Herba & Rempah @ Dataran Prima, PJ

A new Peranakan restaurant has recently opened its doors in Petaling Jaya, offering a taste of Penang’s rich culinary heritage through recipes that have been cherished by a local family for generations. This vibrant eatery, located in Dataran Prima, marks the culmination of a journey that began four years ago when the owner, a passionate cook, first introduced her family’s Peranakan cuisine to the public through a home-based business. As with many during the pandemic, she found herself unable to work, but rather than succumb to the uncertainty, she turned to her love for cooking, which had been nurtured by her grandmother’s teachings. This passion ignited a new career path, leading to the establishment of this authentic Peranakan restaurant.

The transition from a home kitchen to a full-scale restaurant was fueled by the increasing popularity of her dishes. What started as an online service, where customers could enjoy Peranakan classics from the comfort of their homes, quickly gained traction. The positive reception and growing demand eventually led her to open her first physical outlet in Dataran Prima, where she now brings the vibrant flavors of Peranakan cuisine to a wider audience. The restaurant, which combines the warmth of home-cooked meals with the sophistication of a well-designed space, invites diners to immerse themselves in the rich culinary traditions of the Baba Nyonya.

One of the standout dishes on the menu is the Nyonya Pai Tee, a beloved Peranakan appetizer that is both visually appealing and deliciously satisfying. The dish features crispy, thin pastry cups filled with a mix of shredded mengkuang (jicama), carrots, and other finely chopped vegetables. These bite-sized delights are served with a side of chili sauce that adds a delightful zing to each bite. The balance of flavors, from the sweetness of the vegetables to the spiciness of the chili.

Another dish that has quickly become a favorite among patrons is the Roti Jala. This dish is a visual and culinary treat, featuring a colorful twist on the traditional Roti Jala, which is typically made in a single shade.

At this restaurant, the Roti Jala comes in an array of vibrant colors, making it as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate. The soft, lace-like crepes are paired with a rich and aromatic curry chicken, which is creamy, lightly spiced, and deeply flavorful.

For those who enjoy robust flavors, the Sambal Hae Bee is not to be missed. This dish showcases the umami richness of Hae Bee (dried shrimp) combined with the pungent aroma of petai (stink beans). The result is a dish that is intensely flavorful and deeply satisfying. The Sambal Hae Bee pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, making it a popular choice for those looking for a hearty and flavorful meal.

The Salted Fish Bone Curry is another signature dish that has garnered rave reviews. This dish is a masterclass in slow cooking, with the fish bones simmered for hours in a spicy, aromatic curry that permeates every bite. The curry is thick, rich, and packed with layers of flavor, each bite revealing the complexity of the spices used in its preparation

In addition to these standout dishes, the restaurant also offers a variety of set meals, making it easy for diners to enjoy a full Peranakan meal without having to choose from the extensive menu. These set meals are available daily, with some options rotating to keep the offerings fresh and exciting. One of the most popular set meals features Chicken Rendang, a dish that exemplifies the depth of flavor characteristic of Peranakan cuisine. The rendang is slow-cooked to perfection, with the chicken tender and infused with the rich, spicy coconut gravy that defines this dish. The set is served with a choice of Bluepea or Pandan Nasi Lemak, both of which add a fragrant, aromatic base to the meal.

To conclude a meal, diners are encouraged to try the Bubur Cha Cha, a traditional Peranakan dessert that perfectly encapsulates the balance of flavors that the cuisine is known for. This dessert, made with a combination of sweet potatoes, yam, and sago pearls in a coconut milk broth, offers a satisfying end to the meal. The Bubur Cha Cha is creamy and sweet, but not overly so, making it a delightful treat that leaves you feeling content and satisfied.

Whether you are a longtime fan of Baba Nyonya food or a newcomer eager to explore this vibrant culinary tradition, this restaurant offers an experience that is both authentic and unforgettable.

Address: 13-1, Ground Floor, Block I  Jalan PJU 1/37, Dataran Prima, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor

Opening Hours:  10 am – 3pm  (Monday – Saturday)

Phone: 017-209 1898

GPS Location : 3.1183519,101.5955349

Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/92ishG1pB1fHwwfz6