Ayam Chef

There’s Malaysian food, and then there’s Malaysian food – Ayam Chef specialises in the latter. Seriously though, this chic eatery in Southbank is different from the majority of Melbourne Malaysian joints not only for its funky decor and cool vibe. The real difference is in the freshness, crispness and crunchiness of their vegetables, the rich complex flavours of their laksa broth and their exquisite presentation that makes you think you’re eating something really special (which you are). Classic Hainanese chicken rice is really the signature dish here on Coventry Street, but once you taste it you’re unlikely ever to order something else so we suggest having a hop around the rest of their menu first, like their moreish chilli lime prawns, creative chendol and of course lap-worthy laksa. You’re not limited by choice with Malaysian restaurants in Melbourne these days, but for an affordable but delicious one around the arts precinct and Southbank, you’d struggle to beat Ayam Chef.