Zan Asian has hit the jackpot with their new, reimagined menu, bursting with iconic Malaysian flavours and dishes.
Though already a popular hotspot on The Headrow, Chef Alan has challenged himself with designing a menu which is both bigger and better and certainly deserves to be experienced by Leeds locals!
This menu is full of standout dishes, each reminiscent of traditional Malaysian street food, and each authentic and unique, bringing the flavours of Southeast Asia to the heart of Leeds City Centre.
Zan has a great ambience, with hospitable staff who added to the warm and welcoming atmosphere and who are clearly passionate about the food and service they deliver. There’s even a Tuk-tuk as you enter the restaurant, which is perfect for a quick picture before you enjoy your meal!
Zan offers a fresh take on Malaysian culinary classics. It would be an insult to not highlight the traditional Malaysian Laksa Curry– which was cooked to perfection. The rich, coconut curry broth was brimming with diverse textures – from the chewy noodles to the crunchy beansprouts, which made this an explosion of flavour and an unforgettable experience.
A personal favourite, especially as we’re entering a (hopefully) long hot summer, was the Acar salad. Crunchy pickled vegetables tossed in a tangy turmeric sauce and sprinkled with chopped peanuts; this was the ideal palate cleanser between each bite.
I would recommend starting with a serving of the Pandan chicken, which is served wrapped in pandan leaves to preserve the tenderness of the meat and its subtly floral aroma. A portion of the Nasi Lemak will not disappoint. Considered the country’s national dish, it features fragrant rice with a sweet and spicy sambal sauce and is garnished with boiled eggs, peanuts and freshly cut cucumber.
Zan serves up some of the fluffiest Roti Prata, hand pulled and fried to perfection, which is the ideal accompaniment to their house Sambal curry sauce. The Rendang Beef Brisket curry was rich and spicy and complimented with the sweetness of the coconut rice. Everything from the starters to the mains to the sides has been thoughtfully curated so as to compliment the dining experience – I personally can’t wait to return and work my way through the rest of the menu.
Many dishes can be adapted for vegans or vegetarians, and the spice level can be adjusted to suit every palate. Whether you enjoy a fiery meal or prefer a slightly milder taste, you’re certainly in good hands. One thing’s for certain—Chef Alan doesn’t hold back. The portions are generous, and it’s nearly impossible to leave without feeling warm, satisfied and delightfully full.
Not only was the food menu rich and exciting but their drinks were also an experience of their own, particularly the Bandung, a rose-flavoured drink which matches the colour of the restaurant’s interior – it’s bright pink!
The team at Zan Asia has struck a delicious balance between street food nostalgia and modern flair. With its refreshed menu and vibrant atmosphere, Zan has firmly established itself as the go-to spot for a Malaysian food fix in Leeds.
https://www.zanasianleeds.co.uk
Photography by Tallulah Treadaway.
