[Pork-free] Jom, let’s makan Nasi Lemak! Botak Nasi Lemak in SS3 claims to be the 2nd best Nasi Lemak in PJ!
While that statement is sure to turn heads, we’re not too sure about its veracity.
Botak Nasi Lemak in SS3
Botak Nasi Lemak is an institution in SS3, having operated for years at the Medan Selera Wawasan food court next to the SS3 football field.
Two years ago, the business moved into a shop lot nearby. The new premise is huge with two floors of space for a comfortable dining experience.
Botak Nasi Lemak – 2nd best in PJ?
We arrived at noon for lunch on a Friday to find a half-occupied premise.
Curiously, we were told to wait for about 10 minutes as the fragrance coconut rice had not completed its cooking process.
No matter. We promptly made our orders a the counter – Nasi Lemak with Ayam Goreng, and Nasi Lemak with Sotong Sambal (RM10 each) – and made our way to our seats.
What we liked
Let’s start with what we enjoyed about the Nasi Lemak.
The rice is extremely fragrant with plenty of santan taste, and a hint of saltiness. However, we did notice that it was on the wetter side, but this could be due to it being freshly served out of the pot.
Ming also enjoyed the sambal – as it was sweetened with lots of onions with a spice level that’s suited to her palate. Note that the sambal is more akin to sambal bawang, with its heavy use of onions. Hence, we didn’t detect any use of anchovies or belacan in the paste.
The sotong sambal is excellent as it was tender, with a fragrance and sweet sambal gravy.
The fried egg was done to Max’s preference – firm whites with a runny yolk to mix with the sambal and rice.
What we didn’t like
The fried chicken was underwhelming as we found the batter too thick. While the chicken drumstick was tender – it was unfortunately served cold. It also had less spices compared to the one at Village Park Nasi Lemak.
Again, while the rice was full of santan flavour – it was a bit too moist for our liking. This might please some, but not us.
Verdict
Due to its proclamation, Botak Nasi Lemak will likely draw a comparison to Village Park Nasi Lemak.
As it rightly claims, Botak Nasi Lemak is unlikely our No. 1 – but is worth a visit if you’re craving for Nasi Lemak in the area.
Botak Nasi Lemak
Address: 13, Jalan SS 3/37, Taman Universiti, 47300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Hours: 6.30am-3pm Daily (Closed on Mondays)
Phone: 019-700 7193
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