Restoran Malaysia, Richmond Hill, Ontario

[burberry]

Has anyone tried this Malaysian restaurant called - Restoran Malaysia? If so, what do you think of the food and service? I want to go try it one of these days.

Restoran Malaysia
815 Major Mackenzie Drive East
Richmond Hill, Ontario

[M-e-X-x]

search n00b! :twisted:

http://www.redflagdeals.com/forums/showthread.php?t=100611&highlight=restoran

[the fokinator]

my parents, my friends, my friends' parents and I have nothing but nice things to say about the restaurant.
The waitress we had was cute, and was very prompt in her service, filling out glasses of water many times throughout our meal without us once requesting her to do so. Food was quite good and came out promptly. I was there for lunch and the price was not too bad. I think the specials ranged from $5.99 - 6 or 7.99. I dont really remember as it was about 3 months back. But I just remember the prices being quite nice. Oh yes, the decor was also fantastic as I believe they had a recent renovation.

Keep in mind this was during lunch. I dont know how busy/expensive it gets for dinner.

[ItemFinder]

This restaurant isn't authentic. It's cooked by Hong Kong people for Hong Kong people. The taste is nothing like what Malaysian food is. Most Chinese in Toronto will like it, but only because they don't know any better.

[alifromca]

This restaurant isn't authentic. It's cooked by Hong Kong people for Hong Kong people. The taste is nothing like what Malaysian food is. Most Chinese in Toronto will like it, but only because they don't know any better.

Where would you go instead?

[ItemFinder]

That I am still searching for. I'm not saying the place is all bad, but it seems like half it's menu is Thai food instead of pure Malaysian. Gourmet Garden is the closest I've found, but then again, it's almost like fast food. If I could find a real Malaysian restaurant, I would get really really fat.

[alifromca]

That I am still searching for. I'm not saying the place is all bad, but it seems like half it's menu is Thai food instead of pure Malaysian. Gourmet Garden is the closest I've found, but then again, it's almost like fast food. If I could find a real Malaysian restaurant, I would get really really fat.

Yeah, I've been to Restoran Malaysia. Even though it isn't exactly like what I ate in Malaysia, it's still very tasty. I don't like RM's laksa, but I did enjoy their Roti with curry. I also enjoyed their Kuay Teow (sp?).

The place is definitely worth eating at. Heck, my dad is Malaysian and he loves this place. =)

By the way, how do you know the cooks are from Hong Kong? The last time I went, most of the staff were Chinese Malaysian - but I haven't been there in about a year.

[Jim_sir]

The owner Howard is Chinese from Malaysia.

It is not as good as food in Malaysia , but is is about the best you will find in TO area.

If you are looking for something authentic ask for the Penang (Asam) Laksa, it is not on the menu.

[iris1026]

Anyone been to Restoran Malaysia recently? How busy is it now for weekend dinner? The older thread mention that they didn't even accept reservation in the past because they were so busy.

[S14_Raven]

This restaurant isn't authentic. It's cooked by Hong Kong people for Hong Kong people. The taste is nothing like what Malaysian food is. Most Chinese in Toronto will like it, but only because they don't know any better.

Haha... seriously... HK people? You go there much? I think most there staff is from Malaysia.

Can't speak much about authenticity, but I'd think the lack of authentic, fresh ingredients may play a part. After all we're in Canada. Like going to China and asking for poutine

[ItemFinder]

Granted I haven't eaten there for a long time, but from the taste I distinctly remember it being nowhere close to authentic. I'll check it out again this weekend (hopefully) and give some more comments.

[M.D.]

who's chinese malaysian here? I am!

[gilboman]

This restaurant isn't authentic. It's cooked by Hong Kong people for Hong Kong people. The taste is nothing like what Malaysian food is. Most Chinese in Toronto will like it, but only because they don't know any better.

what does this have to do with anything:confused: authentic doesnt mean it is any more pleasing to other people. nobody ever mentioned or asked about authenticity, only if it was any good. if only authentic is considered good, then you better get out of your well or under your rock and look around the world; because fusion cuisine rules nowadays.

[ItemFinder]

what does this have to do with anything:confused: authentic doesnt mean it is any more pleasing to other people. nobody ever mentioned or asked about authenticity, only if it was any good. if only authentic is considered good, then you better get out of your well or under your rock and look around the world; because fusion cuisine rules nowadays.
Maybe you should take your head out of your ass. No everyone loves fusion food, especially since the other half is usually Thai or Vietnamese. Genuine, simple food is what people have been eating for centuries. If the restaurant isn't interested in serving authentic food, then perhaps they shouldn't call themselves Restoran Malaysia. For you, I'm sure you're happy with your terrible tasting food, as long as you can brag to your friends that you ate fusion cuisine.

