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ZipPicks Awards
Best Hidden Gem Restaurants in Palms-Cheviot Hills
Best Business Lunch Restaurants in Palms-Cheviot Hills
Master Critic Review
Simpang Asia
8.1
Vibes:
Hidden Gems Heaven
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Group Dining Gatherings
Family Friendly Favorites
A 23-year Palms institution where Malaysian-born owners serve Indonesian and Malaysian dishes with genuine regional technique—the Laksa has proper curry depth with a lemon-tempered creaminess, and the Char Kway Teow carries authentic wok char. The casual strip-mall setting fills fast with locals who treat it as their default for Southeast Asian cravings, and the staff moves efficiently through packed weekend crowds.
Must-Try Dishes:
Nasi Bungkus, Laksa, Char Kway Teow
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 8
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Rare Los Angeles source for authentic Malaysian and Indonesian dishes cooked by Malaysian-born owners
Who should go: Southeast Asian food seekers craving authentic Malaysian flavors
When to visit: Weekday lunch to avoid weekend crowds
What to order: Start with roti canai, get a curry or laksa as your main, finish with cendol for dessert
Insider tip: Order the banana leaf rice when available—it's the traditional way to experience the curries
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Small lot fills up fast—valet available in front (free). Street parking in nearby residential area as backup. Warning: Sunday farmers market blocks lot entrance, expect 2-block walk
Dress code: Business casual—jeans and a nice top work fine, no flip-flops needed
Noise level: Quieter side (2/5)—conversation-friendly, casual atmosphere with soft background music
Weekend wait: Fills up Fri-Sun dinner—reservations strongly recommended, 10-minute grace period before table released
Weekday lunch: Walk-in friendly on weekdays, typically seated immediately
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong selection—vegetarian ramen, kwetiaw goreng (stir-fried noodles), vegetarian fried rice, and vegetarian eggrolls
Vegan options: Gado-gado salad available vegan upon request; vegetarian rames also vegan
Gluten-free options: Menu items marked GF include Lemper (sticky rice rolls), Otak Otak (grilled fish in banana leaf), Chicken Sate (without peanut sauce)
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, with caveats - the newly renovated interior is bright and inviting with Indonesian decor, soft background music, and a quaint, low-key atmosphere that allows conversation. However, it's more casual than romantic - better suited for a relaxed, get-to-know-you date rather than a formal occasion. The small space and family-friendly vibe mean it won't be especially intimate during busy times.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Walk-ins are possible, but reservations are recommended due to limited seating in this small restaurant. You can call ahead or join a waitlist when you arrive. Avoid Sundays if driving - a farmers market takes over the parking lot. For groups of 7+, you must email ahead at reservation@simpangasia.com.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes - the casual atmosphere and moderate noise level are welcoming for families. There's no dedicated kids menu, but the variety of noodle dishes, fried rice, and smoothies (the mango smoothie is popular with kids) work well for younger diners. The relaxed vibe means kids won't feel out of place.
Is it good for groups? Yes - the restaurant accommodates group dining and even offers catering for larger events. For parties of 7 or more, email reservation@simpangasia.com in advance so they can prepare. The shareable dishes like satay, nasi goreng, and family-style platters work well for groups. Just note the space is small, so book ahead.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes - covered outdoor seating is available in the parking lot area. It's dog-friendly and pleasant on nice days. Note that on Sundays the farmers market impacts parking, which may affect outdoor seating availability or access.
Best For
Better for: Budget-conscious groups and families wanting authentic Indonesian in a low-key, conversation-friendly setting
Skip if: You need guaranteed quick parking on weekends or Sunday brunch—that farmers market complicates access
Hours
Monday11:30am - 10pm
Tuesday11:30am - 10pm
Wednesday11:30am - 10pm
Thursday11:30am - 10pm
Friday11:30am - 10pm
Saturday11:30am - 10pm
Sunday11:30am - 10pm