Mount Faber Nasi Lemak: Chinatown Eatery Opens Till 4:30am Daily

“Since taking over the restaurant from my mother, I’ve been doing my best to maintain the food quality and standards,” – Jack Lim, owner of Mount Faber Nasi Lemak

Mount Faber Nasi Lemak is conveniently located along the stretch of Kreta Ayer Road (where it is within walking distance to many famous bars). Open daily till 4:30am, this eatery makes an ideal supper spot after a late-night drinking session.

As we set foot in the modest shop space, we were reminded of a local school tuck shop. The friendly shop owner greeted every customer with a bright smile and we felt at home right away.

Mount Faber Nasi Lemak’s smorgasbord of over 40 different Asian ingredients will leave you spoilt for choice. From sweet and sour pork to mutton rendang, the selection of meat and vegetables were contained in large metal dishes and neatly displayed across the shelving. We felt as though the dishes were beckoning to us through the glass panel – and we couldn’t wait to get our hands on a plate of nasi lemak.

The nasi lemak business has been in operation for more than 40 years. But the owner, Jack Lim, had only taken over the restaurant from his mother a couple of years ago.

He enthusiastically shared a glimpse of the eatery’s past and explained how he wanted to ensure that the restaurant’s food standard remains consistent as before – so that returning customers can enjoy the authentic flavours even through the arduous test of time.

Nasi Lemak Set Meal D (S$7 with lime juice)

We ordered a Nasi Lemak Set D (S$7) which comprises a deep-fried chicken cutlet, otah, curry vegetable, fried egg, ikan billis and roasted peanuts served alongside coconut rice. For an additional S$1, you get a lime juice on top of your set meal.

“Our regulars return every day because they know we do not add any artificial flavouring, and they like that”

Now, we know how important the rice and sambal chilli are to make or break this Malaysian dish. Sadly, most diners often overlook the strenuous process taken by cooks to create nasi lemak! The rice is cooked till plump and moist with freshly juiced coconut meat and pandan leaves. The end result is a fragrant rice free from food colouring and MSG.

The sambal chilli was sweet and contained the right amount of spice – making every mouthful pleasant.

The chicken cutlet was a tad too salty, but the succulent meat and crispy skin were its saving graces. The soft curry vegetables and traditional fish otah were great additions to the dish.

We were satisfied with our meal and found it value for money – especially with its generous portion!

What we also like about Mount Faber Nasi Lemak is its thoughtfulness. For instance, customers can sterilise utensils to ensure hygiene and patrons can also help themselves to free tissue and drinking water.

Do pay Mount Faber Nasi Lemak a visit the next time you find yourselves craving for nasi lemak in the wee hours!