Normah’s: London’s Hidden Gem of Malay Cuisine

Tucked away in a discreet corner of Bayswater’s computer market, Normah’s is the definition of a no-frills, authentic "hole-in-the-wall" eatery—where the chairs might slide on the greasy floor, the staff consists of just a grandmother cooking in the back and a young man handling orders, and payment is made via a handwritten, oil-stained bank account note. Yet, the walls are plastered with "Must-Eat" awards, and it’s so popular that their website warns of fully booked July and August slots (though you can still walk in). This unassuming spot boasts a 4.8 Google rating, with queues stretching out the door daily. One meal here, and you’ll dream about it for life. (No exaggeration.) 📍 Quick Facts Name: Normah’s Location: W2 4QJ, London Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Price Range: £20–30 per person 🔥 Must-Order Dishes Beef Roti (£11.89) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Roti, originally from South Indian Tamil migrants, started as a humble Muslim "mamak stall" flatbread paired with curry. In Malaysia, it evolved into sweet, condensed milk-drenched banana rotis (like those at the famous Roti King). But Normah’s beef roti? Next-level. Tender spiced beef, fragrant ginger, and crispy, buttery layers that explode with flavor—so good, you’ll want to steal the recipe. Extra roti is a must. (Fun fact: The FT once asked why Malay restaurants rarely share roti recipes. Answer: It’s all about instinct—no written method can capture the magic.) Asam Pedas Seabass (£16.80) ⭐⭐⭐⭐ A tamarind-spiced seabass stew, likened to Guizhou-style sour fish by friends. Okra and cherry tomatoes balance the tang, and the fish stays succulent, never fishy. We scraped the pot clean—prompting the waiter to joke, "That’s gelatin, don’t waste it!" Curry Laksa King Prawn (£15.90) ⭐⭐⭐ A pungent, sour curry noodle soup with plump prawns. Light on noodles, heavy on tofu puffs and bean sprouts—best for bold, salty-sour fans. 💖 The Heartwarming Story Behind Normah’s The chef-owner, Normah, grew up in a large family—her father, a forest ranger, was only home on weekends. Those days were special: her grandmother ran a restaurant, and her dad would cook feasts for everyone. At 43, he passed away, leaving her mother to raise 13 children alone. Normah learned to cook for the family before school to keep them fed. Decades later, with siblings scattered, her passion for cooking remained. In 2015, she quit her accounting job and opened Normah’s—cooking just as her father did, preserving his legacy. 📌 Final Tips ✔ Walk-ins welcome (but expect queues!). ✔ Cash preferred—embrace the old-school vibe. ✔ Portions are hearty—come hungry! #LondonEats #HiddenGems #MalayFood #LondonFoodie #BudgetEats #MichelinWorthy