a one-stop shop for Malaysian delights. It adds new items to the menu from time to time. So there are new dishes to discover. The wide selection of food and beverages makes Nan Yang Dao PLQ Mall a versatile dining option, perfect for a quick brunch or tea break, or a satisfying lunch or dinner. The next time you want to satisfy your Malaysian cravings without having to cross the causeway, you can head to Nan Yang Dao.

Ratings:
Food: 4
Service: 3
Value: 3
Atmosphere: 3
Overall Rating: 3 TOPs

南洋岛 Nan Yang Dao PLQ Mall
10, Paya Lebar Road, PLQ Mall #B2-33
Singapore 409057

Tel: +65 90568766

Opening Hours 9 am to 10 pm

Nearby MRT Station: Paya Lebar Interchange (EW8/CC9)

Website