[chicken_little]

Restoran Malaysia is overrated and overpriced. The malaysian food court at brimley and sheppard had better food at half the price.

[alifromca]

Restoran Malaysia is overrated and overpriced. The malaysian food court at brimley and sheppard had better food at half the price.

Do you have a name and an exact address for this place? I'd like to give it a try. Thanks.

[chicken_little]

Do you have a name and an exact address for this place? I'd like to give it a try. Thanks.

Gourmet Garden. I recommend the roti prata and laksa noodle.

http://www.restaurantica.com/restaurants/15927/

[ItemFinder]

Thank you. Someone else on the forums has some taste as well.

[smalltownfart]

Do you have a name and an exact address for this place? I'd like to give it a try. Thanks.

http://maps.google.ca/maps?f=d&hl=en&geocode=7463595196674255506,43.787760,-79.266529&saddr=43.787760,+-79.266529+%4043.787760,+-79.266529&daddr=43.78781,-79.265859&mra=mi&mrsp=1,0&sz=18&sll=43.787419,-79.266078&sspn=0.002273,0.004973&ie=UTF8&ll=43.787574,-79.26618&spn=0.002273,0.004973&t=k&z=18&om=1

On the left is the corner of Brim & Shepperd, it's in the strip mall in the middle of the map, with the irregular shape and diagonal parking lot on the south side of Shepperd.

The food court is in the south side of the building. I haven't been there for quite some time, they used to make very decent "popiah" (only available on the weekends).

[smalltownfart]

Another decent alternative can be found in the First Markham Place foodcourt.
IIRC, it's called 星马泰 （sing m'sia thai), can't remember the english name at the moment. It's right next to the sushi stall. The lady taking the orders told me she was from K.L.

I tried the curry laksa, wat tan ho & kuih ketayap and thought they were all pretty good, the KL-style hokkien mee was not as enjoyable but still better than the version offered at Restoran M'sia.

[MoonDoggy]

:arrowu: The malaysian place at the First Markham mall isn't bad. The last time I was there and the food was pretty bland but my brother goes there alot (he says it's good). It's also the only place I know in the GTA that served barley drink :cheesygri

Restora Malaysia isn't that bad really. I think that restaurant gives good exposure to Malaysian food in the GTA.

[Eyies]

Last time went with my girlfriend. Pigged out hardcoreeeeeee.

green curry beef, red curry chicken, don yum tong, grilled beef skewers, grilled lamb skewers, roti x2, coconut rice x2 (mmm), two mango milkshakes

Bill was under $50 with tip, bit pricey, but man that was a delicious and very very very filling meal, stuff to take home too. yum!

[pakmode]

I've taken friends and family their twice, and both times heard nothing but extremely positive comments.
The food is good and the portions are large.

A+ in terms of bang for your buck.

[ItemFinder]

I went on Saturday. The food is still the same. It's not authentic, but I guess it'll make the foreigners feel like they are eating something special. For the record, I had Asam Laksa, Hainanese Chicken Rice (named Singapore Chicken Rice for some strange reason), Nasi Lemak and Hokkien Prawn Mee. Contrary to the nice sounding dishes, I was sorely disappointed by the taste.

In the case of the Laksa, the fishy taste and mint was overpowering. It made the soup too salty, but it was hot.

The Nasi Lemak had fragrant rice, but it wasn't soft enough. No egg omelette was served, and the taste wasn't right. It was spicy though.

The shrimp noodle had nice soup, but still a bit salty. I've had better home cooked meals.

The chicken rice had good marinated chicken, also the soya sauce was really salty. The chilli sauce was watery, but it tasted good. Ordering more sauce yielded a better result. The rice wasn't oily enough and the square shape threw off the presentation. The soup was muddy and looked also like miso.

All in all, I would give the restaurant a 6 and that would be generous. I wouldn't make the trip again, but if I was in the area, I might eat there. A lot of people were ordering the roti, but I doubt it can compare to some of the roti I've tried in the past. Also, I noticed a lot of white people ordering pad thai. You have to be ******** to order a Thai dish at a Malaysian restaurant.

[alifromca]

So if RM rates 6 (I assume on a 0 to 10 scale), what does Gourmet Garden rate on the same scale?

[the fokinator]

:arrowu: The malaysian place at the First Markham mall isn't bad. The last time I was there and the food was pretty bland but my brother goes there alot (he says it's good). It's also the only place I know in the GTA that served barley drink :cheesygri

Restora Malaysia isn't that bad really. I think that restaurant gives good exposure to Malaysian food in the GTA.

