Like the street food gem called “Eat Lah” with a distinctly Malaysian soul, founded by British-born Chinese Robert Ngo and his Kelantanese wife, Mel.

The couple launched “Eat Lah” in 2019, driven by their shared passion for Malaysian cuisine – something Mel had deeply missed since moving to London more than a decade ago.

Over the past five years, Ngo and Mel have shared the magic of nasi kerabu, a quintessential Kelantanese dish, delighting Malaysians abroad while converting sceptical Britons into fans of blue-coloured rice.

With its vibrant batik tablecloths and charming rattan accents, the “Eat Lah” kiosk feels like a nostalgic kopitiam, transporting Londoners straight to Malaysia.

Serving over 100 rice bowls daily, the couple keep things exciting with four delectable nasi kerabu toppings: coconut chicken, satay chicken, grilled tofu, and grilled aubergine.

For extra Malaysian flair, they add egg sambal and flaky roti (a take on roti canai). And Londoners can’t get enough.

“The feedback has been quite positive. There’s a lack of Malaysian food and street food presence in London. I think ‘Eat Lah’ fills that gap in a way,” said Ngo, 39, in an interview with FMT Lifestyle.

“We try our best to capture the essence of Malaysian food rather than claim to be 100% authentic. But ultimately, the food we serve reflects the energy, effort, and resources we put into it.”

This dedication, paired with the couple’s warm hospitality, has fostered a loyal community around “Eat Lah.” “I’ve met some amazing people through this business who we have become close friends with,” said Ngo.

But the journey hasn’t been without its quirks – even choosing a name for the business was an adventure in itself.

Initially, they went with “Teh Rice,” inspired by the butterfly-pea flower water that gives nasi kerabu its signature blue hue. “But one evening, during dinner, I said to Mel, ‘Just eat lah!’ Something clicked, and I knew instantly – this had to be the name. It’s so Malaysian.”

The name was perfect, but the journey itself started with something even more heartfelt – Mel’s longing for a taste of home. Growing up in Kota Bharu, Kelantan, nasi kerabu was a staple of her diet. Whenever she missed home, Ngo – ever the devoted husband – would recreate the dish for her.

“She enjoys it every time I make nasi kerabu or other Malaysian dishes. She always says it’s really good. I was doing this for years when one day, she asked, ‘Why don’t you try selling this?’”

The timing couldn’t have been better. After over a decade as an architect, Ngo found himself stuck in a creative rut.

“I realised I wasn’t progressing anymore. I’d lost my passion. Often, instead of working, I’d daydream about what to cook next!” he confessed. Nasi kerabu became the spark that reignited his creativity.

Of course, running a Malaysian food business in the UK has its challenges, particularly when sourcing for key ingredients like bunga kantan (torch ginger).

But the couple adapted, using local alternatives while preserving the essence of the dish. “It’s about capturing the textures and flavours of Malaysia with what’s available here,” Ngo explained. And Mel’s verdict? A resounding thumbs-up!

The journey hasn’t been solely about food, though. Beyond their bustling kiosk, “Eat Lah” has expanded into catering for office lunches and private events. At the heart of it all is Mel, the backbone of the business, meticulously managing the administration and finances side of the business.

This steady growth has inspired the couple to dream even bigger. With plans to open a brick-and-mortar restaurant in Canary Wharf next year, they’re ready to take “Eat Lah” to new heights.

The upcoming venture promises an expanded menu that blends classic and modern Malaysian dishes, all while staying true to the authenticity and passion that define their brand.

For Ngo and Mel, “Eat Lah” has been more than just a business; it has been a labour of love, a celebration of Malaysian cuisine, and a bridge connecting cultures through the universal language of food. As Ngo summed it up perfectly: “Just eat lah!”

Find out more about ‘Eat Lah’ here or follow ‘Eat Lah’ on Facebook and Instagram.