Syed Bukhara has already staked a name for itself in Malaysia as a top chain in Malaysian-Indian cuisine, packaged in a fast-food-style dining experience. Now, it’s opened up its first Hong Kong offshoot in Chungking Mansions, the notorious Tsim Sha Tsui hotbed of South Asian food.
As you navigate through the busy watch and gadget stalls, Syed Bukhara stands out in stark schoolyard green and orange, with neat and tidy mauve cushioned seats and a delicious wafting scent of simmering meats and spices. But if the décor of Syed Bukhara reminds you of food court cuisine, its food won’t. The Nasi Lemak with egg ($28) is Malaysian comfort food at its best, with the subtle creamy sweetness from the coconut rice mixing well with the spicy sambal sauce. And the mutton Bukhara biryani special is even more impressive. With hints of nutmeg, bay leaves and star anise, and generous chunks of mutton meat meshed in fragrant basmati rice, it’s incredible this generously-portioned dish (about the size of our face!) is only $68.
We wash the meal down with Syed’s equally fragrant and soothing Indian chai tea ($6) and leave happy. Can’t wait for more Syed Bukhara branches to hit town. Janice Jann
Shop 15-16, G/F, Chungking Mansion, 36-44 Nathan Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, 5635 2723. Dinner for two: around $100.