Asam Laksa stall in Petaling Street
Those who have ventured to Petaling Street might have noticed the sheer amount of aesthetically pleasing cafes cropping up in the area. While these establishments call out to the shutterbug in us, there are a collection of hawker stalls in the area that have been around for much longer than even some of us have.
One of them is the eponymous Asam Laksa Petaling Street stall in the beating heart of Kuala Lumpur, which has been delighting tastebuds for over 50 years. It beckons to city folks and tourists with growling stomachs, offering a decades-old recipe crafted by a now-retired Chinese couple, and flavours that linger long after the meal is over.
We stopped by the stall to bring you this review of the legendary noodles, and the highlights from our chat with its current owners:
Founded in 1968 by a Chinese couple
Nestled inconspicuously across from Hotel ChinaTown Inn, Asam Laksa Petaling Street has become a fixture in the hearts of many KL folks. It’s a beacon of flavour in the sea of street food vendors that line the street.
Tucked within Lee Lam Thye Market, the humble stall occupies a corner space adorned with just a handful of chairs and tables that’s almost always packed with a crowd. Unless you’re dropping by on a weekday, after lunch time, you might have to join the queue of patrons looking to treat themselves to a symphony of sweet and sour flavours.
Though the surroundings may not boast extravagance, they hold an allure for those seeking a taste of authenticity. Here, amidst the chatter of diners and the sizzle of the boiling pot, one can find solace in a steaming bowl of hearty asam laksa priced at RM9/bowl.
Established in 1968 by a dedicated Chinese couple, the stall has earned itself a reputation for its freshly prepared noodle bowls. On any given day, it churns out over 200 bowls of its signature asam laksa.
As years passed, the reins of the business were handed over to three trusted employees, as the couple’s three children decided to pursue other careers. The uncle who spoke to us on behalf of the owner tells us, “The aunties and I see this food stall as our way to earn some money, and once we are done with work, we just go jalan-jalan here and there”.
The secret to success
Three familiar faces orchestrate the show at Asam Laksa Petaling Street. But it’s the enigmatic Chinese aunty who often steals the spotlight, mistakenly assumed to be the taukeh.
When asked about the foundation of the business, we were told that the owners do not run it on the ground anymore. Instead, the business is handled by a family friend, the Chinese aunty, who oversees daily operations alongside two other colleagues. Together, they ensure that the dish and its decades-old recipe is delivered to their customers.
Behind the scenes, meticulous preparation unfolds, with every element crafted from scratch. At the heart of the asam laksa dish is the broth, a vibrant red elixir with a layer of oil glistening on top. When asked what makes their dish special, the aunty tells us that it’s “the thick and sour soup is the signature here”.
Traditionally, asam laksa boasts the distinct flavour of ikan kembung, but here, fresh and succulent tuna fish takes the spotlight, elevating the local dish.
When it comes to the dish as a whole, there are additional ingredients which make for a fulfilling bowl of asam laksa. Swimming in the broth are freshly chopped mint leaves and shredded onion that complement the thick lai fun noodles well. The sweet and juicy pineapples give a touch of sour and sweetness to the already delicious dish.
For those craving an extra kick of sweetness, Hei Ko, or shrimp paste, awaits patrons at every table, ready to elevate the experience.
Given the generous portion, finishing a bowl on your own can be quite a challenge. However, if you’re feeling ravenous, you might be surprised at how quickly you can polish it off.
Beyond the famed asam laksa, a trio of equally enticing dishes awaits – Curry Laksa, Soup Noodles, and Dried Noodles.
Among them, the Curry Laksa reigns supreme. Its velvety coconut milk broth is infused with a symphony of spices, punctuated by the crunch and chew of fish cakes, fish balls, tau pok, and sprouts. Priced at RM9, diners have the option to customise their bowl, choosing between mee hoon or xi mian noodles.
With each slurp, the rich, creamy broth beckons, ensuring that not a drop is left behind.
Future plans for the Asam Laksa Petaling Street stall
Operating six days a week, the stall is a magnet for both locals and foreigners alike, drawn by the irresistible allure of a steaming bowl of asam laksa. Despite five decades in business, the uncle tells us that “the retired owners have no plans to transition into a full-fledged restaurant”.
The uncle added, “For the owners, the decision to remain rooted in the street itself is more than a matter of convenience – it’s a nod to the tradition of street food in Petaling Street”.
In a digital age where convenience reigns supreme, it’s refreshing to learn that this stalwart establishment bucks the trend. While many eateries readily accept orders through Grab or FoodPanda, this street food haven marches to the beat of its own drum. Instead, patrons can place orders via phone and arrange for pickup through Lalamove only.
It rings true to the adage that sometimes the best experiences require a touch of sacrifice. Whether it’s holding your breath for a moment or opting for takeaway, there’s no denying that embracing the full sensory experience adds an extra layer of authenticity to every mouthful.
So, if you ask us, there’s no better way to savour it all – the aroma, the ambience, and, of course, the unparalleled taste – than at the stall itself.
When it comes to payment, it’s strictly cash and Touch ‘n Go territory. So, it’s wise to come prepared with sufficient cash or top up your Touch ‘n Go card beforehand, lest you miss out on the culinary adventure that awaits.
A Petaling Street icon that has been around for decades
In a world where trendy eateries and fancy malls vie for attention, there’s a certain magic in the simplicity of street food that remains unmatched.
Amidst the hustle and bustle of the streets of Petaling Street, where the heat hangs heavy and beads of sweat glisten, each sip and every mouthful of asam laksa from the legendary Asam Laksa Petaling Street stall encapsulates the essence of street-side indulgence – one that money cannot buy.
Address: 63, Jalan Petaling, City Centre, 50000, Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: Mon-Sun 12pm-7.30pm (Closed on Tuesdays)
Contact: 012-311 5987
For more unique spots to check out and inspiring stories, read 100-year-old bar in Melaka and Akka nasi lemak in Seri Kembangan.
Cover image adapted from: The Smart Local Malaysia
Some quotes have been edited for brevity and clarity.
Photography by Yusintha.