Cik Mek Molek

This hawker in Selera Wawasan promises painstakingly cooked Malay food with heart, enjoyed amongst neighbours and friends in the communal food court setting. Our love for Cik Mek Molek runs deep, and a big part of that is credited to their Nasi Kerabu (RM7), a colourful dish done exceedingly well. It is heavy on greens — eight types, to be exact — and sports a single fried fish to boot. Those who avoid the rice dish out of apprehension for budu (a pungent Kelantanese sauce made of fermented fish) can turn to this version. Aside from a side saucer of budu, it comes also with rendang gravy and sambal. Early risers should go for their morning Nasi Lemak Special (RM4.50), a homey passed down recipe that's intuitively simple but delicious all the same. On noodles, Johor-born chef Kadri dishes out an excellent Laksa Johor (RM7) that sees thin spaghetti noodles in a curry-like gravy. If you're here on a Monday, try their Laksam (RM7), the Kelantanese dish of rice rolls in pleasantly pulpy fish broth. Since everything is made in small batches, arriving early gives you a better shot at getting your desired dish.
Avg price per person: RM10
Photo by Burppler Rueann Dass

Nestled in nondescript Selera Wawasan in SS3, hidden gem Cik Mek Molek excels at a variety of Malay eats. Bring a close friend for conversations over local delights at this cosy spot. Chef Kadri hails from Johor, but has dabbled in learning Kelantanese recipes so you will see a balance of both cuisines on the menu. It's no surprise that the Laksa Johor (RM7) is a winner. Redolent of its fragrant fish base, the runny broth and slippery spaghetti makes a tasty, harmonious duo. From the East Coast, Monday special Laksam (RM7) is a rice roll dish not easily found in these parts of KL. It is painstaking to make, and the unique, piquant dish is a must-order if you're here on Mondays. Selling out by 1pm daily, the crowd-favourite is none other than a bright, blue Nasi Kerabu (RM7) — come early for this. Eight types of chopped ulam (fresh greens) are used to supplement the fragrant rice, along with salted egg, pungent budu sauce and fish crackers. This mouth-watering version also features saucers of rendang gravy and spicy sambal to suit local likings.
Avg price per person: RM10

A very positive first experience with Kelantanese Laksam. The creamy fish broth was abundant with fish pulp that provided an interesting texture while fresh greens were a delight, along with the chunks of handmade rice rolls - reminiscent of chee cheong fun, but softer and thicker!