Malaysia
Singapore
Thailand
Singaporeans no longer need to make a border run to Kuala Lumpur for a proper plate of nasi kandar. Yaseem Nasi Kandar has arrived in MacPherson, just minutes from Tai Seng, bringing with it a legacy that dates back to 1964.
Founded in Kuala Lumpur and long regarded as a heavyweight among nasi kandar champions, Yaseem Nasi Kandar comes to Singapore with its distinguished reputation.
Open 24 hours a day, this spot is for the real ones who eat nasi kandar for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The recipes remain unchanged, the flavours immaculately familiar, and the same chef continues to oversee the kitchen.
The star of the show is none other than the nasi kandar itself — steamed rice soaked in aromatic gravies and paired with comforting lauk such as onion chicken, ayam kicap, tender mutton and a rotating selection of vegetables.
For those who prefer their rice more spiced or what I would personally call “fancier”, the biryani selection features Mutton (S$7.50), Chicken (S$7), Beef (S$7.50), Fish (S$7), Egg (S$6) and Vegetables (S$6), alongside more indulgent options like Tandoori Chicken (S$12.50), Chicken Tikka (S$12.50) and Chicken 65 Biryani (S$8).
The menu stretches well beyond the rice counter. Expect Indian Muslim and Malay staples alongside Thai-style seafood, Arabic-inspired dishes and even Western plates.
Freshly baked breads play a supporting but essential role, from Butter Naan (S$3.50) and Garlic Naan (S$3.50) to Cheese Naan (S$4), Keema Naan (S$4) and Kashmiri Naan (S$4), alongside rotis, kulcha and mixed bread baskets designed for sharing.
There is also Tom Yum prepared with chicken, beef, squid, prawns or mixed seafood, or even served with noodles of your choice.
There is no grand reinvention here, and that is precisely the point. Yaseem Nasi Kandar relies on depth of flavour, generous gravies and the authority of experience.
For those in Singapore who have missed the taste of a classic KL nasi kandar — or for anyone discovering it for the first time — don’t forget to drop by Yaseem Nasi Kandar!
