Menu of Istana Restaurant in Thornleigh, New South Wales, Australia

Menu Overview

Istana Restaurant, nestled at 15/230 Pennant Hills Rd in Thornleigh, NSW, stands as a beacon for authentic Malaysian cuisine with a touch of old-school charm. This venue offers an impressive menu that effortlessly showcases the richness and diversity of Malaysian flavors, drawing on classic dishes that represent the nation’s culinary heritage.

The highlight of the menu is undoubtedly the Hainanese Chicken Rice, a dish known for its delicate poached chicken and fragrant rice cooked in chicken stock. It is executed here with precision, offering a perfect balance of tenderness and subtle seasoning. Complementing this is the Blachan Kang Kong, stir-fried water spinach infused with aromatic shrimp paste and fried shallots, delivering a punchy umami flavor that delights the palate. The Kway Teow Malaysian Fried Rice Noodles stands out as a vibrant and hearty option, skillfully wok-tossed to preserve the noodles’ texture and smoky essence.

Seafood lovers will find themselves spoiled for choice. The Malaysian Chilli Mud Crab offers a rich, spicy experience, while the King Prawns With Vermicelli In Hot Pot and the Udang Pedas (Chilli King Prawns) provide warmth and depth through their robust use of chili and shrimp paste. The signature Udang Istana—king prawns fried with garlic and ginger—stands out as a must-try, perfectly balancing aromatic spices with fresh seafood sweetness.

Equally impressive are the fish dishes, especially the Ikan Bawang (Coral Trout Cutlet with French Onion) where the crispy texture meets the sweet onion-soy combination beautifully, and the Ikan Sambal, braised in tamarind and tomato, which offers a tangy and spicy profile typical of Malaysian coastal fare.

Vegetarian options are well-considered, with dishes like Vegetarian Wat Tan Hor and Salt And Pepper Tofu that maintain the layers of flavor without overwhelming the palate. These choices ensure the menu’s inclusivity without compromise on authenticity.

Customer reviews echo the consistency and quality that Istana upholds. Frequent praises include the generous portion sizes, freshness of ingredients, and the vibrant, well-balanced seasoning that defies stereotypes of either bland or overly greasy Asian cuisine. While pricing leans toward the higher side, many guests, including families and seasoned diners, find the cost justified by the food’s quality and portioning.

Service aligns with the dining experience—friendly, attentive, and efficient, even during busy hours. The restaurant cultivates an inviting atmosphere with an old-school, modest setting, which adds to its charm without detracting from the focus on the food.

In conclusion, Istana Restaurant’s menu stands out as a comprehensive journey through Malaysian culinary tradition, with highlights that consistently impress and comfort. The kitchen respects classic recipes while giving them enough finesse to satisfy both nostalgic locals and adventurous diners alike. Whether it’s the aromatic spices, fresh seafood, or the hearty noodle dishes, Istana delivers a memorable Malaysian dining experience in Thornleigh.