Top 4 Items You Must Try At This Trendy Peranakan Restaurant In NYC

 Named after an intricate, vibrant garment traditionally worn by women in Southeast Asia, Kebaya is the city's first Peranakian restaurant that focuses on eclectic cuisines of Singapore, Malaysia and the coastal areas of Indonesia's Java and Sumatra islands.

Opened earlier this year in 2023, Kebaya is the latest concept from Chef Salil Mehta and Fungi Hospitality that specializes in the unique Peranakan cuisine - the vibrant food culture of Malaysia, Singapore, and parts of the Indonesian archipelago. Kebaya's menu features a variety of dishes from Peranakan cuisine that have been adapted to suit the New York palate. The restaurant also provides a glimpse into the culture of the Peranakans, with its design and decor inspired by the unique hybridization of Chinese culture with the local cultures of the Nusantara region.

Hoppers with Coconut Chutney, Tamarind Sambal, Podi Ghee

Similar to dosa, hoppers is thin, crispy Malaysian pancake made with fermented rice batter. The hoppers is served with a trio of dips -- sweet coconut chutney, tamarind sambal, and podi ghee. You can also add an egg to this starter that is perfect for sharing and to rev up your appetite.

Sate Lilit with Chili Kicap Sambal

Delicious minced beef skewer is wrapped over lemongrass root and grilled to juicy perfection. Each bite with the side of spicy and slightly sweet chili kicap sambal is an absolutely delicious explosion of flavor in your mouth.

Nyonya Duck Curry

Long Island duck with crispy skin is braised in rich, creamy coconut milk with lime leaf, tomato, and potato. You will want to lick the bowl clean with this addicting curry.

Ikan Bakar

The star of the night is Ikan Bakar, which is a whole fluke that is flash fried and grilled to perfect. The fluke is topped with the chef's special sweet and savory sambal with fresh herbs and lime. This is a truly unique dish you won't find anywhere else.