10 Restaurant Chains That You Didn’t Know Are Actually Malaysian (Probably)

Perhaps it is out Malaysian inferiority complex that makes us value things from abroad more than those made locally. This explains why many local companies, through elaborate marketing and advertising strategies, have tricked Malaysian consumers into thinking they originate overseas. So, here is a list of 10 Restaurant Franchises That You Didn’t Know Are Actually Malaysian (Probably).

1) Marrybrown



Established in 1981, it was the first local fast food chain to franchise its business in Malaysia. Today, Marrybrown has over 350 outlets worldwide. This is Malaysia’s answer to America’s KFC and McDonalds as they serve similar western-themed fast food like fried chicken, burgers, finger food, desserts, and beverages. However, they also feature a variety of Malaysian dishes like noodles, porridge and even Malaysia's national breakfast, nasi lemak, which has become so iconic it has been branded 'Nasi Marrybrown'.


2) San Francisco Coffee




Don’t be fooled by its name. This coffeehouse has nothing to do with the American city of San Francisco. Founded in 1997, San Francisco Coffee has grown to over 23 outlets in Malaysia and Singapore. Although it has a similar menu to its American uncle, Starbucks, San Francisco Coffee is also popular for its pasta, salad and especially its soup of the day.


3) The Manhattan Fish Market



Make no mistake; this restaurant franchise is also one hundred per cent Malaysian despite its name. The name is just a part of the restaurant’s concept which is inspired by the famous Fulton Fish Market in America. Although it is mostly famous for its American seafood, this place also serves other dishes like salad, desserts and beverages.


4) Sushi King



Yes. Southeast Asia’s most popular Sushi restaurant is actually Malaysian. It was actually founded by a Japanese living in Malaysia in 1995. It is also worth mentioning that Sushi King is the first restaurant in Malaysian to be a kaiten sushi which is more commonly known as a revolving Sushi restaurant. As a Sushi restaurant, it is naturally well-known for its Japanese cuisine; although it also serves a variety of western dessert.


5) Big Apple Donuts and Coffee




It may be named after New York City, but this Malaysian cafe retailer specialises in doughnuts and coffee. First opened in 2007, this Malaysian version of Dunkin Donuts now has outlets in Malaysia, Cambodia Philippines and UAE. Each outlet has its own ‘production theatre’ which is an open-kitchen concept where customers can observe how their doughnuts make their journey from dough to the packing box.


6) Secret Recipe



Launched in 1997 Secret Recipe started out with a modest selection of four choices on the fusion menu. But today, Secret Recipe serves over 50 types of cakes and 60 fusion meals and drinks. The company even has outlets abroad in countries like Singapore, the Philippines, Australia, Pakistan, and Cambodia.


7) 1901 Hot Dog




Despite the year in its name, the 1901 Hot Dog was founded in 1997. Just as its name suggests, this restaurant is famous for its various hot dogs that are named after different American cities their recipes originate from. Despite being an expert in hot dogs, this restaurant is actually most popular for its Mighty Murabarak Wrap, which probably counts as a hot dog since it is chicken wrapped in Nan Bread.


8) Paparich




Established in 2005, Paparich now has more than 60 outlets in Malaysia and are rapidly expanding their business overseas in Singapore, Australia, Taiwan, Brunei, China, South Korea, and the States. The founders describe Paparich as a modern version of the traditional Malaysian coffee shops. Unlike most of the restaurants on this list, most people visit this place for its authentic Malaysian food.


9) Old Town White Coffee




Old Town initially started as a coffee manufacturer. In 1999, they ventured into the food service sector by establishing a modernized Chinese kopitiam restaurant. Old Town is another one of the few on this list to specialize in Malaysian cuisine. Apart from its iconic white coffee which has made its brand popular for years, people also come here for its Curry Noodles.


10) The Chicken Rice Shop




Founded in 2000, many had assumed this restaurant franchise is either Chinese or Singaporean. It was actually founded by a mother-daughter team in 2000. The restaurant serves mainly Hainanese and Peranakan dishes with some Malay food as well. From the name itself, it should be obvious chicken rice is their signature dish.

Did we miss anything? Do let us know in the comment section below. Thanks for reading! =)