Kopi Kadai

In Kilbirnie, Wellington, Kopi Kadai channels the heart of Malaysian cooking with a welcome both nostalgic and new. The kitchen honours beloved street and home classics, then refreshes them with a deft modern twist. Expect those hallmark contrasts of sweet, sour, spicy and tangy, crafted from fresh ingredients and served piping hot.

Small bites set the tone - think lemongrass chicken folded into delicate dumplings. From there, the wok takes over with mamak mee goreng and nasi goreng itik, while slow-cooked rendang brings depth and perfume. A playful flourish appears in beef rendang nachos, a cheeky nod to fusion that still tastes unmistakably Malaysian.

Balance arrives with bright plates like gado gado and kerabu mangga, and the saffron roti canai begs to be torn and dipped. The kitchen is halal and offers a considered pick of traditional drinks to match the spice. Save a little room for the dessert of the day, a sweet sign-off that changes with the chef’s mood.'

Whether popping in for a quick bite or settling in for a feast, diners are invited to taste Malaysia’s breadth in one sitting. Reserve a spot, bring your appetite, and jom makan - the journey starts with the first bite!