I went there this past sunday for lunch. The laksa was HORRIBLE. Broth was bland, they used vermicelli instead of the thicker noodles and there were like 2 shrimp in my bowl. I can make a better laksa at home. Ill be sure not to try this place again.

[inferno_gn]

Hi there,

I'm also Chinese-Malay. *lol* :D To be honest, there isn't much that taste the same. There is even one up at the Pacific Mall upstairs. :) I rather go back home to Penang and eat it there. I miss the food... :(

Ju Leon...

[felix]

Another decent alternative can be found in the First Markham Place foodcourt.
IIRC, it's called 星马泰 （sing m'sia thai), can't remember the english name at the moment. It's right next to the sushi stall. The lady taking the orders told me she was from K.L.

I tried the curry laksa, wat tan ho & kuih ketayap and thought they were all pretty good, the KL-style hokkien mee was not as enjoyable but still better than the version offered at Restoran M'sia.
Is this the new one that opened up after the quiet noodle shop closed down? (on the right of the place that serves breakfast and cafe style food)

[ItemFinder]

So if RM rates 6 (I assume on a 0 to 10 scale), what does Gourmet Garden rate on the same scale?
GG is about a 7 or 8. The taste is definitely much better, but recently, it's gotten worse. The preparation lately feels like fast food, but there's not much that can be done. If you want authentic food, Toronto isn't exactly the place to get it. GG is the closest you'll get without travelling.

[felix]

Anyone been to Restoran Malaysia recently? How busy is it now for weekend dinner? The older thread mention that they didn't even accept reservation in the past because they were so busy.
Went there a couple weeks ago and it was very busy. It was a Saturday or Sunday during peak hours ... had to wait about 45 min and we were so hungry. :mad:

[smalltownfart]

I went there this past sunday for lunch. The laksa was HORRIBLE. Broth was bland, they used vermicelli instead of the thicker noodles and there were like 2 shrimp in my bowl. I can make a better laksa at home. Ill be sure not to try this place again.

Actually, they use a mix of both oil noodles & rice vermicelli, which is typical. Just ask for 100% oil noodles if you prefer it that way.

Geez, guys, don't expect too much, we are on the other side of the planet after all. I've had the laksa twice and I was satisfied with the quality both times. I think it compares very well to the quality of a neighbourhood laksa stall at a hawker centre in the 'burbs in S'pore. I've definitely had way worse.

[CSAgent]

The majority of posters on RFD do nothing but criticizes, damn if you think you can do better, why don't you open your own restaurant and serve your own authentic foods?

I've been here multiple times, always pleased with the food and service. Sometimes I go with more than 10 people and we share plates and I don't get enough.. the plates are always wiped clean, that's how good the food is!

[Atheral]

This place is awesome. I've been there 3 times and I've been extremely satisfied each time with both the food and the service. Highly recommended.

[the fokinator]

Actually, they use a mix of both oil noodles & rice vermicelli, which is typical. Just ask for 100% oil noodles if you prefer it that way.

Geez, guys, don't expect too much, we are on the other side of the planet after all. I've had the laksa twice and I was satisfied with the quality both times. I think it compares very well to the quality of a neighbourhood laksa stall at a hawker centre in the 'burbs in S'pore. I've definitely had way worse.

wait are we thinking of the same place?
There were not any oil noodles in mine (those yellow ones). I went to the place beside the store that sells the korean food (pork bone soup and everything).
I usually don't complain about food because I eat just about everything. But there was absolutely no flavour in my broth. It was essentially hot dishwater.

[MoonDoggy]

wait are we thinking of the same place?
There were not any oil noodles in mine (those yellow ones). I went to the place beside the store that sells the korean food (pork bone soup and everything).
I usually don't complain about food because I eat just about everything. But there was absolutely no flavour in my broth. It was essentially hot dishwater.

I think one of you is thinking of the food court in First Markham mall and the other is talking about Restora Malaysia or Gourmet Garden.

[profguy]

The majority of posters on RFD do nothing but criticizes, damn if you think you can do better, why don't you open your own restaurant and serve your own authentic foods?

I've been here multiple times, always pleased with the food and service. Sometimes I go with more than 10 people and we share plates and I don't get enough.. the plates are always wiped clean, that's how good the food is!

This is a silly remark - the whole point of RFD is to offer your opinion and your experience both good and bad - othewise what is point of a shill or tout? Are you related to the owner or have some interest in the restaurant? Maybe you are a relative and got special service that I won't get?

Take the comments for what they are - share yours if is good or bad and we can decide.

