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New York City is home to some of the world’s most delicious food, from fresh pasta in Little Italy to the famous NY Slice. One of the city’s tastiest districts in Chinatown is an area packed with culture and food that showcases it. One of the top-rated restaurants in the district is West New Malaysia; here is everything you need to know.
West New Malaysia
This restaurant is in the heart of Chinatown and is packed any day of the week. The slogan “45 Years of Malaysian Home Cooking” is in the window, so we knew we were in for a treat.

The Dishes At West New Malaysia
West Malaysian food, also known as Malay cuisine, is influenced by Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous cultures. Here are some of the most common Malaysian dishes you can try in West New Malaysia, New York City!
Nasi Lemak
Considered the national dish of Malaysia, nasi lemak is a fragrant rice dish cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaf, served with a variety of accompaniments such as sambal (spicy chili paste), fried anchovies, peanuts, boiled eggs, and cucumber.
Satay
Skewered and grilled meat (often chicken, beef, or lamb) served with a spicy peanut sauce is a popular street food in Malaysia. Satay Chicken, Satay Beef, and Satay Tofu are also available.
Penang Asam Laksa
One of their Signatur Dishes is the Penang Asam Laksa. I was lucky to try it on myself, and it was delicious.
Penang Asam Laksa is a popular and distinctive dish from Penang, a state in Malaysia known for its rich culinary heritage. It’s a sour and tangy fish-based soup noodle dish.

At West New Mayalisa, they served the dish in a lemongrass broth with fish flakes. Even six months later, I can still taste the lemongrass in this phenomenal dish!
When Is West New Malaysia Open?
The restaurant opens every day from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM. It usually fills up quickly, but we managed to get in after waiting a few minutes.
Where Is West New Malaysia?
You can find this hidden gem in New York City’s Chinatown.
After your meal, walk a few steps to this amazingly unique Ice Cream Shop in NYC’s Chinatown!
From there, you can visit Little Italy, where you can try this famous cannoli.
If you are visiting Times Square, check out this hidden speakeasy before stopping at this famous restaurant and cocktail bar.


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