“SEDAP!” was the simple yet satisfied affirmation from a couple of Polish visitors after tucking into a traditional Indian banana leaf meal. They are here to visit their daughter who resides in Kuala Lumpur and filmed their dining experience.
Shot at Nirwana Banana Leaf restaurant in Bangsar, the short clips show how the parents were quick to grasp the cutlery-free dining concept and seem to thoroughly enjoy their meal.
From crushing the pappadoms into the rice to sampling the many side dishes, they genuinely seemed to enjoy the experience though they were slightly taken aback by the spicy ‘kick’ of the rassam.
Given how proud Malaysians are of their food, it is no surprise that the TikTok video has gone viral having amassed over 2 million views.
Here is a sample of the comments, with quite a few saying the video made their tummies rumble.
The poster who goes by the handle of AgaEatsKL was also commended for her fluent Malay.
Many commended her parents’ sense of adventure.
A couple of netizens also pointed out the right etiquette when folding the banana leaf post-meal to which the poster confirms she had briefed her parents on it.
The pride of many netizens was also apparent as they welcomed the visitors who so openly embraced the cuisine.
Of course, more than one highlighted that this is the beauty of multi-cultural Malaysia.
Make no mistake, Malaysians take their food very seriously and are rightly proud of their shared culinary heritage. It not only has the power to bring people together but also showcases the multi-cultural diversity that is Malaysia.
So, celebrate what is good and great about this country this weekend by patronising your favourite banana leaf restaurant! – March 1, 2024
Main pic credit: TimeOut