I really appreciate all comments and will make my decision based on them. Nothing is perfect and if it sounds too good then maybe there is some other motivation here? We can all read between the lines.

[jjtsl]

ok, will posters please state which location they are talking about to avoid the confusion?

I've been to Restoran Malaysia, and feel that the food is above average. I recalled that their beef rendang was pretty good, and their chicken rice above average. Sure you can get the same quality food for cheaper in food courts, but the overheads for operating a restaurant must be considered. I'm not saying this is the place to go for Malaysian / Singaporean food. My rule of thumb is if I'm only eating out myself, then I head for the food courts, when I'm with friends, then I pick Restoran Malaysia.

[alifromca]

GG is about a 7 or 8. The taste is definitely much better, but recently, it's gotten worse. The preparation lately feels like fast food, but there's not much that can be done. If you want authentic food, Toronto isn't exactly the place to get it. GG is the closest you'll get without travelling.

My dad (a Malaysian) has been to both GG and RM, and he likes RM better. I'm guessing it's a matter of opinion anyways. Then again, as far as Malaysian food goes, my parents do not care about authenticity whatsoever. To them, as long as it tastes good, that's all that matters. And they like RM the best so far (althought Coconut Island or whichever one is in the Peachtree Plaza at Highway 7 and Kennedy is also quite tasty in their opinion).

[evanx]

The one at First Markham Place has pretty good char kuay teow although it's called ipoh kuay teow on their menu. The normal one is not the same.

RM is pretty good for the ambience, drinks and some of their dishes. The ingredient are fresh and the curry (thai green and normal) is not bad. Lion City in Mississauga has better rendang although the portions are smaller.

[smalltownfart]

I think one of you is thinking of the food court in First Markham mall and the other is talking about Restoran Malaysia or Gourmet Garden.

For the record, I was referring to the store called "Malay Thai" (English name) at the FMP food court. There is another store (also in the same food court) which I totally forgot about, which is also offering South-East Asian food (or so they claim). Avoid it, unless u want to taste bizarre food.

I recently went back to "Malay Thai" and had the fried kuay teow, and I agree with evanx, it's pretty good. I usually avoid ordering this, to avoid bitter disappointment, but it's surprisingly delicious. I am pretty sure they used lard :D

BTW, Restoran Malaysia is halal, so I think that may explain why some dishes of their dishes (especially Chinese noodle dishes) may not taste like they should.

[chicken_little]

That I am still searching for. I'm not saying the place is all bad, but it seems like half it's menu is Thai food instead of pure Malaysian. Gourmet Garden is the closest I've found, but then again, it's almost like fast food. If I could find a real Malaysian restaurant, I would get really really fat.

ItemFinder, have you ever been to Matahari Grill on Baldwin St? Too bad I wasn't with a bigger group cause I was only able to try a couple of dishes. The food seems ok but kind of on the pricey side. Will come back and try more dishes before reaching a final verdict. :cheesygri

http://www.mataharigrill.com

[felix]

For the record, I was referring to the store called "Malay Thai" (English name) at the FMP food court. There is another store (also in the same food court) which I totally forgot about, which is also offering South-East Asian food (or so they claim). Avoid it, unless u want to taste bizarre food.

I recently went back to "Malay Thai" and had the fried kuay teow, and I agree with evanx, it's pretty good. I usually avoid ordering this, to avoid bitter disappointment, but it's surprisingly delicious. I am pretty sure they used lard :D

Is this the one next to the Korean shop? Is it good Malay food? It's usually not busy (compared to all the other places).

[UrbanPoet]

For the record, I was referring to the store called "Malay Thai" (English name) at the FMP food court. There is another store (also in the same food court) which I totally forgot about, which is also offering South-East Asian food (or so they claim). Avoid it, unless u want to taste bizarre food.

I recently went back to "Malay Thai" and had the fried kuay teow, and I agree with evanx, it's pretty good. I usually avoid ordering this, to avoid bitter disappointment, but it's surprisingly delicious. I am pretty sure they used lard :D

BTW, Restoran Malaysia is halal, so I think that may explain why some dishes of their dishes (especially Chinese noodle dishes) may not taste like they should.

wow.. so you respond to someone over 1/2 a yr later?

[myversa]

who's chinese malaysian here? I am!

Which city are you from? My wife is from Penang. :cheesygri

[smalltownfart]

wow.. so you respond to someone over 1/2 a yr later?

:o Better late than never! I totally forgot abt this thread...

[smalltownfart]

Is this the one next to the Korean shop? Is it good Malay food? It's usually not busy (compared to all the other places).

