Grandma's Restaurant

For home-style Malay cuisine in a comfy restaurant setting try this hidden gem near Orchard Road. The chef is from Malaysia and does a mighty fine nasi lemak -- coconut rice with sides of chicken curry, pickled veggies and hard-boiled egg — though it'll cost a few times more than the hawker centre version. Favourites like beef rendang, tamarind prawns and fish-head curry are meant for sharing so bring a few friends and order a few plates plus rice. Service is excellent and staff are happy to explain unfamiliar menu items. Cheap beer and chendol for dessert round out the meal. Also at Paragon and United Square malls.