For a solo dinner, look to Ilham for an enchanting Nasi Kukus (RM6) that will make you glad you have it all to yourself. The bustling locale in Mutiara Damansara sees a constant stream of customers, no doubt here for the steamed rice specialty. Individually steamed in aluminium moulds, the rice is warm, fluffy and generously topped with a three-blend kuah. An earmark of nasi kukus, their flavoursome, concentrated gravy features the use of fish curry, chicken curry and kuah kerutup daging (a Kelantanese coconut-based gravy). Also helping to perfect the combo is refreshing pineapple achar, crispy ikan bilis and a delicious ayam berempah. You will also receive a serving of keropok ikan — look to the regulars who crush these fried fish crackers onto their rice and follow suit! For an extra kick, add their spicy sambal belacan.
Avg price per person: RM10
Photo by Burppler Azreel Azhar