The one next to Korean-Korean store = pseudo SE Asian food = yuck

The one next to Japanese-sushi store = "Malay Thai" = yum

[kiasu]

who's chinese malaysian here? I am!

a bit late to reply...what do you mean Chinese Malaysian? Or you mean Malaysian Chinese? Yes..I am....anyone else? May be we should have Msian Chinese RFD gathering? LOL...

[kiasu]

My dad (a Malaysian) has been to both GG and RM, and he likes RM better. I'm guessing it's a matter of opinion anyways. Then again, as far as Malaysian food goes, my parents do not care about authenticity whatsoever. To them, as long as it tastes good, that's all that matters. And they like RM the best so far (althought Coconut Island or whichever one is in the Peachtree Plaza at Highway 7 and Kennedy is also quite tasty in their opinion).

RM is way too over price man...I only been there once..that's all..food is all right but not the best...I usually go to GG...reasonable price and good dishes too..

[kiasu]

GG is about a 7 or 8. The taste is definitely much better, but recently, it's gotten worse. The preparation lately feels like fast food, but there's not much that can be done. If you want authentic food, Toronto isn't exactly the place to get it. GG is the closest you'll get without travelling.

+1

[alifromca]

RM is way too over price man...I only been there once..that's all..food is all right but not the best...I usually go to GG...reasonable price and good dishes too..

I heard RM's prices went up since the last time I went. I haven't been back in over a year (maybe longer). I go to GG because it's closer to me, but so far, the only thing I like there is the Laksa. I don't like the kuey teow and I hate the oiliness of the roti canai. The KT and RC that I got from RM years ago were definitely better and closer to what I had in Sarawak. However, it's possible the quality has also declined. I'll have to go back and verify when I get a chance.

[Kasakato]

I heard RM's prices went up since the last time I went. I haven't been back in over a year (maybe longer). I go to GG because it's closer to me, but so far, the only thing I like there is the Laksa. I don't like the kuey teow and I hate the oiliness of the roti canai. The KT and RC that I got from RM years ago were definitely better and closer to what I had in Sarawak. However, it's possible the quality has also declined. I'll have to go back and verify when I get a chance.

I went about two months ago (mid March( and the prices have gone up. They also have got new menus. The good quality is slightly worse than it was last year (10% decrease0, however its still decent.

[kiasu]

I went about two months ago (mid March( and the prices have gone up. They also have got new menus. The good quality is slightly worse than it was last year (10% decrease0, however its still decent.

I heard RM's prices went up since the last time I went. I haven't been back in over a year (maybe longer). I go to GG because it's closer to me, but so far, the only thing I like there is the Laksa. I don't like the kuey teow and I hate the oiliness of the roti canai. The KT and RC that I got from RM years ago were definitely better and closer to what I had in Sarawak. However, it's possible the quality has also declined. I'll have to go back and verify when I get a chance.

Wow...alifromca from Sarawak? What about Kasakato?

[Stylez_517]

Restoran Malaysia is an awesome restaurant. Food is quite tasty (SAFFRON FRIED CHICKEN!!!) and everything was just great. Pretty good service for the crowd they have cause at night they are rammed. So get there earlier to get a seat. It's run by Chines-Malaysians though not fully 100% "authentic", it still tastes very much like the food you would find in Malaysia. Definitely recommend going there to try it out.

[kiasu]

Restoran Malaysia is an awesome restaurant. Food is quite tasty (SAFFRON FRIED CHICKEN!!!) and everything was just great. Pretty good service for the crowd they have cause at night they are rammed. So get there earlier to get a seat. It's run by Chines-Malaysians though not fully 100% "authentic", it still tastes very much like the food you would find in Malaysia. Definitely recommend going there to try it out.

Yea I know..owned by Howard...they used to open Satay Ria in Market Village (And if you know what happen to him). I dont think the food there cost that kind of price. They are not that AWESOME as you described. Anyway, I am going back in 2 months...woo hoo...can't wait to have bak ku teh, ABC, cendol, roti telur, neslo ais, curry laksa, curry puff, ang ko kuih, mee siam, satay, ...etc...yummyy....muahahahaha :cheesygri

[shopper_holic]

Yea I know..owned by Howard...they used to open Satay Ria in Market Village (And if you know what happen to him). I dont think the food there cost that kind of price. They are not that AWESOME as you described. Anyway, I am going back in 2 months...woo hoo...can't wait to have bak ku teh, ABC, cendol, roti telur, neslo ais, curry laksa, curry puff, ang ko kuih, mee siam, satay, ...etc...yummyy....muahahahaha :cheesygri

You're making me drool...I'm from KL!:cheesygri