Anniversaries, birthday parties, and graduations are some of the celebratory occasions that prompt customers to visit Malayan Council. In fact, the first time I visited the restaurant was to celebrate my ex-boyfriend’s promotion.
Subsequently, my reasons for revisiting were solely to celebrate my family’s milestones — new marriages, new careers, and many more, to the point I’ve lost count.
Despite this, my impression of the restaurant remains unmemorable. Perhaps my palate isn’t accustomed to the idea of Malay-Western fusion cuisine, or I might have just unconsciously tied this restaurant to my history with my lost love.
Regardless of this, I embarked on a journey to the Malayan Council with a colleague who is also a fan.
We were both skeptical as we were already accustomed to the current menu, such as Smoked Duck Lemak Chilli Padi (S$34) and Asam Pedas Seafood Aglio Olio (S$32). The moment we sat down, we were given a separate menu which consisted of new menu items that we had never seen before.
The server gave us her recommendations, and we ordered the Pan Seared Ocean Cod (S$49), XO Ribeye Steak Fried Rice (S$39), Boxing Mango Chicken (S$21) and Ondeh-Ondeh Cake (S$11.50).
Starting with the mains, we have the Pan Seared Ocean Cod and XO Ribeye Steak Fried Rice. Surprisingly, the fish was pricier than the beef, even though the latter is classified as a premium form of meat.
Naturally, I tasted the XO Ribeye Steak Fried Rice first since I was fearful of the piscine taste in the fish dish. The instant saltiness from the fried rice hit me, along with the ribeye beef juices oozing all over, leaving a tantalising flavour in my mouth.
When the Pan Seared Ocean Cod was served, I hesitantly tried it for fear of the briny taste hitting me. The moment my colleague and I took a bite of the fish, we were completely blown away by its softness. What made it even better was the slightly sour and spicy sauce, as it further amplified the tastiness of the fish.
Both dishes were devoured in seconds, and momentarily, we both lost track of time. Out of the two choices, my favourite was the Pan Seared Ocean Cod, even though I have a strong preference for beef, and am deeply afraid of the fishy odour.
From the cooking method to the plating of the fish, the Pan Seared Ocean Cod took me out of this world and exceeded my expectations for fish-based dishes. What sealed the deal for me was how there was not an absolute hint of piscine or fishiness taste to it.
As for the XO Ribeye Steak Fried Rice, it could have won over the Cod if it were spicier and had more beef.
Moving on, we tried the Boxing Mango Chicken as our snack.
The Mango Boxing Chicken was bizarre to me, simply because I’m not the biggest fan of fruits, and I feel strongly about mixing fruits with savoury food because it leaves me feeling conflicted, as it is neither healthy nor sinful. Except, it seems I’m mistaken yet again.
At first sight, the perfectly seasoned chicken glistened with cubes of mangoes, cucumber, and onions, making it irresistible and tempting. As soon as I tried a piece, the flavours were shockingly integrated by the burst of sweetness oozing from the mango cubes, and accompanied by the spiciness from the chicken. The overall blend of flavours moulded into a new, more complex flavour that I could not comprehend; all I could recall feeling was this overwhelming sense of amazement.
By the time I had my third piece, the Mango Boxing Chicken had already finished. It was a shame that there were only six pieces, and I was itching to order seconds.
To end off our meal, we had to have the Ondeh-Ondeh cake, which is the signature dessert of Malayan Council. While it may not be a new menu item, it is known to all customers that the Ondeh-Ondeh cake is the cherry on top of their meal. You might agree with me that the Malayan Council experience feels unfinished without the Ondeh-Ondeh cake.
Between the Bussorah Street and Esplanade outlets, consistency in the cake’s texture, flavour, coconut flakes toppings, and gula melaka drizzle leaves me in awe every time. Every bite offers layers of textures that leave me craving for the next.
In hindsight, this has completely changed my perspective on Malayan Council. Since my convocation ceremony is next week, I’d definitely be back with my family and friends to celebrate.
Make sure to book your reservations here, and if you see me there, you can claim a free Ondeh-Ondeh cake from me.
The Malayan Council – Esplanade Mall
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📍 8 Raffles Avenue, Esplanade Mall, #02-14, Singapore 039802
🕒 11am–11pm
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Photos by Jae-Eryana Fitri, and check out the video here.
