Over the past decades, Langkawi has reinvented itself to become a popular tourist destination. Did you know that the island is also home to a rather strange and quaint little restaurant? It’s called Langkawi Sushi, and it’s like no other sushi place you can find in Malaysia.
Sushi spot in a kampung
Image Credit: Xu Xiaowen on Google Review (Left), Luna Kleineluna on Google Review (Right)
Tucked away in the unassuming village of Kampung Pasir Hitam, you’d never assume that a sushi restaurant would be established here. Yet, here it is, being run by an elderly Japanese-Muslim auntie. Her name is Auntie Masako, also known as Auntie Zanita.
Meet Auntie Masako
Image Credit: Shazwan on Google Review (Left), Najwah Atheerah Wahab on Google Review (Right)
Four years ago, the Nagasaki-born auntie and her husband decided to open a restaurant in their home village of Kampung Pasir Hitam. Despite the tiny establishment only fitting about ten people, her little restaurant retains a quintessential charm that can’t be matched elsewhere.
Stories & sushi
Image Credit: Do Thuylinh on Google Review (Left), Mr Maba Studio on Google Review (Right)
Due to her age, service can sometimes be a little slow, but who can be mad at her for that? And while she makes sushi, she is often more than happy to share her life stories with you. What’s more, she can speak Malay as well!
More often than not, she gives you tips on the traditional ways of enjoying sushi back in Japan. She is also open to telling guests about her life story. So, sit back with a (free) cup of Japanese green tea and just enjoy the grandmotherly vibes.
RM1 sushi? So cheap!
Image Credit: Najwah Atheerah Wahab on Google Review (Left), Mr Maba Studio on Google Review (Right)
And if you need further incentive to support this hardworking auntie, her delicious sushi is legitimately cheap, with prices ranging from RM1 to RM3.50! Given the amount of effort she puts into each one, you might feel you are underpaying her.
Of her sushis, the one which may appeal most to your palate might be the salmon nigiri. The salmon is fresh and soft, a delight to savour as it entertains your taste buds. The rice used by Auntie Masako is also authentic, with the grains sticking and holding the nigiri’s shape together.
Also worth a mention is Auntie Masako’s seaweed. The healthy snack hits the right umami notes, having struck the perfect balance between saltiness and sweetness. There’s a strong chance you will go for a second helping, if Auntie has any left.
Fresh wasabi & homemade mayo
The most authentic way to enjoy sushi is by eating it with a dash of wasabi. Auntie Masako makes her wasabi fresh every morning, using horseradish imported all the way from Japan. She is often willing to teach customers how to mix wasabi with her homemade mayo, making the perfect dip.
Worth your time?
If you plan on checking this place out, call a day ahead. The number of sushis that Auntie Masako makes is limited per day, which is understandable due to her age. Regardless, going off the beaten path to support this Japanese auntie is a decision few will ever regret.
Langkawi Sushi
Address: No. 127, Kampung Pasir Hitam, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah
Opening Hours: 12.30 pm – 7 pm daily | Closed on Monday & Tuesday
Contact: 011-37292025
Halal Status: Muslim-owned & pork-free
You should also check out: This Aunty is more hardworking than you, prepping at 1am for her 50-yr-old KL dessert shop
Feature Image Credit: Hakimi Hamdan on Google Review (Left), Mr Maba Studio on Google Review (Right)
