Banana Leaf

5 out of 5 Stars

Website
9889 Bellaire Blvd
Houston, TX 77036
(713) 771-8118

Having always been fascinated with Asian fare, it was time to get a taste of Malaysia. Seeing as Malaysian restaurants are few and far between in Houston, I ended up at Banana leaf and am SO glad I did.

Located in the greatest plaza in Chinatown, Banana leaf is a small restaurant with a large following. Packed from the moment we arrived, I was pleasantly surprised with how quickly we got seated. An employee asked us if we would mind sitting at a shared table (meaning being seated with other diners not with our party). Why not?

Seated with a couple FROM Malaysia, it was fun to get their opinion on what to order.

The menu is extensive and CHEAP (none of our dishes were over $10). Eager to experiment, my friend and I over ordered with the plan to take home leftovers. We ended up with Roti Canai for an appetizer and Beef Rendeng, stir fried flat noodles with seafood and sizzling scallops for our main entrees.

We truly enjoyed every dish; here is a summary of each.

Roti Canai: A bread appetizer that reminded me of a fluffier version of Indian Naan. It was so delectable that I didn't even need the curry sauce that accompanied it. Next time, I want to try the intense version of Roti that is stuffed with minced beef.

Beef Rendeng: Not the prettiest dish on the menu, but definitely flavorful. This entree is simply hearty pieces of tender beef infused with coconut and cinnamon flavors - delish.

Stir Fried Flat Noodles w/ seafood: Could this be my favorite noodle dish of all time? Don't ask questions, just get it.

Sizzling Scallops: WOW. I am not a huge scallop girl, but this definitely hit the spot. The small scallops sizzled on a bed of red and green peppers marinating in an excellent brown sauce. Wonderful.

Service was on point (we were in and out within an hour) and our 4 items plus drinks came out to $40 - Zang!

I cannot wait to bring others to this incredible gem. Can they make a bad dish??