NYC’s first ever restaurant focusing on Peranakan cuisine, Kebaya, has officially opened in the heart of the Flatiron District, and it’s offering a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
Peranakan cuisine, also referred to as Nonya cuisine, comes from the Peranakans–descendants of early Chinese migrants who settled in Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia. The cuisine is a combination of Chinese, Malay, and Indonesian cuisines, which is to say it’s a mouthwatering combination of tang, spice, herbs, and aromatics.
The name Kebaya comes from the intricate and vibrant garment worn by women in Southeast Asia and is a symbol of the Peranakan and Malay communities.
At Kebaya, acclaimed pioneering chef, Salil Mehta, and renowned NYC-based food consultant, Margaret Goh serve traditional Peranakan plates with a modern take on the classics.
Highlights on the menu include Hoppers with Coconut Chutney, Tamarind Sambal, and Podi Ghee, which are fermented rice batter hoppers, similar to dosa, Sate Lilit with Chili Kicap Sambal, mince beef wrapped over lemongrass root and grilled to perfection, and Nasi Ulam with Charred Macherel, a mouth-watering Jasmine rice with toasted coconut, herbs, torch ginger flower, sambal, and dry shrimp.
A selection of handcrafted cocktails make for the perfect accompaniment to your meal, and also showcase Malaysian, Singapore, and Indonesia’s myriad of flavors.
Cocktails include The Girl from Ipoh, a Rum-based pandan milk punch, Umami, a mushroom infused whiskey with ameri, and a citrus concoction, and Tiger Stripe, a tantalizing combination of guava, tequila, spicy gunpowder, and lime, among others.
Beers, wines, champagne, and Peranakan tea are also available to order.
Kebaya is the newest addition to Fungi Hospitality’s restaurant portfolio, which includes restaurants such as Laut, Singapura, and WAU.
Representing rich history, vibrant culture, and endless ingredients, Kebaya offers guests a unique journey through Southeast Asia’s diverse and vibrant flavors.
You can learn more and make reservations on their website.
📍Kebaya, 20 E 17th St.
🕚 Tuesday-Thursday 5p.m. – 11p.m., Friday 5p.m. – 12a.m., Saturday 1p.m. – 12a.m., Sunday 1p.m. – 10p.m.