Roti King

Summary

“God those rotis are heaven!” – they make it “worth joining the inevitable queue” (including “lots of Malaysian students and Asian visitors enjoying a taste of home”) for this “small Malaysian street-food cafe” in a packed little basement near Euston station. “A lot of patience is required lining up outside”: the queue here is such a regular fixture that the council have allowed the installation of a long decked area in the parking bays on the street to accommodate it. “The fluffy roti canai itself is amazing: you watch chef swirling and stretching paper thin dough”. But the “rich and aromatic” noodles and curries also on the menu can be just as rewarding. Don’t expect a long foodie religious experience. The “functional” service will get you in and out in no time. There are also now a growing number of spin-offs, of which the most high-profile is in Battersea Power Station, whose shiny vibe could not be more at odds with the grungy original; and where there’s “more of a feeling of a fast-food joint”. Even so, it comes “highly recommended for anyone looking to try some authentic and tasty Malaysian cuisine”: “it’s good to find such a reasonable place near Battersea Power Station. You can sit outside if weather permits. But it’s very popular and no booking, so go early to get a table”. Also in Waterloo and – since this year – in Spitalfields. Top Tip in NW1 – takeaway lunch is easier than queueing and amazing value too.