EatAlley

Updated October 10, 2026,first published June 30, 2025

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You want braised duck, he wants the herbal brothiness of bak kut teh, and someone else is keen on nasi lemak. At this 21st-century vision of a hawker market, it’s no problem. Ten of Malaysia’s exemplars of street food have been tapped for a shiny eatery in QV. What it lacks in street-eating thrills, it makes up for with convenience and cleanliness. Then there’s the careful cooking.

Nasi lemak is spicy, comforting and refreshing. Dial up the good times by adding rendang powered by rempah, a coconutty, lemongrassy, gingery spice paste that’s slowly cooked to a dark rubble. Fat rendered from Hainanese chicken is used to cook the glossy, rich rice that accompanies it. Bak kut teh is anchored by a balanced broth gently humming with soy and garlic and marked by different cuts of pork – it’s one of the best Klang-style renditions in Melbourne.

It’s easy to see why families, older couples nostalgic for home, and solo diners are queuing out the door.

Good to know: QR-code ordering is via a menu that aggregates all 10 stalls’ dishes, making for a smoother experience.

Good Food reviews are booked anonymously and paid independently. A restaurant can’t pay for a review or inclusion in the Good Food Guide.

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