Eat Lah Brings a Taste of Kelantan to London’s Streets

A Labour of Love

Sometimes, looking for Malaysian street food in London can feel like looking for hidden treasure – and when you finally find it, it’s something to celebrate. Like the street food gem called “Eat Lah” with a distinctly Malaysian soul, founded by British-born Chinese Robert Ngo and his Kelantanese wife, Mel.

The Journey Begins

The couple launched “Eat Lah” in 2019, driven by their shared passion for Malaysian cuisine – something Mel had deeply missed since moving to London more than a decade ago. Over the past five years, Ngo and Mel have shared the magic of nasi kerabu, a quintessential Kelantanese dish, delighting Malaysians abroad while converting sceptical Britons into fans of blue-coloured rice.

A Taste of Home

For Mel, nasi kerabu was a staple of her diet growing up in Kota Bharu, Kelantan. Whenever she missed home, Ngo – ever the devoted husband – would recreate the dish for her. “She enjoys it every time I make nasi kerabu or other Malaysian dishes. She always says it’s really good. I was doing this for years when one day, she asked, ‘Why don’t you try selling this?’”

From Passion to Business

The timing couldn’t have been better. After over a decade as an architect, Ngo found himself stuck in a creative rut. “I realised I wasn’t progressing anymore. I’d lost my passion. Often, instead of working, I’d daydream about what to cook next!” he confessed. Nasi kerabu became the spark that reignited his creativity.

Challenges and Adaptations

Of course, running a Malaysian food business in the UK has its challenges, particularly when sourcing for key ingredients like bunga kantan (torch ginger). But the couple adapted, using local alternatives while preserving the essence of the dish. “It’s about capturing the textures and flavours of Malaysia with what’s available here,” Ngo explained. And Mel’s verdict? A resounding thumbs-up!

The Business Today

Today, “Eat Lah” is a bustling kiosk that moves around London with its unique offerings. The couple serves over 100 rice bowls daily, with four delectable nasi kerabu toppings: coconut chicken, satay chicken, grilled tofu, and grilled aubergine. For extra Malaysian flair, they add egg sambal and flaky roti (a take on roti canai). And Londoners can’t get enough.

A Loyal Community

This dedication, paired with the couple’s warm hospitality, has fostered a loyal community around “Eat Lah.” “I’ve met some amazing people through this business who we have become close friends with,” said Ngo.

Expansion Plans

The journey hasn’t been solely about food, though. Beyond their bustling kiosk, “Eat Lah” has expanded into catering for office lunches and private events. At the heart of it all is Mel, the backbone of the business, meticulously managing the administration and finances side of the business. This steady growth has inspired the couple to dream even bigger. With plans to open a brick-and-mortar restaurant in Canary Wharf next year, they’re ready to take “Eat Lah” to new heights.

Conclusion

For Ngo and Mel, “Eat Lah” has been more than just a business; it has been a labour of love, a celebration of Malaysian cuisine, and a bridge connecting cultures through the universal language of food. As Ngo summed it up perfectly: “Just eat lah!”

FAQs

Q: What inspired the name “Eat Lah”?
A: The name was inspired by Robert Ngo’s phrase “Just eat lah!” which he exclaimed during dinner one evening, and he knew instantly that it had to be the name.

Q: What makes “Eat Lah” unique?
A: The couple’s dedication to capturing the essence of Malaysian cuisine, using local alternatives while preserving the authenticity of the dish, and their warm hospitality.

Q: What are the plans for the future?
A: The couple plans to open a brick-and-mortar restaurant in Canary Wharf next year, expanding their menu to blend classic and modern Malaysian dishes.

Q: How can I find out more about “Eat Lah”?
A: You can find out more about “Eat Lah” by visiting their website or following them on Facebook and Instagram.