I tried the second best nasi lemak in PJ, because the owner claims his mom’s is still the best

Amidst all the virality surrounding nasi lemak this year, I had the pleasure of discovering what is truly my go-to nasi lemak spot. To say I was quickly swayed is an understatement.

How else is one expected to feel when faced with an eatery boldly proclaiming to serve “the second best nasi lemak in PJ”? I mean, talk about a bold claim! Obviously, it was hard not to feel a little conflicted.

This is Botak Nasi Lemak in Taman Universiti and as a PJ girly, I couldn’t help but put this place to the test to see if it truly lived up to its bold second-place claim (even though it felt like I was doing my favourite spot a disservice).

Second best nasi lemak in PJ

Image Credit: May Teh on Google Review (left), Botak Nasi Lemak Sea Park (right)

First off, I had one burning question. If this unassuming joint could declare such a bold claim, why not go for first place? Why stop at second best?

Turns out, the owner, as boastful as he may appear, insists that his mom’s recipe still reigns supreme. Now, that’s some strong mother-son love right there.

Yet, second to his mom’s version means he’s still claiming that his nasi lemak beats every other eatery in PJ. So, is this place really second only to a supposedly legendary family recipe, or is the only thing “second-rate” here the owner’s level of modesty?

I was determined to find out if Botak Nasi Lemak could steal my heart and claim my first place, or if the owner was simply skilled in well-placed self-promotion.

The brand currently has two outlets, with the second one located in Seapark and operating until 11.30pm daily. Their original outlet has over 700 reviews with a 4.1-star rating. While that’s a pretty solid start, I wouldn’t necessarily call it ‘second best in PJ’ based on ratings alone.

I will say that I’ve heard a lot of buzz about Botak Nasi Lemak’s fried chicken, with many claiming it’s the crispiest you’ll find to pair with your nasi lemak. Needless to say, I was especially looking forward to trying it for myself.

My current favourite nasi lemak is without a doubt the Nasi Lemak Shop in Bandar Utama. So naturally, when it comes to reviewing Botak’s, you can bet it’s going to be measured against my go-to.

Fair? I think so. Hey, if you’re claiming to be second best, you’ve got to earn that comparison.

My take on Botak Nasi Lemak

Image Credit: Sam Son on Google Review (left), N Mandy (right)

Starting off with the highly-acclaimed fried chicken, was it crispy? Oh, absolutely. Maybe even the crispiest. Is it better than the chicken from the Nasi Lemak Shop? I’d argue not quite.

Botak’s chicken varies significantly from the Nasi Lemak Shop. The skin carries a crunch like no other, and as you bite into it there’s a light, almost airy texture to the batter that’s rare these days. You just know you’re biting into a really well-fried piece of chicken.

BUT (and don’t get me wrong, it is a very delicious piece of fried chicken with hints of onion and curry leaves) it doesn’t quite match the bold rempah flavour of the Nasi Lemak Shop’s chicken, that I adore. Overall, I find the latter more juicy and flavourful.

In terms of the sambal, Botak’s leans toward the sweeter side with just a subtle hint of spice. It’s reminiscent of the kind of sambal many of us are familiar with from public school canteens—comforting and familiar. Personally, I prefer mine with a bit more of a kick.

It is also more textured, compared to the Nasi Lemak Shop, with larger onion slices peeking through, resembling a sambal bawang. Fun fact: the sambal at the Nasi Lemak Shop is not only near-perfect, but also bottomless. I mean, not many can compete with that.

What surprised me, though, is that I actually prefer some of the add-ons at Botak’s. Nasi lemak purists may come for me, but at Botak’s, you can opt for a telur goreng instead of your typical hard-boiled egg and I actually prefer this alternative. The gooey yolk adds a richness to each spoonful of rice, which I really enjoy.

Another highlight is the generous sprinkle of battered fried onions that top each plate. This adds a nice crunch and subtle sweetness that complements the other elements of the dish.

My final verdict

Image Credit: Timmy Chan on Google Review (left), Mandy Lee (right)

My review may sound a bit critical to some, but that’s only because I’m holding Botak Nasi Lemak up to the high standard set by my favourite spot.

In truth, Botak Nasi Lemak did not disappoint. In fact, I’d go so far as to say that it is now my second-best nasi lemak, which does make it the second-best in PJ after all, at least in my books. It is indeed a yummy plate of ayam goreng nasi lemak with its own unique touches that make it stand out.

If you find yourself in Taman Universiti or Seapark, it’s definitely worth a visit. I’ve already been back since my first visit.