Tabelog ratingMalaysia Malay is a small, long-running takeout specialist in Tokyo's Soshigaya neighborhood, operated by a friendly elderly couple. It has earned a loyal following for its highly original, Japanese-inflected Malaysian cuisine. The recipes are described by regulars as truly one-of-a-kind, blending Malaysian flavors with a distinct Japanese sensibility, particularly in the generous use of large, whole-roasted vegetables.
Two dishes receive consistent praise: the Ispahani, featuring tea-braised pork and oversized, sweet vegetables in a spiced broth, and the bak kut teh, a fragrant, herbaceous pork rib stew. Reviewers love the careful balance of spices, noting the food is flavorful without being greasy, and appreciate the house-made sambal for an extra kick. Other popular choices include Sandakan, kachan curry, and butter prown. Portions are consistently described as generous.
Diners should note this is not a traditional Malaysian restaurant. Some visitors with Malaysian backgrounds have found the dishes to be more creative interpretations than authentic reproductions. The shop's name has also been a point of discussion, as many signature dishes contain pork. The main practical challenge is the limited opening hours and the fact that popular items can sell out.
The pricing is considered excellent value. Reviewers recently paid around ¥1,100–¥1,390 for the Ispahani and ¥900–¥1,140 for the bak kut teh. Other dishes like the kachan curry were around ¥1,150. A typical meal costs between ¥1,000 and ¥1,999 for dinner, or ¥2,000 and ¥2,999 for lunch, with many customers spending about ¥1,400–¥2,400 for a multi-item takeout order.
- Access: The shop is a 9-minute walk from Soshingaya-Okurayama Station on the Odakyu Odawara Line.
- Reservations: It is currently takeout-only. Ordering in advance by phone or email is strongly recommended as items sell out and pickup times are scheduled.
- Payment: Cash only. Credit cards, electronic money, and QR code payments are not accepted.
- Dietary Note: Many of the signature dishes, including bak kut teh, are made with pork.
- Parking: No dedicated parking is available, but there are paid parking lots nearby.
- Service: The shop is non-smoking. While there is no guaranteed English menu, the owners are known to be very friendly and helpful in explaining the dishes.
