I've been wishing to eat Hainanese Chicken in Sydney and I'm so grateful to one of my dearest friends for bringing us to Temasek Restaurant in Parramatta. On the Friday night we dined at Temasek, I discovered a love for Malaysian and Singaporean cuisine that I thought I never had. Why? Because Temasek made me a believer.
We made reservations for 6PM as we opted to meet up straight from work and to avoid the crowd. With the recommendations of our foodie friends, we ordered our preferred dishes in one go and in less than 15 minutes, our table was laden with delicious-smelling and mouthwatering dishes.
Sambal Prawns. Hot and spicy, this one surely throws a punch. Prawns were perfectly cooked and the sauce thick, flavourful and smooth.
Kecap Manis Sotong (AUD$19.80). Lightly-fried Calamari in sweet soy and a hint of spice. This dish is addictive with or without the rice.
Sambang Balacaan Kangkong (AUD$16.++). Likened to the Filipino version of Kangkong with Bagoong (Shrimp Paste). A mountain of Kangkong mixed with fermented shrimp. A harmony of salty, sweet and spicy flavours all in one mouthful. A perfect partner to almost all the meat dishes in the menu.
Nasi Goreng (AUD$14.80). Packed with flavour and all the components that make this fried rice irresistible.
Chicken Curry (AUD$17.80). This is the only curry that I love because it does not overwhelm the palate and my sense of smell. An uncomplicated dish that gives you a kick of spice.
Hainanese Chicken (Half Boneless at $18.50). I think the reason why I love this dish is because of its simplicity. Served cold in its unpretentious "whiteness" with the thick soy sauce and chili sauce on the side to help in enhancing the chicken's flavour. The chicken was tender and juicy.
We ate here two weeks ago and I can't wait to try out all their other dishes next time.
Temasek Singapore and Malaysian Cuisine
The Roxy Arcade, 71 George St, Parramatta, Sydney
Tel: +61 (02) 9633 9926
Open Tuesday to Sundays (closed on Mondays and public holidays)
Lunch 11.30am - 2.30pm
Dinner 5.30pm - 10.00pm (last orders 9.30pm)