The Malaya Classic’s grand opening brings Malaysia to Birmingham

Malaysia’s rich culinary tapestry has found a new home in Birmingham’s Chinatown with the grand opening of The Malaya Classic, a Halal-certified restaurant located in the upper parts of The Arcadian. The establishment, set across two floors, is the sister restaurant to the well-loved The Thai Classic on Bromsgrove Street.

The restaurant boasts a seating capacity of 44 on the lower level and an additional 20 on the mezzanine, providing an intimate yet spacious dining experience. For those seeking a more private setting, two exclusive dining rooms are available, accommodating up to 25 guests each.

Cultural Elegance and A Visual Feast

Upon entering, patrons are greeted by a breathtaking sweeping staircase leading to the mezzanine, adorned with eye-catching ‘Malaysian batik’ fabric, traditional headwear, and tea pots, offering a visual feast of Malaysia’s cultural heritage. The decor extends to the walls, where traditional batik fabrics and a Peranakan wall painting showcase the diverse cultures that define Malaysia.

The Peranakan artwork captures moments of Peranakan life, cultural rituals, and social legacy in the British Crown colonies of the Straits Settlements. The venue has a dedicated staging area to display these cultural artifacts, providing diners with a deeper understanding of Malaysia’s rich heritage.

Owners Jeremy Mun and Zi Wen Boo expressed their excitement, stating, “Malaysian cuisine has seen a huge rise in popularity in recent years, so we are thrilled to bring the first ‘halal’ Malaysian restaurant to Birmingham. We can’t wait to showcase the true Malaysian experience to guests – from the vibrant street food of Penang and Melaka to the aromatic spices of Kuala Lumpur.”

The first ‘halal’ Malaysian restaurant in Birmingham

The Malaya Classic’s menu is a gastronomic journey through Malaysia, featuring 20 unique signature dishes. Expectations are high for the national dish, Nasi Lemak, a fragrant ensemble of coconut rice, anchovies, peanuts, fried egg, and sambal. Other highlights include Char Kway Teow, Rendang beef stew, and Roti Canai – a flaky and crispy flatbread served with curry dipping sauce.

To complement the delectable dishes, the restaurant offers a selection of speciality Malaysian drinks, including Teh Tarik, Pulled Tea, Milo, White Coffee, and Sirap Bandung. Homemade fruity drinks like Lychee and Grapefruit Fizz, Pineapple and Coconut Fizz, and Rose and Longan Fizz provide a refreshing accompaniment to the flavorful menu.

Jo Kinsella from The Arcadian expressed delight at welcoming another independent restaurant to the center, emphasizing The Malaya Classic‘s potential to offer diners not just a place to eat but an all-encompassing cultural experience. The restaurant opens its doors seven days a week from 12 noon to 10 pm.