Have caught some wind about Spice & Rice at Amoy Street Food Centre which specialises in Nasi Lemak — had always been wanting to head down to the stall to give it a go, and finally did so pretty recently; a move which I was glad I made.

Offering three different types of Nasi Lemak here, the obvious choice for me was the Classic Nasi Lemak Fried Chicken for I just cannot have Nasi Lemak without the fried chicken. The Nasi Lemak here features elements such as Indian Spiced Fried Chicken, Anchovies, Peanuts, Sunny Side-Up, Cucumber, Sambal and Coconut Rice — the usual suspects that one would think of for this very familiar local classic. They seemed to nail each element down perfectly with this rendition — the Indian Spiced Fried Chicken seemingly rubbed with turmeric, came all crisp on the exterior yet succulent and tender inside, locking all the juices of the chicken within that is utterly delicious especially when its piping hot. The basmati rice comes with ample coconut-y fragrance — not too heavy, yet fluffy with an evident aroma that makes it pretty “Lemak”; very enjoyable to have even on its own. The chili that came on the side carries that distinct sweetness often associated with chili that is served with Nasi Lemak, yet delivering a slight hint of spiciness that provides just enough punch to give a slight tingle even for those who are not tolerable to moderate levels of spiciness — very well-balanced. The anchovies came crisp like how it should be, without being soaked in grease while the sunny side-up is prepared upon order to guarantee that molten yolk; all that without being drenched in oil.

Coming at $7.50, Spice & Rice definitely is not the most economical Nasi Lemak even in the Central Business District which it is located at. That being said, it seems that what they are serving up here is an artisanal variant that takes into consideration the best of traditional flavours, and whipping up a modern variant that is familiar and delicious — something which other establishments such as Lemak Boys and The Coconut Club seem to be targeting at. Must say that this is one Nasi Lemak I would certainly be going for if I am working in this area (because in reality, I don’t) — a really well-rounded variant that places an emphasis on all elements that is truly worth making the visit for.