4 Restaurants in Singapore To Try the Javanese Sharing Platter Nasi Ambeng

Picture a mountain of fragrant rice heaped on a banana leaf tray, surrounded by generous scoops of curried and fried delicacies such as begedil (fried potato patties), serunding (meat floss) and beef rendang. In portions that usually feed about four to six people, the Javanese sharing platter nasi ambeng is a dish that embodies everything great and good about Asian-style communal dining.

Though popular in the ‘60s to ‘80s during weddings and festivals, the dish almost entirely disappeared, until Roszy’s Tiffin House at Goldhill Centre added it to its menu in 2010. This went on to spark a surge of interest in the Asian delicacy, and dedicated restaurants for nasi ambeng popped up across the country. Although Roszy’s Tiffin House closed when the owners moved overseas, it is clear that a nasi ambeng revival is well under way.

Some eateries are also attempting to make it more accessible as a dish to be enjoyed outside of festivals and celebrations, by selling two- or one-person portions. Sembawang eatery and delivery service Nasi Ambeng Mak Uda, for example, offers sets for one, two or four. However, the large sharing platters still make up the bulk of orders. Even for owner Asri Ismail, who learnt the trade from his mother, the dish is a household favourite.

“Nasi ambeng is most popular during the month of Ramadan,” he says. “It is perfect for families that want to take the time to enjoy food together, while breaking fast.”

Feast Day Fare

Three other eateries share their renditions of the celebratory platter.