Kari House — Restaurant in Sugar Hill

TLDR: food was good could work on flavor a little more but the service made the overall experience 5 star experience.

Tucked away in the corner of a nondescript shopping plaza in Buford lies a culinary treasure, Kari House, that invites diners to delve into the rich tapestry of Malaysian flavors. My fiancé and I decided to explore this hidden gem, eager to savor a variety of dishes.

Our culinary journey at Kari House began with yucca fries, a delightful twist from the usual appetizers. These fries were a standout, boasting a perfect crunch so audible it sang of their freshness, paired beautifully with a sweet chili sauce reminiscent of Thai influences. Each bite was a harmonious blend of crispy exterior and flawlessly soft interior.

The Malaysian coffee offered a comforting balance of robust coffee softened by milk and just the right touch of sweetness, setting a high bar for the meal to follow.

Next came the clear broth soup, an understated yet welcoming dish. It featured a medley of vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and zucchini along with tofu, simmered gently. While not the most flavorful, its subtlety became an asset, complementing the more robust flavors of our main dishes.

The chow kway teow, served next, promised much with its wok-charred thick flat noodles and tender chicken. The smokiness was a hit, but unfortunately, it was somewhat marred by an excessive oiliness that subdued the otherwise vibrant flavors.

In contrast, the mee goreng was a dish that delivered on every front. It was a flavorful medley of stir-fried noodles coated in a balanced mix of curry paste, ketchup, and peppers, with shrimp that were both sizable and succulent, cooked to perfection.

Service at Kari House was exemplary; our server was a true maestro, suggesting sauces and additions that enhanced our dishes brilliantly. His recommendations were not just additions but elevations, transforming good dishes into great experiences.

Kari House may be easy to overlook due to its modest location, but the culinary experience it offers is anything but. From the moment you step in, the cozy ambiance and the attentive staff ensure a delightful dining experience. While some dishes could use a tweak, the overall quality, especially boosted by the excellent service, makes Kari House a must-visit for those in the area. This small, cozy spot earns a well-deserved five stars, not only for the food but for the overall dining experience. Here’s hoping they continue to shine and refine their offerings...

A Hidden Gem of Malaysian Flavor

Tucked away like a well-kept secret, Kari House is an absolute treasure for anyone craving bold, authentic Malaysian flavors. Don’t let its humble exterior fool you, this small, hole-in-the-wall spot packs a serious punch when it comes to food.

We kicked things off with their roti canai, and it was love at first bite. The roti was perfectly flaky and golden, with just the right amount of chew. Paired with the rich, savory curry dipping sauce, it set the tone for an unforgettable meal.

I ordered the Kari Laksa Chicken, and honestly, it might be one of the best laksas I’ve ever had. The broth was creamy, spicy, and aromatic, loaded with tender chicken, noodles, and all the soul-warming elements that make laksa a Malaysian classic.

Next up was the Mee Goreng, and wow, what a dish! It had that perfect smoky wok hei flavor, with just the right balance of sweet, salty, and spicy. Every bite was packed with depth and satisfaction.

The Mango Chicken was a beautiful contrast, lightly crispy, juicy chicken pieces in a tangy, sweet mango sauce that was vibrant and refreshing. It brought a wonderful brightness to the meal.

And we couldn’t leave without trying the signature Kari Chicken, comfort food at its finest. The curry was rich and hearty, full of depth and spice, clinging to tender chicken that fell apart effortlessly.

Kari House may be small in size, but it delivers big on flavor and heart. From the warm, welcoming service to the mouthwatering dishes, this place is a must-visit for anyone who loves Malaysian cuisine or simply wants a memorable meal. We’ll definitely be back and bringing...

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Kari House is a hidden gem that’s definitely worth a visit! We tried a few dishes and loved each one. We started with the Roti, a fried bread served with curry dipping sauce. My American partner found it spicy, though for those familiar with Asian spices, it’s just right! The Ipoh Ho Fun—a chicken noodle soup—had an incredibly flavorful broth and tender shredded chicken. Although it came with quite a lot of noodles, it was still a fantastic choice.

The Chef’s Special Fish, a fried catfish filet in a sweet and spicy sauce, was perfectly seasoned and absolutely delicious. Finally, we ordered the Hainanese Chicken. It took a bit longer to arrive (about 30 minutes), but it was well worth the wait—the chicken was incredibly juicy!

The atmosphere is cozy, with a relaxed, take-out vibe. You can order at the counter or sit down for table service, which we opted for. There’s also a self-serve water station, adding a nice casual touch.

Service was great; it’s a mom-and-pop spot that really deserves local support. With entrees around $15 each, the pricing is very fair for the quality.

We’ll definitely be back. Highly recommend Kari...