Once an unnamed nook off the beaten path, Acha has now flourished into a wildly popular weekend spot for banana leaf rice. Their bestseller is their spicy Sambal Ikan Bilis (RM1) unlike any other, featuring a mesmerising meld of pre-fried crispy anchovies and crunchy onions. While this particular side is what avid diners are here after, the curry house doesn't disappoint with its other dishes either. Have the Banana Leaf Rice Set (RM6.50), which grants you liberal access to the tiffins containing a myriad (usually three) of vegetable dishes. Second to their sambal is a pleasing variety of curries, from salted fish to crab. The former is runny, with a piquant saltiness whereas the subtler crab curry is more thick gravy than sauce — try both for a tasty contrast! Proteins are deep-fried upon order and we particularly favour the more petite Ikan Bulus (silver whiting, price varies) for its fresh, lightly marinated flesh to go with flavour-steeped curries. Considering the crowd it caters to, the outdoor location is small and at times, stuffy — dress down for this!
Avg price per person: RM15
Photo by Burppler Rueann