Was around the Hougang area and decided to take a bus down to this coffee shop where a Ponggol Nasi Lemak outlet was at. We were there around 7pm on a Monday evening and while the queue was long, often with at least 10 pax in line to order, the staff were really efficient in completing the orders. A lady would ask those waiting in line how many packets of Nasi Lemak they’re ordering and if you want to dine in or takeaway. Thereafter, when you’re reaching the cashier, you can order the sides to go along the rice.
The Nasi Lemak was fragrant, with the rice grains nicely separated and cooked to the right texture - not too mushy nor undercooked. We also liked that the egg yolk remained runny and would be drizzled over the coconut rice to provide extra creaminess. The otah was flavorful and not too spicy, and it came in a larger than expected serving compared to the otah one would get elsewhere. However, it doesn’t have that char that otah found in hawker centres have that some might desire. The fish was also fried to a crispy texture but might not be the easiest to eat due to the tiny bones. The lady’s finger was slightly spicy and retained its crunch.
While I didn’t order the chicken drumstick or chicken wings, these two items were hot favorites at this stall. My dining partner who ordered the chicken drumstick was amazed by its huge portion (it was bigger than the drumstick we got from KFC recently. It was also really crunchy and would give a satisfying addition of protein to one’s enjoyable local delicacy.
Lastly, the amount of chili given was sufficient and it wasn’t too sweet. However, it was a bit oily and the oil was coating our rice grains towards the end of the meal. We didn’t find the chili very special but the fragrance of the coconut rice and well executed accompaniments made this meal a truly satisfying one.