Whether we live in a small country town or a large city, we all have our favourite little restaurant. 

You know the type I’m talking about. Those restaurants that you always return too….the ones where you are on first name basis with the owner or the chef……the ones where they know what you like to eat before you place your order……..the ones where you don’t need to look at the menu……..the ones where no matter what you order, or how many of you there are,  the bill is never more than $20 per head…….and most importantly……the ones that allow you to bring your own alcohol “BYO”.

Henry is the Chef, and Fania is the front of house manager at Little Malaysia in West End, Brisbane – it’s their Restaurant, it’s their passion, and it’s their life. For us……it’s our favourite little restaurant, where we have spent many of our Friday nights in great company and with great food.

West End is one of those inner city suburbs where renewal hasn’t yet had its clinical, or soul destroying  influence. I like to describe West End as Bohemian, and as a local,  it’s how I want it to stay!

Whilst I like latte bars, boutique breweries and polished concrete, there is something about the Bohemianism of West End that I don’t want to lose. I guess you could call me a cheap and cheerful sort of a guy…..perhaps a vagabond….or maybe an adventurer?

I like Wikipedia’s definition …… “Bohemianism is the practice of an unconventional lifestyle, often in the company of like-minded people, with few permanent ties, involving musical, artistic, or literary pursuits. In this context, Bohemians may be wanderers, adventurers, or vagabonds.” I think it describes the feel of West End pretty well!

Tonight there were 16 of us who enjoyed a night out in West End, dining at our favourite restaurant, Little Malaysia. The usual tasty dishes were served…..special fried rice, roti canai beef, salt & pepper squid, lime leaf chicken, steamed fish with ginger sauce, herb and butter prawns and green beans belacan. I think this type of meal always tastes best on plastic Chinese plates,  and eaten from formica tables covered in heavy plastic table cloths. It’s not about the décor, but rather the quality of the food and who you share it with.

Tonight we shared it with special friends. Thanks Fania and Henry.

p.s.  If you promise not to share, I’ll give you the address…….you can find Little Malaysia at 156 Boundary St, West End, Brisbane. Tell them Steve sent you.