Direct from Kelantan, the owners of the popular 'nasi dagang' stall in Kota Bharu's Capital Cafe ventured into the Klang Valley this month, opening their first new outpost in Damansara Utama.
Back in Kota Bharu, Capital sometimes ran out of rice by 10am, but this Uptown branch seems more well-stocked, remaining open through 5pm everyday.
A basic plate of 'nasi dagang' with 'gulai ikan tongkol' costs RM8, but it's worth splurging on the ultimate platter (RM18.90), featuring tuna, beef rendang, curry chicken, prawns & sambal squid.
Fairly fragrant brown rice with tender meat in flavorsome gravy. Pretty pleasurable.
On weekends, 'laksam' is available. The menu isn't wide; other highlights include 'gulai kawah' & toasted or steamed bread with butter, kaya & more.
Capital also sells Kelantan-made 'keropok sira,' addictive fish crackers with a sweetish sauce. Eighty grams in this packet packs a 400-calorie wallop, so beware.
Still need more rice? Grain-gobblers will be glad to hear that only a one-minute walk from Capital, another rice specialist recently opened: Brilliant Nasi Lemak House.
Brilliant's advantage is that its non-halal, so customers can have pork rendang nasi lemak here. The pork & fried chicken are succulent & savory, making the rice merely a supporting character.
Brilliant stays open through 9pm; this seems to be where we can get our Uptown nasi lemak for breakfast, lunch, teatime & dinner.
Capital Nasi Dagang Kelantan (same row as Wondermilk),
29, Jalan SS21/1A, Damansara Uptown, Petaling Jaya.
Brilliant Nasi Lemak House,
56, Jalan SS21/58, Damansara Uptown, Petaling Jaya.
