7 Malaysian Eateries You Probably Didn’t Know Were Founded in Singapore

Now, we know that Malaysians love to eat and explore new food options around, which is why when a new eatery opens you can usually see long queues forming outside. The Malaysian love for food knows no bounds!

However, there are some Malaysian favourites that we bet you didn’t know actually originated from our beloved neighbour at the little island down south. Yes, we’re talking about Singapore!

1. Pastamania

Source: klia2

Often, when we are in KLIA2 looking for a bite in between flights, we are often spoilt for choice with the wide array of food available there. One of these is Pastamania, which like its name suggests, is famed for their pasta offerings. The fast-casual chain opened its first outlet in Singapore back in 1998 and has expanded to Malaysia, India and Middle East currently. But if pasta is not your cup of tea, fret not, because they also have various types of pizzas for your carb overload of the day.

Source: ie singapore

Source: pastamania

In fact, even their desserts are pizzas with options such as Apple Crumble Pizza while one of their must-try appetizers is surely the Cheddar Cheese Sticks, which offer generous cheesy goodness with every bite! Mmm, I can already taste that melty cheese in my mouth. 

Locations: KLIA2 and Sunway Velocity Mall.

2. Old Chang Kee

Source: the smart local

Craving for classic snacks such as curry puffs, fish balls on a stick or fried chicken wings? Old Chang Kee opened its doors in 1956 starting as a humble little stall that graduated to the established household name it is today. With more than half a century offering these delicious snacks across Southeast Asia, there are currently three outlets available in Malaysia for you to get your munchies fix.

Source: old chang kee

Source: 80 quartier

Pro tip: The different varieties of curry puff fillings are a must-try!

Locations: 1Utama Shopping Centre, Damansara Uptown and Avenue K.

3. TWG Tea

Source: e27

Drinking tea seems to be a habit that is firmly ingrained in British culture, so you may be forgiven if you thought that TWG Tea comes from thereabouts. However, you will be surprised to learn that this luxury tea brand was actually born in Singapore in 2008. It’s so famous that it is even stocked at Harrods and Dean & DeLuca, both upscale retailers that have a presence in various locations all over the world. Do you feel atas yet when sipping tea in one of TWG’s tea salons?

Source: hungry forever

Source: mbs

Locations: Pavilion KL, KLIA, Gurney Paragon Mall, The Gardens Mall and Bangsar Shopping Centre.

4. Killiney Kopitiam

Source: i design

Kopitiam-style shops are no stranger to Malaysians and you may be thinking that these eateries originate solely from Malaysia, but that’s where you’re wrong! The dream for Killiney Kopitiam was finally made a reality in 1993 and has been serving their localised Hainanese kopitiam fare to Malaysians and Singaporeans ever since. They have branches all over Southeast Asia and even in Australia!

Source: killiney kopitiam

Source: killiney kopitiam

Pro tip: Crunchy kaya toast, warm soft-boiled eggs, French toast and chee cheong fun are items you must try!

Locations: View here for their outlets.

 5. BreadTalk Group

Source: today online

You know those chicken floss buns with creamy centres that were all the rage in Malaysia when they first appeared? Ah, that perfect blend of sweet and savoury! It appears that this famous bakery was brought to us by BreadTalk Group Ltd in Singapore and under this company, there are several other notable restaurants that Malaysians have come to know and love.

Source: vkeong

Source: food republic

These restaurants include Food Republic food court and ToastBox, which are places that we have definitely eaten at before.

Locations: All over Malaysia.

6. Sakae Sushi

Source: east coast mall

Raise your hands if you love sushi! With the abundance of sushi joints in Malaysia, it’s no secret that we all love a vast variety of Japanese dishes, especially the mouthwatering sashimis! Sakae Sushi is one of the well-known sushi chains here, but this company doesn’t come from Japan, instead, it actually originates from Singapore. Surprise, surprise! 

Source: go makan

Source: go makan

Their pride and joy is the salmon sushi range, which incorporates premium sushi that’s freshly air-flown from Norway. Alternatively, you may just choose from their menu that has over 250 choices!

Locations: View their locations here.

7. Barcook Bakery

Source: 11street

Barcook Bakery is an established name in Malaysia and they have just recently opened their first branch on our shores. This simple bakery is far from being just another run-of-the-mill bakery as their bestselling products include some tempting delights comprising mash potato nachos, raisin cream and walnut cheese bread.

Source: barcook

Source: barcook

Location: The Gardens Mall.

Okay, planning my next meal now!

Also read: 6 Companies That Dramatically Closed Down in Malaysia This 2017 So Far