Restoran Sri Nirwana Maju

If you are into moreish comforting flavours, banana leaf rice is right up your alley as you will be piled with mountains of rice, curry sauces and condiments to go alongside a plethora of dishes such as mutton rendang, ayam kicap manis, fried fish and squid. One surprising condiment is the crispy bitter gourd, a vegetable that I usually avoid due to the bitter taste but the ones here were fried to an absolute crisp with no bitterness. Prepare for the impending food coma after this meal.
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✨ Sri Nirwana Maju Restaurant
📍 43, Jln Telawi 3, Bangsar, 59100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
🍴 [Self-Funded]

An ultimate Malaysian eating experience involves banana leaf rice – a South Indian method of serving rice, curry and assorted vegetables on a banana leaf. Ask around for the best places for banana leaf rice and locals will direct you to this popular spot in Bangsar. Once you get in line, order the Vegetable Meal Set (RM9.50) that features fluffy rice served alongside three vegetables including the popular bitter gourd fritters – ask for more! Choose from fish, chicken and dhal curries to douse your rice in for the finishing touch. To amp up your meal, we suggest adding proteins like the Fried Chicken (RM7) and Fried Sotong (RM10) that's great for sharing. P.S. The best way to dig in is by using your hands! Another quintessential Malaysian dish to try is the Maggi Goreng (RM6), a fried instant noodle dish with spices and vegetables.
Photo by Burppler Farah Dy

They didn’t tell me the portion would be enough to feed 2 full grown adults (perhaps it’s just me)
Had to loosen my pants a little after the amazing meal, but I don’t regret a single bit.

There's almost always a queue at this banana leaf rice joint but rest assured, the wait is worth it. The crowd is here for the Banana Leaf Rice (RM9.50), served with irresistible sides like the famous fried bitter gourd. Make sure to ask for an extra portion (RM2) of the crunchy, addictive fritter — you can thank us later. If there’s still tummy space, consider the Fried Sotong (from RM10), Coriander Chicken (RM7) or the Mutton Masala (from RM12) — all flavour-packed delights.
Photo by Burppler Terence Ong

One of the popular banana leaf rice spots in KL which is still utilising fresh banana leafs. Drown the rice in various curries, mix the sides and your selected protein (fried sotong being the most popular)

Try the fried squid and fried chicken with lots for curry and dhal! Top with side veges! Coffee brew with cow milk is the best!