Melaka is the home of Nyonya food, also known as Peranakan food. Back in the 15th century, the first wave of Hoklo settlers (Han Chinese descendants) from China arrived in Melaka. After decades of settlement, the ancient Chinese culture assimilated into the local Malay culture. Thus, the Baba-Nyonya was born.
The culture fusion also birthed a new cuisine called Nyonya food that's packed with strong flavours and spices. Sounds appealing? Make your way to these restaurants to try Muslim-friendly Nyonya food in Melaka!
1. Donald and Lily Restaurant
If you fancy thick and flavourful Nyonya Laksa broth, Donald and Lily Restaurant is the place for you. With each bowl overflowing with ingredients, including three large prawns, each spoonful will send a wave of culinary delight. Yum!
Halal status: Uses chicken sourced from halal-certified suppliers
Average price: RM12-RM81
Opening hours: Wed-Thu; 9.30AM-3.30PM (Closed Mon & Tue)
Address: Ground Floor, No. 16, Jln KSB 1, Taman Kota Shah Bandar, 75200 Melaka
Contact: +6012 292 3157
2. Amy Heritage Nyonya Cuisine
The sayur masak lemak is a crowd-favourite at Amy Heritage Nyonya Cuisine but that's not the only dish that's worth praising. There are other selections of Nyonya dishes including pongteh chicken with potatoes and nasi kemuli. It's a good place to satisfy your Nyonya food cravings.
Halal status: All meats are sourced from halal-certified suppliers
Average price: RM 12 - 30
Address: 75, Jalan Melaka Raya 24, Taman Melaka Raya, 75000
Contact: 06-286 8819
3. Peranakan Place
Peranakan Place has branches in various locations throughout Malaysia, including Melaka. Nestled in Jonker Walk, this restaurant serves a hearty menu of Nyonya food, ranging from nasi rempah ayam to delicious kuih-muih to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Halal status: All meats and ingredients are sourced from halal-certified suppliers
Average price: RM10-RM13
Address: Jonker Street, 54, Jalan Hang Jebat, 75200 Malacca
Contact: +6019 319 8199
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4. Jonker 88
Situated at the heart of Melaka's famous Jonker Street, Jonker 88's prized specialty is their cendol - the perfect thirst quencher to for a sunny afternoon. Other popular favourites include the Baba laksa that's cooked with rich coconut milk, and the Nyonya laksa that's similar to Penang’s asam laksa. Both are scrumptious!
Halal status: Uses Muslim-friendly ingredients
Average price: RM20 - RM41
Address: 88, Jalan Hang Jebat, 75200 Melaka
Contact: +6019 397 5665
5. Cottage Spices Nyonya Restaurant
For authentic and cosy vibes, look no further than Cottage Spices Nyonya Restaurant. Decorated with gorgeous tiles and flowery table cloths, this Muslim-friendly Nyonya restaurant in Melaka sure feels like home. Cottage Spices' assam fish is praised by many diners, so why not check it out and be the judge?
Halal status: Uses chicken and beef from halal-certified suppliers
Average price: RM15-RM45
Address: 171, Jln Merdeka, Taman Melaka Raya, 75000 Melaka
Contact: +6019 667 9797
And there you have it! From delicious dishes to delectable desserts, make sure to visit one of these Muslim-friendly Nyonya restaurants in Melaka!